The Best Hawaii Apps for Your Next Trip to the Islands

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Since January 2015, we’ve been sharing our top apps for Hawaiian Travel. This is the most recent update that includes eliminating apps that are no longer published plus we introduce you to our latest finds in Hawaii apps.

If you’re an app user who’s traveling to Hawaii, bookmark this page so that you don’t miss any updates. Or subscribe to the My Itchy Travel Feet Weekly Broadcast so you’ll be the first to know!

What can be said about traveling to Hawaii that hasn’t been said before? As one of the most treasured natural resources found in the US, this beautiful cluster of volcanic islands truly offers the utmost in tropical travel.

Will our list of top apps for Hawaiian travel help you make the most of the Aloha State’s rich cultural heritage, expansive beaches and fun Hawaiian travel adventures? We think so.

With so much to do and see in Hawaii, why depend on tour books that are often outdated as soon as they’re published? In today’s travel world, you need up-to-the-minute information.

Visiting the best that Hawaii has to offer can be a bit daunting, but we’ve found some snazzy Hawaiian travel apps to make the most of your experience. Get ready for the trip of a lifetime!

Apps for what to do and where to go in Hawaii

Silhouettes of hula dancers against the sunset in Hawaii.
Hawaii is a wonderful place to explore. Take a few handy apps with you to make the most out of your trip.

Kayak

Download the Kayak app for researching the best flights for your trip to Hawaii at the App Store or Google Play.

GyPSy Guide Hawaii Collection

GyPSy Guide Hawaii Collection – GPS Tour Guide: If you’re traveling to more than one Hawaiian island, this collection of guides is the way to go. Priced at $25.99, the highly rated audio app guides you along the way, explaining what you are seeing, plus sharing background stories, tips and advice. How easy is that?

Because it works offline, you don’t have to worry about a phone connection or Wifi. Simply download the GyPSy app via Wifi before leaving home. Individual guides for Maui, Big Island, Kauai or Oahu are available at $9.99.

Hawaii, Big Island Tours

Hawaii, Big Island Tours provides everything you’ll need to visit the Big Island’s main attraction: Volcanoes National Park plus other island must-sees. You’ll find hours of operation, what to see, history and more. You’ll be lost without this app.

Hawaii Revealed

Hawaii Revealed: Our favorite Hawaiian travel guide series now has an app! We’ve found so many off-the-beaten-path destinations in the Hawaii Revealed books.

The app includes a GPS feature, helping you navigate on the islands to remote locations without any phone or Wifi signal. Explore hidden beaches, restaurants, hotels, activities and more.

But please remember that going off-the-beaten-path does not include trespassing on private land. For the most complete Hawaiian travel experience, read the book at home then take the app with you.

Available for purchase at the App Store. In-app purchases allow for more, comprehensive information for Maui, Kauai, the Big Island and Oahu at $7.99 each.

Boomer Travel Tip

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Hawaii apps for weather, beach conditions, sunrises and sunsets

beach scene with crystal clear water and clear sky
Use apps to find you way to idyllic beaches like this one in Lanai.

Hawaii weather

HawaiiNewsNow Weather Now: Will it rain for tomorrow’s hike? Is today a good day for soaking up rays on the beach? You’ll find out with Hawaii News Now’s weather app. Watch the latest weather reports or find out the status of severe weather alerts. Available for purchase at the App Store and Google Play.

Sunrise Sunset times

Sunrise Sunset times: If you enjoy taking sunrise and sunset photos, you’ll want this app for your trip to Hawaii. Look up sunrise and sunset times anywhere in the world. Available for purchase at the App Store.

Surf forecast

MSW Surf Forecast: The Magic Seaweed app shows you what to expect on the beach. Although the app is primarily for surfers, beach goers will benefit from the wave, wind and swell reports, too.

Bonus points: The MagicSeaweed surf app works for destinations around the world. Available for purchase at the App Store and Google Play.

Boomer Travel Tip

Need to pack for a tropical getaway? Check out our tropical gear tips.

Hawaiian apps for language and keeping informed

Woman picks flowers from a tropical plant
It’s always fun to meet new people, especially when you know a few local words!

Hawaiian words

Hawaiian Words – Translation and Dictionary: It always helps to speak the lingo. Learn 1700 Hawaiian words, phrases and slang with this app. Search by English or Hawaiian terms.

What a great way to honor Hawaiian culture. Available for purchase at the App Store.

Hawaii local news

Hawaii NOW Local News app keeps you in the know. Discover events to attend, track storms and learn about the latest local news. Available for purchase at the App Store and Google Play.

Native stories

Native Stories: Learning about Hawaii’s culture and history adds a depth to visiting the islands. The Native Stories app, created by a non-profit, provides audio content that shares the stories of Hawaii’s local people.

Explore your Hawaiian destination while listening to the stories and history for relevant points of interest. Available for free at the App Store and Google Play.

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Top apps for Hawaiian travel include destination guide apps plus apps for beach conditions, weather, language and news.

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