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Which hawaiian island is the best to visit our 2024 ranking.

Though it can be easy to assume the six most visited Hawaiian Islands offer similar experiences, they are more diverse than you can imagine. From Waimea Canyon to Waikiki Beach, Hawaii’s wealth of natural beauty (think: cerulean waters, verdant vegetation and stunning white sand beaches ) is just waiting to be explored. To help you decide which Hawaiian Island is ideal for your next vacation, U.S. News took into account sights, expert opinion and reader input to determine the best Hawaiian Islands to visit. Vote for your favorite island below to have a say in next year's list. 

Kaua'i

Hawaii - the big island, honolulu - oahu.

Though it's perhaps most famous for the fabulous coastlines of Ka'anapali Beach and Wailea Beach, Maui is a great option for both couples and families looking for variety in their vacation. Away from the sand, you can drive the Road to Hana, enjoy a bird's-eye view during a helicopter tour , see one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes at Haleakala National Park and get up close to marine wildlife while snorkeling in Honolua Bay or around Molokini. Then, for an experience you won’t forget, relax on the volcanic coastline of Wai'anapanapa State Park, where jet-black sands meet vibrant sapphire waters.

With a more easygoing environment than other islands like Oahu and the Big Island, the Garden Isle lets its wild, natural beauty speak for itself and is perfect for an adventurous getaway. The main attractions here are Koke'e State Park and Waimea Canyon, otherwise known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." But you also won’t want to miss Kaua'i’s breathtaking Wailua Falls or dreamy Po'ipu Beach. And if a challenging hike is what you’re after, it doesn’t get more scenic than the Kalalau Trail along the rugged Napali Coast. Just remember to pack galoshes and a rain jacket – Kaua'i is one of Hawaii's rainiest islands.

The island of Hawaii's bevy of one-of-a-kind attractions and family-friendly activities makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a jam-packed itinerary. Not only does the Big Island offer white and black sand beaches , including the famous Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, it is also home to lush rainforests and two active volcanoes at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. History buffs will love visiting Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site (home to one of Hawaii's largest restored temples) and Kealakekua Bay (where British explorer James Cook first arrived in 1779). Or, head to Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park to see petroglyphs, ancient Hawaiian fishponds and green sea turtles.

The least-developed island on this list, Moloka'i was made for those who don’t mind going off the beaten path. With lush rainforests, miles of beautiful beaches and some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world, Moloka'i is a great place to reconnect with nature, whether you’re staying overnight at one of Moloka'i’s quiet oceanfront cottages – there is only one hotel on the island – or visiting on a day trip from one of the other Hawaiian Islands. Top activities here include soaking up some sun on secluded Papohaku Beach, snorkeling Moloka'i's 28-mile reef or joining a guided cultural hike through Halawa Valley.

Dubbed The Gathering Place, Oahu is home to plenty of famous sites and a great jumping-off point for first-time visitors to the Hawaiian Islands. On the South Shore, you'll find Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay, Pearl Harbor National Memorial and Le'ahi (Diamond Head) State Monument, all in or near the capital city of Honolulu. Meanwhile, the North Shore is home to a more laid-back vibe, as well as the renowned waves at Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, which host major surfing competitions every year. After exploring along the coast, head inland to the tranquil Byodo-In Temple, a replica of a Buddhist temple in Uji, Japan.

For a secluded, nature-centric escape, set your sights on Lana'i. Centrally located between Maui and Moloka'i, this remote hideaway makes a great home base for inter-island travel. Travelers can take a four-wheel-drive vehicle to spots like Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach) and Kaunolu Village, a prehistoric fishing village that was once frequented by King Kamehameha I, or spend their days sunbathing on Polihua Beach. In winter, head to Hulopo'e Bay for terrific whale-watching opportunities. Then, make your way to Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods), an enchanting rock garden that was once part of a native dryland forest, for a breathtaking Lana'i sunset. 

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These are the best islands in Hawaii, according to frequent visitors

No matter where you go in America's 50th state, Hawaii's islands offer a wide variety of topographies, accommodations, activities and experiences.

Related: The best ways to get to Hawaii using points and miles

Hawaii is an incredibly unique place to visit, and each island has its own distinctive vibe. How do you choose between so many different versions of paradise? Here's a guide to finding the right Hawaiian island to visit on your next vacation.

• First-time visitors to Hawaii.
• Single travelers.
• Large groups.
• Budget travelers.

Oahu is Hawaii's most bustling and urban island. It's home to the state's largest city and commercial center, Honolulu, which is known for an epic rush hour that sometimes rivals the one in Los Angeles. Within city limits, Waikiki Beach is the place to see and be seen — shop, dine and enjoy the amenities of huge high-rise resorts.

Related: The best time to visit Hawaii this year

But Oahu's offerings are more diverse than just Honolulu. The growing resort area of Ko Olina is not as built up but still has several upscale accommodations, including Disney's Aulani Resort and the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina . On the way to Ko Olina from Honolulu is Pearl Harbor , one of the most visited historic sites anywhere on the islands.

Oahu's North Shore provides another vibe that's downright chill with its beach-hopping, food-truck-loving, small-town surfer scene. Hikers will find plenty of trails all over Oahu, from the peaks of Diamond Head to less-traveled spots like Makiki Valley and Waimea Valley. Some popular spots do require advance reservations.

Oahu's gateway for travelers, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) has the most air service of any location on the islands, making it the cheapest destination for travelers from the mainland. It also offers the most nonstop flights.

Related: Best ways to redeem points and miles on Hawaiian Airlines

• Travelers with kids.
• Multigenerational travel.
• Anyone looking for resort-based condo properties.

The second-most-visited island in the state and also its second largest, Maui is home to the famed Road to Hana , Haleakala National Park and the best whale watching anywhere in Hawaii during the winter months.

For many travelers, a vacation on Maui is the best of both worlds. The island offers some of the same infrastructure, conveniences and activities of Oahu without the traffic and urban sprawl. It's possible to have an active vacation here and visit a lot of attractions, or you can just enjoy some island rest and relaxation at a resort.

Maui is a great pick for families with kids of school age because of its many activities. It works well for multigenerational groups because it has experiences that grandparents and grandkids can enjoy, such as the Maui Ocean Center or catching a sunrise at Haleakala National Park.

The island of Maui also has many amazing hotels and resorts at a wide variety of price points. Most are clustered in two major areas: on the Lahaina/Ka'anapali/Kapalua corridor on the northwest side of the island and in Kihei/Wailea farther south.

Related: 29 hotels in Maui, Hawaii, you can book with points

For its size, Maui offers an impressive variety of hotels for travelers to book a hotel stay with points. Most major chains are represented, and many properties offer condo accommodations that work for families or larger groups. The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa ; The Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas; The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, Ka'anapali; the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort ; and the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort have all scored well with TPG contributors and readers.

Hawaii (the Big Island)

• Romantic couples getaways.
• Luxury travelers.
• Adventure seekers.

The island of Hawaii, called the Big Island , is the largest and newest island in the chain. Because it's so big, seeing everything requires close to a week, but it offers many different travel experiences from day to day.

The vast majority of Big Island visitors stick to the western side of the island near the city of Kailua-Kona and the Kohala Coast, where the large resorts are located. Luxury seekers can enjoy high-end properties like the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai ; the Mauna Lani , an Auberge Resort; and the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection.

Families on a moderate budget can find ample hotel offerings, too. In particular, the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa and the Hilton Waikoloa Village cater to travelers with kids. Pool complexes are a big draw.

Related: Top hotels on the Big Island, Hawaii, for your next vacation

Although it's entirely possible to spend a week on the Big Island relaxing on the beach of a resort, the island can also be an adventure traveler's paradise. On the northern part of the island, travelers can zip line, take all-terrain-vehicle tours, jump into waterfalls, scuba dive or snorkel with giant manta rays, or flume down historic sugar cane irrigation channels.

On the southern part of the island, you can visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, although some areas remain closed for safety precautions. The town of Hilo on the eastern side of the island has its own local vibe that can be a great getaway for travelers looking for an authentic Hawaiian experience.

• Romantic couples getaways and babymoons.
• Adventure junkies.
• Relaxation seekers.

Kauai's lush greenery makes it, in my opinion, the most beautiful of all the Hawaiian islands. It is home to waterfalls, hiking trails and a variety of eco-adventures. Most travelers seek out Kauai to avoid the hustle and bustle of Oahu and Maui and have a more unplugged vacation experience.

Unfortunately, Kauai's natural beauty also makes it less reliable as a vacation destination. The island's greenery comes from the substantial rainfall it gets, which makes it possible that your vacation in paradise is a damp one. For that reason, it's probably best to plan for a longer trip just in case the weather doesn't cooperate all the time.

Hotel offerings on Kauai are ample. For families, the hands-down winner is the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa in Poipu, known for having one of the best waterslides and pools anywhere on the island. The Grand Club lounge is quite special, too, with easy access to breakfast, drinks, snacks and more.

Poipu to the south is home to quite a few other major resorts, including the Sheraton Kauai Resort . Princeville to the north has many others, such as The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas .

Related: True aloha spirit at the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort

Smaller islands: Lanai and Molokai

• Returning Hawaii visitors looking for new experiences.

Although the vast majority of travelers to Hawaii visit Oahu, Maui, the Big Island and Kauai, there are two smaller islands that tourists can visit as well. Getting to both of them requires a little extra effort, as neither has air service from the mainland.

Lanai, the island owned by Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, is accessible by boat from Maui. It has two Four Seasons resorts on the island (one is adults-only), so it's also luxurious and pricey.

Related: Off the beaten path: Tips on visiting and exploring Lanai, Hawaii

Molokai, by contrast, has no name-brand accommodations, making it a place of refuge for local residents and travelers looking for authentic Hawaii travel experiences. Molokai has commuter air service from HNL and Maui's two airports: Kahului Airport (OGG) and Kapalua Airport (JHM).

Related: Off the beaten path: Tips on visiting and exploring Molokai, Hawaii

I wouldn't recommend that travelers head to either of these places until they've visited several of the larger Hawaiian islands first. You'll likely get more out of them (and know which one is the right fit for you) once you have more context to appreciate them.

The Least Touristy Island In Hawaii For A True Hawaiian Escape

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With over 130 islands that make up the Hawaiian archipelago, picking the right Hawaiian island for your next vacation can be overwhelming. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience authentic Hawaiian culture, finding the least touristy island in Hawaii is key.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Molokai is widely regarded as the least touristy of the inhabited Hawaiian islands, offering pristine nature, quiet towns, and intact cultural traditions well off the beaten tourist track .

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore in detail the factors that make Molokai the best bet for avoiding other travelers in Hawaii. We’ll compare visitor statistics across the islands, highlight what makes Molokai so untouristed, and provide travel tips to help you plan the ultimate off-the-grid Hawaiian adventure.

What Makes an Island Touristy in Hawaii?

When it comes to choosing the perfect Hawaiian island for a true escape, it’s essential to consider the level of tourism. Some islands in Hawaii are known for their bustling tourist scene, while others offer a more secluded and authentic experience. Here are a few factors that contribute to an island being considered “touristy” in Hawaii:

Visitor Arrivals and Occupancy Rates

One of the key indicators of a touristy island in Hawaii is the number of visitor arrivals and occupancy rates.

Islands like Oahu and Maui tend to attract larger crowds due to their popularity and accessibility. They have a higher concentration of hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals, resulting in higher occupancy rates.

In contrast, less touristy islands such as Molokai or Lanai have fewer accommodations and lower visitor numbers, providing a more serene atmosphere.

Development and Commercialization

The level of development and commercialization also plays a significant role in determining how touristy an island is.

Islands with extensive resort complexes, shopping centers, and entertainment venues are more likely to draw large numbers of tourists. These developments often cater to the needs and preferences of visitors, offering a wide range of amenities and activities.

On the other hand, islands with limited development and a focus on preserving their natural beauty, such as Kauai or the Big Island, provide a more genuine Hawaiian experience.

Accessibility

Another factor that contributes to an island being touristy is its accessibility. Islands that have direct flights from major cities or frequent ferry services tend to attract more tourists. For instance, Oahu, with its international airport and the capital city of Honolulu, is easily accessible for travelers from around the world.

In contrast, islands that require multiple flights or have limited transportation options, like Molokai or Niihau, tend to have fewer visitors and a more off-the-beaten-path feel.

Molokai: The Least Visited Hawaiian Island

If you are looking for a true Hawaiian escape, Molokai is the perfect destination. With its minimal visitor numbers, limited resorts and attractions, and hard-to-reach location, Molokai offers a unique experience that is far from the typical touristy hustle and bustle.

Minimal Visitor Numbers

Unlike the popular islands of Oahu and Maui, Molokai sees significantly fewer tourists. This means you can enjoy a peaceful and serene vacation without the crowds . With fewer people around, you can truly immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty and experience the authentic Hawaiian culture.

According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, Molokai has consistently had the lowest number of visitor arrivals compared to other Hawaiian islands . In fact, in recent years, Molokai has only received a fraction of the total tourist arrivals to Hawaii. This makes it the perfect choice for those seeking a more secluded and tranquil getaway.

Also read:   Would Hawaii Survive Without Tourism?

Limited Resorts and Attractions

Molokai is known for its limited resorts and attractions, which adds to its charm as the least touristy island in Hawaii. Unlike other islands that are filled with high-rise hotels and commercialized attractions, Molokai offers a more rustic and untouched experience .

Don’t expect to find large resorts or fancy amenities here. Instead, you’ll find a handful of smaller accommodations, such as bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals , which blend in harmoniously with the island’s natural surroundings. This allows you to truly connect with the island’s rich history and culture.

When it comes to attractions, Molokai offers a different kind of experience. Instead of bustling tourist hotspots, you can explore the island’s stunning landscapes, including the majestic sea cliffs of Kalaupapa National Historical Park and the pristine beaches of Papohaku Beach . You can also immerse yourself in the local community by visiting the quaint towns and participating in cultural activities.

Hard to Reach

Molokai’s remote location adds to its allure as the least visited Hawaiian island. Getting to Molokai requires a bit more effort compared to other more accessible islands.

There are no direct international flights to Molokai, so most visitors arrive via connecting flights from Honolulu or Maui . Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Maui to Molokai, which offers a scenic journey across the ocean.

This remoteness means that Molokai remains largely untouched by mass tourism. The island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage have been preserved, allowing you to experience the true essence of Hawaii.

If you’re looking for a true Hawaiian escape away from the tourist crowds, Molokai is the perfect choice. Its minimal visitor numbers, limited resorts and attractions, and hard-to-reach location make it a hidden gem in the Pacific . So pack your bags and get ready to discover the untouched beauty of Molokai!

What to Expect by Visiting Molokai

If you’re seeking a true Hawaiian escape away from the crowds, Molokai is the perfect destination for you. Known as the “Friendly Isle,” this hidden gem offers a unique and authentic experience that is unlike any other in Hawaii.

When you visit Molokai, you can expect pristine and secluded beaches, untouched nature and wildlife, authentic Hawaiian small towns, and an abundance of outdoor activities to keep you entertained throughout your stay.

Pristine and Secluded Beaches

Molokai is home to some of the most pristine and secluded beaches in all of Hawaii. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax and soak up the sun or an adventurous beach for snorkeling and surfing, Molokai has it all.

One of the must-visit beaches on the island is Papohaku Beach, which stretches for three miles and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean . With its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s no wonder why Molokai’s beaches are considered some of the best-kept secrets in Hawaii.

Also read:   Hawaiian Beaches – A Comprehensive Overview

Untouched Nature and Wildlife

Molokai is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The island is home to pristine rainforests, dramatic sea cliffs, and stunning waterfalls that will leave you in awe of its natural beauty.

As you explore the island, you may come across native Hawaiian plants and animals that are found nowhere else in the world. Keep an eye out for the rare and endangered Hawaiian monk seal , which can often be spotted lounging on the beaches of Molokai.

The untouched nature and abundant wildlife make Molokai a haven for those seeking a true connection with the natural world.

Authentic Hawaiian Small Towns

One of the highlights of visiting Molokai is experiencing its authentic Hawaiian small towns. Unlike the bustling tourist hubs on the other Hawaiian islands, Molokai’s towns offer a glimpse into the traditional Hawaiian way of life.

Kaunakakai , the island’s main town, is a charming and laid-back community where you can find local shops, restaurants, and markets. Stroll through the streets and immerse yourself in the warm and welcoming atmosphere that is characteristic of Molokai’s small towns.

An Abundance of Outdoor Activities

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do on Molokai. From hiking to biking, fishing to kayaking, the island offers a wide range of activities for every adventurer.

Explore the scenic trails of the Halawa Valley and discover hidden waterfalls along the way. Take a boat tour and witness the majestic sea cliffs that tower over the ocean. Go snorkeling or diving and discover the vibrant marine life that thrives in Molokai’s crystal-clear waters.

With so many outdoor activities to choose from, you’ll never have a dull moment on this captivating island.

So, if you’re looking for a true Hawaiian escape that offers pristine beaches, untouched nature, authentic small towns, and a plethora of outdoor activities, look no further than Molokai.

Plan your trip to this hidden gem and experience the beauty and tranquility that can only be found on the least touristy island in Hawaii.

Travel Tips for Visiting Molokai

Getting to molokai.

Molokai is often referred to as the “Most Hawaiian Island” due to its untouched beauty and rich cultural heritage . To get to Molokai, you can take a short flight from the neighboring islands of Oahu or Maui.

Hawaiian Airlines and Mokulele Airlines offer regular flights to Molokai’s Kalaupapa Airport and Molokai Airport. Alternatively, you can also take a ferry from Maui’s Lahaina Harbor . The ferry ride provides stunning views of the Maui Channel and the chance to spot dolphins and whales.

For more information on flights and ferry schedules, you can visit the official websites of Hawaiian Airlines and Mokulele Airlines .

Where to Stay on Molokai

Molokai offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s preferences. From luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals, you’ll find something that fits your needs.

One popular option is the Molokai Shores , a beachfront condominium complex that offers stunning ocean views and easy access to nearby attractions. If you prefer a more secluded experience, consider staying at the Pu’u O Hoku Ranch , which offers charming cottages nestled amidst lush greenery.

For a complete list of accommodation options on Molokai, you can visit the official website of the Hawaii Tourism Authority .

Getting Around the Island

While visiting Molokai, it is recommended to rent a car to explore the island at your own pace. Several car rental agencies are available at both the Kalaupapa Airport and Molokai Airport.

However, if you prefer a more eco-friendly option, you can also rent a bicycle or take advantage of the island’s public transportation system. Molokai’s shuttle service, known as the “Molokai MEO Bus,” provides affordable transportation to various destinations around the island.

Best Time to Visit Molokai

Molokai enjoys a pleasant tropical climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for a Hawaiian escape.

The island experiences less rainfall compared to other parts of Hawaii, with the driest months being May through September. This period also coincides with the peak tourist season, so if you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder months of April or October.

Regardless of when you choose to visit, Molokai’s natural beauty and cultural richness will surely leave you in awe.

Also read:  The Worst Hawaiian Island For Tourists – Why You Should Avoid Molokai

If you’re searching for an authentic Hawaiian experience away from mass tourism, Molokai delivers. With the island’s tiny population, lack of resort development, and remoteness, you’ll be immersed in natural splendor, local culture, and tranquility.

Just be sure to respect the land and people by following proper etiquette as an outsider. By visiting Molokai, you can enjoy Hawaii’s stunning beauty without the crowds on this least touristy island paradise.

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Jane Smith is a Hawaii resident and author born and raised on the island of Oahu. Her Hawaiian heritage shines through in her writing, infusing it with the Aloha spirit and local flavor.

Jane draws inspiration from the tropical island lifestyle - outrigger canoeing at sunrise, beach picnics, hiking to hidden waterfalls. Her works immerse readers in the beauty and culture of Hawaii.

An avid surfer since childhood, Jane often wakes early to catch waves along the North Shore. She also enjoys practicing Hawaiian crafts like lei-making, lauhala weaving, and kapa cloth printing.

When not writing or adventuring outdoors, you can find Jane sipping mai tais at the local tiki bar, listening to ukulele music at the night market, or cooking up a big pot of stew at home.

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How to choose the best Hawaiian island for your trip

Mar 7, 2024 • 9 min read

Choose between Hawaii's six main islands with this guide Fly View Productions / Getty Images

Hawaii has six main visitable islands in its remote archipelago, and it can be hard to choose which one is right for you, especially if you're a first-time visitor.

Each island boasts its own atmosphere and attractions. Local food and sunny beaches are practically guaranteed on all of them, but that’s just the beginning. While some are lush and filled with top hiking routes , others are buzzing with clustered landmarks and nightlife.

Since there’s so much to see on each individual island – and inter-island transport is limited – many visitors often find themselves trying to narrow down their options. Of course, there’s no way to go wrong in Hawaii , but there may be ways to go a little more right,given each traveler’s particular interests and pace of travel. Here's our guide to help first-time visitors choose the right island for them.

Best for city life, surf competitions, and historic landmarks

As the most popular Hawaiian Island – to visit and to live – O'ahu is bustling! In Honolulu and Waikiki , you’ll find skyscrapers and luxury hotels, traffic and nightlife, all of the hallmarks of a big city. But beyond that, O'ahu has verdant hikes in the East, sunny beaches in the West, and world-renowned surf competitions on the North Shore.

Top places to visit on O'ahu

Pearl Harbor National Memorial : On December 7, 1941, the Japanese Navy Air Service bombed Pearl Harbor, prompting the US’ involvement in WWII. Visit this landmark to see both the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri Memorial.

ʻIolani Palace : Once the home of Hawaiian royalty, ʻIolani Palace later became the location for the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii and the imprisonment of Hawaiian Queen Liliʻuokalani.

Hanauma Bay State Park : This protected bay offers some of the best and safest snorkeling on the island. Keep an eye out for honu (turtles), dolphins, heʻe (octopus), and the famed state fish: the humuhumunukunukuapuaa‘a (reef triggerfish).

Top things to do on O'ahu

Watch a North Shore Surf Competition: O'ahu’s North Shore hosts some of the most famous surf competitions in the world. Watch talented surfers do what they do best during winter events like the  Vans Pipe Masters and the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational .

Tackle the Lanikai Pillbox hike: Make the short, but steep hike to the first Lanikai Pillbox (abandoned military overlook point) for jaw-dropping views of Kailua, the Mokulua Islands, and the Pacific Ocean.

