Which Island in Hawaii to Go To:
Your Essential Guide
Are you thinking of planning a dream holiday to Hawaii but you’re stuck wondering which island to choose? Perhaps you didn’t even realise there were multiple islands to pick from? Not to worry, in this guide we’ll dig into all the available options to answer the question: "Which Island in Hawaii to Go To?" Technically there is no wrong answer (because all of the Hawaiian islands are amazing) but choosing the island that’s right for you and fits your preferences and interests can help to ensure a memorable holiday.
Overview of the Islands
The state of Hawaii is made up of many islands, but for the purposes of this guide we’ll be looking at the top four destinations for visitors; Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii (The Big Island). When it comes to choosing the perfect Hawaiian island for your trip, it's important to understand the differences that make each island unique.
OAHU is probably the image of Hawaii most people have in their minds. The high-rise towers of Honolulu city, surfers and sunbathers on Waikiki Beach, historic Pearl Harbour and the towering waves of the north shore. This island offers a little bit of everything for anyone short on time. You can easily combine exciting city life, shopping, and dining experiences with exploring nature, beautiful landscapes and historic monuments.
MAUI on the other hand, is renowned for romance its picturesque landscapes. Here you can watch beautiful sunsets over pristine beaches like Kaanapali or drive the famous Road to Hana, winding through lush rainforests to visit hidden waterfalls. Maui is also a top spot for whale watching during the winter months. If you are considering a trip to Maui please visit the Hawaii Tourism Authority Website for updates on fire recovery efforts and guides to which areas are currently open to visitors.
KAUAI is an island of serenity and untouched natural beauty. Known as the "Garden Isle," it boasts stunning landscapes like the dramatic Na Pali Coast (Jurassic Park fans know what I’m talking about) and the breathtaking Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Here you can hike through lush rainforests, explore hidden beaches, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.
Finally, there’s the BIG ISLAND (also known as Hawaii Island). The largest island in the chain, it offers the most diversity in climate and landscapes. The eastern side of the island is a laidback, tropical paradise of rainforests and waterfalls, while the western side is known for its more arid climate with a vibrant resort town and stunning beaches. The main attraction though is the Volcanoes National Park, where you can witness the raw power of active volcanoes and explore lunar-like landscapes.
What are you Looking For?
Before jumping into the specifics of each Hawaiian island, I recommend taking a minute to think about what your perfect Hawaiian holiday looks like. Are you someone who enjoys nothing more than sitting on a beautiful beach with a cocktail in hand or do you like to get out and spend time in nature? Maybe you enjoy adventure activities that get the adrenaline pumping or perhaps you like exploring the local culture and history. Once you know what you’re looking for you’ll be better prepared to choose the Hawaiian island that’s going to best suit your itinerary. But if you’re anything like me you won’t limit yourself to just one!
Oahu: The Vibrant and Diverse Island
As I mentioned earlier, Oahu has something for everyone. First up, there’s Honolulu, the capital city that offers a perfect blend of urban life and natural beauty. The iconic Waikiki Beach is a must-visit, with golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and a fun atmosphere. To get a bird’s eye view make the effort and hike up Diamond Head. Time your hike for the cooler parts of the day and you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with panoramic views of the island.
But Oahu isn't just about sun and sand, it’s also a place of historical significance. Visit Pearl Harbor and pay your respects to the brave souls of World War II as you explore the USS Arizona Memorial and the Pacific Aviation Museum. Honolulu is also home to the only royal palace in the United States. Take a guided tour of Iolani Palace and learn about Hawaii’s monarchy while exploring the opulent interiors.
Foodies will enjoy Oahu’s diverse dining scene. Depending on how adventurous you want to be you can find everything from local favourites like Spam to fine dining at speciality restaurants like Morimoto. Either way don’t miss out on trying some fresh poke bowls, delicious malasadas, refreshing shave ice and tasty shrimp from roadside food trucks.
Oahu is more than just Honolulu though. While Waiki is a beautiful place to spend your time you’d be missing out if you didn’t explore further. I recommend hiring a car but there are plenty of companies offering day trips from the city if you prefer. Depending on your interests, some top spots that are worth a visit include Kualoa Ranch, Hanauma Bay, the Polynesian Cultural Centre, Dole Plantation, Kailua Beach and the North Shore.
Maui: The Romantic and Beautiful Island
A popular choice with honeymooners, Maui has built a reputation as an island for romance and beauty. And while it fulfils that brief perfectly there is much more on offer when visiting Maui.
One of the most iconic experiences on Maui is the scenic road to Hana. This winding road trip takes you through lush rainforests, past hidden waterfalls, and offers breathtaking coastal views around every corner. Pack the Dramamine if you’re inclined to car sickness but don’t let that stop you, the rewards are well worth the many twisting turns and narrow bridges.
