ashenA long overdue, much diversified topic which has also accumulated misconceptions along the way. Hawaii is one of the misjudged destinations for most travelers. It is misjudged to have a single travel destination, when really it is six different destinations. The six main Hawaiian islands are Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Hawaii(A.K.A Big Island), Lanai and Molokai along with 137 islets and minor islands. Therefore choosing which Hawaii Islands to visit can be challenging and confusing for the majority. Mostly because each island has its unique characteristics, activities and locations that suit travelers of different tastes. Therefore in this post we will breakdown which Hawaii islands to visit depending on your choice of a holiday and the activities that you like to engage yourself in.
Hawaii (A.K.A The Big Island)-The Biggest Hawaii Island to visit and the most to explore
We began the post by stating that this is an extremely diversified location for different types of travelers. However, the island of Hawaii(also called Big Island to avoid confusion with the state’s name) has something for each type of traveler. It doesn’t matter if you like to hike, snorkel or feast your eyes in the landscape, there is plenty to keep you occupied here. There are six different regions on the big island each offering something special to the traveler. Namely they are Hamakua Coast, Hilo, Puna, Kau, Kona, and Kohala
What Each Region Offers
Hamakua which is located to the south of Hilo has amazing black sand beaches and waterfalls. Hilo and Puna is a nature/adventure lover’s place where you will find tropical rainforests, flowing falls, and beautiful gardens. This place is filled with activity and comprises the well known Hilo Farmers Market, museums, art galleries, boutiques and great restaurants.
Kau is a special location on Hawaii island. Because it hosts one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea. You can also find the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, vast lava flows to the sea and Punalu’u the most popular black sand beach on the island. Kona is on the west side of the island and here you can snorkel and swim with the dolphins and the turtles. There are plenty of spots for dining, nightlife and shopping. Another thing Kona is famous for is their coffee.
But it sure does not lack in restaurants and shops. Kohala and Waimea are on the north side of the island and are homes to Hawaiian cowboys, beautiful drives and ranches. There are multiple activities here for different types of travelers. Horseback riding, All-Terrain Vehicle explorations, snorkeling etc. Also a site dedicated to history since it is one of the largest and last remaining Hawaiian burial sites. So it is a good place if you want to start educating yourself in Hawaiian history. The Big island with all its gorgeous coastlines, beaches, lava flows along with the locality, will definitely leave a unique imprint on you. Definitely one of the best Hawaii islands to visit. You can check out the best places to stay in Hawaii here.
To summarize, definitely have these in the checklist for the Big Island
- Hawaii Volcanos National Park
- Makalawena Beach
- Kona
- Hilo and Puna
- North Kohala and Waimea
Oahu- Island Nicknamed as “The Gathering Place”
A great place for large groups of travelers consisting of folks who prefer city/historical explorations, surfing, family-friendly places, exquisite dining and more. Honolulu, the state capital of Hawaii is situated here. Oahu is definitely a location for more than parties and nightlife. Central Oahu hosts the world famous Pearl Harbor, now the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Get a glimpse of a submarine’s action in warfare through the virtual tours of submarine interiors and interactive displays on submarine warfare. Next, the popular Waikiki Beach awaits you, although it is the most crowded. If you want to engage in some great surfing, snorkeling, stand-up paddle boarding, head over to Winward Coast on the east side.
You can rent a kayak and explore islands, and visit Kailua town for some local cuisine. Know that the east side isn’t just about aquatic activities. You will also find waterfalls, rainforests and canyons and great hikes. The west side is a great place to go for some solitude. Kapolei, which is the next town on the west coast, has movie theatres, restaurants and shopping centers. The north shore of Oahu is home to the world-renowned surf break, Banzai Pipeline. It is a surfer’s paradise. The list of activities in Oahu is pretty expensive and this post is not enough to cover it all. Here are the best places to stay.
To summarize, definitely have these in the checklist for Oahu
- Kahana bay beach
- Waimanalo beach- For solitude and uncrowded swimming
- Lanikai beach- The most beautiful beach of the island
- Waimea beach
- Helena’s Hawaiian food for some savory authentic cuisine
- Leonard’s bakery that offers local sweet baked goods
- Matsumotos shave ice since a tour to Hawaii is incomplete if you don’t taste this
- Diamond head crater hike for a hiking experience to enjoy the views at the top
- Makapu’u point lighthouse trail
- Nu’uanu pali lookout
- Ho’omaluhia botanical gardens for some tranquil time
- Last but not least, the Pearl Harbor
Kauai: Best Island to Visit in Hawaii for Couples
Kauai is best-known as “the Garden Isle” thanks to its lush green landscape that outstands the other Hawaiian Islands. It is one of the best places for couples to visit in Hawaii for many reasons. Among many other reasons, it is quiet, possesses unsurpassed tropical beauty, breathtaking beaches that yearns the soul to never leave. Let’s start with the Na Pali Coast, home to wildlife sanctuaries, breathtaking beaches, gardens and hiking trails. If you are on your honeymoon, head over straight to the north shore of Kauai which is Na Pali. Quiet, separated, rainforest bordered beaches and some quality hiking tied with snorkeling/surfing.