Savor authentic Hawaiian Food: From laulau and kalua pig to poi and ho‘io salad, traditional Hawaiian food is one of the best ways to experience Hawaiian culture. Oahu’s Waiahole Poi Factory and Helena’s Hawaiian Food offer some of the most authentic Hawaiian food in the islands.

Save our ultimate long weekend itinerary for O'ahu

Best for a romantic atmosphere and scenic drives

When people picture the beachy side of Hawaii (as opposed to the volcano side), they often dream up beach bliss and resort luxury. Of all the islands, Maui fits this bill the best. This vibe is particularly alluring to couples for honeymoon, babymoon, or anniversary trips, but families, friend groups, and solo travelers will feel right at home as well.

Top places to visit on Maui

ʻIao Valley State Monument : Both a historic and natural landmark, ʻIao Valley (and the aptly named ʻIao Needle rock formation) is a must-visit stop in West Maui.

Waiʻanapanapa State Park : Located on the Road to Hana , this state park has historic heiau (ancient Hawaiian temples), sea arches, and the island’s only black sand beach. Advanced reservations required.

Aliʻi Kula Lavender : Stroll through rows of blooming lavender plants at the base of Haleakala, before popping into the gift shop to snag locally made lavender creations, like lavender tea and scones.

Top things to do on Maui

Catch the Haleakala sunrise: As the tallest peak on Maui at 10,023ft tall, Haleakala – which means “the house of the rising sun” – offers unobstructed views of the pastel-painted sunrise sky each morning.

Drive the Road to Hana: As the epitome of the phrase, “it’s about the journey, not the destination,” the Road to Hana is filled with cascading waterfalls , oceanfront state parks , and blood-pumping hikes.

Snorkel at Molokini: Dive underwater for a peek at Maui’s marine life. Many tour companies, including Four Winds and Maui Snorkeling , have incredible snorkeling tours to Molokini Crater, a thriving islet 2.5 miles off the Maui coast.

Keep planning your trip to Maui with one of these road trips 

Best for volcanic activity and diverse natural landscapes

The Big Island of Hawai'i , officially known as Hawaii and colloquially known as the Big Island, certainly lives up to its informal name. Bigger than all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined, the Big Island manages to pack a lot of natural diversity into its 4000 sq miles — from golden sand beaches and flourishing rainforests to ash-based deserts and snow-capped mountains.

Top places to visit on the Big Island

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park : With two active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea , this national park is filled with unique natural features like sulfur-smelling steam vents, lengthy lava tubes, and the occasional flowing lava stream. Save our complete first-timer's guide to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park  for more expert guidance.

Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach : Enjoy the long-lasting results of the Big Island’s volcanic activity at this black sand beach. With sand made from pulverized lava rock and lounging honu (turtles), Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach is a popular attraction.

ʻAkaka Falls State Park : At 442ft tall and surrounded by thriving plant life, ʻAkaka Falls is one of the most eye-catching natural features on the Big Island.

Top things to do on the Big Island

Summit Mauna Kea: As the tallest mountain in the world (from the seafloor to the peak), Mauna Kea is a special spot. Head to the summit for stargazing at night or snow (in Hawaii!) in the winter.

Learn Hawaiian History at Kaloko-Honokohau National Park : Learn all about ancient Hawaiians’ way of life through the centuries-old ruins of heiau (temples), kiʻi pohaku (petroglyphs), and fishponds.

Snorkel with manta rays: Hundreds of manta rays have made their home on the Kona Coast. Get an up-close look at these friendly creatures with an after-dark snorkel with Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii or Kona Snorkel Trips .

Kaua'i

Best for hiking and waterfalls

Nicknamed The Garden Isle, Kaua'i certainly lives up to the title. There’s lush greenery around every mountain nook and cranny! While this sleepy island does get more rain than any other, the flora-filled hikes, parks, and botanical gardens are more than worth it.

Top places to visit on Kaua'i

Na Pali Coast : This beautiful old mountain range boasts deep, lush ridges and cascading waterfalls. It’s only accessible on foot (via the 22-mile round-trip Kalalau Trail), by boat or by air.

Waimea Canyon : Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this stratified natural landmark is filled with challenging hikes and breathtaking viewpoints.

Hanalei Bay : This North Shore bay is ideal for a beach day, thanks to its calm waters, lengthy shoreline, and beautiful sunset views.

Top things to do on Kaua'i

Bike the Ke Ala Hele Makalae Path: This in-progress bike path runs along Kaua'i’s East Side, passing beautiful beaches, adorable eateries, and the occasional historical landmark.

Go chasing waterfalls: As the rainiest Hawaiian Island, Kaua'i boasts dozens of waterfalls. Drive up to Wailua Falls and Opaekaʻa Falls or hike to Waipoʻo Fall and Hanakapiʻai Falls.

Stroll through Hanapepe: Known as Hawaii’s “biggest little town,” historic Hanapepe is bursting with adorable eateries, shops, landmarks, and festivals. Don’t miss out on the Talk Story Bookstore , the Taro Ko Chip Company and the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge.

Continue planning your trip to Kauai with these itineraries

Lana'i

Best for luxurious relaxation

At 140 sq miles, Lana'i is the smallest of the six main Hawaiian Islands. Even though it has no roads and a population of just 3000, it’s still home to two luxurious Four Seasons Resorts, making it ideal for off-the-grid, laid-back luxury.

Top places to visit on Lana'i

Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods): Once upon a time, the islands’ introduced goats, sheep, and deer ate all of the vegetation in this area. Now, this otherworldly, foggy, boulder-dotted landscape is all that remains. It's only accessible by 4WD.

Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach): Admire two big ol’, rusty WWII shipwrecks from the shore – but don’t get in the violent water! It's also only accessible by 4WD.

Lana'i City: Nestled in the center of the island, the “downtown” Lana'i City is home to adorable restaurants, shops, and art galleries.

Top things to do on Lana'i

Snorkel in Hulopoe Bay: Strap on your snorkel gear and dive into this calm South Shore bay filled with tropical fish and the occasional spinner dolphin.

Test your swing at Manele Golf Course: Part of the Four Seasons Resort Lanai , this challenging golf course is best known for its sweeping cliff and ocean views.

Hike the Munro Trail: This 12-mile path offers breathtaking views of Lana'i, the Pacific Ocean, and beyond. It's only accessible by 4WD.

Moloka'i

Best for an undisturbed Hawaii experience

The little island of Moloka'i offers an untouched taste of old Hawaii. Of the six main islands, Moloka'i has the largest percentage of Native Hawaiians, at about 62% of residents. While larger than Lana'i, Moloka'i doesn’t really cater to visitors. There are a couple of small local hotels, but beyond that, there aren’t many guided tours, souvenir stores or grand restaurants. Plan to be on your own on Moloka'i for the most part.

Top places to visit on Moloka'i

Papohaku Beach : Given that this West Side beach is 2 miles long, every beachgoer is practically guaranteed to have a slice of sunny shoreline all to themselves.

Moaʻula Falls: Located in Halawa Valley, this 250ft waterfall is the most easily accessible cascade on Moloka'i. Do note that the trail goes through private property, so you’ll have to take a guided tour (or get permission from the owners) to access it.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park: Once home to a remote leper colony, this remote part of Moloka'i (now only accessible by air) now serves as a historic park that tells the story of this lore-rich region.

See more of Hawaii's national parks, memorials and historic sites

Top things to do on Moloka'i

Explore Kamakou Preserve: Home to the 2-mile Pepeʻopae Bog Trail, this preserve – complete with thriving native plant life and gorgeous viewpoints – is an all-day adventure. It's only accessible by 4WD.

Take a fishing charter: Since Moloka'i is mostly undisturbed, its waters are teeming with fish. Book a charter with Hallelujah Hou Fishing and reel in a few ʻoʻio (bonefish) and ʻomilu (bluefin trevally).

Take a farm tour: Much of Moloka'i is agricultural land, and a few local farms are open for tours. Learn more about Moloka'i’s agricultural practices at Molokai Plumerias , Molokai Flowers  and Purdy’s Natural Macadamia Nuts .

Ready to plan your trip?

Decide on the perfect week for you with the   best time to visit Start crafting your budget with these tips   Save this transportation guide for   how to get around between the islands

This article was first published May 13, 2016 and updated Mar 7, 2024.

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Getting Around the Islands

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Choosing the Right Island for Your Trip

Which Hawaiian Island Should I Visit?

You’ve saved up, requested off work, and have started to count down the days until your vacation. The white sands and lush mountains of Hawaii have already begun calling your name, but when it comes to starting the planning process, which Hawaiian Island should you visit? Although it seems like a pretty basic question, it's a problem that a lot of Hawaii visitors run into, especially since opportunities to visit paradise don't come along every day. Keep reading to learn which of Hawaii’s unique islands suits you best.

Oahu: Ideal for Families

Oahu is known as the "Gathering Place" for a good reason. This island is by far the most popular for travelers, partially due to the accessibility of everything from nightclubs and world-class restaurants to sandy beaches and quaint surf towns. Honolulu, the state capital, is located on this island. Drive just a few miles outside the city, and you'll find yourself surrounded by rainforests in Manoa Valley or the state's most tourist-friendly snorkeling in Hanauma Bay . The island's north side is known for being a bit more laid-back without sacrificing vacation staples such as restaurants and shops.

On Oahu, you'll find:

• A main strip of incredible resorts, with plenty of choices for families, couples, friends, and solo travelers alike, iconic and bustling Waikiki.
• Museums, opportunities for surf lessons, and family-friendly activities can also be found on this populous island, as well as cultural sites and malls .
• Pearl Harbor . This important historical site is the most-visited attraction in Hawaii.

Maui: Great for Honeymooners

Home to stunning scenery and some of the best resorts in the country, the “Valley Isle” of  Maui is a no-brainer for honeymooners. Maui is a fantastic option for those who want to have most of the vacation amenities offered on Oahu, such as the restaurants, bars, and accommodations choices, without the large crowds.

The possibilities on Maui are endless:

• Newlyweds can drive past waterfalls and rocky coastal shores along the Road to Hana , go ziplining through the rainforest, frolic through lavender fields , watch the sunrise over a dormant volcano on Haleakala , or lounge on the sand.
• Haleakala National Park encompasses over 33,000 acres, mostly wilderness, along with the spectacular Pipiwai Trail and Maui’s tallest peak.
• Kaanapali Beach and Makena Beach Park are often on lists of the state’s best beaches .
• Nearby, Lahaina town has a condensed group of restaurants, shops, and art galleries.
• Maui also has incredible whale watching during winter, with many boat tours and ferries leaving the Lahaina Harbor throughout the day.

Kauai: Plenty of Outdoor Adventures

Kauai gets the most rain out of any other island in the state, so don’t bank on staying dry during your outdoor adventures. This rainy weather is what helps make the place so special, and also how the “Garden Isle” got its name. For this reason, the island is home to unique plants and flowers that thrive in the tropical weather and an abundance of botanical gardens . 

This island is also the oldest in the main island chain, with important cultural sites where the first Native Hawaiians lived off the land and sea. Na Pali Coast State Park is home to many of these historic outdoor sites, as well as towering sea cliffs, world-famous hiking trails , and snorkeling . Waimea Canyon , known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” boasts some of the state’s most unique and spectacular views and camping spots. Kauai’s wildlife refuge at Kilauea Lighthouse is an important sanctuary for the state’s wildlife, too.

Big Island: Best for Nature Lovers

As you may have already guessed, the Big Island (also known as Hawaii Island) is the state's largest island. This is the place for outdoor-loving adventurers who aren't afraid to fully immerse themselves in new environments.

What truly sets this island apart from the others is its volcanic activity , one of the true wonders of nature . The Big Island's constant active lava flow means it is still growing, which is particularly impressive, considering it is already bigger than all of the other Hawaiian Islands. Hawaii Island is home to most of the world's 14 climate zones, from snowy Mauna Kea to its many hot, sandy beaches .

A road trip or two on the Big Island isn't just recommended; it's inevitable. The island's massive size means that a car is mandatory for getting around unless you're planning on staying inside your resort the entire time. Hilo , on the east side, is known for its waterfalls and rainforests, while Kailua-Kona , on the west side, has a more lively ambiance.

Lanai: Perfect for Relaxing

While the quaint island of Lanai is still known as the “Pineapple Isle” from its days as the state’s leading producer of pineapples, the island grows very little of the fruit these days. 

Lanai has a population of just over 3,000 full-time residents living in its 140 square miles of land area, so it is extremely quiet. This peaceful vibe comes in handy for those who want to relax.

Still, Lanai has no shortage of things to do:

• The luxurious Four Seasons and golf course at Manele Bay is gorgeous and frequented by celebrities looking to escape it all.
• The sandy area off the connecting Hulopoe Beach Park is known for its pristine snorkeling.
• From there, you can hike up to Puu Pehe Sweetheart Rock for majestic views of Maui and Molokai in the distance and crystal clear tidepools below.
• The island also offers a few great attractions, such as an offshore World War II tanker wreck near Shipwreck Beach, the Lanai Cat Sanctuary, and the moonscape-like Keahiakawelo Garden of the Gods.

Molokai: The Friendly Isle

Molokai is small—as in, not one traffic light on the entire island small. This island has a reputation for being the “most Hawaiian” of the Hawaiian Islands, thanks to its aloha spirit, the residents’ embracement of the old Hawaii lifestyle, and small tourist numbers.

Since the tiny island only welcomes an intimate number of travelers each year, there isn’t a wide selection of accommodations. Dining options level out at local mom-and-pop stores, family-owned eateries, and small beachside restaurants.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park is the island’s biggest attraction. Only accessible by organized tour (typically done on mules to help navigate the steep and narrow access trail), Kalaupapa is home to Hawaii’s historic former leper colony. Other popular activities include hiking the Halawa Valley to Moaula Waterfalls with a local guide and kayaking near Molokai’s barrier reef, the longest reef in the state.

Hawaii Guide: Planning Your Trip

Top Annual Events and Festivals in Hawaii

Where to Go on Each Hawaiian Island to Spot Humpbacked Whales

Getting Around the Hawaiian Islands

17 of the Most Beautiful Places in Hawaii

How to Get Around and Explore Hawaii

The 20 Best Things to Do in Hawaii

Best Hawaii All-Inclusive Hotels

Your Trip to Maui: The Complete Guide

The 15 Best Restaurants on Maui

The Best Road Trips to Take in Hawaii

The 10 Best Beaches on Hawaii Island

The 11 Best Golf Courses on Maui

Your Trip to Hawaii Island: The Complete Guide

Nightlife in Maui: Best Bars, Clubs, & More

Guide to Planning a Visit to Maui

Best Hawaiian Island to Visit

Are you planning a dream vacation to hawaii but have absolutely no idea which island to choose.

Hawaii is not a single travel destination, but really six different destinations. The six main Hawaiian islands are Oahu, Maui, Kaua’i, Hawaii(Big Island), Lana’i and Moloka’i.

How to Choose the Best Hawaiian Island to Visit

Choosing which island to visit can be arbitrary and difficult. A common misconception is that Hawaii is one place, encompassing all the hot spots such as Waikiki, Kaanapali, and Kona. But did you know that the Hawaiian chain is actually comprised of six separate islands that are publicly accessible? We hope this detailed guide will provide you with local insight while choosing which Hawaiian island is right for your vacation. Call today if you have questions or seek more information, and one of our friendly travel experts will be happy to help! 1-800-843-8771

Based on popular appeal, activities, and notoriousness, each of the six islands is uniquely distinct. With so much to see and do on one island, Hawaii Aloha offers custom-tailored travel packages that fit your needs and particular lifestyle. All you need to do is choose the island that suits your desires and vacation ideas! So read on to discover more about the Hawaiian Islands and we’ll ensure you have the vacation experience of a lifetime, custom-created to be exactly what you seek.

Known as the “ Gathering Place ” and harboring Hawaii’s state capital of Honolulu, if you’re looking for the Best Hawaiian Island to Visit and beach action in a big city, this is the island for you. A hot spot for activities, shopping, dining, surfing, nightlife, and much more, Waikiki Beach is a worldly popular location. However, don’t be fooled by travel guides telling you Oahu is only good for a party because there is much more to Oahu than just its city parts.

With diverse sides to explore on this island, you will be kept busy for your entire vacation. The pristine beaches of the east side will tempt you to stay forever. With a stunning view of the Mokulua islands , crystal clear waters, and unbelievably white sand, this site offers a wide variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Rent a kayak and explore the twin islands off the coast of LaniKai beach or go into Kailua town for some shopping and authentic restaurants. Surfing, snorkeling, the increasingly popular SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), swimming, and kayaking are all great ways to get to know the East Side. You will also find lookout points, waterfalls, canyons, and rainforests on this tropical side.

The north shore of Oahu is home to the world-renowned surf break, Bonsai Pipeline. Although the surfing spectacles are incredible to watch, the ocean conditions are usually unsafe for visitors here during winter. Waimea Bay is another great spot to watch the surfers, along with Sunset Beach and Turtle Bay. There are several waterfall hikes on this side, and with its lush scenery, it is easy to see why so many people flock here. The quaint town of Haleiwa is known to have some of Hawaii’s best shave ice, not to mention awesomely authentic surf shops and mean Mexican food at Cholo’s. The north shore is a relaxing, quiet retreat compared to its opposite location of Waikiki.

The west side is cropping up with new shopping centers and resorts and is a great place for solitude. The resort community of Ko Olina is equipped with a lush golf course, private beach coves perfect for leisure swimming, fine dining, and oceanfront cocktail bars. The town next door is Kapolei, where you’ll find shopping, movie theaters, restaurants, and much more. Out further west is the deep local parts of Nanakuli , Waianae , and Makaha Beach. These areas offer beautiful beaches and dramatic mountain ridges; if you’re seeking intense sun rays, this is the best place to get it!

Waikiki and Honolulu are bursting with activities and entertainment. Located on the island’s south side, this location has the feel of a big city, only it is Hawaii-style- with palm trees, blue water, and warm evenings. Here, you’ll find the high-end outdoor and indoor shopping malls of Ala Moana, Pearl City, and the Waikiki Strip. Much of the island’s historical and cultural centers are also here, so jump on several entertaining tours to traverse the island via bus. 5-star hotels, resorts, and spas adorn the long stretch of beautiful Waikiki beach. Still, you will also find surfing lessons, snorkeling, luaus , superb dining, and lively nightlife, making this the Best Hawaiian Island to Visit for many.

Known as the Garden Isle, here you’ll find the iconic representation of Hawaii. With lush mountains that seem to go on for days and rainbow shower trees that line dirt roads, you’ll find a peaceful retreat here that is unlike any other; for this reason, Kauai is also the Best Hawaiian Island to Choose. With unsurpassed tropical beauty, this quiet island is a perfect getaway for honeymooners or someone who needs to get away and find some relaxation.

The recently developing south side of Kauai is known for its incredible snorkeling sites and sunny beach weather, which many visitors when thinking about the Best Hawaiian Island to Visit. Hotels and resorts are located along the coast, including the Grand Hyatt Kauai and the contemporary Koa Kea Hotel. You will also find secluded beaches framed by verdant mountains that tower to the clouds. Sparsely populated, the south side is a great place to enjoy Hawaii at its finest. In the old town of Koloa , you’ll find museums giving information on the sugar cane mills, Kauai’s oldest agriculture industry. Many mills are still visible and offer photo opportunities as the sun sets against their tin roofs.

The small, local towns on Kauai’s west side are quaint and authentic. Visit the dwellings of Hanapepe , Kauai’s biggest little town and weave in and out of art galleries, boutiques, original restaurants, and the popular Banana Patch Studio . Here you can watch local artists hand-paint Hawaiian tiles and pottery and purchase unique gifts. The west side is also home to Kauai’s largest stretch of beach, Polihale . The direct translation of this ancient word is “house of the dead,” but don’t be too spooked! This beach is one of Kauai’s most stunning and will surely run your camera out of batteries. Waimea is another town to visit, and don’t forget to stop in at JoJo’s for some tropically flavored Hawaiian shave ice.

Kauai’s only airport is located on the east side, in the town of Lihue. Harboring much of the island activity, this is where you’ll find shopping malls, river kayaking, dining, Kauai-style nightlife, hikes, and more. Vacationers who want a little bit of everything come to the east side because here, you’ll find a centrally located area closest to all of Kauai’s shores. The beaches are long, golden strips of sand that usually sit in front of resorts, with mellow waves and sandy ocean bottoms. The mauka (mountain) side of Lihue and Kapaa is lush and beautiful, teeming with waterfall hikes and rivers you can journey up. You can paddle and put upstream to secret waterfalls and hiking trails with kayaks, SUP board rentals, canoes, and small boats. This side is also known to wash up some of Kauai’s most valued treasures: sunrise shells and glass fishing floats. Another area on the east side worth a visit is the old town of Kapaa , where you’ll find old-fashioned ice cream parlors, small boutiques, local style eateries, and art galleries. Kapaa also holds outdoor markets where locals sell unique gifts such as pareos (sarongs), koa wood crafts, Hawaiian jewelry , and much more.

The north shore of Kauai is secluded and quiet, with rainforest-bordered beaches, trickling streams running across the roads, and one-lane bridges that inspire a sense of friendly neighborliness. With amazing snorkeling sites and world-class hiking along with the Na Pali coast , this is the side to visit if you’re looking for a relaxed, tropical retreat. Only a few hotels and resorts are on this side, so many vacationers look into home rentals. With one of the world’s largest (but unfortunately nonliving) reefs, Anini Beach is a great place to get sun, camp, or look for Kahelelani shells sprinkled amongst the sand grains. These tiny shells, also known as Niihau shells, are precious plunder that were used to make jewelry for the Hawaiian royalty. This site also offers a quaint shopping village with Kauai’s famous Buba’s Burgers, bikini shops, and surf shops. North Shore has some of the best surf spots too, so if you’re looking to catch some waves while on Kauai, head north to Hanalei!

If you’re looking for a little bit of everything; relaxing beach days, adventurous hikes to waterfalls, nightlife, lively coral reefs, and resorts, then Maui is truly the ideal tropical paradise. Most first-time Hawaii visitors travel to Maui because of its diversity and popularity if you are considering the Best Hawaiian Island to Visit. Known as the valley isle, this island has incredibly beautiful scenery with an abundance of guided tours to allow some major sightseeing. From volcanoes to lush rainforests to miles of warm golden beaches, Maui is a great place to come taste everything Hawaii has to offer.