If you don’t mind an early start another popular experience on Maui is witnessing the sunrise from the summit of the majestic Haleakala volcano. Sitting above the clouds, the stunning views across the cratered landscape are from another world. And once the sun is up why not take the option to bike back down the mountain for the return trip.
Maui has plenty of options if you like water-based adventures too. The waters surrounding Maui are perfect for snorkelling, scuba diving and paddleboarding with plenty of marine life to look out for. You can also explore further afield with cruises to nearby Molokini Crater and Lanai being a popular choice. And if you're visiting between December and April, don't miss the opportunity to head out on a whale-watching tour.
But if you are one of the many couples looking for a romantic getaway, Maui is home to plenty of luxurious resorts. Choose from the stunning beachfront properties that line Kaanapali Beach and enjoy first-class service and amenities. Think crystal clear waters, stunning beaches, pristine pools and warm Hawaiian sunshine.
If you are considering a trip to Maui please visit the Hawaii Tourism Authority Website for updates on fire recovery efforts and guides to which areas are currently open to visitors.
Kauai: The Serene and Untouched Island
If you're looking for a destination that takes you away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Kauai is the perfect choice. This serene and untouched island has earned the nickname the “Garden Isle” and promises a getaway filled with natural beauty and tranquillity.
A must-see attraction on Kauai is the magnificent Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." The vibrant colours of the canyon walls and the sweeping views are truly amazing. Take a drive along the scenic lookout points, or throw on your hiking boots to explore the trails that wind through this natural wonder.
The breathtaking Na Pali Coast may be a familiar sight to fans of 90’s classic Jurassic Park. But the iconic wrinkly cliffs that plunge into turquoise seas are not in fact in Costa Rica but right here in Hawaii. This dramatic landscape can be explored on foot but is best taken in on a boat tour along the foot of the cliffs or a helicopter flight over the island.
But Kauai isn't just about breathtaking sights, it also offers a variety of outdoor activities for those looking for an adventure. There’s plenty of hiking opportunities to explore the island's lush rainforests, hidden waterfalls and exotic flora. And the crystal clear waters are perfect for snorkelling trips to discover the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.
Big Island (Hawaii Island): The Diverse and unique Island
Adventure awaits in every corner of the Big Island. Being the largest island in the Hawaiian chain, it offers a diverse range of landscapes and climates that make it truly unique. From rainforests to volcanic landscapes, giant manta rays and stargazing, there is plenty of fun to be had on the Big Island.
The most popular attraction on the Big Island is the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. A unique location that lets you explore an ever-changing volcanic landscape. Watch as lava bubbles inside the Kīlauea crater then head out along the Chain of Craters road to drive over ancient lava flows, peer into craters, walk through massive lava tubes and see sacred petroglyphs. The road ends where the lava meets the sea forming beautiful sea arches over the ocean.
If you’re fascinated by the mysteries of the universe, a visit to the Mauna Kea Observatory is a must. Located at the summit of Mauna Kea, the world-renowned observatory offers unrivaled stargazing experiences. Peek through powerful telescopes and view the brilliance of the night sky like never before.
The two major hubs on the Big Island are Hilo in the west and Kona in the east. In the charming town of Hilo you can immerse yourself in the local culture, explore the farmers' markets, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and learn about the island's history and traditions. If a resort area is more your style Kona offers a variety of accommodation options, plenty of water sports and beautiful beaches.
No matter where you choose to stay on the Big Island there are plenty of activities to choose from. As well as the excellent snorkelling, diving and cruising adventures, the Big Island offers some once-in-a-lifetime experiences. A helicopter ride over active volcanoes and lava flows or a night dive with giant manta rays is something you won’t forget anytime soon.
Planning Your Trip
Once you've decided on your island/s it's time to start planning your trip. Consider the different accommodation options available, from luxurious resorts to self-contained holiday rentals, and find the one that suits your needs and budget. As for transport, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, but there are also convenient shuttle services, public transport and plenty of tour options to get around the islands if you’d rather not drive.
To make the most of your time in Hawaii, it’s recommended to book tours and activities in advance to secure your spot. Whether it's snorkelling tours, luaus, or visits to historic sights, popular activities can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
So as you weigh your options and consider which Hawaiian island to choose, remember the importance of selecting the one that best suits your individual preferences. Whether you're looking for vibrant city life, romantic beaches, or untouched natural beauty, each island offers unique and memorable experiences to suit your needs. Use this guide as a starting point to dive deeper into each island's offerings and plan the perfect itinerary for your Hawaiian adventure. And remember, nobody ever said you could only choose one!
This post is not sponsored. As always all views and opinions expressed are my own.
