How to Choose Your Ideal Hawaiian Island Destination
Not sure where to begin when organizing a trip to Hawaii? Here are some suggestions from us for picking the ideal island to call home.
Hawaii is a remote archipelago with six main islands that are open for tourism; if you’re a first-time tourist, it can be difficult to decide which island is best for you.
Every island has unique features and ambiance. You can almost always count on local cuisine and sunny beaches at each one, but that’s only the start. Some are lush and teeming with the best hiking paths, while others are humming with nightlife and grouped landmarks.
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Many tourists frequently find themselves attempting to narrow down their options because there is so much to see on each particular island and there is little inter-island transportation. Of course, it’s impossible to go wrong in Hawaii, but depending on the interests and pace of each visitor, there can be some options to go a little more correctly. This is our advice to assist first-time guests in selecting the ideal island.
O’ahu
Best for city life, surf competitions, and historic landmarks
O’ahu, the most visited and most populous Hawaiian island, is hopping! Big city features like traffic, expensive hotels, skyscrapers, and nightlife can all be found in Honolulu and Waikiki. Beyond that, though, O’ahu offers world-class surfing competitions on the North Shore, sunny beaches in the West, and lush hikes in the East.
Top places to visit on O’ahu
The US entered World War II as a result of the Japanese Navy Air Service bombing Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, according to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. See the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri Memorial as you visit this landmark.
Formerly inhabited by Hawaiian aristocracy, ŻIolani Palace subsequently served as the site for the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii and the incarceration of Hawaiian Queen LiliŻuokalani.
The island’s safest and greatest snorkeling is found at Hanauma Bay State Park, a sheltered bay. See honu (turtles), heʻe (octopuses), dolphins, and the state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapuaa‘a (reef triggerfish).
Top things to do on O’ahu
Watch a North Shore Surf Competition: Some of the most well-known surf contests in the world are held on O’ahu’s North Shore. Watch world-class surfers perform at winter contests such as the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational and the Vans Pipe Masters.
Tackle the Lanikai Pillbox hike: A short but steep trek will take you to the first Lanikai Pillbox, an abandoned military vantage point with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the Mokulua Islands, and Kailua.
Savor authentic Hawaiian Food: Traditional Hawaiian cuisine, such as poi and ho’io salad, kalua pig and laulau, is one of the greatest ways to learn about Hawaiian culture. Some of the finest authentic Hawaiian food in the islands may be found at Hawaii’s Waiahole Poi Factory and Helena’s Hawaiian Food on Oahu.
Maui
Best for a romantic atmosphere and scenic drives
Most people envision beach bliss and resort opulence when they think of Hawaii’s beachside (as opposed to its volcanic side). Maui is the most appropriate island among all of them. Couples planning a honeymoon, babymoon, or anniversary trip may find this mood especially appealing, but families, friend groups, and single visitors will all find it comfortable.
Top places to visit on Maui
ϻIao Valley State Monument is a must-visit location in West Maui. It is a historic and natural monument, along with the appropriately titled ϻIao Needle rock structure.
Situated on the Road to Hana, WaiŻanapanapa State Park features sea arches, historic heiau (old Hawaiian temples), and the island’s sole black sand beach. Reservations must be made in advance.
Wander along rows of fragrant lavender plants at Haleakala’s base, then stop by the gift store to purchase locally produced lavender products such as scones and tea.
Top things to do on Maui
Catch the Haleakala sunrise: Haleakala, often known as “the house of the rising sun,” is the highest peak on Maui, reaching 10,023 feet to provide unhindered views of the sunrise sky every morning.
Drive the Road to Hana: The Road to Hana, which embodies the adage “it’s about the journey, not the destination,” is home to heart-stopping treks, state parks along the coast, and gushing waterfalls.
Snorkel at Molokini: Take a look at Maui’s marine life by going under the surface. Molokini Crater is a thriving islet 2.5 miles off the coast of Maui. Many tour companies, like Four Winds and Maui Snorkeling, offer amazing snorkeling cruises to this islet.
Big Island
Best for volcanic activity and diverse natural landscapes
The Big Island of Hawai’i, also referred to as Hawaii informally and as the Big Island in official usage, more than lives up to its nickname. Larger than the combined area of all the other Hawaiian Islands, the Big Island fits a lot of diverse landscapes into its 4000 square miles, ranging from lush rainforests and beaches with golden sand to ash-covered deserts and snow-capped mountains.
Top places to visit on the Big Island
Hawaii Volcanoes National area is home to two active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea. The area is known for its unusual natural features, which include long lava tubes, sulfur-smelling steam vents, and occasionally streaming lava streams.
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach: At this black sand beach, take in the long-lasting effects of the Big Island’s volcanic activity. Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach is a well-liked destination with sand composed of crushed lava rock and relaxing honu (turtles).
żAkaka Falls State Park is home to one of the Big Island’s most striking natural attractions, standing 442 feet tall and encircled by a flourishing vegetation.
Top things to do on the Big Island
Summit Mauna Kea: Standing at the highest point on Earth (from the seafloor to the summit), Mauna Kea is a unique location. For nighttime stargazing or wintertime snow (here in Hawaii!), make your way to the summit.