Much of Maui’s popular destination spots are divided between the West and the South sides of the island. The west side of Maui has the most visited town of Kaanapali. Kaanapali Beach has a resort community feel to it, with various hotels, resorts, and condos that are all within walking distance of one another. The beach is spectacular, offering tons of activities such as snorkeling, surfing, and swimming, and Whalers Village shopping center is within proximity as well. Kaanapali, one of Maui’s most appealing towns, is rich in history and culture but also brimming with restaurants, shopping, galleries, and a vivacious nightlife.

The south side of Maui includes the towns of Kihei and Wailea. With the resorts and hotels more spread out than Kaanapali, this side tends to be quieter and have more of a relaxed beach atmosphere. Oneloa Beach, referred to by the locals as “Big Beach” is a wide stretch of sand that is perfect for body boarding, body surfing, swimming, and snorkeling. With portable restrooms and picnic tables, this is a great family beach location , so pack a picnic and spend the day along this gorgeous coastline. On this side you can also indulge in divine cuisines, authentic luaus, and the Maui Ocean Center Aquarium . You can also enjoy free hula shows at the Lahaina Cannery Mall and visit the giant Banyan tree, a park-like setting fun for kids and mid-afternoon activities.

The famous Road to Hana is a major attraction along Maui’s east side and boasts some of the island’s most inspiring scenery. The windy road to Hana carves around mountains with dramatic cliffs that drop into the ocean and lush rainforests alive with vibrancy. Here you will also find black sand beaches, Haleakala National Park, and cascading waterfalls, all sights to be had while visiting Maui. You can also check out the popular east side attraction of Ohe’o Gulch, or Seven Sacred Pools, the series of waterfalls and natural pools within the National Park.

The towns of Haiku, Kula, and Upcountry are located in the northern territories with rustic sights of Maui’s produce farms and botanical gardens. Without many hotels or resorts, these areas act more as sightseeing and point-of-interest locations than actual vacation destinations. But with interesting and unique places like Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Enchanting Floral Gardens of Kula, pineapple canneries of Haiku, cemeteries, small restaurants, and rolling fertile hillsides with misty mountains, these high elevation areas still provide amazing scenery and unforgettable experiences.

Hawaii (Big Island)

This island originally named Hawai’i is the largest and youngest of all islands in the Hawaiian archipelago. Referred to now as the Big Island to avoid confusion with the state’s name, this is home to Hawai’i’s only active volcano. With incredibly diverse landscapes from molten lava rivers to snow-capped mountains to beautiful rainforests and black sand beaches, this island is a place of wonder and excitement.

On the sunny west side of the Big Island you will find Kona , a bustling place of activity home to historic villages, shops, dining, nightlife, and beaches. The beaches here are sheltered and calm, creating perfect places for tranquil swimming and snorkeling. Dolphin and honu (turtle) sightings are common while snorkeling, but if you would like to experience more of Hawaii’s marine life, scuba diving is renown here as well. Along the Kona coast you will discover the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park that highlights Hawaiian fishponds, native wildlife, and sacred temples. You will also find the famous Kona Coffee Plantations here, so have fun on a guided tour or explore on your own.

Hilo and Puna is where you will find tropical rainforests, flowing falls, and blooming gardens. The east side of Big Island acted as the farming and fishing community during earlier times, which sheds light on its present day fertile landscaping. Now home to museums, art galleries, boutiques, restaurants and the Hilo Farmer’s Market, this side remains energetic with activity. Come visit the Wailuku River State Park, home to the 80-foot Rainbow Falls and the Boiling Pots pools. The Liliuokalani Gardens boast 30 acres of beautifully landscaped Japanese gardens with koi fish ponds, pagodas, and rock structures. The town of Puna houses Hawaii’s oldest theatre, the Akebono, which is still open to the public with a full bar, dance floor, and performance stage. You’ll also find a variety of resorts and hotels with amenities and spas, so come relax in Hilo and surround yourself in tropical beauty and Hawaiian entertainment.

The southern tip of Big Island is know as Ka Lae, but the south side is named Kau, a vast, rural, and remote part of the island. With a small town feel and pace, Kau is home to Kilauea and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park . This area offers hikes, one of Hawaii’s most well-known black sand beaches (Punaluu), macadamia nut orchards, coffee farmlands, and cattle pastures. The south tip is also the place of beginnings, where the ancient Polynesians are known to have first set foot, thus naming the island Hawai’i. You can find a quaint bed and breakfast to stay in or choose a hotel, but wherever you stay, this side will offer solitude, respite, and tranquility.

North Kohala and Waimea are locations on the north side of Big Island, with green pastoral landscapes home to paniolos (Hawaiian cowboys), ranches, and scenic drives. Here you will also find the charming town of Hawi with unique boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. There is also rich historical value to this side, including King Kamehameha’s birthplace and the Puukohola Heiau National Historical Site, one of the largest and last remaining Hawaiian burial sites. Enjoy activities such as horseback riding through lush fields, ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) explorations, snorkeling, swimming and much more. A place of natural splendor and dramatic coastlines, the north shore will inspire and entrance you.

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What’s the Best Island in Hawaii for You?

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

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There’s no wrong choice when it comes to deciding which Hawaiian island to visit . They’re all naturally beautiful, they all have gorgeous beaches, and they all welcome visitors with the gentle “aloha” spirit for which the islands are known. But there are important differences from one island to the next—and while there’s no such thing as a single best island in Hawaii, there may be a best island for you .

What’s the Best Island in Hawaii?

The best island in Hawaii depends on your passions. Are you into food? Adventure? Hiking? Beaches? There are six Hawaiian islands open to visitors, and each one offers something unique.

Luckily, you don’t have to choose just one. Most flights from the mainland U.S. land in Oahu, but frequent service from Hawaiian Airlines makes it easy to fly to other islands in the chain. You can also visit four different islands in seven days with Norwegian Cruise Line , allowing you to sample the best of Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.

Below is a rundown of Hawaii’s six main islands to help you decide which one (or more than one) is the right choice for your next tropical vacation.

About 1.4 million people live in Hawaii, and you’ll find the bulk of them on Oahu. The capital city, Honolulu , is home to the best high-end shopping, fine dining, and nightlife in the islands. Waikiki is the heart of the action, where you can hit the beach, snag a new pair of Gucci sunglasses, and sample chef Roy Yamaguchi’s Japanese/Hawaiian fusion cuisine all in the same day.

But Oahu has its quieter sides, too. Get outside of Honolulu and you’ll discover the laid-back surf towns of the North Shore and the lush green mountains of the windward (east) coast. Movie buffs and adventurers should stop at Kualoa Ranch , where you can go horseback riding or mountain biking, take an ATV tour, or check out the filming locations for dozens of movies including Jurassic Park and 50 First Dates.  For more ideas, see The 10 Best Things to Do in Oahu Beyond Waikiki .

Best for: Shoppers, foodies, city lovers, and those who like a mix of action and relaxation. Oahu is also probably the best island in Hawaii for travelers on a budget, as you don’t have to spend extra on inter-island airfare, and the wide choice of hotels and vacation rentals means it’s easier to find a reasonably priced place to sleep.

Where to stay: One of the most popular spots to stay in Waikiki is the upscale Aston Waikiki Beach Tower , with spacious condos located right in the heart of the action. A more affordable option is the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort , which has two towers right on the beach as well as a vast outdoor complex including a saltwater lagoon, waterslides, and five swimming pools.

Check Prices for Aston Waikiki Beach Tower in Honolulu

Check prices for hilton hawaiian village waikiki beach resort in honolulu.

The second-largest of the Hawaiian islands, Maui is a perennial visitor favorite because it has a little of everything: golden beaches, tumbling waterfalls, laid-back nightlife, championship-caliber golf courses, and plenty of outdoor adventure, from hiking and biking to snorkeling and surfing. You can get a taste of many of these attractions along the rugged Road to Hana , one of the most gorgeous drives on the planet.

If all you want to do during your vacation is to lie on a beach and relax, you can do so in popular resort areas like Kaanapali and Wailea. But more active travelers will find endless things to do in Maui. Head to Haleakala National Park to watch the sunrise from the summit of a volcano and then take an exhilarating 26-mile bike ride back down to the base. Go snorkeling among sea turtles and lava arches off the small island of Molokini. Come in the winter months to see migrating humpback whales. Or visit Maui’s many farms and plantations to sample local specialties like coffee, dragon fruit, and chocolate. (Many of these ingredients make it into farm-to-table cuisine around the island.)

Best for: Adventure seekers, honeymooners, foodies who love sampling local fare, and travelers who enjoy scenic drives.

Where to stay: Hotel Wailea is an ultra-luxe, adults-only resort featuring 72 beautifully designed suites with ocean or garden views; it’s the perfect spot for a secluded honeymoon. Or book yourself a beachfront condo at Maui Kai , where family-friendly units include kitchenettes and on-site laundry is available.

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Put all the other Hawaiian islands together and they’re still only about half the size of the Big Island (officially known as the Island of Hawaii). Nor can they match the Big Island’s sheer natural diversity. As you travel around the island, you’ll see not only the landscapes you’d expect to see in Hawaii—black and white sand beaches, golf courses, fertile jungle valleys, waterfalls—but also a green sand beach ( Papakolea ), stark black lava fields, and even a little snow.

This varied terrain means there’s plenty to do on the Big Island for any visitor, starting with its most famous attraction, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , which you can explore on foot or by car. Try stargazing from Maunakea , the island’s highest peak, where you’ll see that aforementioned snow. Near Kona you can relax on the beach or go snorkeling at night with manta rays , while the Hilo area is known for rainforest hikes, botanical gardens, and waterfalls. The Big Island is also a good spot to see Hawaiian green sea turtles, especially along the Kohala Coast .

Best for: Animal lovers, golfers, and outdoorsy travelers. The Big Island is also the best island in Hawaii for those seeking a variety of climates and landscapes on their vacation.

Where to stay: The Fairmont Orchid sprawls over 32 oceanfront acres in the northwestern part of the Big Island. Thanks to its large swimming pool, tennis courts, fitness center, and “spa without walls,” you may never leave the resort. If a B&B is more your speed, try The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls , an eco-friendly collection of rooms surrounding Hawaii’s largest privately accessible waterfall.

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As you drive past mile after mile of lush foliage in every imaginable shade of green, it’s not hard to see how Kauai earned the nickname “the Garden Isle.” Only about 20 percent of the island is accessible by foot or road; the rest is a dense tangle of rugged cliffs, primeval jungle, and rain-drenched mountain peaks. Consider taking a helicopter ride for the best views over Kauai’s most remote landscapes.

But there’s plenty to do on land, too. Drive to the western part of the island where lookout points and hiking trails offer spectacular views into Waimea Canyon , a deep and colorful gorge that’s often compared to the Grand Canyon. Just up the road is Koke’e State Park , where you can gaze out over Kauai’s distinctive Napali Coast and the pristine Kalalau Valley. Another must-see spot is the North Shore. Here you’ll find Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge , home to albatrosses and red-footed boobies, and Kauapea Beach (also known as Secret Beach ), a vast, unspoiled stretch of golden sand accessible via a short downhill hike. For more ideas, see The 10 Best Things to Do in Kauai .

Best for: Nature lovers, beach bums, hikers, bird watchers, and travelers who want to escape tourist crowds without getting too far from civilization.

Where to stay: Those looking for a resort experience should try the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa , which offers multiple restaurants, a golf course, a massive pool area (including a lagoon and a lazy river), and a location right on the beach. A more affordable option is the family-owned Garden Island Inn in Lihue, with 21 rooms featuring kitchenettes and freshly cut tropical flowers from the hotel’s own gardens. The beach is a short walk away. For more ideas, see The 10 Best Kauai Hotels for Every Budget .

Check Prices for Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa in Poipu

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Lanai sees only a tiny fraction of the tourists that visit the four best-known islands, and that’s part of its appeal. For much of the 20th century, the island was used exclusively for pineapple farming by the Dole company, but these days the main source of income for Lanai is its small but growing tourism industry. About 98 percent of the island—including its two Four Seasons resorts—is owned by billionaire Larry Ellison.

Apart from relaxing on Lanai’s uncrowded beaches, travelers can visit the Lanai Cat Sanctuary to see what the staff playfully calls “Hawaiian lions,” check out the galleries and boutiques in Lanai City, relax on serene Hulopoe Beach , or hike the 12.8-mile Munro Trail to Lanaihale, the island’s highest point.

Best for: Well-heeled travelers looking for an exclusive escape and day trippers from Maui (via the Lanai Ferry ).

Where to stay: The Four Seasons Resort Lanai is all about oceanfront opulence and seclusion, complete with a spa, an 18-hole golf course, limo service, and a Nobu restaurant. Non-Four Seasons options on Lanai are few and far between, but the 1920s-era Hotel Lanai offers 11 simple, recently renovated rooms.

Check Prices for Four Seasons Resort Lanai in Lanai City

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The only Hawaiian island that sees fewer visitors than Lanai is Molokai, which feels like the island that time forgot. The pace of life is slow, there are no big resorts or traffic lights, and the mostly Native Hawaiian locals still embrace a simple, laid-back lifestyle. “If you want a place where you can sit on the beach by yourself and have no one talk to you, Molokai might be the best bet,” one recent visitor told me.

Molokai’s most unique attraction is Kalaupapa National Historical Park , a remote part of the island where people with Hansen’s disease (leprosy) were once sent to isolate them from the rest of the Hawaiian population. (You can currently reach the park only by air due to a landslide that wiped out the trail used by mules and hikers; restoration efforts are under way.) The island also has numerous uncrowded beaches, including Papohaku , a three-mile stretch of white sand. Take a guided hike through the stunning Halawa Valley to learn about local history and see one of the island’s most impressive waterfalls.

Best for: Outdoorsy travelers, those looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, and people who want to get away from it all.

Where to stay: Accommodations on the island are limited. Hotel Molokai is the best of the bunch, offering comfortable rooms (some with air conditioning, some cooled only by the trade winds) as well as a pool and restaurant. The condos at Ke Nani Kai are another good option, though past guests report that some units feel dated.

Check Prices for Hotel Molokai in Kaunakakai

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Moisturizing Sunscreen

One-Piece Swimsuit

Men’s Cover-Up Outfit for Hawaii

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More from SmarterTravel:

• What to Wear in Hawaii
• The Essential Hawaii Packing List
• 12 Things You Should Never Do in Hawaii

Sarah Schlichter traveled to Hawaii as a guest of Hawaiian Airlines and Barclays . Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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The Family Vacation Guide

Choosing the Best Hawaiian Island for a Family Vacation

posted by James Brockbank on August 12, 2021 // last updated on August 12, 2021

Do you want to vacation in Hawaii but don’t know where exactly to go? Are you seeking some direction and inspiration as you begin your trip planning? You’ve come to the right place. 

Whether you are visiting the islands on a budget or planning a luxurious trip (see our guide on the best family resorts in Hawaii for a bucket load of inspiration), there is something for you and your family in Hawaii.

For many people, the Hawaiian Islands are a fantasy vacation location. They are a mash of scenic features and a lot of cultures. 

Hawaii is a group of over 130 islands and islets that make up an archipelago. The eight largest are inhabited, while the remainder of the islands remain desolate. The best Hawaiian island for a family vacation is one with attractions and beautiful beaches . 

Hawaii Island (The Big Island)

How to choose the best hawaiian island for your family, which is the best hawaiian island for a family vacation.

What does your family want to do in Hawaii? This question may appear to be foolish, but don’t reject it just yet; there is a reason we are starting here. 

Planning a family vacation can be challenging. Many families place restrictions on themselves, assuming that certain areas are off-bounds with children. Some places are difficult to navigate with children, but we advise investigating every island before dismissing it.

Taking your family to Hawaii is a unique experience. Making a choice is dependent on an individual. You’ll enjoy the aloha spirit, shave ice, and a luau on any island you choose (touristy but fun).

Each island has its unique appeal for families. When the time comes for you to choose which island to vacation in, consider these:

• Oahu is the ideal island for a low-cost Hawaiian vacation with family-friendly resorts.
• Maui is the finest island for a beach-loving family who enjoys ocean activities.
• The Hawaii Island is the finest island to visit if you’re interested in volcanoes.
• For nature enthusiasts, Kauai is the ideal island.
• Molokai is perfect for families that want to immerse themselves in authentic Hawaiian culture.

All of these islands are great places to visit. This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about the best Hawaiian island for a family vacation.

The Hawaii Island (AKA the Big Island) is the southernmost of the five biggest Hawaiian Islands. It is, as its name says, the largest of the islands. The island is still expanding as there are volcanoes on it.

Great Places and Activities

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – home to Kilauea Crater, a very active volcano. During the day, go through a lava tube to see ancient petroglyphs carved into the lava rock. 
• Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park refers to a place where individuals who breached a kapu (law) went to avoid punishment. Various archaeological sites and a restored temple make this place stunning and rich in historical culture. 

The sacred land utilized to farm and fish is the focus of Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park.

• The Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site is where the remnants of a massive temple where King Kamehameha 1 rose to power are stored. 

You can follow in the footsteps of Hawaii’s great king and learn everything there is to know about the Hawaiian monarchy.

• Families who love visiting the beach will enjoy this location. There are a variety of beautiful beaches in this area. Choose from black, white , or green sand beaches and begin your adventure on the first day. 

Children aged five to twelve can earn a Junior Ranger badge while learning about these intriguing locations’ history, culture, and natural history. If you are world schooling and seeking educational opportunities, this is the most fabulous Hawaiian island to visit with kids.

The most convenient areas to stay with family are Hilo, the capital, and Kona, one of the two largest cities. There are some excellent natural spots close to Hilo that you may visit while visiting there. 

Additionally, Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pots, and Wailuku River State Park are also worth visiting.

Given that this island is almost twice as big as all the others combined, it will have its own unique set of challenges. Your family will need to rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle to travel around various sites.

Accommodation

If you are on a budget and want to visit The Big Island, staying in a family-friendly Airbnb is among your best options. In every section, there are lots to select from, and the rates are affordable. The best family-friendly resorts on big island are;

• Fairmont Orchid
• Four Seasons Hualalai
• Hilton Waikoloa Village
• Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Oahu means “the Gathering Place.”Most people associate Hawaii with Waikiki Beach, the North Shore, and Honolulu. On the island of Oahu, there are all three. 

Oahu is the most inhabited of the Hawaiian Islands, although it isn’t the largest. Honolulu has the most regular direct flights from continental America, making it the most accessible island (and often, the cheapest).

With 6.1 million tourists in 2019, it is the most visited Hawaiian island. 

Honolulu is congested, so everyone rubs elbows on the bus and the city walkways. Despite this, the bustling city’s museums and historical landmarks are only a short drive away from kilometers of beaches and woodland paths.

• Honolulu: Sandy Hawaiian beaches and blue oceans surround the city. Honolulu is the state capital and the biggest city in Hawaii. It’s a dynamic tropical city with everything from historical buildings to great eating and designer shopping.
• Waikiki is the location of the majority of Oahu’s resorts. It is also a bustling tourist hotspot. The Strip is to Las Vegas what Waikiki is to Hawaii. It’s raucous, crowded, and tourist-y. Waikiki offers it all: big luxury resorts, a plethora of restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.
• The North Shore, often known as “The Seven Mile Miracle,” is famed in the world of surfing and holds some of the most spectacular surf competitions. 

With its 7-mile stretch of world-class surf breakers and laid-back Hawaiian country vibes, the laid-back North Shore attracts surfers from all over the globe.

• The four lagoons on Ko Olina are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports. Many residents claim that Ko Olina has the most excellent beaches for families. It’s no surprise that Ko Olina has several world-famous coastal resorts.
• Beautiful green scenery, quiet beaches, and Kailua, Hawaii’s most famous beach town, may all be found on the Windward Coast on the island’s east side. 

The gorgeous 30-mile Windward Coast, with its various beaches and bays, offers some of Hawaii’s most magnificent natural splendor.

• The diversity of things to do on Oahu is the best part of visiting with family. The Polynesian Cultural Center, numerous outstanding museums, and Pearl Harbor are many beautiful places to visit and explore. 

It is the ideal island in Hawaii for families that want a combination of urban and outdoor trips, since you could stay for months without running out of things to do.

The biggest challenges of visiting Oahu are traffic and the potential that you might not feel like you are in a far-flung place in the middle of the ocean. The terrain in Oahu makes it extremely difficult to build new roads. 

Fortunately, a train system is currently under construction to connect Kapolei with Ala Moana – and, depending on funding, even down to Waikiki Unfortunately, the first phase (which won’t be of great significance to tourists) won’t open until 2020, and the second phase won’t open until 2025. 

Honolulu and Waikiki traffic is notorious, but it’s possible to escape it if you stay in walkable places, such as Hilton Hawaiian Village, and then arrange for van transportation with your activities. 

The North Shore can also have heavy traffic from Haleiwa to Sunset Beach, but if you’re bent on seeing that section of the island, you can avoid it by staying at Turtle Bay in Kahuku.

Staying in a remote place, preferably on the north shore or windward coast, will make you feel like you are on holiday in a remote location. In Oahu, there is an attraction for everyone, notwithstanding their age.

The best family-friendly resorts on Oahu island are;

• Outrigger Waikiki
• Turtle Bay Resort
• Hilton Hawaiian village
• Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa

The West Maui Mountain Range, post-pineapple/sugar cane flat areas, and mountaintops rising to the east in the shape of a dormant shield volcano, Haleakala, have earned Maui the nickname “ The Valley Isle.”  

Maui holds the title for the second-largest Hawaiian island, although Maui County encompasses Moloka’i, Lana’i, and Kaho’olawe. Whether it’s your first or seventh trip to Hawaii, Maui is a fantastic choice for families. It’s a grand island to visit, especially if you like to drive. 

Flights to Maui land in Kahului. In an hour, guests can be in the numerous Wailea resorts or along the seaside Honoapiilani Highway near the numerous Kaanapali resorts.

Maui is among the most fabulous islands to bring your family because it’s the perfect Hawaiian islands’ mix. It features fantastic beaches, tasty food, cultural activities, scenic views, shopping spaces, and great roads.

• On Maui, the climb to Hana is a must-see. Wake everyone up before the sun rises so you can get a head start on the day. 

It’s only a fifty-two-mile journey. However, with 620 curves and fifty-nine narrow bridges, it may take several hours to complete. You’ll see waterfalls and the picturesque town of Hana along the journey.

