The islands in Hawaii are dream-worthy. The range of every isle is fascinating, from pristine seashores to snow-capped mountains and even lively volcanoes. Hawaii has six main islands – Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, the Big Island, and Oahu. This could make it actually tough to select only one.
Each Hawaiian island has a definite character and completely different causes to go to. For occasion, Big Island is house to Volcanoes National Park, so in order for you to hike an lively volcano, select this island. Others are higher identified for luxurious seaside resorts (Maui has notably luxurious resorts). When choosing the right island to go to in Hawaii, you want to take into account what sort of journey you need.
Hawaiian Islands to Visit in 2023
This information will provide help to select the very best island to go to in Hawaii. All the islands in Hawaii are stunning, however in a world that often leaves us quick on time and price range, chances are high you want to slim issues down. Let’s discover your match made in heaven.
Regenerative Tourism
One factor that has modified not too long ago is the implementation of Regerative Tourism which went into impact in May of 2022. The concept behind this initiative is two-fold; to give again to the communities on the Hawaiian islands and to handle visitors and over-tourism challenges dealing with the state. What this implies for international guests is that you’ll now have to make reservations in advance when it comes to a number of the hottest places.
For instance, in order for you to go to The Diamond Head Monument for the wonderful views over Waikiki Beach you’ll have to make a reservation for a 2-hour time slot. Or in order for you to watch the dawn at Haleakala National Park, additionally, you will want a reservation which you can also make up to 60 days in advance at recreation.gov. The price for the reservation is $1 and is in addition to the per-vehicle charge of $30. But, aside from the dawn viewing interval from 3-7 AM, reservations should not required. S
This simply makes planning your journey to the Hawaiian islands a little bit extra tedious but it surely additionally helps protect these stunning places for future generations. So, ensure you examine all the essential sights to see when you want reservations so that you don’t miss out. ee the Division of State Parks for openings and closures.
1. Big Island
The Big Island (or Hawaii Island) is the most important in the archipelago of Hawaiian islands. Many take into account it the very best Hawaii Island to go to for first-timers, and it’s house to a number of gorgeous pure spots. Despite being the youngest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, Big Island is a hub of motion in Hawaii. And at twice the dimensions of all the opposite islands in Hawaii mixed, it’s simple to see the way it acquired its nickname.
Big Island is thought for its volcanoes and exquisite seashores. The island is house to Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park and two lively volcanoes. If you’re fortunate, there’s even the prospect to spot working lava. Furthermore, there are quite a few inexperienced and black sand seashores to discover. Big Island has a beneficiant sprinkle of all the pieces that makes Hawaii well-known, conveniently slotted right into a single island. If you need someplace with a ‘have it all’ vibe, this Island ticks many packing containers. Plus, it’s the most accessible island to get to, with loads of direct flights from everywhere in the world.
Things to do on The Big Island
At a fast look:
There are so many wonderful issues to do on the Big Island. As we mentioned, this Hawaiian Island has a set of all the very best issues to do throughout the archipelago, making it an ideal sightseeing and exercise vacation. The first must-do on the Island is to go to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You can embark on wonderful hikes in the park, see working lava (hold your fingers crossed), and attend instructional occasion applications. It is price mentioning that the climbing trails in this nationwide park are a number of the most stunning in Hawaii, and a few acquired a point out in our finest hikes in Hawaii information.
Next up, you must go to the Kula Kai Caverns. The caverns are a community of previous lava caves the place previous eruptions have carved tunnels and passages by way of the rock. The caverns are an perception into the island’s geological historical past and cultural historical past – as indigenous folks used to use the caverns for shelter and early survival. For an analogous expertise on the island’s east facet, head to Kaumana Caves or Kilauea Caverns of Fire.
Finally, Mauna Kea is a superb attraction on Big Island. Mauna Kea is the world’s largest observatory and has 13 completely different telescopes. There are many stunning locations on the bottom, however don’t miss out on trying to the skies. Stargazing is a stupendous factor to do when visiting Big Island.