Have a Nice Honeymoon
Enjoy a peaceful time with your partner in the quaint shopping village with Kauai’s famous Buba’s Burgers and other boutiques. Feast your eyes in the mesmerizing views of the Kilauea lighthouse. If after all this, you want some hustle and bustle head over to the Coconut Coast on the east side. Here you will find Lihue, Kauai’s only airport. Plus the shopping malls, river kayaking, and all aspects of the Kauai nightlife. Next you can visit Polihale which is Kauai’s largest stretch of beach on the west side. Also enjoy the numerous art galleries, boutiques and original restaurants on this part of the island. Check out the accommodations here.
To summarize, include these in your checklist at Kauai
- Kilauea lighthouse
- Anini beach before Princeville on the Northshore
- Hanalei-The waterfalls, landscapes, fields, shops, Hanalei bay and river
- Ke’e & Na Pali coast- Wainiha bridge, Ha’ena beach, Limahuli garden, Kalalau trail, Kalalau beach
- Waimea Canyon, Kokee State Park, Wailua Falls
Maui-Best Island to Visit in Hawaii for The First Time
Maui, A.K.A The Valley Isle is the second largest island in Hawaii. The island is divided into 5 parts as South Maui, Central Maui, West Maui, Upcountry Maui, and East Maui. The island is pretty expensive and is known for the luxurious lodgings offered. Famous attractions here are Road to Hana, Haleakalā National Park, Whale watching in winter and spending time at the iconic historic downtown of Lahaina. There are several reasons why Maui is the best island to visit in Hawaii for first timers. Because this island, sort of like Kauai offers a little bit of everything and is the definition of a tropical paradise. Central Maui has Paia town which is where the Road to Hana begins. South Maui consists of many of the resorts and hotels. Also includes the towns of Kihei and Wailea.
A great place for family trips since the area is a bit quieter. You can engage in snorkeling, swimming at the Oneloa Beach and enjoy indulging in divine cuisines at night. The beach has all the facilities you would want for some quality family time. The East side of Maui is widely known for the incredible Road to Hana. The smooth road to Hana drives around mountains with stunning cliffs that drop into the ocean and lush rainforests alive with eye-catching vibrancy. Not to mention the cascades of waterfalls and natural pools of Haleakala National Park that makes you want to plunge in.
There are several camping spots as well if you choose to spend the night. West Maui also has resorts, shopping stores, restaurants, and the historic whaling towns Lahaina and Kaanapali. Kaanapali Beach has all the aquatic activities we mentioned above. Plus the resorts and restaurants. Lahaina is set back from the beach and is a blend of history, culture with active nightlife.
To summarize, include these in your checklist at Maui
- Haleakalā National Park
- Road to Hana
- Kaanapali and Lahaina
- Oneloa Beach
- Ohe’o Gulch
- Holy Ghost catholic church and The Enchanting floral gardens of Kula
Lāna‘i
Also called the The Pineapple Island, Lāna‘i is also a good destination after you are done with the main attractions. Situated nine miles from Maui, it has only two hotels for lodging and they are Four Seasons Lanai and the Hotel Lanai built in 1923 by James Dole. golfing, exploring the 400 miles of four-wheel-drive trails, snorkeling, and dolphin and turtle-spotting are the main activities on Lāna‘i. The only specialty here is the separation and seclusion. Only 30 miles of the island’s roads are paved, other than the 400 miles of dirt trails. Not one of the most exciting Hawaii islands to visit, but it does offer some tranquility.
Molokai
Also called the The Friendly Isle, Molokai is for travelers who wants to bond with nature even more. Activities such as birdwatching, mild adventures and the usual swimming take precedence here. But that is just a pinch of Molokai. What Molokai is widely known for is the majority of its population being of Native Hawaiian ancestry. The island is divided as the West End, Central Molokai, and the East End.
The silent beaches are found on the West End much appropriate for a picnic or snorkeling. Papohaku Beach, formed with three miles of silky white sand, is found here and is a treat to spend a few hours. Also make sure to pay a visit to Kalaupapa National Historical Park and see some of the world’s tallest sea cliffs along the way.
Getting to the Hawaiian Islands
When you are getting to Hawaii or the Big Island, there are two major options. Either Kona (KOA) in the west, or Hilo (ITO) on the east side. Both airports have some inter-island service from many airlines. However, Kona is the best airport to choose when flying from mainland USA since it has more airlines flying in.
Flying to Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is the way to get to Oahu as Kahului Airport (OGG) is for Maui. The best way to get to Kauai is to book a flight to Honolulu (HNL) and then take a cheap inter-island flight to Kauai.
If you are visiting Molokai, the only way to get there is to either fly to Honolulu or Maui and take a flight from there. The same stands for Lanai.
Summary
As you can clearly see, choosing the best Hawaii islands to visit can be really challenging and confusing. You will always feel as if you are missing out if you choose one over the other. Nevertheless, we suggested the best islands depending on the nature of your travel. Which Hawaii island to visit for the first time? Most would agree that Maui qualifies as the best.
Best islands to visit in Hawaii for honeymoon? Kauai of course and then maybe the Big Island. Cheapest Hawaii island to visit? Oahu holds the title for that. Collectively, all these islands are appropriate for family travels since they comprise of different activities for each type of individual. As always, follow the rules when it comes to the ocean and wildlife. Abide by the no-trespassing signs and obey all quarantine and COVID test requirements. Last but not least, have an unforgettable time and leave nothing behind but footprints.