• Haleakala, a dormant volcano, is also worth the trip. Positioned 10,000 feet above sea level , the peak is a great site to watch the dawn or sunset. 

However, the views are equally breathtaking during the day. Bring sweaters for everyone because it can become chilly at the summit.

• Two unusual farms worth visiting sit here on Haleakala’s lower slopes in Kula. You may wander through lavender fields at Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm. The lavender farm is a tranquil setting that provides tours and lavender products.
• One of the best reasons to visit Maui is to explore the ocean. The best snorkeling in Hawaii is here, making it excellent for beachgoers. 

Maui is the place to go if you wish to snorkel, relax on white-sand beaches that aren’t too crowded, and view some of the best sea life, such as whales and dolphins.

• The sea life around Maui’s reefs is fantastic, and you’ll see turtles, magnificent fish, and more not far from shore.
• Maui is also known as the mother of modern surfing. There are so many opportunities for your family to try waves out. If you lack experience, you can try alternatives like kite and windsurfing.
• Visit Maui Ocean Centre with your kids if you want them to learn while having fun. It’s a place with an Open Ocean, underwater passages, a turtle lagoon, and many natural creatures to witness.
• Mermaid swimming lessons by the Hawaii Mermaid Adventures is another fun activity for kids. 

Your older children can go on a controlled snorkeling tour while your younger children are charmed by these fascinating experiences. You can also enroll in a two-hour class on the ecosystem of the surrounding Ocean.

• A submarine adventure is rare, so doing it in Hawaii where aquatic life is so diverse would be amazing. Atlantis Adventures offers this experience, and this sub-aquatic tour takes place one hundred feet under the sea level and is a thrilling experience for children. 

The best spot to stay in Maui depends on your family’s requirements. If you’re planning on a resort kind of experience, a resort in Ka’anapali would be ideal. However, if you plan to visit Maui every day, Ka’anapali may feel a little secluded.

If you want a bit more room and don’t want to commit to eating at pricey restaurants every day, there are lots of budget vacation rentals and family-friendly vacations on Maui. The best family-friendly resorts on Maui island are:

• Grand Wailea
• Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa
• Maui Coast Hotel. 

Kauai, also known as the garden isle, is one of the most ideal Hawaiian islands to visit with children aged five and up. It’s one of the more tranquil and isolated islands. 

For families seeking the lushest scenery, then Kauai is your destination. Kauai offers beauty that is unique to it.

Kauai is the oldest of all the major islands and was created about five million years ago by an active volcano. 

The island has a certain allure that draws visitors from all over the world. Even if you’ve never visited the island in person, chances are you’ve seen it through the eyes of a filmmaker; the island is famous for its appeal to filmmakers. 

As with all of the Hawaiian islands, the scenery of Kauai constantly changes as you travel along the island’s coastline roadways. From sugarcane fields to rainforests, gorgeous beaches to ranch areas, your surroundings are never dull. 

Despite the island’s modest size compared to the mainland, the Na Pali is home to arid plateaus, tropical rain forests, verdant valleys, beautiful agriculture, and sea cliffs that will leave you speechless.

• Kauai offers eight state parks to choose from, as well as a slew of trails that traverse the island. Roads barely cover around 10% of Kauai, and the great bulk of the island can only be seen by foot or by air.
• The island offers an incredible range of outdoor activities, from wilderness hiking through Waimea Canyon to kayaking up the Wailua River. 

Kauai is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking adventure. Kauai is stunning from the ground, water, air, or, better yet, all three.

• The island’s distinctive Fern Grotto, a lava rock grotto with hanging ferns and tropical greenery near a waterfall, is worth visiting. 

The cave was once solely accessible to Hawaiian nobility since it was a sacred site. Visitors can now reach the cave by taking a boat ride up the Wailua River. (There are a lot of tour groups.)

• Allerton (Lawai-kai), McBryde, and Limahuli, all on the south shore, and Allerton (Lawai-kai), both on the north shore, are home to three of the world’s National Tropical Botanical Gardens. Each garden is exceptional in its own right.

While you may imagine Hawaii as the ideal location for a swim, most of the beaches in Kauai are not swimmable. Unlike other large islands, such as Maui, Kauai’s beaches are rife with hazards such as pounding surf, currents, and rip tides. 

Summer months bring calmer conditions, but don’t expect to swim at most of the beaches. Ke’e beach on the north shore and Poipu beach on the south coast are the best places to float.

Kauai is as relaxed as the other islands in Hawaii, but it appears to go out of its way to accommodate families. At the area attractions, there are several playgrounds and children’s activities. 

Everyone will be enthusiastic on this vacation, from lei creation at the Kauai Cultural Center to scavenger hunts at many hotels. The best family-friendly resorts on Kauai island are:

• Grand Hyatt Kaua’i Resort and Spa
• Marriott’s Kaua’i Beach Club Resort
• Marriott’s Kaua’i Lagoons
• Koloa Landing Resort

Molokai, formed by volcanic eruptions 1.5 million years ago , is still a time capsule at the turn of the century. There are no premium resorts, no stoplights, and structures taller than a coconut tree on the island. 

Molokai is the least infrastructurally advanced of the islands in Hawaii, which appeals to adventurers and peace seekers alike.

Molokai is a small green wedge in the blue Pacific, measuring only 38 miles long and 10 miles wide. Like two sides of a coin, this long, thin island has two sides. There’s a flat, parched desert; on the other, there’s a lush, green, tropical Eden. 

Three volcanic eruptions created Molokai. The latest generated the island’s “thumb,” a peninsula protruding out of the north shore’s cliffs like a punctuation mark on Molokai’s geological record.

Molokai is yet to be overrun by tourism. Because natives primarily populate the island, you’ll receive an authentic Hawaiian experience with plenty of culture on “The Friendly Isle.” 

Molokai has no traffic lights, simply single- and dual-lane roads, with 10 to 45 mph speed limits. Prepare to experience a slower pace of life when you arrive in Molokai! There will be animals on the road that will excite your family.

• Helicopter tours are among the most remarkable ways to tour the island. This excursion will provide you with breathtaking sights of rock outcrops, lush valleys, rivers, and enormous coral reefs. 

Throughout the tour, expect the presence of a narrator. The knowledgeable guide will tell you everything you need to know about the island’s history and natural wonders.

• Get a lesson on selecting flowers and build your lei at the Molokai plumeria. The proprietor will give you a tour that will be scholastic and fun for your family. 

Have a detour at the postal service office on your way back to mail a coconut home. This modest ritual is an excellent task for your children to participate in.

• Papohaku sunsets : Papohaku Beach is a three-mile-long white sand beach facing west, so you are sure to get a great view as the sun sets. These sunsets are a must-see on every vacation to Molokai. 

Watch the stars come out and engulf the sky, and it’s not uncommon to glimpse the glimmer of Honolulu’s lights in the distance, making for an awe-inspiring evening.

• Many of the beaches are deserted or nearly empty, making them ideal for snorkeling or swimming . Some are only suitable for shelling or walking.
• North Shore cliffs : The most pleasing way to observe Molokai’s vertical sea cliffs, which climb 3,800 feet above the sea, is from the deck of a boat. 

Enjoy the excitement of traveling beneath the world’s tallest sea cliffs, and there’s even a chance you’ll see Humpback whales if you go in the winter.

• Enjoy scuba diving near the reef’s edge.
• Ocean kayaking: On a guided kayak, explore inside the south shore reef, where easterly trade winds blow at your back and propel you down a coast fringed with fishponds and mangroves.
• Mule rides to Kalaupapa – For over a century, this remote peninsula was a leper community, and excursions that depict life in the gloomy but beautiful location are available. 

Hop on the back of a mule or hike to reach Kalaupapa for the commencement of the tour and enjoy panoramic views from the trail, which lowers 1,700 vertical feet over 26 switchbacks.

Molokai is a location where aloha is a way of life, not just a show for visitors. Whether it’s in Kaunakakai, the island’s largest town, or in the other villages around the island, you see it every day with smiling faces. 

Take a moment to soak in the island’s natural sounds and atmosphere. You will be stunned by the authentic Hawaiian culture if you come to Molokai to become a part of what is here.

Molokai is not as popular with tourists as other Hawaiian islands, and you can only stay in one of five condominium buildings or the island’s only hotel. Molokai is a spectacular stretch of land with the world’s tallest cliffs and the world’s longest continuous fringing reef.

This island is ideal for families who don’t need a robust tourism infrastructure.

Each island offers a unique experience, so ruling one out would be an injustice. 

Traveling with your family requires consideration of factors such as safety, weather, attractions, and cost. The Hawaiian state government also demands you meet specific requirements before traveling there.

Hawaii is generally safe. Burglaries occasionally occur,  if you leave your room or car unlocked, especially in Oahu. Avoid displaying expensive gadgets in public; you may attract the attention of petty thieves. 

There is a dedicated tourist office that will guide you if you have any questions about safety.

Safety in the islands is on the same level except for Oahu. The popularity of Waikiki is perhaps what brings about the added insecurity.

Hawaiian islands enjoy a year-round balmy tropical climate that is almost perfect. 

The average high temperature in Hawaii is in the low to high 80 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 27 to 31 degrees Celsius), with a humidity level of around 64 percent. 

January and February are typically the coolest months, averaging 81 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius). 

July, August, and September are the hottest months, with temperatures averaging 88 degrees Fahrenheit (31 degrees Celsius). The temperature drops by roughly 10°F at night.

These conditions apply to all islands, but here are some tips on what to expect on each island.

• Big Island – it is generally sunny. This island has eight distinct climatic zones, ranging from humid tropical to alpine. You can see the snow and the coral reef on the same day, yet get back to the hotel before dinner. 

The Kohala coast receives about ten inches of rain all year, making it the perfect place to reside on the island if you would like to avoid the rain.

• Oahu – The weather here varies a bit, but most tourist areas have incredible microclimates. The Koolau mountain range ensures that the weather in the east and west is different. 

If it rains on the east coast, you can travel to the west coast and enjoy fantastic weather.

• Maui – Maui experiences the best climate among all the islands. Kapalua gets a little rain during the winter.
• Kauai – It is the wettest of all the islands. Rain mainly falls during winter in short bursts. Checking weather forecasts will be part of your schedule if you visit in the winter months. 
• Molokai – the weather here is contrasting like in Oahu. The north shore is a lot wetter than the south. Most visitor accommodations are in the south.

All islands offer activities at all ends of the cost spectrum. Oahu is the most cost-effective island for visitors. Those looking for a budget trip to Hawaii will find that Oahu is just what they’ve been looking for, thanks to its low pricing and abundance of things to do.

On the other end, Maui is often regarded as the most opulent Hawaiian island due to its vast number of four- and five-star beachfront resorts that offer a more leisurely stay-at-the-resort holiday than Oahu.

The high season in Hawaii (when costs are at their most significant and resorts are frequently fully booked) lasts from mid-December to mid-March or mid-April. During the holiday season. the last two weeks of December are very crowded (and pricey) in Hawaii. 

Mid-June to late August is a busy period too because kids are in their summer holidays.

Make your plans early, expect more crowds, and be prepared to pay top dollar for airfare, car rentals, and lodging if you’re planning a trip during the holidays.

Attractions

Attractions are dependent on your tastes and preferences. Each island has its personality, from the magnificent volcanoes of the Big Island to the lush interior of Kauai. Go through the highlights to decide which island suits you most. 

If you cannot choose, you can get the chance to visit all islands by vacationing here multiple times.

Hawaii is a fantastic vacation place all year. All Hawaiian Islands have unique charms. Maui, Oahu, The Big Island, and Kauai have the most to offer for kids. It’s difficult to tell which is the best Hawaiian island for a family vacation because each one provides a different experience. 

You will never want to leave Hawaii because there’s so much to see and do. While the best sights to visit are spectacular, these islands have a plethora of hidden gems.

Make sure you’re ready to explore because Hawaii has a little of everything you’d imagine a perfect vacation would have. You can switch between islands to experience a little bit of everything. 

Whatever Hawaiian island or combination of islands you choose for your family, you will be sure to engage your family in the island’s culture and spirit. And your ohana (family) will undoubtedly find Hawaii to be a unique destination.

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

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This Uncrowded Slice Of Paradise Must Be One Of Hawaii's Most Beautiful Beach Parks

The Hawaiian islands give endlessly when it comes to nature. From a road trip through the best natural wonders Kauai has to offer to the mesmerizing and nail-biting drive along scenic highways like the Road to Hana on Maui , there is so much to see. On the island of Oahu, the options can be especially overwhelming. Your list of must-see places might be long, but you can easily allow time for both popular and less-discovered adventures. For example, while the island's Waikiki Beach makes the list of Hawaii tourist traps you can avoid, you can head to Kahana Bay Beach Park and discover an uncrowded slice of paradise that beckons for you to slow down instead.

We're not saying there's no value in on-the-beaten-path destinations — some of them are indeed worth sharing with crowds. But sometimes a vacation is about getting away from the popular hot spots in favor of a low-key vibe instead. This is when Kahana Bay Beach Park comes to the rescue.

The logistics of Kahana Bay Beach Park

By car, it takes about an hour to drive from the hub of Waikiki to the more remote Kahana Bay Beach Park. It's located on the northeast (windward side) portion of the island, between Panaluu and Kaaawa. Fortunately for the budget, it's free to visit, and there's even parking provided.

Keep in mind that there are no lifeguards, but the beach is equipped with picnic tables, restrooms, drinking water, and a boat ramp. Trees provide natural shade if the weather is hot or a nap is on the agenda. And when you're done for the day, there are also outdoor showers so you can clean up before hitting the road.

Although popular with the locals on the weekends, the beach sees low numbers of visitors during the weekdays and isn't a well-discovered tourist attraction. So, while everyone else is checking out some of the other amazing things to do on Oahu beyond Waikiki Beach, you can set up your chair and drag out the SUP board for a day at Kahana Bay Beach Park.

Water and other activities at Kahana Bay Beach Park

While the water is generally calm enough for SUP boards and kayaking at Kahana Bay Beach Park, it can become rough. In the winter, swells are high enough for surfing. On a summer day, though, all standard beach activities apply. Build sand castles, snorkel, picnic, grill, fish (with proper permits), and hunt for shells. With your toes in the sand, take in the views of the lush jungle of the Ko'olau Mountains that surround the beach on three sides. Ironwood trees frame the beach, and Kahana stream slips into the ocean on the south portion of the crescent-shaped bay. It's a peaceful place to hang a hammock or read a book.

For a little bit of exploration, you can view the remains of an ancient Hawaiian fishpond near the stream. This is also near the trailhead that takes you to viewpoints looking down on the bay below. Just across the road, the nearly 5,300-acre Ahupua'a Kahana State Park serves up many additional hiking options. There's also a small campground for overnight guests with reservations. If you're not staying over, at least plan to arrive early so you can enjoy the quiet and scenic backdrop for the perfect sunrise.

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The Best Hawaiian Islands to Visit for Different Kinds of Travelers

Will it be lava flows or luxury resorts waikīkī beach, pearl harbor, or humpback whales settle that difficult “which island to visit” question once and for all..

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Whether your ideal Hawaiian vacation means time sunning, shopping, or snorkeling, there’s an island for you.

Photo by Erin Kunkel

From laid-back yet cosmopolitan Oah‘u to wild Moloka‘i, Hawai‘i is as diverse as the travelers who visit. Within the archipelago there are eight main islands, each with its own distinctive characteristics—in all, a total of 137 islets and minor ones. How would you even begin to choose where to visit?

To help, we’ve highlighted six of the biggest Hawaiian islands to help you select which are the best for you to visit on your next trip.

Context to know before you go

Even prior to COVID, Hawai‘i was struggling with the impact of overtourism on its people and the land. For many locals the year-plus of shutdowns, while economically devastating, allowed them to have the islands all to themselves for the first time in decades, which has led to deeper conversations about what tourism should look like going forward.

“We had our space back for a year,” says Edwin “Ekolu” Lindsey III, president of Maui Cultural Lands. “And we realized what we’ve given up over the last 50 years of tourism.”

That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t go—to the contrary, Lindsey says, “We’re happy to share—if the visitor’s intentions are right.” As a good guest, travelers should abide by the no-trespassing signs, use reef-safe sunscreen, and follow best practices when it comes to the ocean and wildlife (like giving animals space and never touching coral reefs with hands, feet, or watercraft). Essentially, we should treat the islands as if we were entering the home of a dear friend.

“We don’t call them islands. We call them family because they are—they’re like human beings to us,” says Healani Kimitete-Ah Mow, Mauna Kea Resort aloha ambassador, “and when it comes to family . . . we need to take care of them.”

Each island in Hawai‘i offers something different for travelers.

Photo by Bardocz Peter / Shutterstock

To encourage travelers to think of a trip to Hawai‘i as more than a vacation spot, the state introduced the Mālama Hawai‘i initiative. Mālama means “to care for,” and that’s what the program invites us to do: To find a way to show care to the islands we visit. (It’s one of many destinations that have introduced a travel pledge or code of conduct for visitors in recent years, including Iceland, Palau, and Haida Gwaii in British Columbia.)

As you consider which Hawaiian island is right for you, consider joining one of the mālama experiences: replanting native species, participating in a beach cleanup , or any of the many other volunteer experiences .

Note: Maui and the island of Hawai‘i were affected by widespread wildfires in August 2023. The destination is welcoming respectful visitors back as recovery and rebuilding efforts continue.

If you measure its height from the ocean floor, Mauna Kea is taller than Mount Everest.

Photo by Shutterstock

• Nickname: The Big Island
• Best for: Outdoor adventurers who want to go stargazing on the highest peak in Hawai‘i, whale-watching, and hiking on volcanoes

One of the world’s most ecologically diverse places, the state’s youngest and largest island (commonly referred to as the “Big Island”) sweeps from a black-sand beach to waterfall-laced rainforest valleys, lava deserts, and snow-capped mountains. The active Kīlauea volcano sits on the flank of massive Mauna Loa. But Mauna Kea wins the world heavyweight title for height, outstripping Mount Everest by 4,500 feet when measured from the ocean floor. It’s also among the most sacred of the five mountains on the island.

“We don’t look at this mountain as a mountain,” says Kimitete-Ah Mow. “She’s really alive.” For that reason, adventurous travelers who want to head up the steep winding road to the summit, famed for its stargazing, should book a guided tour with a company that will help visitors understand the history and culture of the mauna , or mountain.

Not in the mood for the high road? When it reopens to the public, visit the NASA-funded Imiloa Astronomy Center instead. Or go low with a nighttime snorkeling trip to visit giant manta rays as they soar and loop, feeding on tiny zooplankton. Make sure to check out the incredible aerial breaching displays of the 11,000-odd humpback whales that winter offshore, too.

Then finish with a peek into ancient traditions at Puʻuhonua O Hōnaunau or Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park , where Hawaiians once fished, carved petroglyphs, and used toboggan-like sleds to ride downhill over stones covered in dirt and leaves. Travelers can also tour the seven-acre Kona Sea Salt farm, buy sea salt harvested from 2,200 feet below the ocean surface, and join in clam bakes featuring sustainable seafood raised at the neighboring Hawai‘i Ocean Science and Technology Park.

At Volcano Rainforest Retreat, the Bamboo Guest House cottage has a Japanese soaking tub beneath a canopy of ferns.

Courtesy of Volcano Rainforest Retreat

Where to stay

The island of Hawai‘i offers plenty of options for lodging. For high-end resorts, look to the Kona area on the west side of the island; travelers who prefer more low-key lodging should look to the eastern Hilo side.

Fairmont Orchid

The Kona-side Fairmont Orchid occupies 32 acres, complete with tropical gardens and a white-sand beach. Of the 540 guest rooms and suites, all have lanais and half have ocean views.

Four Seasons Hualālai

You might spot a celebrity or two at this Hollywood favorite, beloved for its 865 acres of palm-fringed coastline. Just a 15-minute drive from the Kona International airport, this Four Seasons has seven pools, a rock amphitheater where kids can overnight, and even an on-site museum and cultural center.

Volcano Rainforest Retreat

For travelers who want to stay on the Hilo side of the island—and close to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park—consider this quiet, four-cottage inn on the edge of the rainforest. All cottages are unique, but each has cedar walls, shoji screens, and plenty of windows that look out on giant ferns.

How to give back

As part of the Mālama Hawai‘i initiative, many hotels and resorts are offering volunteer projects—some, like Marriott properties statewide, will offer the fifth night free with a volunteer project.

• Sign the island’s Pono Pledge . Pono means “righteous” and the pledge invites travelers to traverse the island with gentleness, humility, and respect.
• Join a community or educational event put on by Pōhāhā I Ka Lani , a nonprofit devoted to stewardship of Hawai‘i’s sacred land.
• Guests of the Fairmont Orchid can participate in three different projects: forest reforestation with Waikōloa Dry Forest Reserve , beach cleanup with Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund , and a tree planting with Hawaiian Legacy Reforestation Initiative .
• Guests and local residents can join Kimitete-Ah Mow’s E Ala E ceremony at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and Westin Hapuna Beach Resort . It’s a morning ritual to greet the sun—one that many Hawaiians participate in—that begins on the beach at 6 a.m. Kimitete-Ah Mow, also a Pono pledge ambassador, begins with a short blessing, invites travelers to gaze into the Pacific, and then they face the east and ask the sun to rise with another chant. After, people are invited to participate in a self-directed beach cleanup.

The cliffs and ltrails of Kaua‘i’s Nāpali Coast are steep and spectacular.

Courtesy of Tor Johnson for the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA)

• Nickname: The Garden Isle
• Best for: Travelers looking for a quiet, laid-back island full of natural beauty, waterfalls, and long stretches of beach, plus a chance to learn about ancient traditions and visit small towns

Lushness and serenity reign on the “Garden Isle,” home to the planet’s wettest spot, Mount Waialeale, averaging 451 inches of rain each year. The town of Poipu and the South Shore tend to be sunnier with more restaurants, shops, and water sports.

But Waimea—“the Grand Canyon of the Pacific”—and Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park hog the spotlight. Here waterfalls and swift streams sculpt one of the world’s most staggeringly beautiful wilderness areas, threaded with ancient Hawaiian archaeological sites. Keep in mind that those wishing to visit Hā‘ena State Park , which includes Kee and Tunnels beaches, as well as the trailhead, need to make reservations in advance .

Fancy a more accessible cascade? Check out Wailua Falls, a 173-foot veil featured in the opening credits of the 1970s TV hit Fantasy Island . Then contrast that riot of water and vegetation with Polihale State Park, where Hawai‘i’s longest stretch of beach covers 15 miles and dunes can pile up to 100 feet high.

