There are, quite possibly, more guidebooks devoted to Hawaii than to any other state. Surprisingly, however, each of the top selections approaches the subject from a slightly different perspective, making each one a uniquely valuable aid for the astute traveler or for the library of anyone who holds Hawaii close to their heart.
1. Hawaii Handbook - The All Island Guide
Covering all of the islands in detail, this is your Guide's favorite reference source about Hawaii, and winner of the Hawaii Visitor Bureau's "Best Guidebook" and "Overall Grand Excellence" awards. With over 1,000 pages dedicated to guiding travelers to Hawaii and yet compact in size, this book is a best buy.
2. Frommer's Hawaii 2005
The 2004 edition brings this book near the top of the list of overall Hawaii guidebooks. With more interior maps than ever before, this definitive guide to the Hawaiian Islands features coverage of beaches, adventure tours, snorkeling, diving and golf as well as reviews of all major resorts and restaurants.
3. Fodor's 2005 Hawaii
One of the best guides to Hawaii, updated every year. All reviews based on visits by savvy writer-residents. The guide includes 44 pages of maps, 22 walking and driving tours, smart travel tips and much more.4. Compass American Guides Hawaii
In many ways it reads more like a novel but it is an excellent travel aid. This book has excellent essays on surfing, leis, Hawaiian music, the bombing of Pearl Harbor, and more. Spectacular paintings and archival illustrations.5. Lonely Planet Hawaii
An insider's view on what's best to see and do and how to get around. Details on ocean sports and beach life are revealed, but this guide goes beyond to private hideaways, lush rainforests and plenty of opportunities for camping and hiking among the islands' unique landscapes.6. Traveler's Hawaii Companion
An excellent, large size guide book with superb photos by Nik Wheeler, a past recipient of the prestigious American Travel Writers' Photographer of the Year award. Nice section of general travel tips at the end of the book.7. Hawaii for Dummies
Don't let the title fool you. Published by Frommer's, this book provides expert advice as well as basic tips and recommendations. It includes great maps, informative charts and quizzes to help you decide which islands are best for you.8. Access Hawaii
Organized by neighborhood, this book's entries are keyed to can't-miss maps and color-coded to help users find restaurants, hotels, shops and parks, and attractions at a glance.9. Hawaii: The Rough Guide
An excellent addition to the Rough Guide series, this book by Greg Ward contains well-researched, yet exceptionally easy to read practical tips and expert advice, as well as critical reviews of hundreds of restaurants, bars and hotels.