Intrigued by the Big Island? Our article has tons extra exercise concepts on the finest issues to do on Hawaii Island. Take a search for some extra inspiration. Otherwise, let’s head straight onto your subsequent huge determination – the place to keep on Big Island.
Where to keep on Big Island
It goes with out saying that you’re spoiled for alternative when selecting lodging on this island. The Big Island is full of completely different lodging selections – from hostels to motels and luxurious resorts. These are our prime recommendations.
Speaking of volcanoes, Volcano Inn is an interesting spot to spend your time on Big Island. The four-star property provides cozy but luxurious quarters on the outskirts of the Volcanoes National Park. The tiny property is fully self-contained, guaranteeing you privateness and peacefulness. With all its wood options, it blends prettily into its rainforest environment and even provides a sizzling tub outdoors.
Pele’s Hana ‘Ana Hostel is relatively new on the scene, but it has been blessed with glowing reviews. The interior is bright and comfortable, and prices are incredibly reasonable. The hostel is ideal for anyone wanting a budget-friendly place to stay on Big Island. The property is right next door to a cafe, so you can quickly treat yourself to a few meals. It is also ideally located on the east side of the island, just a twenty-minute drive from the volcanoes and the most beautiful hikes.
2. Maui
As the second largest island in Hawaii, Maui is a popular choice for its lively tourist scene and exciting attractions. The island is nicknamed ‘The Valley Isle’. It has been voted the ‘best island in Hawaii’ by the posh journey journal Conde Nast Traveler for over 20 years. Maui is broadly hailed as a incredible place to go to – a dependable indicator that you simply’ll have a dreamy expertise visiting Hawaii when you select Maui.
Maui has some spectacular sights on land and glorious climbing trails. It is house to Hawaii’s tallest mountain, Haleakala, the Hana Highway, and a number of serene waterfall hikes. However, its actual magnificence is in its stunning seashores, wildlife-filled oceans, and idyllic coastal views. Maui has a number of the finest seashores in Hawaii and is a whale-watching hotspot. Maui is the place to be in case you are in whale-watching excursions. The island’s surrounding waters include the world’s densest humpback whale inhabitants. Each 12 months sees over 10,000 whales migrate to the island’s waters. You’ll additionally see false killer and pilot whales in case you are fortunate.
Things to do on The Valley Isle
At a fast look:
It goes with out saying that one of many prime issues to do in Maui is to go whale watching. You ought to go to between November and May to catch a glimpse of whales. And in this era, January to March is the optimum window. Most whale-watching excursions embark from West Maui, dotted alongside the west coast in areas like Kaanapali. Make certain to convey a digital camera, as recognizing a humpback whale is actually spectacular and a second you’ll need to cherish eternally.
Next up is climbing in Haleakala National Park. Haleakala National Park is positioned in South Maui and is famed for Haleakala. This 10,023-foot dormant volcano marks the best level in Hawaii. From this volcano summit, probably the most formidable hikers can get pleasure from dawn views. It is a kind of issues you’ll not neglect and this tour is an effective way to do it. It even contains breakfast.
Driving the Road to Hana Highway is one other wonderful suggestion from our record of issues to do on Maui. The freeway takes round 10 to 12 hours to drive. We recommend renting a automobile with a number of drivers on the insurance coverage so that you could rotate drivers as you go. Alternatively, select to drive a technique and spend the night time in Hana earlier than returning the subsequent day. The Hana Maui Resort is an effective choice Check charges and availability.
The Road to Hana is probably the most well-known drive in Hawaii and among the finest street journeys in the world. The route cuts alongside Maui’s north coast, hugging a coastal freeway that twists and turns by way of jungles, bamboo forests, and previous waterfalls. All the whereas treating you to beautiful ocean views. Many stop-off factors alongside the way in which embrace botanical gardens known as the Garden of Eden Arboretum, Waikani Falls, Hana Lave Tube, and a zipline. We have written an entire information on driving the Road to Hana Highway, so be happy to get extra inspiration from there.
