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Reservations you need to make before going to Hawaii

If you’re planning a Hawaii vacation, you may be wondering what reservations you need to make before going to Hawaii. Some of Hawaii’s most popular attractions require reservations. While others don’t technically require reservations, they regularly sell out, so booking early can save your entire itinerary.

Before we get started, let me introduce myself. My name is Amy, and I’m a Hawaii Travel Agent. I’m one of the top travel agents for Hawaii, and creating fantastic custom trips in Hawaii is my passion! Contact me today to help plan and book your Hawaii vacation.

DO I NEED A RENTAL CAR in Hawaii?

Generally speaking, yes! You can get away without having a rental car on Oa.hu, but it’s a must on any other island. However, I do recommend one even on Oahu so you can get out and explore! You’ll find the best prices anywhere at Discount Hawaii Car Rental. 

Reservations to get before going to Hawaii

Here are the reservations you need to make before going to Hawaii, listed by island.

Pearl Harbor (Oahu)

Pearl Harbor is one of the most visited historic sites in the United States, and tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial can disappear fast. Reservations open 8 weeks in advance, and a second small batch is released 24 hours before the date.
If you want a specific time slot, book early.

If you’ve missed it, you can always try a guided tour! 

Diamond Head (Oahu)

Hiking Diamond Head is iconic, but it is no longer a free-for-all. All visitors now need a reservation for both entry and parking. Morning slots book quickly, especially during school breaks and holidays. If this hike is on your bucket list, lock it in as soon as possible.

Hanauma Bay (Oahu)

Hanauma Bay is one of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii, and also one of the most difficult reservations to secure. Tickets are released two days ahead at 7 AM HST and usually sell out in minutes. If you absolutely must snorkel here, set your alarm and be ready to book the moment reservations open.

Guided tours are also available with guaranteed entry times.

Waianapanapa State Park (Maui)

This is the famous black sand beach along the Road to Hana. It requires reservations for all visitors, including parking or drop-off.

The park limits the number of guests per time slot, so reservations often sell out weeks in advance. Don’t wait until you’re on Maui to book this one. If you’re staying in Wailea or Ka’anapali, I recommend the late morning or early afternoon time slot. 

The beach is the main attraction here, but don’t miss the hiking trails! Check out our YouTube video showing more of the park here. 

Guided Road to Hana Tours generally include reservations to the black sand beach. 

Haleakala National Park (Maui)

You only need a reservation for sunrise, but sunrise on Haleakala is one of the most popular activities on Maui. Tickets open 60 days in advance, with a small number released again two days before.

This is one thing where I generally recommend a tour since most people don’t want to drive around an unfamiliar area at 3 AM. You can enjoy a sunrise tour with breakfast, or a sunrise tour and bike down the mountain if you’re feeling adventurous! 

Iao Valley State Park (Maui)

Iao Valley recently implemented a reservation system for non-resident visitors. While it’s not as competitive as Waianapanapa or Haleakala, time slots do fill up.

Haena State Park & Kalalau Trail (Kauai)

Haena State Park is the gateway to the world-famous Kalalau Trail, Ke’e Beach, and some of the most beautiful scenery in Hawaii. Reservations are required for all visitors, whether you are parking, shuttling, or hiking.

Kalalau Trail permits in particular can be extremely competitive, so book as early as possible. Even if you don’t plan to hike the entire 11-mile (22-mile total) trail, you need a reservation to go even part of the way. 

Luau (all islands)

Hawaii’s top luaus (like Mauka Warriors, Chief’s Luau, and Feast at Mokapu) can sell out days or even weeks in advance. 

Check out the best luau on Maui, the best luau in Oahu, and the best luau in Hawaii blog posts for more recommendations. 

Mama’s Fish House (Maui)

Mama’s Fish House is one of the most popular restaurants in all of Hawaii, and reservations often fill up months ahead.

If you want oceanfront dining with the iconic Mama’s experience, make this one of the first things you schedule.

Kualoa Ranch (Oahu)

Whether you’re booking the Jurassic Park ATV tour, horseback riding, the Secret Island Beach day, or movie site tours, Kualoa Ranch sells out frequently, especially mid-morning and early afternoon slots.

Hawaii Reservations & Booking FAQ

Here are some of the most common questions I get about reservations in Hawaii as a Hawaii Travel Agent. 

Do I need reservations for all Hawaii state parks?

No, not all Hawaii state parks require reservations. However, several of the most popular ones do, like those that are listed above. 

How far in advance should I make Hawaii reservations?

It depends on the activity. Some, like Pearl Harbor or Diamond Head, open 8 weeks in advance. Others, like popular luaus, can list their activities up to a year in advance. In general, the earlier you book, the better your chances of getting the time slot you want.

Do I need a reservation for the Road to Hana?

You don’t need a reservation to drive the Road to Hana itself, but you do need one for Waianapanapa State Park, which is one of the most popular stops, just before you get to Hana. Many guided tours also sell out early.

Check out my ultimate guide to the Road to Hana, and guide to the Hana Lava Tube in Maui for Road to Hana tips!

Why do so many Hawaii activities require reservations now?

Due to increased tourism and efforts to protect natural resources, many sites have added timed entry systems to manage crowds and preserve the environment. This helps ensure a better experience for everyone.

Can you help me plan my Hawaii vacation?

Absolutely! As a Hawaii Travel Agent, I help clients book accommodations, activities, transportation, and flights. I also create a custom itinerary to make things as easy for you as possible. 

Reservations you need to make before going to Hawaii

I hope this helped you figure out the reservations you need to make before going to Hawaii. As a Hawaii Travel Agent, I’d love to help you plan your honeymoon or vacation! You can contact me if you’d like more information. 

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