7 Best-Selling Hawaii Travel Guide Books Millions Love

Discover expert picks from Andrew Doughty and other thought leaders for authentic, best-selling Hawaii Travel Guide books

Updated on June 28, 2025
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There's something special about books that both critics and crowds love, especially when planning a trip to Hawaii's enchanting islands. Hawaii Travel Guide books blend local knowledge with practical advice, helping you uncover hidden beaches, authentic dining, and cultural gems that typical tourist brochures miss. Whether exploring Kauai's lush trails or the volcanic landscapes of the Big Island, these guides have shaped countless memorable Hawaiian adventures.

Andrew Doughty, a best-selling guidebook author with millions of copies in print, brings unparalleled firsthand experience across the islands. His detailed, no-fluff approach has earned praise from respected voices like Conde Nast Traveler, which calls his Big Island guide "the best guidebook [to the Big Island]". Such endorsements highlight the value of expertise grounded in deep local knowledge.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific Hawaii Travel Guide needs might consider creating a personalized Hawaii Travel Guide book that combines these validated approaches. This option blends trusted advice with your unique interests and travel goals for an even richer experience.

Best for Kauai explorers seeking insider tips
Andrew Doughty has been exploring and writing about the Hawaiian Islands for many years and is the best-selling guidebook writer in the United States, with millions of books in print. He personally reviews every business anonymously and has hiked and GPSed every trail, secluded beach, and special place described in his books. When he's not on the ground, you'll find him in the air piloting his airplane designed specifically for aerial photography. His expertise and firsthand knowledge make this guidebook an unmatched resource for anyone looking to experience Kaua'i beyond the usual tourist paths.

When Andrew Doughty set out to write The Ultimate Kauai Guidebook, he drew on decades of hands-on exploration and a deep connection to the island. This guide delivers meticulously detailed insights, from hidden waterfalls and secluded beaches to brutally honest reviews of over 160 dining options and activity providers. You’ll gain practical knowledge on navigating Kaua'i’s diverse terrain, understanding local culture, and choosing the best resorts—all without any fluff or advertising bias. Whether this is your first trip or you’re a returning visitor, the book equips you with the tools to customize your experience and discover parts of Kaua'i many travelers miss.

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Best for Big Island adventurers wanting detailed insights
Conde Nast Traveler, a respected travel authority, highlights this guide as uniquely thorough due to the author's deep local roots and extensive personal exploration. They discovered the book while seeking an honest, detailed resource beyond typical tourist advice and praised it as "The best guidebook [to the Big Island]. Every nook and cranny is explored by a longtime resident." This candid, well-mapped guide reshaped their view of navigating the island, making it an indispensable choice for anyone wanting to experience Hawaii authentically.

Recommended by Conde Nast Traveler

The best guidebook [to the Big Island]. Every nook and cranny is explored by a longtime resident. (from Amazon)

After analyzing countless travel guides that skim the surface, Andrew Doughty developed this in-depth guide based on his firsthand, anonymous reviews as a longtime resident and explorer of Hawaii's Big Island. You get detailed insights into every trail, beach, restaurant, and tour operator, including candid recommendations on who to avoid. The book’s frank tone and precise maps make planning excursions straightforward, whether you’re looking to scuba dive, helicopter tour, or discover hidden gems. If you want more than a typical tourist brochure and prefer a guide shaped by direct experience, this book is for you.

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Best for custom exploration plans
This personalized AI book about Kauai exploration is created based on your travel background, interests, and what you want to experience on the island. By sharing your knowledge level and focus areas, you receive a book that dives deep into the secret spots and cultural gems that matter most to you. AI creates this tailored guide to make your journey uniquely rewarding, ensuring you don’t just see Kauai, but truly discover it in ways that fit your style and goals.
2025·50-300 pages·Hawaii Travel Guide, Kauai Travel, Local Culture, Hidden Beaches, Cultural Landmarks

This tailored book explores Kauai through a lens finely tuned to your interests and travel goals. It reveals proven ways to uncover the island's secret spots, from secluded beaches to tucked-away cultural landmarks, blending widely trusted knowledge with your unique preferences. By focusing on your background and what you want most from your trip, it offers a rich, immersive experience beyond generic guides. The book examines Kauai’s diverse landscapes, local traditions, and hidden cultural treasures in detail, matching insights to your personal journey. This personalized approach makes exploring Kauai’s lesser-known gems not just possible but deeply rewarding and deeply informed.