Where to keep on Maui
Maui is thought for its luxurious lodging and basic resort, so these with an costly style have come to the precise place. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea doesn’t disappoint and boasts three out of doors swimming swimming pools, three eating places, tennis courts, and a spa and wellness middle. The rooms are adorned with elegant style and loads of pure options like wooden paneling and stone worktops. For a deluxe expertise of staying in Maui, we predict the Four Seasons is your finest wager.
There are many choices for these wanting mid-range to price range lodging. The island has two essential hostels –Howzit Hostels and Tiki Beach Hostel. Howzit Hostels is barely cheaper however positioned out of the town middle, whereas Tiki Beach Hostel is costlier however positioned in the middle of Lahaina.
Check out our full information on Where to Stay in Maui: The Best Areas and Hotels
3. Kauai
While not as giant as the opposite Hawaiian islands, Kauai makes up in pure magnificence what it lacks in dimension. Kauai is just like the supermodel of the islands in Hawaii, and this island has been featured in numerous Hollywood films – primarily thanks to its beautiful Na Pali Coast. Apart from wonderful seashores completely suited to stress-free seaside days, Kauai has attribute dramatic cliffs and coastal surroundings. The crinkled cliffs of north shore Kauai are world-famous and iconic in their cloaked layer of inexperienced vegetation.
Kauai is nicknamed ‘the Garden Isle’, and judging by the beautiful pure views, it’s clear to see why. Kauai has jaw-dropping pure surroundings for individuals who need an actual wow issue when visiting Hawaii. It fits guests wishing to spend time open air and discover probably the most stunning climbing trails.
Things to do in Kauai
At a fast look:
You can’t go to Kauai and never see the Na Pali Coast. There are a number of viewpoints alongside this shoreline; you possibly can even take a helicopter tour in order for you an thrilling expertise and aerial view. However, the Kalalau Trail is an ideal means to see the Na Pali Coast for out of doors lovers who like staying lively. The path is roughly 11 miles lengthy and is rated as a difficult hike, finest suited to skilled hikers. Because of the terrain, permitting an entire day to full the Kalalau Trail is really useful. You gained’t thoughts, belief us. The views are so good you might cease for breaks each 30 seconds.
The Kalalau Trail is considered one of our prime suggestions in our information to the 16 stunning and finest hikes in Kauai– which you’ll be able to try for extra inspiration.
Waimea Canyon State Park is the subsequent must-do attraction on Kauai. The park is house to the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific,’ and the phrase Waimea means ‘reddish water’. The colossal canyon is made up of purple rock and patches of lush rainforests, stretching over ten miles and dropping 3,000 ft in depth. There is a community of trails round Waimea Canyon, so you possibly can take your choose from quite a few hikes and expertise it on foot. If you like to drive, there are additionally many drive-up lookouts to benefit from the surroundings.
Finally, crossing Hanapepe Swinging Bridge ought to be in your itinerary when visiting Kauai. The bridge was constructed again in the early 1900s as a useful answer to enable residents to simply cross the river. However, the rickety suspension bridge has grow to be an iconic landmark on Kauai. You can immerse your self in nostalgia by crossing the slim bridge and snapping photos as you go.
Where to keep on Kauai
Kauai is finest suited to these on a mid-range to luxurious price range. There are a few hostels, just like the Kauai Beach House Hostel, however primarily three to four-star motels with charges of round $200 per night time. We recommend reserving in advance for lodging on Kauai, as it could possibly rapidly promote out and depart you caught in case you are reliant on snagging bargains.
For these wanting luxurious lodging, although, there’s no rush. Kauai has loads of five-star properties to select from, together with Koloa Landing Resort at Po’ipu, by the Autograph Collection. Koloa Landing Resort at Po’ipu is located on Kauai’s south shore and options two large swimming swimming pools with beautiful views. The resort is laid out superbly with torch-lit stone walkways and landscaped gardens with ponds. And the inside is simply as beautiful, with floor-to-ceiling home windows in most rooms. Kauai is unquestionably a stupendous nook of the world, o it is smart to guide lodging that maximizes the nice views and matches in with the pure magnificence.