Most travelers stay along the North Shore (home to Princeville and Hanalei); on the drier, sunnier South Shore, near the town of Poipu; or along the eastern coast, near the Lihue Airport.

Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

On the North Shore, the family-friendly resort is within a short drive of Hanalei Bay and offers plenty of pools, local cuisine at the Nanea restaurant, and fully equipped villas (including washers-dryers and kitchens).

Waimea Plantation Cottages

Find laid-back luxury at this 59-cottage property (once a sugar plantation) on the sunnier, slightly less-traveled West Side, home to the storied Waimea Canyon. All cottages were built in the late 19th century or early 20th and reflect that charm: painted wood-paneled walls and shaded lanais, each with a fully equipped kitchen.

Outrigger Kaua‘i Beach Resort

Not far from the Lihue Airport, the resort is on Kaua‘i’s east coast. Choose from rooms that overlook the gardens, ocean, and pools—and make time to check out each of the three restaurants overseen by chef Mark Arriola, a pioneer in Kaua‘i’s farm-to-table movement.

• Hawai‘i Land Trust hosts volunteer days, including a marine cleanup on Kāhili Beach on the first Sunday of every month.
• Support Mālama Kaua‘i , an organization devoted to increasing local food production. Travelers can donate and shop the Mālama Kaua‘i Store (perfect for souvenirs and gifts).
• Hotels across Kaua‘i, including Kauai‘i’s Marriott Resort and the Grand Hyatt, are also participating in the Mālama Hawai‘i project .

Keahiakawelo, or Garden of the Gods, is the site of a famous Lāna‘i myth. On a clear day, you can see O‘ahu and Moloka‘i.

Photo by Lynn Yeh/Shutterstock

• Nickname: The Pineapple Island
• Best for: A more rugged, remote-feeling trip on a small, uncrowded island with a cat sanctuary, hiking trails, and snorkeling

Before Lāna‘i was colonized by Westerners, the land—where Hawaiian settlers lived off taro and seafood—was rich with native vegetation and purple flowers. But when goats, sheep, and other grazing animals were introduced to the island in the 1800s, the land was stripped, leaving it bare. Then came the pineapple years: Before statehood, the United States recognized the Republic of Hawai‘i in 1894 with pineapple entrepreneur, and longtime Hawai‘i resident, Sanford Dole as its president. When Hawai‘i was annexed in 1900, it became a territory, and in 1922, Sanford Dole’s cousin James Drummond Dole bought the island of Lāna‘i to expand his pineapple farming empire. Then came Larry Ellison: In 2012, the tech billionaire bought 97 percent of this island, including two Four Seasons resorts (and their championship golf courses).

Ellison, while controversial, has placed an emphasis on sustainability, founding Pulama Lāna‘i to protect native and endangered species, improve water and recycling systems, and attempt to transition the island’s diesel grid to 100 percent renewable energy . Today Lāna‘i remains an off-the-beaten-path destination, with an emphasis on “path”: Only 30 miles of the island’s roads are paved, but there are more than 400 miles of rugged trails you can explore by four-wheel-drive or horse or by hiking. Many lead to the 18 miles of nearly empty beaches that ring Lāna‘i and to lovely views of other islands. Be sure to stop by the Lāna‘i Culture and Heritage Center , run by Kepa Maly, who was born on the island.

Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i

Shortly after Ellison bought the island, he overhauled the resort, reducing rooms from 286 to 213, updating the design with slate and teak walls, and adding outposts of Nobu and L.A.’s Malibu Farm.

Sensei Lāna‘i, a Four Seasons Resort

Wellness is the big focus at this 24-acre resort, which offers everything from day-long spa immersions to a five-day program that includes a fitness assessment, a Whoop wearable device to track your progress, and lots of fitness and bodywork.

Hotel Lāna‘i

This 10-room historic property was built in 1923 by James Dole—and until 1990, was the only hotel on the island. Now owned by Ellison, it’s also home to the popular Lāna‘i Bar & Grille.

Visit—and donate to—the Lanai Cat Sanctuary . The organization began back in 2004 when founder Kathy Carroll started sterilizing Lāna‘i’s street cats and relocating them to a facility to protect Lāna‘i’s ground-dwelling birds. Today it’s a popular spot for cat (and bird)-loving travelers.

You will want a convertible to drive the famed Road to Hana.

Photo by Brandon Bourdage/Shutterstock

• Nickname: The Valley Isle
• Best for: A little of everything—adventure, black- and red-sand beaches, food, culture, and relaxation

Note: Go Hawai‘i’ has the latest on visiting Maui post-wildfires, reminding visitors to “visit with aloha, compassion, and empathy”, support local businesses, and “learn about the historical and cultural significance of Lahaina but stay away from the area as a means of respect for the people and places that have been lost.”

Maui remains the best one-stop sampler of Hawai‘i’s highlights. The island is anchored by the dormant Haleakalā volcano, which forms three-quarters of its mass. Catch a lift to the top with your bike, then cruise down 21 switchbacks, passing through as many ecological zones as you would on a Canada-to-Mexico road trip. Or make a reservation to visit Waīa‘ānapanapa State Park, home to a famous black-sand beach. (The new reservation system is a part of the state’s commitment to the Mālama Hawai‘i initiative.)

Hungry for culture? Hire a hula instructor for a lesson nearly anywhere on Maui. Shop the galleries of Paia, then strap in for the world-famous Road to Hana, a drive tracing the rugged black-lava coastline. (Be sure to check out the guidelines for driving the famous road.) Hungry in general? Wake early to queue up at Donut Dynamite, arguably the island’s best doughnuts . Or book a 90-minute chocolate-and-cacao tour at Maui Ku‘ia Estate. Or stop by the new Sunset Market in Wailea Village to shop for local goodies, including Pau Maui vodka, tacos and shave ice, and cookies from Maui Cookie Lab.

Maui is also the access point for the Molokini atoll just off the coast, where visitors can snorkel an extinct volcanic caldera. But the caldera’s not your only option for gorgeous waters to explore: Get a mask and fins and then zip over to the beach town of Olowalu on the west coast where you’ll find a “cleaning station” for green sea turtles. For any ocean activities, watch for outfitters certified by the Surfrider Foundation.

There’s no shortage of places to stay in Maui —here are several to get you started.

Maui Eco Retreat

Built in 1988 on land blessed by a Hawaiian priest, the retreat has only a handful of rooms, yoga classes, and an oceanfront location.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

This Lahaina hotel has won numerous awards for its sustainability initiatives (it’s one of two Gold LEED-certified resorts in Hawai‘i ), which include minimizing plastic use and food waste and adding one of the largest solar panel systems in the state. Amenities are equally appealing: The oceanfront property has six pools, 10 restaurants, and even resident penguins.

Hotel Wailea

Hotel Wailea occupies 15 acres—and only has 72 suites. This adults-only property offers everything from tree-house dining and sustainable travel experiences, such as outrigger canoeing, to a surf safari (a tour of Maui’s best breaks) and a new line of reef-safe sunscreens.

Camp Olowalu

For those who want to live a little closer to nature, book a campsite, tentalow, or cabin at Camp Olowalu. The beachfront spot, a former sugar plantation, was created in 1955 as a camp operated by the Protestant Episcopal Church. Over the years, it added 700 acres and set about restoring them; in 2015, it added tent lodging and renovated the cabins and eating areas.

Maui Cultural Lands : Launched as a nonprofit in 2002 by Puanani and Edwin “Ed” Robert Naleilehua Lindsey Jr., Maui Cultural Lands focuses on restoring and preserving Hawaiian cultural sites. Now headed up by their son, Edwin “Ekolu” Lindsey III, the nonprofit offers travelers the opportunity to help reforest Honokowai Valley and the Ka‘anapali areas, all while learning about the cultural significance of these archaeological sites. (For example, the work begins with a chant asking for permission to enter.)

Pacific Whale Foundation : Founded in 1980, the nonprofit is dedicated to protecting the ocean and inspiring environmental stewardship. Travelers can book ecotours including snorkeling trips, stargazing, and of course, whale-watching. All profits support the foundation’s research, education, and conservation programs.

The uninterrupted three-mile stretch of Papohaku makes it one of the longest beaches in the state.

5. Molokaʻi

• Nickname: The Friendly Isle
• Best for: Outdoor adventures without the resorts, such as bird-watching, snorkeling, and swimming, plus an excellent choice for camping

Molokaʻi packs in plenty of beauty, adventure, and also authenticity, thanks to the high percentage of Native Hawaiian descendants living there. Papohaku Beach , with three miles of silky white sand, fringes the island’s west end. The sunbathing and camping are superlative here, but avoid swimming in the dangerous breaks between October and March.

There are no resorts on Molokaʻi, and most lodgings are low to the ground and laid-back.

Hotel Molokaʻi

At this 52-year-old hotel, the bungalows are outfitted with kitchenettes and carefully arranged to allow the trade winds to move through. Step out the front door and walk the Kamiloloa beach, snorkel the 28-mile barrier reef (the longest in Hawai‘i), or drive five minutes to wander Kaunakakai, the island’s main center.

Pu‘u O Hoku Ranch

For a truly remote stay, book a few nights at this lodge on the eastern side of the island. It is a family-owned, working organic and biodynamic ranch, so expect to see cattle and a wide range of produce, including bananas. The three cottages don’t have Wi-Fi, making this an off-the-grid experience.

Molokaʻi is pure nature—and one of the best ways to help it remain that way is to join a project with the nonprofit Moloka‘i Land Trust , which is working on restoring three land preserves.

O‘ahu’s North Shore is home to the “Seven Mile Miracle,” a stretch of coast where surfers take on world-class breaks.

Photo by Caroline/Shutterstock

• Nickname: The Gathering Place
• Best for: A laid-back urban trip that still features beaches, hiking trails, historical sites—and some legendary surfing

On Oʻahu, Honolulu is undergoing a renaissance of art, culture, and cuisine, with a foodie scene that champions Hawaiʻi-inspired cuisine. Enjoy the resort hot spots of Waikiki, Ko Olina, and Turtle Bay (AFAR’s hotels editor Jenn Flowers visited in 2023 and deemed it “your go-to spot for nature and surfing”) but make sure to venture beyond them.

Pay your respects to local culture and history—more important than ever, now that so few WWII veterans remain —at the extensive Bishop Museum and at Pearl Harbor, now the Pearl Harbor National Memorial . The Pearl Harbor campus includes the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, which reopened in 2021 after a $20 million renovation that added virtual tours of submarine interiors and interactive displays about submarine warfare, among many other things.

Explore the history of Hawaiian royalty at Iolani Palace, where travelers can pick between guided and self-led tours that wind from palace grounds to the opulent interiors. Commission an instrument from Ukulele Hall-of-Famers or dip a smoked-beef brisket bánh mì in aromatic phở at Piggy Smalls , an outpost run by Andrew Le, a chef at the forefront of the efforts to include regional cuisine on Hawaiian menus. For those who want to tour local delicacies, try the Saturday markets. The KCC Farmers’ Market at the foot of Diamond Head specializes in prepared food and travel-friendly foods like local honey. Closer to downtown Honolulu is the Kakaʻako Farmers’ Market, which has more produce but also foods made locally, such as Koko Kai, a coconut yogurt.

O‘ahu has a strong connection to surfing and the ocean, of course—respecting the ocean and marine life is critically important, and almost spiritual, for many locals. Consider the Bishop Museum, which frequently offers surf exhibits and has permanent exhibits devoted to celestial navigation and outrigger canoeing.

Experienced surfers can head to the North Shore, where 36 breaks grace the “Seven-Mile Miracle,” a storied stretch of surfing heaven. Not quite ready to catch a world-class wave? Rest easy: In addition to Waikiki, O‘ahu has more mellow aquatic options such as the Hanauma Bay underwater park. Honolulu often has the best airfare deals, too, as the state’s main hub.

Built in 1927, the Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, is a pink-hued classic in the heart of Waikiki.

Courtesy of the Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort

Most travelers stay in or near Honolulu, where you’ll find plenty of options , no matter what you’re looking for.

The Modern Honolulu

A newish addition to the Waikīkī waterfront, this hotel designed by George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg is great for those who prefer a more modern stay. Rooms are whitewashed with many overlooking the Ala Wai Boat Harbor.

The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort

Many say that this hotel, built in the Roaring ’20s, put Waikīkī on the map. For years, celebrities flocked to the luxurious beachfront resort; in 2008, a renovation renewed preserved the art deco details but added more modern flair.

Turtle Bay Resort

Set on a peaceful 1,300-acre property on a palm-tree-lined stretch of O‘ahu’s North Shore, Turtle Bay gives guests the chance to experience a quieter side of O‘ahu. It was also voted one of AFAR’s top sustainable hotels in 2021 and has long been committed to reducing its impact on the environment.

• Learn about bamboo-pole fishing and help restore fishponds with the Mālama Loko Ea Foundation .
• Participate in one of Ulu A‘e Learning Center’s days of caring held several times a year.
• Learn to make papa and pohaku (a poi board and stone) with Hui Aloha Aina Momona, a three-acre farm raising pork and olena (aka turmeric) plants.
• Join one of the nonprofit Hui o Ko‘olaupoko’s many volunteer projects, including the He‘eia Estuary Restoration Project , located in He‘eia State Park, where volunteers remove invasive species and replant native ones.
• Get involved in Kōke‘e Resource Conservation Program, which also invites people to help remove nonnative species, as well as do trail and fence maintenance and care for tea plants in the Kōke‘e wilderness preserve.
• Plant a tree in the Hawaiian Legacy Forest at Gunstock Ranch , which offers a series of sustainable experiences, including horseback rides and off-road tours.

It’s difficult to go wrong with whatever island you choose to visit. The hard part comes when you have to leave Hawai‘i—hopefully a little better than you found it—to return home.

This story was originally published in 2019 and most recently updated on November 8, 2023, to reflect current information.

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Best Hawaii Island to Visit?

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Which is the Best Hawaii Island to Visit?

An overview of each island .

Picture this: you're sipping a mai tai, toes in the sand, watching the sun dip into the Pacific. Sounds like heaven, right? Well, that's just a typical evening in Hawaii. But with so many incredible islands to choose from, how do you decide which one to visit first?

We've been lucky enough to explore every corner of this tropical haven, and we're here to spill the beans on the best Hawaii island to visit. Whether you're a beach bum, an adventure junkie, or a culture vulture, there's an island that's perfect for you. So grab your sunscreen and let's dive in!

Unlike many destinations, Hawaii is not really one destination - but six unique, eclectic, and diverse island destinations that all happen to be within the same state.

The six main islands, four of which we cover in detail on this site, are, from west to east, Kauai , Oahu , Molokai, Lanai, Maui , and the Big Island of Hawaii .

Selecting the best Hawaiian Island for you

As noted, selecting the right island is no easy task for many visitors. It can be a confusing and even frustrating job, and that's probably the last thing anyone wants when planning a trip to Hawaii. That’s why we’ve created this handy quiz- to help determine which Hawaiian island is best for you.

Quiz Instructions

Simply read and answer the questions below- each of your answers will earn a set number of points which will be tallied at the end. Make sure to answer all of the questions to ensure an accurate score.  Note that while there are six major islands you can visit in Hawaii, we've only detailed four of them here; as the overwhelming majority of visitors (around 98%) will never visit Molokai or Lanai. And we assure you that, at this point, you'll be much better off visiting one of the major four.  Please answer  ALL  Questions with a "Yes", "No", or "Somewhat" response. If you skip a question, it will be scored as 'No.'

Here's each Island's total scores:

Big Island : 0

Waimoku Falls at end of Pipiwai Trail on Maui

Hawaii Islands Introduction

Your perfect Hawaiian experience largely depends on what you seek. Whether it’s adventure, dining, relaxation, culture, or luxury, each island offers a distinct flavor for visitors to experience. Most of us have a favorite island, and below, we'll briefly introduce you to each island.

Oahu - The Gathering Place

Oahu is the most visited of all the Hawaiian islands, at nearly 4.7 million visitors annually.

Oahu is primarily defined by the state capital of Honolulu, as well as Pearl Harbor and the famous beach known as Waikiki. These areas attract tourists by the thousands daily.

Oahu boasts a fantastic climate, inexpensive accommodations, a large variety of shopping options, and world-renowned beaches - it's fair to say the island entices visitors from around the world. Some say this may be the one fault of the island, as many are discouraged by the large crowds of Oahu and thus dismiss the island, instead opting to visit one of the other less-visited islands in the chain.

But Oahu is much more than Honolulu or Waikiki - it may well be the most beautiful of all the major islands. You simply have to know where to go to experience the beauty that is Oahu. This island offers a perfect blend of city life and natural beauty. You can shop, dine, and enjoy nightlife in Honolulu, then take a short drive to stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and scenic hiking trails.

More on Oahu in-depth below...

Maui - The Valley Isle

Maui is the second most visited island with around 2.7 - 2.9 million visitors annually. Tourism greatly affects the nature of Maui and it boasts a very wide assortment of resorts, hotels, condos, and private rentals available across the island.

Maui is another great choice for first-timers. Known as the "Valley Isle," Maui has stunning beaches, world-class resorts, and a laid-back vibe. Some of the top attractions include the Road to Hana, a scenic drive with waterfalls and black sand beaches, and Haleakala National Park, where you can watch the sunrise above the clouds.

Often called, the "playground of the wealthy," Maui definitely caters to those looking for more expensive accommodations, sans the crowds of Oahu. But don't fret if top-notch accommodations aren't in your plans - Maui caters to all types, including the budget conscious. The island has a reputation for being a playground for  all  tourists, not just the super-rich.

More on Maui in-depth below...

Hawaii - The Big Island

The Big Island of Hawaii is the third most popular choice by visitors, with over 1.6 million travelers annually. The vast majority of the Big Island's visitors stay in the Kailua-Kona area with its fantastic weather, abundant shopping, and the vast array of dining options. It also hosts a wide assortment of accommodations, from high-end resorts to condominiums.

The Big Island, officially named Hawaii Island, is the largest in the chain and offers incredible diversity. Here, you can visit active volcanoes, hike through lush rainforests, and stargaze atop snow-capped mountains. Highlights include Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can see lava flows and steam vents, and the observatories on Mauna Kea, one of the best places in the world for astronomy.

More on Big Island of Hawaii in-depth below...

Kauai - The Garden Island

Kauai is the fourth most-visited island, at 1.3 million visitors annually. The island is easily identified by its amazing scenery and relaxed persona. The island, arguably, we'll admit, also boasts more coastline filled with beaches than any other island in the chain. Kauai is full of sparsely-visited and secluded beaches all around the island; you'll surely find one that's just right for you.

Kauai, nicknamed the "Garden Isle," is a nature lover's paradise. With its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, Kauai offers a true escape from the hustle and bustle. Must-see spots include Waimea Canyon, often called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," and the rugged Na Pali Coast, which you can explore by boat, helicopter, or on foot.

More on Kauai in-depth below...

TL;DR - The Best Island for first time visitors...

In our opinion, for most first-time Hawaii travelers, Oahu is often the best choice . Oahu offers a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty and vibrant urban experiences.  

Visitors can explore the iconic Waikiki Beach, hike to the top of Diamond Head for breathtaking views, and immerse themselves in Hawaiian/U.S. history by visiting historic sites like Pearl Harbor. With a wide range of accommodations, dining options, and activities, Oahu provides a well-rounded introduction to the Hawaiian Islands.

You'll be in good company if you visit Oahu; check out the chart below to see how popular Oahu is compared to the outer islands. Oahu is, by far, the most popular choice for Hawaii visitors.

That said, there's still a lot more to consider, like which type of Hawaii traveler you are , before making a final choice. Let's dive into our comprehensive guide to find the island that resonates with your dream Hawaiian adventure!

Hawaii Visitation by Island (2023)

Key Takeaway:

Choosing the best Hawaiian island for your first visit? Think about what you love. City vibes and famous beaches? Oahu's your spot. Crave stunning drives and sunrises above clouds? Maui calls. If active volcanoes and stargazing are up your alley, Big Island awaits. Love lush landscapes and quiet escapes? Kauai is perfect.

Kalalau Lookout on Kauai

Hawaii Islands In-Depth

Home to the Hawaii state capitol of Honolulu and the majority of Hawaii's population, Oahu is a vibrant mix of natural and cultural wonders with the entertainment and amenities of the 21st century. Check out the waves on the famous  North Shore , relive American history at the memorials and museums of  Pearl Harbor , or soak up the sun and take a surfing lesson on Waikiki Beach .

Oahu is truly a hot spot for Hawaii activities, tours, shopping, surfing, nightlife, and dining. The island is the most developed of the major islands, and it'll feel like it - it's busy here, and unlike some areas of Hawaii, there's more hustle and bustle around the clock. But don't worry, there's plenty of natural Oahu to visit, too, including some amazing trails, incredible overlooks, and plenty of stunning coastal views to go around. Check out our Oahu Regions guide to learn more about the different parts of Oahu.

There is primarily one main airport that services Oahu, and it's located in Honolulu. Most of Oahu's accommodations are located in Waikiki, but there are other lodging gems scattered around the island. Check out our Where to Stay on Oahu  article for more information.

The eastern coast of Oahu is hemmed in by a gorgeous mountain range and boasts three of the islands best beaches. Surprisingly, you'll find no major accommodations here, jut a few vacation homes along the quaint towns that dot the coast. The eastern region offers many visitors an escape from the bustling Waikiki scene while still offering the proximity to the shopping and activities of the nearby city just a half-hour drive away.

The famous North Shore of Oahu is a surfer's paradise, especially in the winter months when the surf is up. Located about an hour from Honolulu, this region has a surprisingly unpopulated feel to it. Many miles of beaches stretch along this portion of Oahu, making it a popular haven for those looking to relax in the sun.

The western, northwestern, and central regions are where most of the island's residents live. For the most part, there isn't much here for the typical island visitors - just a few scattered beaches.

View from Diamond Head on Oahu

Hiking on Oahu

Oahu Highlights:

• Waikiki Beach - Iconic gathering place for visitors from around the world.
• Pearl Harbor  - Explore the historic sites recounting the Pearl Harbor attack.
• Hanauma Bay  & Nature Preserve - One of Hawaii's premier snorkeling sites.
• Nuuanu Pali Lookout  - Historic spot with fantastic mountain views.
• North Shore  - Legendary birthplace of big wave surfing.

