Submit feedbackComplete travel information for your October journey
In October, the best ways to reach Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) are rideshare services, taxis, and scheduled airport shuttles from Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. Traffic can be moderate during morning and late-afternoon peak times, so allow extra time for transfers; arriving two to three hours before an interisland or international flight is recommended. For cost-conscious travelers, public transit (TheBus) provides reliable service from central Honolulu to the airport.
Yes — October often sees schedule adjustments as airlines transition from summer to fall frequency; nonstop flights between Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) typically remain available daily, but exact departure times and aircraft types may vary. Book early and monitor airline notifications for seasonal aircraft swaps or timetable tweaks to secure preferred flight times.
Baggage rules vary by carrier: Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Delta have specific size, weight, and fee structures for checked bags and sports equipment like surfboards. In October, demand for surfboard carriage decreases slightly but carriers still require advance notice and often charge oversize fees or require a protective bag. Check the operating airline's baggage and sporting-goods policy before travel to avoid surprises.
October is a shoulder season for Hawaii travel — passenger volumes often dip compared to summer and winter holidays, which can translate to better airfare deals and less-crowded attractions around Oahu. Booking 6–8 weeks in advance and searching midweek departures from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) can yield savings; use fare alerts to capture limited-time sales.
As of October travel, most U.S. domestic travel no longer requires COVID-19 testing or proof of vaccination, but recommendations and local rules can change. Check both the carrier and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) guidance before departure from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), and consider carrying a mask and vaccination record if preferred for personal safety.
From Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) you can quickly reach Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, North Shore Oahu, and interisland gateways to Maui (Kahului), Kona (Big Island), and Hilo. Many visitors also connect to Molokai and Lanai via short interisland flights, making HNL a central hub for exploring Hawaii.
Arrivals at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) in October typically see mild, increasingly rainy conditions — bring a waterproof jacket and allow extra time for ground transportation. SEA has efficient rental car shuttles, light rail connections to downtown Seattle, and plentiful ride-share/taxi options; check fall event schedules, as Seahawks and Mariners games can affect local traffic.
For domestic travel from Hawaii to Seattle in October, there are generally no federal entry restrictions, but local health advisories can change. Check Washington State Department of Health guidance and airline updates before travel; it's also wise to review weather advisories for severe storms that can occasionally impact Pacific Northwest travel.
The Link Light Rail extension connects SeaTac to downtown Seattle, and from there you can take regional transit to Bellevue and Everett. For Bellevue and Tacoma direct transfers, consider Link Light Rail plus a bus, Sound Transit express routes, or express shuttle services. October commutes can be impacted by fall events, so plan extra travel time for popular game days or festivals.
October usually brings fewer storms than winter, so average delay rates into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) from Honolulu are moderate; typical on-time performance for nonstop flights is good, but expect occasional weather or air-traffic management delays. Monitor your airline’s notifications and consider travel insurance for tight connections.
After landing at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) in October, explore downtown Seattle, Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and the waterfront for fall colors and fewer crowds. Day trips to Mount Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park ferry crossings, and Vancouver BC (passport required) are also accessible from SEA for travelers with additional time.
October brings seasonal events that can shape travel plans. In Honolulu (near Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)), look for island food festivals such as the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival pop-ups, local night markets, and cultural events that showcase Oahu cuisine and music. In Seattle (near Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)), October features fall festivals, Oktoberfest celebrations, Major League Baseball postseason possibilities, and family events like 'Boo at the Zoo'. These events impact hotel availability and local transit, so plan ahead.
The best times to fly in October are midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) and shoulder-week dates outside fall long weekends. Early autumn often yields lower fares and lighter crowds compared with summer and winter holiday travel. For convenience and improved on-time performance, choose mid-morning departures or late-evening options that avoid rush-hour ground traffic at both Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).
Nonstop flights from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) are the fastest and most convenient, typically taking about 5.5–6 hours. Connecting flights (via LAX, SFO, or other hubs) can be cheaper but add travel time and the risk of missed connections. For short trips or tight schedules in October, opt for direct flights; if you’re prioritizing savings and can handle longer travel time, consider one-stop itineraries.
October travel between Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) requires packing for two climates: sun and warmth in Honolulu and cool, wet conditions in Seattle. Wear layers on the plane to adapt to varying cabin temperatures, and keep travel documents, chargers, and a compact rain jacket in your carry-on. Consider refundable fares or travel protection for added flexibility in the shoulder season.
Nonstop flights from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) generally take approximately 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours airborne. The time difference in October is +3 hours (HST to PDT). Daily nonstops are commonly offered by Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, with some additional service by Delta; schedule frequency can vary midweek and on weekends.
To find cheap October flights from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), search 4–10 weeks in advance and target midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday). Use fare alerts and flexible date searches; consider red-eye or early-morning flights for lower prices. Carriers often run targeted sales after summer — monitor Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Delta for direct deals. Prices can vary by $100–200 based on lead time and demand.