4. Oahu
Oahu is a metropolis; there are not any two methods about it. The island’s capital metropolis is Honolulu (on the South Shore), which is suitably nicknamed ‘the Gathering Place’. Oahu is probably the most populated island in the Hawaiian archipelago, with a residential, extra citified environment. Oahu is an action-packed and built-up alternative for these in politics, historical past, and modern-day Hawaii. It can also be house to the Daniel Okay. Inouye International Airport the primary level of contact for a lot of guests to Hawaii.
Despite being Hawaii’s’ boss’, Oahu additionally has time for downtime. There are loads of sandy seashores and exquisite surroundings dotted across the island. And whereas the south shore is basically citified, Oahu’s north shore is far more tranquil – consisting of some coastal cities and Turtle Bay. Oahu is house to a lot of historic and political sights. Plus, in order for you to escape for a number of days of tranquility, the north coast supplies a refuge from the metropolis of Honolulu.
Things to do on Oahu
At a fast look:
Pay your respects on the Pearl Harbor National Memorial Relax on Waikiki Beach Learn about Hawaii’s monarchy at Iolani Palace
As we mentioned, Oahu is full of political and historic issues to do. One of the island’s main sights is visiting the Pearl Harbor memorial. The website commemorates the Pearl Harbor assault of 1941 when Japanese planes rained bullets and bombs down on the ships docked under. The outcome was catastrophic. Over 2,403 U.S. personnel died throughout the strike on Pearl Harbor, and round 21 U.S. warships have been sunk or broken. Now at Oahu, you possibly can go to a museum and be taught extra concerning the tragedy. It is a must-visit in Oahu, and it speaks to Hawaii’s involvement in WWII. Definitely plan to go to Pearl Harboor if you go to Oahu.
As a bit extra of a light-hearted attraction, Waikiki Beach is a particular on your itinerary when visiting Hawaii. The iconic seaside is backed by rows of palm timber and glitzy high-rise motels and resorts. It is a revered surf spot in Hawaii, and you’ll spot the large statue of Duke Paoa Kahanamoku alongside the beachfront. It is a superb spot to sit and watch the surfers or get entangled your self by renting a board or reserving a surf lesson. If you’re extra of a sophisticated surfer then we propose the North Shore.
Speaking of political historical past in Hawaii, Iolani Palace is a vital vacationer attraction. The Nineteenth-century palace was house to Hawaii’s final monarch. In 1893, U.S. troops overthrew Her Majesty Queen Lili’uokalani and introduced an finish to Hawaii’s royal line. You can be taught extra concerning the nation’s rightful monarchy at her previous palace, which has been reworked right into a museum for instructional functions.
Would you want some bonus suggestions? We have a whole article on Oahu’s finest issues to do right here. Jot some down, and also you’ll have a full itinerary in no time.
Where to keep on Oahu
Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani is a incredible resort in case you are chasing luxurious. The four-star property is partnered with the Honolulu Museum of Art and shows stunning paintings all through the property. The resort additional options an infinity lap pool, sizzling tub, pool bar, and even a backyard with a reflexology path. Fitness lovers will love the on-site fitness center and weekly lessons. At the identical time, spa lovers can rejuvenate at SpaHalekulani, simply throughout the road.
Polynesian Hostel Beach Club is an effective choice for extra budget-conscious visitors. This hostel provides dormitory rooms for aggressive costs and is good for solo vacationers wanting to make new pals. Guests can get pleasure from a standard room, barbecue, and laundry services. While a little bit dated in sections, the hostel is a superb ‘what you see is what you get’ place to keep on Big Island. The location is incredible, too – you’re simply minutes from Kuhio Beach.
5. Lanai
Lanai is likely one of the smallest Hawaiian islands. Nicknamed the ‘Pineapple Island’ after its plantation historical past, Lanai as soon as produced 75% of the world’s pineapples. The island is 98% privately owned by Larry Ellison – making it largely a non-public space of Hawaii. Visitors can nonetheless plan journeys to Lanai, although. The island has a handful of luxurious resorts with world-class services, together with a championship-level golf course. It is good for these wanting a quiet however luxurious resort environment.