Useful Oahu Links:

• When to Visit Oahu
• Oahu Weather
• Where to Stay on Oahu
• Oahu Must See & Do
• All About Oahu
• Oahu Accommodations
• Handpicked Oahu Tours

Pali Overlook on Oahu

The second-largest island is home to what some believe are the best  beaches  in the world. If you visit during the winter months, book a tour to see the majestic whales, as Maui has some of the world’s best whale watching. Wake up early to catch the sunrise at  Haleakala , stroll through one of the many historic towns, or drive the majestic  Road to Hana  for spectacular scenery.

There's a reason many repeat visitors to Hawaii joyfully say, "Maui no ka oi" - which translates to "Maui is the best." Maui offers a little bit of everything in Hawaii, providing the best mix of nature and developed areas (towns), good snorkeling, great hiking trails, a volcano you can hike into, and so much more. Honestly, Maui makes a great island for first-time visitors, and it's probably why more people who take our quiz (below) are given the suggestion of Maui than any other island. Check out our Maui Regions guide to learn more about the different parts of Maui.

The main airport on Maui is in Kahului. Many of the best accommodations are on the West coastline (in Ka'anapali) or along the south shore (within Kihei and Wailea). Check out our Where to Stay on Maui  article for more information.

Please also remember, portions of Maui experienced some devastating wildfires in August 2023; and Lahaina town remains closed.

The island of Maui features an abundance of beaches, especially along the west coast. Sun is abundant here, too, as the volcanoes in the center of the island block the majority of precipitation from ever reaching the leeward side of the island. While portions of Maui's west coast are often dry and barren, the eastern portions of the island are a lush green paradise boasting waterfalls in numerous valleys. Many visitors enjoy the Hana Highway (aka The Road to Hana) as it winds its way along the coast to the sleepy town of Hana in the bay.

The center of the island is where Maui earns its nickname, the "Valley Isle." The isthmus stretching from Haleakala to the West Maui Mountains is likely where you'll begin your journey- at the airport.

Garden of Eden along the Hana Highway on Maui

Waianapanapa Black Sand Beach on Maui

Maui Highlights:

• Makena Beach State Park (Big Beach)  - One of Maui's most extensive beaches.
• Iao Valley State Park  - Historic site home to the iconic Iao Needle.
• Haleakala National Park  - Scenic home of Maui's highest peak.
• Hana Highway  - Famous for the scenery, twists, and turns on the way to Hana town.

Useful Maui Links:

• Handpicked Maui Tours
• When to Visit Maui
• Maui Weather
• Where to Stay on Maui
• Maui Must See & Do
• All About Maui
• Maui Accommodations

Waterfall along the famous Road to Hana

Big Island of Hawaii - The Orchid Isle

Larger than all of the other islands combined, the island of Hawaii, also known as Big Island, encompasses most of the world's climate zones - from white sand beaches to snow-capped mountains. See  waterfalls , rainforests, and  botanical gardens  near Hilo; explore the historic  PuuKohola Heiau , north of Kona; or view Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .

The sheer size of the Big Island of Hawaii also gives it a 'rural' feel, much like Kauai has, but so much larger! Plus, the island's diversity is truly astounding; there's nothing else quite like it; Hawaii Island is as eclectic as they come; from lush and verdant rainforests to barren black lava fields that stretch for miles. Check out our Big Island of Hawaii Regions guide to learn more about the different parts of Hawaii Island.

Two airports service the Big Island, one in Kailua-Kona (on the west side of the island) and the other in Hilo (on the east side). Most visitors will fly into Kona's airport, as most accommodations are located on the western side of the island. Don't forget to read our Where to Stay on the Big Island  to get an overview of all the major accommodation locations on the island.

Akaka Falls State Park on the Big Island

Green Sand Beach on the Big Island

The ocean off the Kona coast is clear and great for both snorkeling and diving. To the north of Kona is the "Gold Coast" of Kohala. While drier and more barren than Kona, the region offers amazing beaches, great weather conditions, and several luxury accommodations to choose from.

On the other side of the island, you'll discover Hilo and the Puna region. These are good locations to stay if you're interested in exploring  Hawaii Volcanoes National Park . This part of the island receives an abundance of rainfall that creates the lush green surroundings. Accommodations are harder to find, but a few hotels, small inns, and private rentals can be found, especially in the Volcano town area. The Volcano area, which is located at a crisp 4,000 ft. (1,219 m) above sea level, is dotted with a wide assortment of homes, bed and breakfasts, and small cottages for renting. This area is also a great place to stay if you're primarily interested in exploring the HVNP.

And speaking of the park, most visitors would be wise to forget anything they've seen or heard about the volcano long before they visit the island. The erupting volcano photos, the videos, and all the hype about lava everywhere are just that... hype; at least at present. The media and the park create unrealistic expectations as they try to draw in the public. Most visitors will be surprised that Kilauea is nothing more than a smoking caldera with no visible lava. The only way to get up close and personal with the volcano is to take a helicopter tour that will take you over the current eruption location. Occasionally, visitors may also be lucky enough to catch a surface pahoehoe lava flow near the end of the road; but all of these things can change in an instant. Most of the lava/magma is flowing directly underground to the ocean. Those who have an appreciation for geography or geology will love the park, though.

Despite the fact that Kilauea is the most active volcano on the planet, the volcanoes of Hawaii are nothing like their cousins on the mainland West Coast (Mt. St. Helens or Mt. Rainier). They are not explosive, pose little threat to visitors on the island, and their lava flow moves at a turtle-like speed that you could outwalk if necessary- no running required. To fully appreciate and explore the park you'll want to give yourself at least one full day, preferably two, if possible. There are many great hikes within the park and several stops which offer informative displays about the history of the region. Also, be wary of VOG (a volcanic smog) when visiting the park.

Big Island of Hawaii Highlights:

• Historic Kailua-Kona Town  - Historic seaside hot spot.
• Waipio Valley  - Hawaii's largest isolated inhabited valley.
• Downtown Hilo  - Discover local treasures in the island's capital city.
• Ka Lae (South Point)  - The southernmost point in the United States.
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park  - Home of one of the world's most active volcanoes and otherworldly scenery.

Useful Big Island of Hawaii Links:

• When to Visit the Big Island
• Big Island of Hawaii Weather
• Where to Stay on the Big Island of Hawaii
• Big Island of Hawaii Must See & Do
• All About the Big Island of Hawaii
• Big Island of Hawaii Accommodations
• Handpicked Big Island of Hawaii Tours

Lava Tube on Hawaii's Big Island

Kauai - The Garden Isle

The oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian Island chain is graced with dramatic, natural beauty. Explore Kokee State Park's trails , see  Waimea Canyon-  the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific"- or relax in one of the many beautiful gardens of the aptly named 'Garden Isle ,' such as  Limahuli Garden .

In our opinion, Kauai represents the most iconic view of Hawaii - lush surroundings, verdant valley, an abundance of waterfalls, and rainbows. This island is probably the most "rural" of the main Hawaiian Islands. It offers the perfect getaway for romantic trips, anyone seeking relaxation away from the hustle/bustle of everyday life, or those looking to explore the backcountry trails, of which Kauai has plenty (some of the best hikes in the state can be found on Kauai). Check out our Kauai Regions guide to learn more about the different parts of Kauai.

There is one main airport that services Kauai, in Lihue. There are also plenty of great places to stay on Kauai, including the North & Eastern Coasts and more recent property developments along the southern shore. Read our article on Where to Stay on Kauai  to help you select the perfect location.

Kauai's North Shore features some dramatic and beautiful mountain scenery along with a variety of hidden beaches. The area also has an incredible selection of shopping and dining options. While the winter months will mean more rain for the northern part of the island, it's still one of the most popular places on the island. Hanalei Bay is a popular location for water activities and boasts some of the best beaches in all of Hawaii along her crescent shores.

Kauai's South Shore is popular due to its abundance of sunny weather, even during the wet winter months. Poipu and Lawai offer a wide variety of accommodations, fine dining, and shopping. On the East Coast- also known as the Coconut Coast- Kapaa offers a nice selection of affordable rentals and more shopping than most other areas. While Kauai has a small town feel to it, many larger store brands can still be found on the island - Costco, Target, and Wal-Mart all are present here.

Kauai's West Coast is more barren and dry than the rest of the island, and accommodations are fewer and more far between here. However, one of the main attractions on the island is present here- the Waimea Canyon. Mark Twain dubbed it the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." At ten miles long, it's an amazing sight to behold on an island the size of Kauai. The true splendor of the region, and the neighboring Kokee State Park, can only truly be appreciated by taking one of the many trails that crisscross the parks.

Tunnels Beach on Kauai

Waialeale Waterfalls in Central Kauai

Kauai Highlights:

• Wailua Falls  - Kauai's most popular waterfall.
• Kalalau Trail  - Spectacular coastal trail on Kauai's North Coast.
• Poipu Beach  - Voted one of America's best beaches.
• Waimea Canyon  - Nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific."

Useful Kauai Links:

• Handpicked Kauai Tours
• When to Visit Kauai
• Kauai Weather
• Where to Stay on Kauai
• Kauai Must See & Do
• All About Kauai
• Kauai Accommodations

Kauai's Incredible NaPali Coastline

Hawaii Visitors by Island (2023 vs 2022)

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Enjoying Hawaiian Culture and Cuisine

No trip to Hawaii is complete without immersing yourself in the rich culture and delicious cuisine of the islands. From ancient traditions to modern twists on classic dishes, there's so much to discover.

Learn about Ancient Hawaiian Traditions

One of the best ways to connect with Hawaiian culture is to learn about its ancient traditions. Many resorts and cultural centers offer classes and demonstrations in things like lei making, hula dancing, and storytelling. I once took a lei making class at a local cultural center, and it was such a fun and informative experience. As we wove the delicate flowers together, our instructor shared stories and legends associated with each bloom. It gave me a whole new appreciation for these beautiful garlands and their significance in Hawaiian culture.

Taste Authentic Hawaiian Food

Hawaiian cuisine is a delicious fusion of flavors from around the world, reflecting the islands' diverse cultural heritage. From classic dishes like kalua pork and poke to local favorites like plate lunches and shave ice, there's no shortage of tasty treats to try. One of my favorite food experiences in Hawaii was attending a traditional luau. The spread of food was incredible - succulent kalua pork, fresh poke, lomi lomi salmon, and so much more. And the entertainment, with hula dancers and fire twirlers, made for an unforgettable evening.

Experience the Unique Culture of Each Island

While all of the Hawaiian islands share a common cultural heritage, each one has its own unique flavor and traditions. From the bustling streets of Honolulu to the laid-back vibes of Kauai, there's so much diversity to experience. I love how each island has its own distinct personality. On Oahu, you can immerse yourself in the history and culture of the islands at places like Iolani Palace and the Bishop Museum. On Maui, you can explore the charming towns and learn about the island's history. And on the Big Island, you can witness the power of creation at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and learn about the ancient Hawaiian goddess Pele.

Planning Your Perfect Hawaiian Getaway

With so much to see and do in Hawaii, planning the perfect trip can seem daunting. But with a little research and some insider tips, you'll be well on your way to the vacation of a lifetime.

Kilauea Eruption inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Best Time to Visit Hawaii

One of the most common questions I get asked is, " When is the best time to visit Hawaii ?" The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your preferences and priorities. If you're looking to avoid crowds and score some deals on accommodations, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April-May or September-October. The weather is still pleasant, but the peak summer and winter crowds have thinned out. That being said, there's really no bad time to visit Hawaii. The islands enjoy warm, sunny weather year-round, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s. Just be prepared for the occasional rain shower, especially if you're visiting during the wetter winter months.

Choosing the Right Island for Your Interests

With six main Hawaiian islands to choose from, it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. Here's a quick breakdown: - Oahu : Best for first-timers, history buffs, and those seeking a mix of city and beach life - Maui : Best for beach lovers, snorkelers, and those seeking a laid-back vibe - Kauai : Best for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a more remote, untouched experience - Big Island : Best for adventure seekers, stargazers, and those interested in geology and volcanoes - Lanai : Best for luxury seekers and those looking for a secluded, upscale experience - Molokai : Best for those seeking a glimpse of old Hawaii and a slower pace of life Of course, you can't go wrong with any of the islands. Each one offers its own unique charms and attractions.

Getting Around the Islands

Once you've decided which island(s) to visit, you'll need to figure out how to get around. Renting a car is the most popular option, as it gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. If you're planning to stick to one island, you can easily get by with a rental car. But if you're island hopping, you'll need to factor in the cost and logistics of inter-island flights. Another option is to book guided tours or use public transportation, like buses or shuttles, when available (mostly on Oahu). This can be a good choice if you're not comfortable driving or if you want to sit back and let someone else handle the navigation.

Accommodations and Budgeting

Hawaii offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly vacation rentals. When deciding where to stay, consider your priorities and what kind of experience you're looking for. If you're dreaming of a posh resort with all the bells and whistles, expect to pay a premium. But if you're willing to forgo some amenities and stay in a more modest hotel or rental, you can save a significant amount of money. Another way to stretch your budget is to book accommodations with a kitchenette or full kitchen. This allows you to save money on dining out by preparing some meals yourself. Plus, there's nothing quite like enjoying a home-cooked breakfast on your own private lanai (balcony). As for budgeting, it's no secret that Hawaii can be an expensive destination. But with some careful planning and savvy choices, you can make your dream trip a reality without breaking the bank.

Some tips :

• Travel during the shoulder season for lower rates on flights and accommodations
• Look for package deals that bundle flights, hotels, and car rentals
• Take advantage of free activities like hiking, snorkeling, and beach hopping
• Eat like a local at food trucks, farmers markets, and hole-in-the-wall joints
• Use credit card points or airline miles to offset the cost of flights or hotels

At the end of the day, the memories you'll make in Hawaii are priceless. So don't let the cost deter you from experiencing all that these magical islands have to offer.

Makalawena Beach on the Big Island's West Coast

Relaxing on Oahu

FAQs in Relation to Best Hawaii Island to Visit

What is considered the best hawaiian island to visit.

Oahu shines for first-timers with a mix of history at Pearl Harbor, bustling Waikiki Beach vibes, and epic hikes like Diamond Head.

Should I go to Oahu or Maui?

Pick Oahu for iconic sights and city life; choose Maui for stunning beaches, Haleakala National Park sunrises, and quieter adventures.

What is the prettiest place to go to in Hawaii?

Kauai's Na Pali Coast offers jaw-dropping scenery with its emerald cliffs plunging into azure waters—true paradise found.

Which is better Maui or Kauai?

If you're after vibrant beaches and volcanic wonders, hit up Maui. For lush trails and dramatic landscapes, Kauai's your spot.

So, which Hawaiian island should you pack your bags for? The answer is, it depends on what kind of vacation you're dreaming of. Oahu is perfect for those who want a bit of everything, from city life to stunning beaches. Maui is a nature lover's paradise, with its lush rainforests and jaw-dropping coastlines. The Big Island is an adventure seeker's dream, with active volcanoes and rugged landscapes to explore. And Kauai? Well, it's the ultimate escape, with its laid-back vibe and secluded beaches.

Hawaii is calling, and it's time to answer! Whether you're drawn to the bustling beaches of Oahu or the serene landscapes of Kauai, an incredible journey awaits. The islands have a unique charm that will captivate your soul and leave you with a lifetime of cherished moments. Don't hesitate – make those travel plans, pack your sunscreen, and prepare to fall in love with the beauty of the Pacific. Trust your instincts; you'll be glad you did!

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Article Published/Updated: 07-13-2024

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Here Are The 11 Most Peaceful Places To Go In Hawaii When You Need A Break From It All

Megan Shute

With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.

More by this Author

Whether you live in Hawaii — or worse, work at an establishment inundated with tourists from across the world — sometimes you just need an escape. While Hawaii’s most popular tourist destinations are visited for a reason, sometimes you want to get away from it all. If you’re looking for some much-needed peace and quiet, you can head to any of these awe-inspiring but quiet places in Hawaii for some respite.

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Which of these destinations is your favorite? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! For more incredible spots to get away from it all, these secluded places in Hawaii have it all.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

Quiet places in hawaii.

What is the best place to relax in Hawaii?   

Hawaii is one of those places people go specifically for rest and relaxation, but it can be hard to do so with all the crowds and hustle and bustle that this little slice of paradise is almost always host to. So, what’s the best place to relax in Hawaii ? We personally prefer the island of Kauai, which is known for its more low-key vibe and laid-back lifestyle. You might want to check out some of the most amazing hidden beaches in Hawaii , especially the ones in Kauai, and some of our amazing hiking trails in Hawaii are lesser-known and quite relaxing as well. Another idea is to check out some of the lesser-known state parks in Hawaii, where you can escape to while everyone else is distracted by the busier spots.  

Where are the best state parks for relaxing in Hawaii?   

So, what are some of those laid-back state parks in Hawaii that tend to get a little less foot traffic than others? These state parks are often known for how quiet they can be; one of our favorite state parks for relaxing in Hawaii is Ka’ena Point State Park. You’ll find it in Waialua, and you’ll be amazed at just how peaceful it is. Folks describe it as “serene” and “tranquil”, and we are obsessed. We also totally love the Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, which is one of our favorite beaches in Hawaii for relaxation.  

What are some of the best places to go for peace and quiet in Hawaii?   

Sure, Hawaii is a touristy place, but as you can see, that doesn’t mean you won’t find peace and quiet anywhere. We have more favorite places to go for peace and quiet in Hawaii like Molokai, which is literally known as the “Quiet Islands”. It’s also probably one of the least-touristy places in Hawaii, making it the perfect place to run off to when you just need an escape. You might also want to look into the quietest hiking trails in Hawaii , too – many of which are on Molokai.

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The Quietest Hawaiian Island: Places To Explore

Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches, expansive volcanoes, and lush green forests. What many people don’t know, however, is that there’s a quieter side to the Aloha State. In this blogpost we’ll discuss the criteria by which it is determined whether an island is quiet and which of the Hawaiian islands meet these conditions. We’ll also give you some tips on how and when to go there!

Conditions of Being Quiet

The conditions under which an island can be considered quiet include:

• distance from civilization
• population and tourists
• level of urbanization
• untouched nature

Lanai: The Least Inhabited Hawaiian Island

The smallest inhabited island travelers may visit in Hawaii, Lanai offers big enticements to its visitors. Only nine miles from Maui yet a world away, Lanai can feel like two places. One half is the relaxed, friendly home of just about 3,000 locals. The other half is vast expanses where nearly all signs of development are outside Lanai City. There are some luxury hotels but no chain restaurants or shops on this island (somehow).’

The island has some great beaches and some good hiking trails. Charter boats go snorkeling daily; the fantastic Hulopoe Beach on the east side can be crowded at times but it’s still a real treat for most visitors, if you want to swim with turtles or just have a nice beach for yourself.

Molokai: The Least Tourisic Hawaiian Island

Molokai, the most remote of the main Hawaiian Islands, is also the least visited and has the least touristy atmosphere. There are no stoplights or malls on Molokai, which keeps it rustic and quiet.  Unlike Lanai, there aren’t many lodgings available and it’s the most difficult island to arrive at by air.

​People who live there consider it to be the greatest place to reside. People leave their doors unlocked at night and there aren’t any dangerous animals here…just chickens! It is one of the most secluded Hawaiian Islands, with many long-standing families and few visitors, when compared to other islands in the chain. Thus, it isn’t as crowded as some other islands – Molokai is definitely a place to relax and unwind from life on the mainland.

Kahoolawe: The least Visited Hawaiian Island

Kahoolawe Hawaii is almost uninhabited island. After the first Polynesian explorers arrived around 500AD., Kahoolawe was used as an training ground for new warriors on Maui.

Until recently, Kahoolawe was used by the U.S. Navy for bombing practice throughout World War II and later during the Vietnam War era. It’s now managed by Hawaii State as a feral animal preserve and watershed, and the only people allowed to visit are biologists and environmentalists. No camping or overnight lodging is available on this quiet island, which averages just 70 visitors per month.

Niihau: Altimately Connected To The Native Hawaiian Culture

Niihau is extremely isolated; in fact, guests are only allowed on Niihau for a maximum of two weeks per year. As part of an old Hawaiian promise to preserve its culture, outsiders (including Hawaiians) are not permitted to visit without an invitation from one of the 70 Native Hawaiian residents living living on its 114 square-mile landmass.  They are intimately connected to their natural environment, with food sources including fish, wild boar, taro root, sweet potatoes and more. The native Hawaiian culture on Niihau is kept alive by traditional hula dancers practicing every night on full moons.

All shipments are subject to approval by the island’s residents, who are committed to keeping outsiders out. If you find yourself with an invitation to visit this mysterious land of few people, make sure your sunscreen is packed!

In Conclusions

We hope you enjoyed learning about the quiet side of Hawaii. If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, any of these islands would be a great choice. Mahalo for reading!

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You’ve decided to take a trip to Hawaii (great decision) and now you’re trying to figure out what island to visit. Everyone has their favorite island and will swear that island is absolutely the best. 

But let’s get one thing out of the way: there is no “best” island .  But there is a best time to visit Hawaii !

Each island offers something different and you should decide what island to visit based on what you’re looking for. In this article, I’ll give you a quick comparison of the four most frequently visited Hawaiian islands, and then we’ll dive deeper into each one.

Hawaiian Island Comparison: A Quick Overview

Want a 30-second overview of the Hawaiian islands? Here you go:

• Kauai is the lush Garden Isle. Known for its dramatic cliffs and coastline, hiking and outdoor enthusiasts will love this island.
• Maui has a little of everything. Excellent and easy snorkeling, luxury resorts, plentiful vacation rentals, and the Road to Hana. 
• Hawaii (the Big Island) is perfect for volcano enthusiasts and people who want plenty of space to roam.
• Oahu is the big city and is known for Waikiki Beach, cultural sights, plenty of things to do, shopping, and an active nightlife. 

Need more than a 30-second overview? I don’t blame you. Here’s a more thorough explanation to help you make your decision. 

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Who Should Visit Kauai?

Kauai is the second oldest and northernmost island. Called the Garden Isle, the island features a lush rainforest, jaw-dropping cliffs of the Na Pali coast, excellent hiking, numerous waterfalls, golden sand beaches, and stunning botanical gardens. 

Of the four most-visited Hawaiian islands, Kauai is the least populated and smallest — it’s home to just 72,000 people. According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, in 2019 Kauai had fewer visitors than the other three main islands . 

