As the name suggests, Southwest Airlines will fly you to the most southwest parts of the U.S. It is best known for its budget-friendly fares, flexible services, and friendly staff. Southwest has established itself as a key player in the Hawaiian tourist sector by providing nonstop flights to numerous Hawaiian locations, facilitating and lowering the cost of visiting the Aloha State.
This guide will cover everything you need to know if you’re traveling to Hawaii with Southwest Airlines, from flight itineraries and ticket options to booking advice and what to expect onboard.
Southwest Airlines Hawaii Flight Routes
Southwest has extended its service to a number of significant islands since it started operating flights to Hawaii in 2019. The routes that Southwest currently offers to and from Hawaii are as follows:
- Big Island’s Kona (KOA): Southwest provides nonstop service from the West Coast to Kona, making it a fantastic choice for travelers wishing to see Hawaii’s stunning beaches, coffee plantations, and active volcanoes.
- Maui (OGG) – Kahului: Another well-liked location that Southwest serves is Maui, which is well-known for its gorgeous beaches and picturesque roads like the Road to Hana.
- Honolulu (HNL)-Oahu: The colorful capital of Hawaii, Honolulu is the ideal place to start any Hawaiian holiday because it has much to offer, from exciting nightlife to historic attractions like Pearl Harbor.
- Lihue (LIH)—Kauai: Known as the “Garden Isle,” Kauai is a must-visit destination for hikers and environmental enthusiasts because of its breathtaking cliffs and verdant surroundings.
Purchasing Flights on Southwest Hawaii
It is the same as booking any other domestic trip to purchase a Southwest flight to Hawaii. The airline offers a simple booking process that can be made over the phone, on their website, or through their mobile app. When you plan your Hawaiian flight, there are a few things to consider.
1. Timing is crucial:
Although Southwest Airlines is renowned for its inexpensive tickets, you should get them as soon as possible to take advantage of the greatest offers. Booking in advance helps you acquire a cheap deal because airline prices to Hawaii might change, particularly during seasons of high travel demand.
2. Fare Classes:
Southwest offers two primary fare classes: Wanna Get Away and Anytime. The Wanna Get Away tickets are the most affordable for those who don’t mind a little flexibility regarding flight times and adjustments. Although they are typically more costly, anytime fares provide greater flexibility regarding flight modifications.
Southwest also sells Business Select tickets, which come with exclusive perks like free drinks, priority boarding, and additional Rapid Rewards points. This is a fantastic choice for anyone who values service and comfort.
3. No Unexpected Charges:
Southwest is renowned for having “no hidden fees.” Southwest includes luggage, seat selection, and flight changes in the ticket price, in contrast to many other airlines that charge extra for these services. Because it helps you avoid unforeseen expenses, this transparency can be very useful when booking a Hawaii trip.
Hawaiian Travel and Quick Rewards
The Rapid Rewards program offered by Southwest Airlines is a great way for frequent travelers to accrue points for future travel. You can exchange your Rapid Rewards points for free flights and other benefits when you book a travel to Hawaii. Here are some pointers to help you get the most out of the program:
1. Double Points for Hawaii Flights:
On some routes, including flights to Hawaii, Southwest occasionally offers specials that double or increase points. To learn about these promotions, visit Southwest’s official website or subscribe to their email notifications.
2. Points Redemption:
Since Southwest doesn’t have any blackout dates, you can use your Rapid Rewards points to buy tickets to Hawaii at any time of year. But be aware that flights during periods of high demand (such as holidays) could cost extra points to redeem.
3. Companion Pass:
The Companion Pass is one of the most sought-after perks for Rapid Rewards members. For simply the price of taxes and duties, you can use this pass to travel with a companion on any Southwest trip, including flights to Hawaii. You must fly a specific number of qualifying flights or accrue a specific amount of Rapid Rewards points in order to receive a Companion Pass. This can further reduce the cost of your Hawaiian vacation.
Using Southwest to Fly to Several Islands: Island-Hopping
One of Southwest Airlines’ best aspects is the option to island hop, which simplifies visiting several places on a single trip. Hawaii has numerous unique islands, each with unique charms and points of interest.
1. How to Island-Hop with Southwest:
You can easily schedule a trip between Honolulu, Maui, Kona, and Kauai, thanks to Southwest’s inter-island flights. Southwest’s network allows you to visit more of the islands without going over budget, whether you’re traveling from Oahu to Maui or from the Big Island to Kauai.
2. Island-Hopping Advice:
Make sure to schedule flights and utilize Southwest’s accommodating rules while organizing an island-hopping vacation. Plan beforehand and give yourself plenty of time between flights in case of delays. A seamless journey from one island to the next is ensured by preparation, as is the case with any travel.
How to Pack for Your Southwest Hawaii Vacation
The key to packing for a trip to Hawaii is being ready for a variety of weather conditions, outdoor pursuits, and an abundance of sunshine. Southwest’s baggage policy makes packing simple, with two complimentary checked bags included with every ticket.
What to Bring:
- Swimwear: Since Hawaii is known for its beaches, bring along a few swimsuits for your time in the ocean and sun.
- Outdoor Gear: Whether you’re zip-lining through woods, trekking up volcanoes, or exploring tropical trails, bring the right equipment, such as sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy footwear.
- Casual Clothes: Hawaii’s atmosphere is often relaxed and informal, so don’t bring your most expensive attire. The ideal textiles for the tropical climate are those that are permeable and light.
Final Thoughts: Why Pick Southwest for Your Hawaii Trip
For travelers traveling to Hawaii, Southwest Airlines provides an unmatched travel experience because of its reasonable prices, first-rate customer support, and liberal baggage policies. Southwest’s Hawaii flights are an excellent choice for your upcoming Hawaiian holiday, regardless of whether you’re an island-hopping explorer, a frequent traveler using Rapid Rewards, or a first-time visitor to the islands.
Southwest makes it simpler than ever to take in Hawaii’s natural beauty and exciting adventures by providing nonstop flights, flexible travel options, and the opportunity to plan flights across numerous islands. Prepare to explore the Aloha State with Southwest Airlines by packing your baggage and applying sunscreen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Southwest Airlines offers flights to Honolulu, Maui, Kona, and Lihue from various U.S. cities.
You can book a Southwest flight to Hawaii through their website, mobile app, or by phone.
No, Southwest operates open seating, so boarding is based on your check-in group.
No, Southwest allows two free checked bags on all flights, including those to Hawaii.
Yes, you can redeem Rapid Rewards points for flights to Hawaii with no blackout dates.
Yes, Southwest’s Companion Pass allows you to bring a companion for the cost of taxes and fees.
Yes, Southwest offers inter-island flights between Honolulu, Maui, Kona, and Lihue.