Apart from being an virtually fully privately owned resort island, Lanai has a stupendous number of wildlife. You can spot spinner dolphins and turtles alongside its shores. Of course, that is helped by the island’s restricted inhabitants and capped variety of guests. Lanai is only a quick journey from Maui (the islands are 9 miles aside), so it’s simply accessible. Additionally, you possibly can guide excursions together with your resort, so there are all the time actions and issues to do and see.
Things to do on Lanai
At a fast look:
Lanai is perhaps virtually privately owned, however that doesn’t imply there aren’t a great deal of issues to do on the island for vacationers. In reality, resorts exit of their means to present particular excursions and experiences – so that you gained’t miss out. You’ll in all probability have to cease in Maui or Oahu on the way in which to Lanai anyway, so consider staying on Lanai as a bonus journey.
The most spectacular panorama on Lanai is the Garden of the Gods. This tiny desert space is like one thing out of Monument National Park or Death Valley; you’ll discover purple rocks and sand in every single place. The Garden of the Gods is predicated close to Lanai’s north shore and is finest explored by 4WD. Just try in case your resort excursions embrace this journey.
For a extra basic Hawaiian expertise, Hulopoe Beach provides that tropical paradise vibe. The calm seaside has a quiet environment and serene waters which are excellent for snorkeling or swimming. As a protected marine reserve, it’s also a hotspot for recognizing wildlife – together with inexperienced turtles in case you are fortunate. Hulopoe Beach is the place to go and chill out on Lanai.
Finally, for the final word splurge, guide a helicopter tour. You can sightsee the landscapes of Lanai and its neighboring islands, having fun with an unequalled view from the skies. You can examine out a variety of various excursions right here. While for extra inspiration about issues to do in Lanai, try this information.
Where to keep on Lanai
So, the place must you keep in Lanai? Your essential choice is the Four Seasons Resort Lanai. This is for guests that don’t draw back from splurging on luxurious lodging, and it’s a top-tier, five-star lodging alternative.
Four Seasons not often helps you to down when it comes to high-quality resorts, and the Lanai chain isn’t any completely different. The property has two out of doors swimming pools with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean (hold your eyes out for whales) and personal tropical gardens.
The resort additionally contains a championship golf course, three tennis courts, and a non-public observatory for stargazing. The thoughtfulness even begins earlier than arrival, as Four Seasons has a non-public lounge for its visitors at Honolulu Airport. You can get pleasure from meals, drinks, wifi, and concierge providers whilst you wait on your connecting flight.
Would you like a extra mid-range keep? Tucked away in the middle of Lanai is Hotel Lanai – a simplistic however fairly, fairly priced lodging alternative. The resort has plantation-style rooms and a continental breakfast to get pleasure from every morning. It is a humble retreat with a peaceable environment, not like the large resorts close by.
6. Molokai
Molokai is likely one of the essential Hawaiian islands in order for you to make investments in volunteering and serving to in conservation. If you’re looking to get entangled with Hawaii’s sustainability applications, not simply go to for a vacation, Molokai is an ideal alternative. The island is especially uninhabited and has a number of the most distant, remoted areas of nature in Hawaii. It takes its conservation extraordinarily critically and has designated ‘tourist-friendly’ areas to restrict the injury of over-tourism. We skilled how fragile the Hawaiian ecosystems are, and it’s massively impactful studying extra concerning the islands’ battle for conservation. Environmental consciousness is important to sustainable tourism in Hawaii, and Molokai is a superb place to embrace that.
Molokai has an fascinating, if upsetting, historical past. The island was as soon as a spot of isolation for these affected by leprosy illness. And in 1966, a proper leprosarium was established for affected residents in Hawaii. Nowadays, you possibly can be taught extra about Hawaiian historical past, tradition, and sustainability initiatives on Molokai. It’s excellent for these wanting a extra moral expertise of the Hawaiian island chain.