Kauai Highlights

When you visit Kauai there are a few must-see and do things that should make your to-do list:

• Visit Waimea Canyon: Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea Canyon is a highly rated destination, worth a day trip. There are plenty of hiking trails and lookout spots to fully experience this natural wonder. 
• Wailua Falls: Kauai has some of the best waterfalls and many of them, like Wailua Falls, are easily accessible. 
• Poipu Beach: Once named one of the best beaches in the US, Poipu is one of the most popular beaches on Kauai. With golden sand and a reef that protects the bay, it’s an easy place for people of all abilities to swim and enjoy the ocean. 
• Na Pali Coast: Accessible only by boat or foot, the Na Pali coast offers jaw-dropping views. Take a boat ride and you’ll be able to snorkel off the coast while enjoying the dramatic view. 
• Kalalau Trail: This 11-mile trail leads you along the Na Pali coast and is one of the most beautiful — and possibly most dangerous — trails you’ll find in the US. 
• Hanalei: On the north of Kauai you’ll find the picturesque town of Hanalei. With its laid back vibe, it’s perfect for hitting the beach, the shops, or one of the wonderful restaurants or food trucks. 

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the kauai itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Kauai.

Things to Consider Before Going to Kauai

While Kauai is a fantastic destination, there are some things to know before you go:

• A quiet island: If you’re looking for nightlife, Kauai is not the ideal island for you. It’s quiet and there is little nightlife that exists outside of the resorts (which are also quiet). 
• More rain: Kauai is lush, but that jungle landscape also means that the island gets a lot of rain. More rain in fact, than any of the other Hawaiian islands. That doesn’t mean your beach days are going to be ruined, but just know to expect showers. If you’re heading to Kauai in the winter, be sure to check our rainfall chart below.
• Winter waves: We love Hanalei Bay and Tunnels beach, but we stay far away from these places in the winter. The waves in the winter are big and unpredictable, which makes swimming and snorkeling a bad idea. 
• Traffic: All of the islands have traffic, but Kauai seems to get hit especially hard as there’s only one main road around the island. 

Explore the 35 best things to do on Kauai .

Honeymooners, babymooners, and anyone looking for a romantic vacation will love Kauai because it’s quiet, less crowded than other islands, and romantic. Thrill-seekers will also find excellent activities with the Kalalau trail hike and watersports. And families with older kids will have access to most activities.

We love going to Kauai with our toddler but know that when he’s older we’ll enjoy going even more because he’ll be able to do more of the activities, like the Na Pali coast boat ride. 

Planning a trip to Kauai? Read our Kauai Travel Guide . 

Should You Visit Maui?

Maui, the Valley Isle, is the second-largest island in size and third largest in population with 145,000 residents. When you visit Maui, you get three islands: included in Maui county and just a ferry ride away is the islands of Lanai and Molokai. 

Maui is the second most popular island to visit and it’s easy to understand why. Maui is known for whale watching, world-famous beaches, excellent snorkeling, the Road to Hana, and more. 

Maui Highlights

When you visit Maui there are some must-see and do things to add to your list , then check out our 33 things to do on Maui list.

• Road to Hana : It’s truly about the journey and not the destination. This full-day drive includes 620 curves, 59 bridges , countless waterfalls, and takes you to the quieter, more lush side of the island. We highly recommend staying a night (or more) at the Waianapanapa State Park Cabins or the Hana Maui resort.
• Haleakala Park: Experience sunrise or sunset from the top of the volcano. Reservations (and a very early wake up) are required for the sunrise tour only. After your visit to the Volcano, spend your day exploring upcountry and see another beautiful side of Maui. 
• Whale watching : If you visit Maui between December and April, plan to spend some time on the water whale watching. Tours range from large boat tours to kayak tours and provide an amazing (and sometimes up close) experience with Humpback whales. 
• Historic Lahaina Town : Previously the capital of Hawaii from 1820 – 1845, Lahaina now features a charming main street (Front Street), shopping, lively restaurants and nightlife, and activities that leave from the Lahaina harbor.
• Snorkeling: Call us biased, but we think Maui has the best snorkeling of any Hawaiian island. There are plenty of spots to snorkel all over the island, bays that make it easy to snorkel in calm waters, and a rich variety of sea life. 
• Day trip to Lanai : If you’re really looking for a full-day trip, consider a sailing trip to Lanai. Snorkel, see dolphins, enjoy the beach, and a small hike on another island before returning to Maui. 

Related Read: What to Pack for Your Hawaii Vacation

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the maui itinerary.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Maui.

Things to Consider Before Going to Maui

Maui is a popular destination loved by many, but there are some things you should know before you go:

• It’s expensive: Maui is the most expensive island to visit, which means that if you’re looking for a budget-friendly trip, you’ll find better options with the other islands.
• A lot of tourists: Maui can get a bad rap for being a touristy island. It’s true: there are a lot of visitors to Maui. So if you’re wanting to steer clear of the crowds, Kauai or the Big Island would be a better bet. But if you come to Maui and want to escape the crowds, there are plenty of places to visit that are off the beaten path and away from the resorts. 

See our Maui Trip Planning for Happy Travelers for more considerations on visiting Maui.

Who Should Visit Maui?

If you’re seeking an adults-only vacation (like a honeymoon), Maui is your stop with the only adults-only resort in Hawaii . Bringing a family? Maui also has a huge number of family-friendly resorts and activities that make it an easy vacation. Maui is great for beach bums, adventure seekers, and people looking for a luxurious vacation experience. 

In addition, we think Maui is a great place for first-time Hawaii visitors because you get to experience a little bit of everything — there is something here for everyone. 

Heading to Maui? Read our Maui Travel Guide . 

The Big Island (Island of Hawai’i)

Calling all volcano and geological enthusiasts — the Big Island is where you want to be. Technically called the Island of Hawaii and also nicknamed the Orchid Isle, the Big Island is the largest island. It also has the second-largest population, with 200,000 residents. Because the Big Island is so big, it often feels empty, leaving you plenty of space to roam and explore. 

Another cool fact about the Big Island: it encompasses 11 of 13 of the world’s climatic zones. Come to the Big Island for outdoor activities, Manta Ray night snorkeling , an up-close look at a volcano, and some world-famous Kona coffee. 

Big Island Highlights

The Big Island has unique opportunities that you won’t find anywhere else:

• Volcanoes National Park: Any geology or volcano enthusiast will love this park. You can spend days hiking on the hiking train, walk through lava tubes at the Thurston Lava Tubes or drive the crater road to spend a full day visiting sites. 
• Visit historic Hilo and Kailua-Kona towns: Visit two historic towns on different sides of the island.
• Mauna Kea Observatory: Watch a sunset or go stargazing at the Mauna Kea Observatory and get the views from nearly 14,000 feet in altitude. 
• Kona coffee: Visit the many Kona coffee farms and sample the different beans and blends.
• Manta Ray night snorkeling : When the sun goes down don your suit and head out onto a boat and get an up-close view of these big creatures.  

Things to Consider Before Going to the Big Island

• It’s a big island: The Big Island may be big, but it’s easy to get around. You’ll find that beaches and activities are spread out and you may spend a little extra time in your car, but the driving is easy. 
• Hilo is a rainforest: If you’re planning to visit Hilo (which we recommend!), know that it’s a rainforest and you might encounter a lot of rain. It adds to the charm and the lush scenery, but it can put a damper on your vacation if you’re not prepared.

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

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Who Should Visit the Big Island?

Volcanologists, astronomers, cowboys, and adventure seekers will find the Big Island has more than enough to offer. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, you’ve not forgotten: the luxury resorts on the Kohala Coast offer a wonderful stay. 

Ready to pack your bags? Read our Big Island Travel Guide . 

Welcome to the state capital and the most populated island, with more than 1 million people. Oahu has everything: every armed force has a base on Oahu, they have triple crown surfing competitions, famous Waikiki Beach, and more. The island is full of culture, nightlife, things to do, and visitors. Oahu is the most visited of the Hawaiian islands. So yes, this island is crowded.

Oahu is actually the cheapest island to visit so it tops our list as a great island for a family vacation. Not only are there tons of activities for kids, but you’ll be able to stretch your travel budget. 

Oahu Highlights

• Waikiki Beach: Iconic Waikiki Beach is crowded but beautiful. Two-miles of white sand beach flanked by hotels and restaurants with a view of Diamond Head in the distance, this is the image most people think of when they picture Oahu. 
• Pearl Harbor: The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a historic landmark on Oahu, approximately 30 miles west of Waikiki. Immerse yourself in one of the five historic sites that make up the memorial.
• Culture: Take a walk through Honolulu Chinatown, tour the Bishop Museum, and visit Iolani Palace. There’s more than enough to see to immerse yourself in the culture and the history of the island. 
• North shore: Get away from the bustling downtown and head to the North Shore for hiking, surfing, and a countryside feel. 
• Disney’s Aulani Resort: Die-hard Disney fans will enjoy the only Disney resort in Hawaii.

Explore our 40 things to do on Oahu for more ideas!

Things to Consider before going to Oahu

• The cheapest Hawaiian island: Oahu is actually the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit, so if you’re looking to stretch your travel dollars, this is where you want to be.
• Traffic: Honolulu is a proper city, which means it comes with a lot of traffic and high rises. We’ve heard Honolulu referred to as LA of the Pacific, so if you’re looking to avoid large buildings, traffic, and people, this might not be the best spot for you. 
• Nightlife: Most of the other islands get quiet when the sun goes down. But Oahu has a real nightlife scene.
• Wide range of hiking: Oahu offers the most hiking options. From steep ridge hikes to simpler waterfall walks, Oahu has it all.

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the oahu itinerary.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Oahu.

Who Should Go to Oahu?

Oahu is best for people looking for a lively vacation, historians looking to learn more about Hawaii’s history, singles and others looking to enjoy the nightlife, and anyone looking for a slightly less expensive Hawaii vacation.

Off to Oahu? Read our Oahu Travel Guide . 

But Really, Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit?

I know it’s difficult to choose just one. We recommend that first-timers visit Maui because it has something for everyone. You have your choice of accommodations — from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options. There are activities for everyone and you’ll generally have the best chance of sunny days at all times of the year. 

Whatever island sounds appealing to you, make planning your trip better (and easier) by using one of our Wayfinder itineraries to help you plan your trip. 

Learn more about our itineraries for any island and get planning!

Cruising Hawaii Guide

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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Skip Pink Sand Beaches: Why Hawaii's Green Sand Beach Is Better

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• Pink sand beaches get their color from microscopic organisms called foraminifera.
• Papakōlea in Hawaii is one of the world's four green sand beaches due to Olivine.
• Visiting Papakōlea's green sand beach requires a trek but offers a unique experience.

Tourists flock to pink sand beaches, such as the ones found in Europe, the Bahamas, and the pink sand paradise of Bermuda . You might be wondering, "Where does that color come from?" The answer is microscopic single-celled organisms that grow on coral reefs called foraminifera.

These little creatures release by-products that appear pink when washed ashore, which makes the sand appear pink. Alternatively, some pink sand beaches are made of quartz. Either way, they make for a stunning backdrop to a selfie — definitely Instagram-worthy!

Although Hawaii does not actually have any pink sand beaches, its landscape hits more interesting areas of the color wheel. For example, you can find red sand on Kaihalulu and black sand on Honokalani. Actually, America is home to several oddly-colored beaches . One of these beaches is a lesser-known gem of Hawaii , found on The Big Island. Have you heard of Hawaii’s green sand beach, Papakōlea?

8 Best Hawaii Beaches To Visit In 2024

Discover Hawaii's top beaches for 2024, offering pristine sands, vibrant marine life, and a plethora of water activities in breathtaking settings.

The Rare Green Sand Of Papakōlea

Olivine is the key element in the formation of hawaii's green sand beach.

While there are many pink sand beaches, Papakōlea is one of only four green sand beaches in the entire world. You can find the other three in Guam, Norway, and the Galápagos. But — what makes the sand green anyway?

Olivine, locally known as "Hawaiian Diamond," gives the sand its emerald hue. If you are familiar with collecting rocks and crystals or enjoy wearing jewelry, you might call it by the name "peridot." However, Olivine is found all over Earth's crust as a byproduct of volcanic eruption.

When the 49,000-year-old volcano, Mauna Loa, on The Big Island , erupted long ago, it released magma rich in iron and low in silica, which eventually crystallized into a tuff ring containing Olivine. Over time, the green and gold tuff ring of Olivine slowly broke into thousands of tiny crystals that now make up the green sand beach. (Who knew you would get a science lesson from a travel article?)

A Hike To A Quiet Big Island Beach

Respect the environment and culture of hawaii by opting for travel by foot over the "local shuttle".

Though many visitors report a three-mile hike east of Ka Lae through mud, sand, and treacherous volcanic rock to reach the green shoreline, the experience is well worth the fuss of trekking through the desert. In fact, its secluded location in Hawaii might be one of its perks!

While it is understandable that the average traveler might prefer not to engage in strenuous activity on their vacation, that means less of a crowd for those who do. (Perhaps this is why Papakōlea is a hit with the locals of Hawaii.)

For travelers who see this hike as more of an obstacle than an opportunity, locals might offer a ride on the bed of a pickup truck if you offer them some cash, but driving to the beach is actually illegal because it requires off-roading. The rule is for good reason: off-road driving negatively impacts the fragile ecosystem of the island.

The constant shuttling of tourists in vehicles has created ruts as deep as eight feet. In addition, the noise of the vehicles conflicts with the cultural practices of native Hawaiians, which require a peaceful environment. So, respect the rules of the island and its people and get your steps in. You will have to hike down the cinder cone to reach the sand; you might as well get a full workout!

Though you may not be allowed to drive a vehicle to the island, you can bring your four-legged family member! Papakōlea is a dog-friendly beach, which means the kind of friends we can make are not limited by species. Keeping this in mind, you should pack a leash with your other belongings.

What To Know Before Visiting Papakōlea's Green Sand Beach

This is what you need to know to be prepared for the long hike and hot beach.

If you are not accustomed to the warm weather of Hawaii or otherwise live a sedentary lifestyle, it is important you take proper precautions to prepare for a long day of strenuous outdoor activities in the summer sun. In addition, it does not hurt to know the rules of the island before arriving! Take the following "Dos" and "Don'ts" to best prepare for your green sand adventure.

7 Hawaiian Beaches With Strange Histories

Discover Hawaii beaches with mysterious pasts, from legends of spectral warriors to tragic tales of forbidden love, etched in the sands of time.

It might not be the pristine sand you're used to on clean white or pink beaches, but Papakōlea's green sand is a sight to behold, and worth a visit.

• Beaches In Hawaii

Which Island Should I Visit In Hawaii?

Close your eyes. Picture your ideal Hawaii even if you've never been there before. What do you imagine? Do you see endless parties? Do you envision flowing rivers of lava? Do you dream of white sand beaches surrounded by lush rainforest?

Hawaii is made up of eight different major islands. Four of these islands -- Kauai , Oahu , Maui , and Hawaii -- are where you'll find tourists. The other four islands are generally reserved for locals or the most experienced Hawaiian travelers. And each of these four major islands offers up unique experiences that you can't find anywhere else. So what you envision in your dreams of Hawaii should have a big say in which island you ultimately choose.

But before we get to the features of each island, there are some logistics to consider. Picking your favorite Hawaiian island may come down to simple timing and economics. Only after you're done with the logistical side of planning your Hawaiian vacation can you focus on the different flavors of the island. Whichever Hawaiian island you visit, planning is crucial.

Book Your Flights Early

You won’t want to wonder which Hawaiian island to visit if your trip to the islands is not a pleasant one. It's a good idea to monitor flight prices three months out to book the cheapest fares. That will give you ample notice to request the time off of work. It's easier than requesting the time off of work and then trying to fit your Hawaiian vacation into that time frame. You may be stuck with high-priced flights and accommodations.

We recommend spending at least seven days on your favorite island. A cheap flight can help you extend your stay, afford a nicer accommodation or help you afford more interesting tours during your visit.

Flights To Different Islands

Make a matrix of costs for flights to each island before factoring in accommodation costs for your ideal Hawaiian vacation.

Accommodation Types

Kauai is perfect if you envisioned endless surfing and hiking with rugged camping , outdoor showers, and local house rentals. As the oldest Hawaiian island, it has had millions of years to collect wildlife carried from around the world from seeds in bird's talons.  Oahu is for you if you need to be pampered with big city convenience. As the second oldest island it has a happy medium of city life and some natural Hawaiian scenery.  Maui gives you all the comforts of home with a little bit of seclusion. And the Big Island is for the nomad who wants to see it all.

The Islands

Now that you know your flight window, flight and accommodation costs, it's time to rank your favorite islands.

Oahu is home to Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital and the biggest city in the state. Three out of four residents of Hawaii live on Oahu, and the island boasts an excellent mix of nature and culture. On Oahu, you can spend the day shopping, trying world-class restaurants, or enjoying a resort’s amenities. You can also learn to surf, take a hike, or visit major historical sites, most notably Pearl Harbor .

Waikiki is the most popular tourist district on Oahu. People from all over the world come to enjoy the luxurious resorts, nightlife, and  surfing lessons . For people traveling to Hawaii without a car, Waikiki is a good destination, because there are plenty of things to do within walking distance, as well as a good public transportation system.

If you want to spend most of your time in Hawaii on the beach, Maui might be the island for you. The island’s miles of gorgeous beaches come in white, red, and black sands . The beaches in Maui aren’t just picturesque, though – they’re a great destination for all kinds of water sports. If you like surfing, sailing, kitesurfing, snorkeling , or scuba diving , Maui will be right up your alley.

Maui isn’t short on stunning views away from the beach, either. If you’re staying on the island, set aside a day or two to drive to the little town of Hana at the far eastern end of the island. The highway takes you along one of the most scenic routes in the state of Hawaii (or the entire United States, for that matter). Nature lovers can also visit Haleakala Crater , with its stunning views and hiking trails. For a morning you’ll never forget, go to Haleakala Crater at sunrise.

The Big Island

The Big Island may not be quite as commercialized as Oahu or Maui, but it still sees plenty of visitors every year, and there’s something fun to do for everyone. Kayaking , surfing , and horseback riding are a few of the biggest outdoor activities the Big Island offers. You can also immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture by watching hula dancers at the Merrie Monarch Festival, admiring local artists’ work at the Big Island’s many galleries and museums, and learning about Hawaii’s cowboys, or paniolos. And, of course, there’s plenty of good coffee to be found on the Big Island, particularly if you visit Kona.

By far the biggest attraction on the Big Island, though, is Hawaii Volcanoes, National Park . Here you can see Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world today, as its red-hot lava meets the sea. Kilauea is particularly beautiful at night. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park also offers plenty of hiking trails and beautiful spots to stop, relax, and enjoy the view.

Mountains, waterfalls , rivers, beaches – Kauai has them all. Hiking and kayaking are both popular ways to enjoy the outdoors on Kauai. For a particularly beautiful view, you can also take a helicopter tour of the island.

Kauai is less commercial than Oahu and Maui, but it’s not so remote that you’ll have trouble finding what you need. There are plenty of convenient shopping options on the island, as well as hotels and resorts for every budget. If you want to avoid some of the crowds of the more popular islands without sacrificing comfort, Kauai is the perfect place to visit.

Lanai is far more rustic than the larger Hawaiian islands – there isn’t a single traffic light to be found. It does, however, have a number of resorts, so visitors still have plenty of amenities. Tourists can visit Sweetheart Rock, one of the island’s most famous landmarks, before heading back to Lanai City for dinner at an authentic Hawaiian restaurant.

Lanai has an interesting history as a former pineapple plantation. While only a few pineapples are grown on the island today, people can still visit the old plantation site and sample some of the locally grown  fruit .

Molokai has one hotel, a number of condominiums, and no luxury resorts. With little shopping and no nightlife, it’s not the place to go if you’re looking for excitement or pampering. But if you want a quiet, private, slow-paced vacation, Molokai is heavenly. You can go hiking or golfing , explore serene beaches without elbowing crowds of tourists out of the way, and visit the Saturday farmer’s market in Kaunakakai for some fresh, locally-grown produce. Molokai also boasts the highest sea cliffs in the world.

What Are You Looking For on Your Hawaiian Adventure?

Now that you've gotten acquainted with all the islands of Hawaii, which one should you visit? There's really no wrong choice, so don't worry about regretting your decision - you'll find beautiful scenery, good food, and things to do on any of the islands. Here are some more things to consider as you make your choice.

If you want to visit more than one island... start in Oahu. Oahu is in the center of all the other islands, and Honolulu has the biggest airport in Hawaii. From Oahu, it's easy to get to any of the other islands.

If you're returning to Hawaii for the second time... try visiting the Big Island or Kauai. These islands are a little off the beaten track, but there's still plenty to do and see.

If you're a nature lover... Kauai or the Big Island should be your go-to destinations. Kauai offers plenty of lush greenery and outdoor activities, while the Big Island lets you witness an active volcano - something you can't do very many other places on earth.

If you're into watersports... go to Oahu or the Big Island. Oahu is the perfect destination for beginners' surfing lessons, and its north shore offers huge waves for experienced surfers, while the Big Island offers a wide variety of water activities to choose from.

If you want a taste of old-time Hawaiian culture ... visit Lanai or Molokai. These lesser-known islands are just as beautiful and enchanting as the others, and since they haven't been overrun by tourists, you'll have an easier time meeting locals and learning about the real Hawaii.

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6 of the Best Islands To Visit in Hawaii

H awaii is home to some of the most sought-after tropical waters in the world. The islands of Hawaii have lush rainforests, world-class beaches, and stunning volcanoes that attract millions of visitors every year . Marked by clear turquoise waters and vibrant green mountains, these islands provide picturesque views that are unparalleled.   

Along with the many environmental attractions and attributes of Hawaii, its culture is one of the most incredible features that travelers can experience. The Aloha Spirit, which many travelers get to experience as soon as they land, is a significant aspect of Hawaiian culture derived from Polynesian heritage. The term comes from the greeting “aloha,” which means the coordination of both the mind and heart (or compassion and harmony with mankind). This spirit exists across each of the islands of Hawaii. 

Hawaii’s many different islands offer unique features and gorgeous views. Travelers can have many different types of vacations, depending on their preferred island. While there are a total of eight main Hawaiian islands, only some of them are accessible to visitors. Check out these six Hawaiian islands that are the best to visit; whether a bustling tropical paradise or secluded getaway sounds ideal. 