Tailored Content
Insider Exploration
3,000+ Books Created
Best for families and explorers seeking authentic Kauai
The Kauai Underground Guide has earned its place as a trusted companion for travelers eager to explore Kauai beyond the usual tourist paths. Offering detailed maps, insider tips on weather and local spots, and curated day plans, this guidebook provides a practical approach to experiencing Kauai’s diverse landscape. Its long-standing popularity and sales success reflect its ability to meet the needs of families and adventurers alike, making it an essential resource for anyone wanting to navigate the island with confidence and uncover its hidden treasures.
2010·240 pages·Kauai Travel Guide, Hawaii Travel Guide, Travel, Local Guides, Kauai Travel

When Lenore and Mirah Horowitz first realized how scattered information about Kauai’s hidden gems was, they created a guide that fills that gap with rich local insight. This 19th edition dives into practical details like navigating Kauai's microclimates, choosing family-friendly spots, and uncovering lesser-known beaches and adventures. You’ll find colorful maps, curated day plans, and handy charts that simplify decision-making during your trip. If you want a resource that goes beyond typical tourist spots to help you experience Kauai’s authentic beauty, this guide is tailored for you. It’s especially useful for families and explorers seeking both convenience and depth in their travel planning.

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Best for travelers wanting concise island highlights
The DK Eyewitness Top 10 Maui, Molokai and Lanai stands out as a compact, visually engaging guide that has earned widespread appeal among travelers to Hawaii. Its well-curated Top 10 lists and fold-out maps simplify trip planning, making it a go-to resource for those seeking both popular sights and local favorites. The guide’s balance of vivid photography and practical details helps you explore these islands with confidence, whether you’re on a short visit or a longer adventure. This book addresses the common challenge of information overload by distilling key experiences into accessible, trustworthy advice tailored for Hawaii travelers.
DK Eyewitness Top 10 Maui, Molokai and Lanai (Pocket Travel Guide) book cover

by DK Eyewitness, Linda Mather Olds·You?

After analyzing countless travel guides, DK Eyewitness and Linda Mather Olds crafted this pocket-sized guide to Maui, Molokai, and Lanai with a focus on precise, up-to-date information and vivid photography. You’ll find practical Top 10 lists for sights, dining, and accommodations that help you prioritize your trip efficiently. The guide’s fold-out maps and insider tips are especially useful for navigating neighborhoods and avoiding common tourist pitfalls. If you want a compact, visually rich resource that balances must-see attractions with local insights, this book fits the bill. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate organized, easy-to-access recommendations without sifting through lengthy text.

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Best for budget travelers aiming to save smartly
This Hawaii travel guide stands out for its focused approach to affordable travel, making the dream of visiting the islands more attainable. Frank Richards outlines how to find the best deals on flights, lodging, and activities, while providing a snapshot of the main islands to help you plan wisely. The book’s straightforward tips on avoiding hidden costs and staying local highlight its value for travelers aiming to experience Hawaii’s beauty on a budget. It’s a practical companion for anyone eager to explore Hawaii without overspending, emphasizing careful planning and insider knowledge.
2016·24 pages·Hawaii Travel Guide, Travel, Budgeting, Hawaii, Flight Deals

While working as a travel enthusiast and budget-conscious explorer, Frank Richards noticed how many potential visitors felt priced out of Hawaii's allure. This guide zeroes in on practical strategies to enjoy the Hawaiian Islands affordably, covering everything from securing cheap flights to uncovering local, low-cost attractions. You’ll gain concrete insights like how to avoid hidden expenses and the best ways to save on transportation and lodging, making the tropical paradise accessible without financial strain. If you want to explore Hawaii’s main islands without overspending, this concise guide is tailored for you, though seasoned luxury travelers may find it less comprehensive.

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Best for rapid trip planning
This AI-created book on planning your Big Island adventure is crafted based on your travel background, interests, and goals. By sharing what aspects excite you most—whether hiking volcanoes, experiencing local festivals, or finding hidden beaches—you get a book focused on exactly those areas. This tailored approach means you avoid generic advice and instead receive a guide perfectly suited to your style and timeframe, helping you explore the Big Island more efficiently and enjoyably.
2025·50-300 pages·Hawaii Travel Guide, Big Island, Travel Planning, Local Culture, Nature Highlights

This tailored book explores the art of planning a 90-day adventure on Hawaii’s Big Island, customized to match your travel goals and interests. It covers essential travel logistics, highlights must-see natural landmarks, and dives into cultural experiences, allowing you to focus on what truly matters to you. The book examines routes, local spots, and seasonal considerations that align with your background and desired pace, offering a uniquely engaging learning journey. By tailoring content specifically to your preferences, it reveals how to efficiently navigate the island without overwhelming you with unnecessary details, making your exploration both immersive and manageable.