Discover Hawaiian History at Kaloko-Honokohau National Park: Explore the centuries-old remains of fishponds, heiau (temples), and kiʻi pohaku (petroglyphs) to learn about the way of life of the ancient Hawaiians.
Manta ray snorkeling: The Kona Coast is home to hundreds of manta rays. Take an after-dark snorkel with Kona Snorkel Trips or Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii to get a close-up view with these amiable animals.
Kaua’i
Best for hiking and waterfalls
Kaua’i, often known as The Garden Isle, more than lives up to its moniker. Every nook and crevice of the mountains is surrounded by lush foliage! The lush walks, parks, and botanical gardens make up for the rainy season, even if this tranquil island receives more than any other.
Top places to visit on Kaua’i
Na Pali Coast: This stunning ancient mountain range is home to gushing waterfalls and lush, deep ridges. It can only be reached by plane, boat, or foot (via the 22-mile round-trip Kalalau Trail).
Waimea Canyon: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this geologically stratified site offers a plethora of strenuous hiking paths and spectacular vistas.
Hanalei Bay: With its long shoreline, serene waters, and picturesque sunset views, this North Shore bay is perfect for a day at the beach.
Top things to do on Kaua’i
Ride the Ke Ala Hele Makalae Path: This unfinished cycling path stretches along the East Side of Kaua’i, passing lovely beaches, quaint restaurants, and the odd historical site.
Follow the waterfalls: Kaua’i, the wettest Hawaiian island, features hundreds of waterfalls. You may climb to Waipoʻo Fall and Hanakapiʻai Falls or drive up to Wailua Falls and Opaekaʻa Falls.
Take a stroll around historic Hanapepe, dubbed Hawaii’s “biggest little town,” which is brimming with charming restaurants, stores, attractions, and festivals. The Talk Story Bookstore, Taro Ko Chip Company, and Hanapepe Swinging Bridge are not to be missed.
Lana’i
Best for luxurious relaxation
Lana’i is the smallest of the six main Hawaiian Islands, covering an area of 140 sq miles. It is perfect for off-the-grid, relaxed luxury because it offers two opulent Four Seasons Resorts despite having no roads and a population of only 3000.
Top places to visit on Lana’i
Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods): Previously, all of the local vegetation was consumed by goats, sheep, and deer that were brought to the islands. All that’s left is this strange, hazy, boulder-studded landscape. It can only be reached with 4WD.
Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach): From the shore, admire two large, rusty WWII shipwrecks; however, avoid entering the choppy water! Additionally, only 4WD may access it.
Lana’i City: Located in the heart of the island, “downtown” Lana’i City is a charming area with a variety of stores, eateries, and art galleries.
Top things to do on Lana’i
Hulopoe Bay snorkeling: Put on your snorkeling gear and explore this serene South Shore bay that is home to a variety of tropical fish as well as the occasional spinner dolphin.
Manele Golf Course is a difficult golf course that is a part of the Four Seasons Resort Lanai. It is well-known for its expansive cliff and ocean views. Test your swing here.
Walk the 12-mile Munro Trail for amazing views of Lana’i, the Pacific Ocean, and beyond. It can only be reached with 4WD.
Moloka’i
Best for an undisturbed Hawaii experience
A pristine sample of ancient Hawaii can be found on the small island of Moloka’i. With almost 62% of the population, Moloka’i has the highest proportion of Native Hawaiians among the six main Hawaiian islands. Moloka’i is larger than Lana’i, although it isn’t as tourist-friendly. Beyond a few modest local hotels, there aren’t many big-name restaurants, gift shops, or guided excursions available. On Moloka’i, you should prepare to spend much of your time alone.
Top places to visit on Moloka’i
Papohaku Beach: Stretching two kilometers along the West Side, this beach virtually guarantees each beachgoer a private stretch of sunny shoreline.
Moaʻula Falls, the most accessible cascade on Moloka’i, is a 250-foot waterfall situated in Halawa Valley. Be aware that the route passes through private property; therefore, in order to access it, you will need to sign up for a guided trip or obtain permission from the owners.
Once the site of an isolated leper colony, Kalaupapa National Historical Park is a remote area of Moloka’i that is only reachable by air. Today, it is a historic park that chronicles the tale of this place rich in local legend.
Top things to do on Moloka’i
Discover Kamakou Preserve: This preserve, which has a healthy native plant life and stunning perspectives, is perfect for an all-day trip. It is home to the 2-mile Pepeʁopae Bog Trail. It can only be reached with 4WD.
Hire a fishing charter: Moloka’i’s seas are brimming with fish because the island is largely unspoiled. Hire Hallelujah Hou Fishing for a charter, and catch some ʻoʻio (bonefish) and ʻomilu (bluefin trevally).
Take a farm tour: Several of the local farms are open for excursions, and a large portion of Moloka’i is agricultural area. You may find out more about Moloka’i’s farming methods at Purdy’s Natural Macadamia Nuts, Molokai Flowers, and Molokai Plumerias.