Things to do on Molokai
At a fast look:
Go climbing in the Molokai Forest Reserve Learn on the Molokai Museum and Cultural Center Go for a seaside stroll at Papohaku Beach Park
Molokai is full of issues to do. While it’s primarily a countryside island, it has some cultural and pure sights. Molokai Museum and Cultural Center is a incredible place to get extra cultural perception into the island. The small museum provides a historical past of Hansen’s illness and the tragedy of leprosy on Molokai. It moreover particulars the historical past of the sugar business on the island, with preserved equipment and industrial areas for you to discover. The Molokai Museum is budget-friendly, too, costing simply $5 per grownup and $1 per scholar.
Of course, you don’t go to Molokai when you don’t need to immerse your self in nature. Molokai Forest Reserve is the big jungle expanse on the island’s east facet. Visitors can go climbing, take a guided tour, and admire protected wildlife. Molokai Forest Reserve is a extremely particular piece of protected land. It holds a lot of Hawaii’s cherished species of crops and animals.
Papohaku Beach Park is positioned far-off on the alternative facet of Molokai. While it’s nonetheless remoted and peaceable, this park has a number of extra services. You’ll discover picnic tables, campsites, and a consolation station. The space is simply over 10 acres in dimension. While it’s often too windy for swimming, it’s excellent for lengthy seaside walks. If you’re fortunate, you can even spot whales from the shore.
Where to keep on Molokai
Molokai is a little bit restricted in lodging choices. This is primarily as a result of the island isn’t designed to cater to tourism. In reality, it takes a extra sustainable stance in the direction of avoiding over-tourism. Therefore, the island provides a number of mid-range motels, not giant five-star resorts.
Hotel Molokai is a standard lodging alternative well-suited to a mid-range price range. The resort sits on Kamiloloa Beach with oceanfront rooms – be ready to be blown away by the views. While in order for you to spend time outdoors, the property has a big out of doors swimming pool. Or alternatively, you possibly can hire scuba diving and snorkeling gear and head to the seaside.
Another choice in Molokai is Castle Molokai Shores. Castle Molokai Shores provides a number of oceanfront residences. It is good for these wanting self-catered lodging. Each condominium has a totally outfitted kitchen with all of the utensils you want. Outside are extra eating services, barbecues, and scenic picnic tables. Each condominium comes with a balcony or patio with ocean views as properly.
Best Hawaiian Island: FAQs
Now that you simply’ve discovered your finest island to go to in Hawaii let’s take a look at some widespread FAQs. This part will present solutions to your most burning questions.
What is taken into account the very best Hawaiian island to go to?
Kauai is taken into account the very best Hawaiian Island to go to often. The island has tons of pure magnificence and even has the nickname the ‘garden isle’.
Where ought to I am going for the primary time in Hawaii?
You ought to go to Big Island for the primary time in Hawaii. The island has probably the most number of issues to do and see, just like the Volcanoes National Park. Alternatively, go to Oahu, which is house to Hawaii’s capital metropolis and Kona International Airport.
Which Hawaiian island is probably the most stunning?
Kauai is probably the most stunning Hawaiian Island. It is filled with dramatic inexperienced cliffs, valleys, and beautiful climbing trails.
Which is healthier, Oahu or Maui?
Oahu is finest in order for you a busier environment, whereas Maui is finest in order for you a quiet, peaceable expertise.
To Conclude
We hope that you simply’ve discovered the very best island to go to in Hawaii. You may go to Pearl Harbor, swim with Hawaiian inexperienced sea turtles, or sunbathe on the well-known Waikiki Beach – Hawaii is your oyster. The Hawaiian islands make a incredible vacation vacation spot.
Even although you’ve chosen the very best island to go to in Hawaii, it doesn’t imply you possibly can’t see different Hawaiian islands. Check out day journeys out of your island of alternative when you really feel additional adventurous. For extra inspiration about the place to keep in your island of alternative, you can even check out our detailed information to the very best lodging in Hawaii.