Popular Tourist Islands 

These islands are tourist hot spots and provide convenient central locations. These locations come with top-notch hotels, delicious food spots, and metropolitan cities close to the water. The islands are a must-see for travelers aiming to get acquainted with the city and locals.  

The Big Island

The Big Island is full of hiking trails and beautiful parks and is known for its size. In fact, it has plenty of space for visitors with varying interests since it is the largest island in the United States (with over four thousand square miles of land). Beaches are one of the most beautiful spots to visit on the Big Island and a place for visitors to lounge, sunbathe, and have fun. A highly favored white sand beach is Mauna Kea, which is a half-mile long and extremely family-friendly. Mauna Kea is also the name of the nearby dormant volcano that is the world’s tallest mountain from (base to the summit), not to be confused with Mt. Everest (which is the tallest above sea level).

There are volcano sightseeing tours, stingray snorkel tours, and ship excursions on the Big Island. These activities, along with hiking, are the most popular. The Pololū Valley Trail is considered one of the most beautiful big island hikes since its overlook provides panoramic views of the nearby black sand beach. 

The best time to visit Hawaii’s big island is between September and November. This is technically due to the price changes for rooms, which change because of lower volumes of visitors. Since Hawaii has generally consistent weather, there is not too much to be worried about in terms of sunshine. Hawaii’s temperatures usually range from the 70s to the 80s. Surfers may want to visit between December and March, although this time period is when prices surge.

The island is beloved for its glorious coasts and unique experiences . Haleakala National Park has Maui’s highest peak, Haleakala, which is the largest dormant volcano in the world. Many visitors opt to book sunrise and sunset tours at the Haleakala National Park, which must be booked well ahead of time since they are so popular. There is even an adults only luxury resort in Maui. This island may be an ideal option for travelers who want to prioritize romance or quiet environments. 

Blue Hawaiian helicopter tours are another popular excursion that travelers can book to explore the island. With a helicopter tour of the island, travelers can get an aerial view of all the mountainsides and the scenic views of Maui. 

Travelers should visit Maui during the shoulder season, that is, during spring or fall. In spring (between April and May) and fall (from September and November), visitors can experience moderate weather while also avoiding the higher prices and crowds that visit during summer and winter. 

Oahu is well known since it is the site of Pearl Harbor and has one of the best shores for surfing. The tourism industry is thriving in Oahu, reflected in the quality of amenities and experiences it offers.  

Some of the most exciting things to do in Oahu include nature and historical landmarks. In fact, some of the most popular sights of Oahu are unique nature sites like China Walls or Electric Beach , which seem to exist miraculously. Of course, there are also historical sites that can be traced back to distinct events. There are Pearl Harbor tours that visit the museum, memorial and visitor’s center to provide more in-depth information regarding the events of Pearl Harbor. Many of these tours depart from Waikiki, which is a popular district of the city of Honolulu , Oahu.

Between April and June and September and December, attractions are less crowded, temperatures are moderate, and prices for travel decrease. The shoulder season is the best time to visit since the summer and surfing season crowds have not hit yet. 

Secluded Islands 

These islands of Hawaii are great options for those who want to reconnect with nature and have a sense of solitude. With more sprawling land than people, these locations will surely be the fix that tropical travelers need. 

Molokai 

Molokai is one of the four islands within Maui County and is one of the least visited of the major Hawaiian islands. The island is only 38 miles long and has a proudly undeveloped coastline. Molokai provides an off-the-beaten path and small-town feel, so large-scale tourism will not be found here. People planning to visit Molokai must be cognizant of the island’s people and resources since environmental and cultural preservation are local concerns. 

Molokai is a great place to have a relaxed and slow-going trip. Since the island is not commercially developed, there is a lot of wilderness. Enjoying the surrounding nature and the Aloha Spirit is the best way to spend time on Molokai. The most popular attractions are the Kalaupapa National Historical Park and Pāpōhaku Beach Park. The remote northern national park is a place of education and preservation and is actually only accessible by a mule ride, hiking tour or a small airplane. Pāpōhaku Beach Park (or three mile beach) has campsites, showers, and picnic facilities. Visitors will find that there is an abundance of space at the site since it is one of the longest white-sand beaches in Hawaii. 

The best time to visit Molokai is during the dry season when there are moderate temperatures and less rain. Between April and June, visitors can expect temperatures between the high 70s and 80s. Generally, since Molokai has no crowds, travelers will not have trouble visiting the island throughout the year. 

Kauai is the northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain and is known as the garden island since it is covered by tropical rainforest. The island also has breathtaking cliffs on the sea and beautiful flora and fauna. This destination has plenty of natural beauty and is a tropical paradise welcoming smaller towns like Waimea.

Travelers who love adrenaline-surging activities will appreciate the expanded possibilities that a less populated island provides. Travelers of Kauai enjoy things like exciting zipline journeys through the jungle, ATV backroads tours or kayaking trips on the Wailua River.

Visiting Kauai is better during non-peak seasons even though there is not a high volume of visitors compared to trendy tourist islands. Between September and December or April to June, there are lower prices on excursions and local accommodations . 

Lanai offers a luxury and remote experience that many romantics enjoy. Lanai has a historic town named Lanai City with small restaurants and shops for travelers to explore. The city is technically more like a small village since the community is so small. This island is a popular day trip destination, allowing tourists to experience authentic island living. 

Although the island is mainly uninhabited, there is plenty for visitors to see. There are unique sites to see on Lanai, including a well-known shipwreck at Shipwreck Beach (or Kaiolohia) that travelers go to see often. The 1940s shipwreck is a testament to how Hawaii’s windy and rocky beaches can be dangerous. Even though the beach has incredible views, visitors are not advised to swim there. 

The best time to visit Lanai is between June and November since those months are the warmest and driest months. Lanai is a secluded island, so travelers do not have to be concerned with crowds and can spend their time relaxing.

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Travel + Leisure Readers’ 5 Favorite Islands in Hawaii of 2024

From the peak of Mauna Kea to the depths of the Molokini Crater, readers found a lot to love in the Hawaiian Islands, as told by our 2024 "World's Best Awards" survey.

Lila Harron Battis is a freelance writer and editor. She was previously a senior editor at Travel + Leisure .

How Voting Works

What readers loved, the full list.

Is it possible to have a less-than-incredible vacation in Hawaii? Our readers certainly don’t think so, with voters finding something glowing to report about nearly every corner of this South Pacific archipelago. Still, each year Travel + Leisure readers consistently choose five standout islands as the best, and though the rankings may have shuffled, this year’s winners are all familiar to regular World’s Best Awards voters. 

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Over 186,000 T+L readers completed the 2024 survey. A total of more than 700,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Islands were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Natural attractions/beaches
• Activities/sights
• Restaurants/food
• People/friendliness

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.

Laura La Monaca/Travel + Leisure

Each island has plenty to recommend it, but natural beauty and the dynamism of Hawaiian culture came up as selling points for all five on this year’s list. “What we like best about all of Hawaii is the people and native culture of these amazing islands,” wrote one voter. Of Lanai (No. 5), one reader called it a “remote island” that “gives off an authentic Hawaiian feel.” “It’s like visiting a different world, with a one-hour boat ride back to real life,” another said. Oahu (No. 4), naturally, got props for the big-city energy, fabulous shopping, and restaurant scene of Honolulu, while Kauai’s (No. 3) more rugged, easygoing feel drew plenty of admirers. And runner-up Maui got a lot of love from concerned travelers in the wake of the 2023 Lahaina fires, which so devastated the island: “An island in need of a lot of hugs,” wrote one voter. “We decided to shift from vacation to volunteering, which made for a rewarding trip.” Said another, “the true meaning of aloha is here.” 

The Winner 

Island of Hawaii

The Big Island finally reclaimed the top spot on this list after a two-year hiatus, and with all this isle has to offer, that’s no surprise. Spend your days scuba diving the reefs of the Kona coast and your nights stargazing at the Mauna Kea observatory. Visit active volcanoes and green-sand beaches. Hike lush rainforest trails or lounge under an umbrella with a steady stream of tiki drinks — the island is your proverbial oyster.

T+L readers can’t get enough of all the action: “Amazing all around, with so many different activities to take part in,” one voter wrote. “This, in my opinion, is the best island in all of Hawaii to vacation, especially for an extended period of time.” Another voter echoed that sentiment, writing “The Big Island is truly unique among the Hawaiian islands and is absolutely worth visiting. The lava fields and open spaces feel like a step back in time. Whatever you are looking to do, you'll find it on the Big Island.” One reader says what all the rest are thinking: “This island has quickly become my favorite.”

The Big Island is truly unique among the Hawaiian islands. The lava fields and open spaces feel like a step back in time. Whatever you are looking to do, you'll find it on the Big Island.

1. Island of Hawaii

Reader Score: 88.04

Reader Score: 87.81

Reader Score: 87.28

Reader Score: 86.36

Reader Score: 85.68

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What’s the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit?

Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Hawaii isn’t known as a cheap destination, but if you’re set on visiting the Aloha state, choosing the right island can make a big difference in the cost of your trip. If you’re looking to save on a trip to Hawaii, head to the island of Oahu.

Of the four main Hawaiian islands for tourism — Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island — Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit by multiple metrics. Oahu has the lowest daily average hotel room rate of the islands and the lowest average daily spending per tourist, according to May 2024 data from the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority.

The cost of hotel rooms on Oahu

Though the average room rate in May 2024 across all of Hawaii was $342, Oahu hotel rooms average about 21% less, coming in at $272. That translates to about $70 per night less than the average.

In a breakdown of average daily room rates in May 2024 by island, Oahu shines.

One reason for Oahu’s lowest average room rate? The island also has the biggest supply. In fact, Oahu had more than double the number of hotel room nights than Maui, the next closest contender.

Even when broken down by hotel class, Oahu still has the most affordable room rates across every level, from economy and midscale to luxury options.

Midscale and economy rooms in Oahu cost $151 per night on average. That’s 30% less than the average price for the same class of room across the entire state. And if you have a penchant for the finer things in life, you’ll save on Oahu, too. In fact, you could save about $223 per night by choosing to vacation at a luxury hotel in Oahu versus Maui .

Oahu, like other islands, offers opportunities to book stays using hotel points and credit card rewards. For example, Oahu is the only island with a Hampton Inn & Suites outpost, a midscale brand where you can redeem Hilton Honors points — and avoid pesky resort fees on award bookings.

One of Oahu’s most famous luxury hotels, the historic Moana Surfrider, a Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach, can be booked using Marriott Bonvoy points. Those can be earned through Marriott credit cards as well as general travel credit cards that accrue points that transfer to Marriott .

On the other side of the island sits another famous property, Turtle Bay Resort. The luxury hotel will soon become a Marriott property when it’s rebranded as The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay in August 2024.

The cost of activities on Oahu

More goes into a vacation budget than just a hotel. There’s food, tours, ground transportation and souvenirs. And once again, travelers arriving by air spend less per day on Oahu than any other island.

Across all trip expenditures (including lodging), Oahu is the best bargain in average daily spending per person in May 2024, according to a separate study by the Hawai’i Tourism Authority.

So why is spending on Oahu lower than on other islands? Not only are there more hotels, but also more restaurants and other types of businesses. According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data, Honolulu County in Oahu had more than 21,000 businesses in 2020, while Maui County in Maui had fewer than 5,000. The increased competition lowers prices for consumers.

There’s also just a lot of free and cheap stuff to do on Oahu . Many of the top activities — including visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, lounging on Waikiki Beach and hiking the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail — are free. It costs just $5 per person to enter Diamond Head State Monument (though it’s an additional $10 for parking).

And because of Honolulu’s robust bus network and walkability, it’s easy to get around Honolulu without a rental car . For places more difficult to get to, it’s possible to rent a car for just a day or rely on rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.

There are plenty of ways to save on a Hawaiian vacation. Start by finding affordable flights to Hawaii’s cheapest island, Oahu. The higher concentration of hotels and businesses means more affordable options.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

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2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel.

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Choosing The Perfect Hawaiian Island For Your Family Vacation With Kids

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Planning a family vacation to the Hawaiian Islands promises an unforgettable experience filled with stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and an array of exciting activities for everyone! From the idyllic beaches of Kauai to the bustling cityscape of Oahu, this awe-inspiring destination promises an adventure like no other. But how do you choose the best island in Hawaii for kids that suits your family’s needs? Let’s dive deeper into what makes Kauai, Oahu, and Maui special, especially when traveling with kids. This guide will navigate the process seamlessly and help you select the perfect Hawaiin oasis for your family. We’ve also included things to do, where to stay, and more tips for visiting Hawaii with kids. Keep reading to find the best Hawaiian islands to visit with kids and plan your next tropical getaway! 

Why Visit Hawaii with Kids & How to Choose the Best Island

Hawaii is a dream destination that caters to everyone, especially families seeking enchanting experiences. With its pristine beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and fascinating culture, each island offers unique delights. Keep reading to discover the best island to visit in Hawaii for families.

While Kauai provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle, Oahu offers a faster pace of life thanks to cities such as Honolulu. Meanwhile, Maui promises a relaxed and adventurous vacation. When deciding which island is best for your family, consider the pace of your ideal vacation, the type of activities your family enjoys, and the atmosphere you want to immerse yourselves in.

We’ll also give you a closer look at the differences between each island in this guide to choosing the perfect Hawaiian island for your family vacation with kids. No matter which island you pick, the spirit of aloha and the wonders of Hawaii will surely captivate the hearts of your entire family! 

RELATED : 20 Best Hotels In Hawaii For A Family Vacation

Best Hawaiian Islands for Your Family Vacation with Kids

Ready to choose one of the best islands in Hawaii for kids? Whether you’re seeking thrilling water sports like snorkeling or surfing lessons amidst vibrant sea life or yearning for educational experiences that delve deep into the captivating Polynesian history, there’s a Hawaiian island guaranteed to ignite your little ones’ curiosity. If you’re wondering which Hawaiian island to visit, keep reading to find out more about the best Hawaiian islands for kids! 

Can’t decide what to pack? Consult our Ultimate Beach Packing List: Essentials All Ages !

The Serene Paradise

Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai lives up to its name by offering a peaceful and picturesque environment for families seeking a slower-paced vacation! You’ll be immediately amazed as you step onto its calm shores, with unspoiled beaches ideal for building sandcastles and spending some quality time as a family. While it has beautiful beaches, it’s not as busy as Oahu and features fewer activities overall.

Plus, the island’s laid-back atmosphere allows for easy exploration and immersion into the local culture. Keep reading to learn fun things to do in Kauai, one of the best islands in Hawaii for kids.

Book a tour or activity in Kauai through Tripadvisor here!

Fun Things to Do in Kauai with Kids

As one of the best islands to visit in Hawaii for families, there are countless beaches across the island, including Pali Ke Kua Beach on the north shore, also known as Hideaways . It’s perfect for young children since it’s quiet with calm waters. Shipwreck Beach, near the Grand Hyatt Resort on the south shore, also has beautiful views and a hike. Po’ipu Beach Park , also on the south shore, has a nearby playground.

Another highlight of Kauai is its outdoor adventures, from lush rainforests to cascading waterfalls. Some kid-friendly hikes across the island include the Ho’opi Falls Hike and the Nounou Mountain Sleeping Giant Trail, which will fascinate children with its legend. Families can also visit The Kilauea Lighthouse , located on Kilauea Point within the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Of course, there’s Waimea Canyon , also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Located within Waimea Canyon State Park, it has various lookout points with scenic views. 

Looking for more things to do in Kauai, one of the best Hawaiian islands to visit with kids? Try some traditional shaved ice, take a snorkeling tour , or walk across the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge .

READ NEXT : Fantastic Things to Do in Kauai with Young Kids

Where to Stay on Kauai with Kids

If you need somewhere to stay in Kauai with kids, one great option is Hanalei Bay Resort , featuring a sandy beach with a shallow walk-in pool, caves and waterfalls, and a swim-up bar. However, the water temperature could have been warmer. Plus, the hotel offers fun activities for kids, like lei-making and hula lessons.

Then, Koloa Landing Resort also has various pools featuring lagoons, water slides, and a waterfall grotto. And, the spacious rooms include a kitchenette and a washer/dryer! Families also love the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa , which features a pool and a spa for adults. Regardless of which hotel you choose, you’re sure to find Kauai one of the best islands in Hawaii for kids.

The All-In-One Experience

Oahu is one of Hawaii’s most diverse and popular islands, and it’s easy to see why! It’s a fantastic choice for families seeking a well-rounded vacation, combining a cosmopolitan atmosphere and serene natural beauty. Plus, it effortlessly strikes a balance between urban and outdoor adventures that are sure to captivate kids and adults alike! First-time visitors to Hawaii often choose Oahu as their home base because it offers something for all ages, from fine dining to museums, shopping, and historical sites. 

Fun Things to Do in Oahu with Kids

Honolulu , the capital city of Oahu, is a good choice for families with kids who don’t mind some crowds and the abundance of nightlife options. It’s pretty touristy at times, and has a tendency to feel more like a bustling city rather than a traditional Hawaiian destination. Still, there’s plenty to see and do, from visiting Diamond Head Crater and Waikiki Beach to exploring Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial .

Then, immerse yourself in Waikiki’s lively ambiance as you stroll along its famous shoreline lined with luxury resorts offering kid-friendly amenities – from swimming pools complete with water slides to culinary experiences catering to even the pickiest eaters. Plus, Oahu boasts some of the best beaches in Hawaii, including Waikiki Beach, Lanikai Beach, and Waimea Bay. Families can also enjoy snorkeling at Hanauma Bay , a protected marine life conservation area teeming with colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs. 

History enthusiasts will also love the Polynesian Cultural Center , which offers an educational and entertaining experience for all ages. And, kids can see the tranquil scenery of the North Shore on a Dole Plantation Pineapple Express Train Tour ! Then, for an adventure, don’t forget to visit Kualoa Ranch , which offers multiple excursions, from horseback riding to jungle tours. And, the island is home to some of Hawaii’s best hiking trails, like the Manoa Falls Trail or the Lanikai Pillbox Hike . With so much to do, no wondering this is one of the best islands in Hawaii for kids.

READ NEXT : 27 Awesome Things To Do In Oahu When You Visit With Kids

Where to Stay on Oahu with Kids

Looking for somewhere to stay in Oahu with kids? As one of the best islands to visit in Hawaii for families, there are plenty of options! Families who want the Disney experience will love the one-, two-, and three-bedroom accommodations at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa . This hotel also offers multiple on-site pools and tons of activities for kids.

There’s also The Kahala Hotel & Resort , which gives kids access to a white sand beach and the chance to see dolphins! Then, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort has a beautiful beachfront property, plus the chance to choose from multiple accommodations on-site. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel provides comfortable accommodations just across the street from the family-friendly Kuhio Beach. Other great hotels in Oahu for families include Turtle Bay Resort and The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach .

The Relaxed Island Adventure

Maui offers the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal destination for families with kids of all ages! Bursting with vibrant colors, warm sunshine, and breathtaking landscapes, Maui offers an experience that truly encapsulates the spirit of paradise. It’s definitely more laidback than Oahu, with its charming island feel and lack of traffic, and features fewer things to do. However, one of the main draws here is its many accessible and family-friendly beaches, which is ideal if you want to spend your vacation relaxing. Still, you need a car to explore the island and get around one of the best islands in Hawaii for kids.

Use Getyourguide to book tours and things to do in Maui!

Fun Things to Do in Maui with Kids

Some popular beach choices in Maui include Sugar Beach and Ka’anapali Beach . Each one offers calm waters, soft sand, and opportunities for water sports, making them great for younger kids. Teens may enjoy other beaches, such as Kapalua Bay, Launiupoko Beach Park, and Napili Bay. As one of the best islands in Hawaii for kids, there is more to do off the beach, too!

Maui also offers adrenaline-pumping experiences such as helicopter tours over the falls, biking down volcanos , or parasailing. There are also many scenic hikes that the whole family can enjoy. Consider beautiful trails like Pipiwai Trail (located above the Oheo Gulch), Twin Falls Hike , or Wai’anapanapa Coastal Trail . For more outdoor adventures, add Haleakalā National Park to your itinerary and stay for the sunset views. Families can also ride an Atlantis Submarine , go whale watching, and experience a classic Hawaiian Luau Dinner .

To learn more about the local cultures and history of Maui, you can visit the Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii . Another one of the best things to do in Maui, Hawaii, with kids is to drive the Road to Hana , a winding coastal route dotted with waterfalls, bamboo forests, and panoramic ocean views. Or, take a trip to the neighboring island of Lanai for pristine beaches and natural wonders. 

Important Notice: While Maui offers an array of attractions, please stay updated on the status of the Lahaina area , as fire-related closures might occur. Other parts of Maui remain unaffected and accessible. Prior to your trip, check for the latest information on closures and safety measures. Stay connected with local authorities for a secure and enjoyable visit. Your safety is paramount.

Plan your next vacation with this list of 15 Best Family Adventures on Maui ! 

Where to Stay on Maui with Kids

Families love the kid-friendly hotels in Maui! In Ka’anapali Beach, there’s the Hyatt Residence Club Maui, Ka’anapali Beach , and The Westin Maui Resort & Spa . These ocean-front hotels in Maui make it easy to jump into the water and swim with a turtle. Plus, you’ll have access to other things to do in Maui with kids!

Wailea, on South Maui, is home to Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort , the Fairmont Kea Lani Maui , and Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea . Then, Kihei, between Ka’anapali and Wailea , is where most rental condos are located for those who would rather have space over amenities. With so many hotel options for families, it’s no wonder that this is one of the best islands in Hawaii for kids. Finally, you can find more great hotels in Maui with kids by reading about the Best Family Hotels in Maui for an Enchanting Vacation .

Families can also experience the Road to Hana, Maui with Kids – Exciting Half-Day Itinerary !

Happy Travels!

If you’re wondering which Hawaiian island to visit for families, we hope you found this Guide to Choosing the Perfect Hawaiian Island for Your Family Vacation with Kids helpful in deciding where to go! There are so many great qualities in each of the best islands in Hawaii for kids. Whether you’re looking for the bustling capital city of Honolulu on Oahu, teeming with fascinating museums and iconic landmarks, or the dramatic cliffs and magnificent waterfalls of Kauai, perfect for intrepid explorers at heart, each island presents unmatched beauty and excitement. Regardless of your chosen island, we know you’ll find the perfect spot for your family. Enjoy your family vacation in Hawaii!

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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