Tailored Guide
Personalized Exploration
3,000+ Books Created
Best for first-timers exploring Oahu’s cultural core
Lonely Planet has established itself as a trusted authority in travel since 1973, with over 145 million guidebooks published worldwide. Their deep-rooted expertise and passion for authentic travel experiences come through in this guide to Honolulu, Waikiki, and Oahu. This edition reflects careful updates ensuring travelers receive current, reliable information to enrich their trip. Their extensive background equips you with a well-rounded view of the islands, blending practical advice with cultural context to help you plan a more rewarding journey.
Lonely Planet Honolulu Waikiki & Oahu (Travel Guide) book cover

by Craig McLachlan, Ryan Ver Berkmoes··You?

2021·320 pages·Hawaii Travel Guide, Honolulu Travel Guide, Oahu Travel Guide, Travel, Local Guides

Lonely Planet's extensive experience in travel media shines through in this detailed guide to Honolulu, Waikiki, and Oahu. You’ll find up-to-date recommendations on must-see attractions, cultural insights into local traditions like hula and surfing, and practical tips to navigate the island efficiently. Chapters include honest reviews tailored to a variety of budgets, plus carefully curated itineraries that help you balance iconic sights with hidden gems. Whether you're planning your first trip or returning for a deeper dive, this guide equips you with the knowledge to explore both popular and off-the-beaten-path experiences confidently.

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Best for comprehensive Big Island cultural exploration
Lonely Planet's Hawaii the Big Island offers a wealth of up-to-date recommendations and cultural insights for exploring this diverse island. Its carefully verified listings and region-by-region approach help you navigate everything from Kailua-Kona's coasts to the volcanic wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The guide balances well-known highlights with off-the-beaten-path experiences, making it a trusted companion for travelers seeking a thorough understanding of the Big Island's unique landscapes and communities.
Lonely Planet Hawaii the Big Island (Travel Guide) book cover

by Luci Yamamoto, Adam Karlin, Kevin Raub·You?

2021·320 pages·Big Island Travel Guide, Hawaii Travel Guide, Travel, Local Culture, Hawaii Travel

What happens when seasoned travel writers turn their attention to Hawaii's Big Island? Luci Yamamoto, Adam Karlin, and Kevin Raub deliver a detailed guide that goes beyond typical tourist spots to immerse you in island culture, from stargazing atop Mauna Kea to snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay. You'll find meticulously updated practical information including local business statuses post-pandemic, insider tips to avoid crowds, and honest reviews across budgets. Chapters organized by region help tailor your adventure, whether you're exploring Kailua-Kona or the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This guide suits travelers eager to balance iconic sights with hidden gems, though casual readers seeking only highlights might find it more comprehensive than necessary.

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Proven Hawaii Guides, Tailored for You

Get popular travel methods customized to your unique Hawaii plans and interests.

Trusted expert advice
Customized travel tips
Efficient trip planning

Validated by expert endorsements and millions of travelers worldwide

Island Explorer Blueprint
90-Day Hawaii Fast Track
Oahu Strategy System
Budget Travel Code

Conclusion

These seven Hawaii Travel Guide books collectively emphasize trustworthy, experience-driven advice that has resonated with millions. From Andrew Doughty’s exhaustive island explorations to Lonely Planet’s cultural insights, they offer frameworks that help you navigate Hawaii beyond the surface.

If you prefer proven methods, start with Andrew Doughty’s guides for Kauai or the Big Island, as they provide unparalleled detail and honest reviews. For validated approaches that balance practicality with rich visuals, pair DK Eyewitness with Lonely Planet’s Oahu guide. Budget-conscious travelers will find Frank Richards’ book a valuable complement.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Hawaii Travel Guide book to combine proven methods with your unique needs. These widely-adopted approaches have helped many readers succeed in crafting their perfect Hawaiian adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with Andrew Doughty's guides for Kauai or the Big Island. His firsthand experience and detailed insights make them ideal for getting a thorough understanding of Hawaii’s diverse islands.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Hawaii Travel Guide?

Not at all. Books like Lonely Planet Honolulu Waikiki & Oahu offer approachable, practical advice perfect for first-time visitors wanting cultural context and easy navigation tips.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can pick based on your destination and interests. For example, choose Kauai-focused guides if that's your island, or the budget guide if cost-saving is your priority.

How long will it take me to get through these books?

Most guides are designed for flexible reading. You can skim highlights or delve deep into sections based on your travel planning timeline and preferences.

What makes these books different from others on Hawaii Travel Guide?

These selections are backed by expert recommendations and millions of readers, offering honest, detailed local knowledge rather than generic tourist info.

Can I get a Hawaii Travel Guide tailored just for me?

Yes! While these expert books provide solid frameworks, you can create a personalized Hawaii Travel Guide book that combines proven methods with your unique interests and travel goals for a custom fit.

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