The islands in Hawaii are dream-worthy. The variety of every isle is fascinating, from pristine seashores to snow-capped mountains and even energetic volcanoes. Hawaii has six main islands – Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, the Big Island, and Oahu. This could make it actually troublesome to decide on only one.
Each Hawaiian island has a definite character and completely different causes to go to. For occasion, Big Island is dwelling to Volcanoes National Park, so if you wish to hike an energetic volcano, select this island. Others are higher recognized for luxurious seaside resorts (Maui has significantly luxurious resorts). When selecting the right island to go to in Hawaii, you have to contemplate what sort of journey you need.
Hawaiian Islands to Visit in 2023
This information will assist you to select the very best island to go to in Hawaii. All the islands in Hawaii are stunning, however in a world that normally leaves us quick on time and funds, likelihood is you have to slender issues down. Let’s discover your match made in heaven.
Regenerative Tourism
One factor that has modified just lately is the implementation of Regerative Tourism which went into impact in May of 2022. The thought behind this initiative is two-fold; to offer again to the communities on the Hawaiian islands and to handle visitors and over-tourism challenges going through the state. What this implies for overseas guests is that you’ll now must make reservations prematurely in terms of a few of the hottest areas.
For instance, if you wish to go to The Diamond Head Monument for the superb views over Waikiki Beach you’ll have to make a reservation for a 2-hour time slot. Or if you wish to watch the dawn at Haleakala National Park, additionally, you will want a reservation which you may make as much as 60 days prematurely at recreation.gov. The value for the reservation is $1 and is along with the per-vehicle price of $30. But, apart from the dawn viewing interval from 3-7 AM, reservations usually are not required. S
This simply makes planning your journey to the Hawaiian islands just a little extra tedious nevertheless it additionally helps protect these stunning areas for future generations. So, be sure you verify all the principal sights to see for those who 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 within the archipelago of Hawaiian islands. Many contemplate it the very best Hawaii Island to go to for first-timers, and it’s dwelling to a number of gorgeous pure spots. Despite being the youngest island within 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 understood for its volcanoes and delightful seashores. The island is dwelling to Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park and two energetic volcanoes. If you’re fortunate, there’s even the prospect to identify operating lava. Furthermore, there are quite a few inexperienced and black sand seashores to discover. Big Island has a beneficiant sprinkle of the whole lot 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 containers. Plus, it’s the most accessible island to get to, with loads of direct flights from all around the world.
Things to do on The Big Island
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There are so many superb issues to do on the Big Island. As we stated, this Hawaiian Island has a group of all the very best issues to do throughout the archipelago, making it an excellent sightseeing and exercise vacation. The first must-do on the Island is to go to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You can embark on superb hikes within the park, see operating lava (preserve your fingers crossed), and attend instructional occasion packages. It is value mentioning that the mountain climbing trails on this nationwide park are a few of the most stunning in Hawaii, and a few acquired a point out in our greatest hikes in Hawaii information.
Next up, it’s best to 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 the rock. The caverns are an perception into the island’s geological historical past and cultural historical past – as indigenous folks used to make use of the caverns for shelter and early survival. For an identical expertise on the island’s east facet, head to Kaumana Caves or Kilauea Caverns of Fire.
Finally, Mauna Kea is a wonderful 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 seeking to the skies. Stargazing is a phenomenal factor to do when visiting Big Island.
Intrigued by the Big Island? Our article has tons extra exercise concepts on the greatest 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 remain on Big Island.
Where to remain on Big Island
It goes with out saying that you’re spoiled for alternative when choosing lodging on this island. The Big Island is filled with completely different lodging selections – from hostels to inns and luxurious resorts. These are our high solutions.
Speaking of volcanoes, Volcano Inn is a captivating spot to spend your time on Big Island. The four-star property gives cozy but luxurious quarters on the outskirts of the Volcanoes National Park. The tiny property is totally self-contained, guaranteeing you privateness and peacefulness. With all its picket options, it blends prettily into its rainforest environment and even gives a scorching 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 luxurious journey journal Conde Nast Traveler for over 20 years. Maui is extensively hailed as a unbelievable place to go to – a dependable indicator that you just’ll have a dreamy expertise visiting Hawaii for those who select Maui.
Maui has some spectacular sights on land and glorious mountain climbing trails. It is dwelling to Hawaii’s tallest mountain, Haleakala, the Hana Highway, and a choice of serene waterfall hikes. However, its actual magnificence is in its stunning seashores, wildlife-filled oceans, and idyllic coastal views. Maui has a few of the greatest seashores in Hawaii and is a whale-watching hotspot. Maui is the place to be in case you are eager about whale-watching excursions. The island’s surrounding waters comprise 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
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It goes with out saying that one of many high 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 on this interval, 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 positive to carry a digital camera, as recognizing a humpback whale is actually spectacular and a second you’ll wish to cherish without end.
Next up is mountain 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 bold hikers can take pleasure in dawn views. It is a kind of issues you’ll not overlook and this tour is a good way to do it. It even contains breakfast.
Driving the Road to Hana Highway is one other superb suggestion from our record of issues to do on Maui. The freeway takes round 10 to 12 hours to drive. We counsel renting a automobile with a number of drivers on the insurance coverage so as to rotate drivers as you go. Alternatively, select to drive a method and spend the evening in Hana earlier than returning the subsequent day. The Hana Maui Resort is an efficient possibility Check charges and availability.
The Road to Hana is probably the most well-known drive in Hawaii and one of many greatest street journeys on the planet. The route cuts alongside Maui’s north coast, hugging a coastal freeway that twists and turns by jungles, bamboo forests, and previous waterfalls. All the whereas treating you to gorgeous ocean views. Many stop-off factors alongside the best way 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 remain on Maui
Maui is understood for its luxurious lodging and basic resort, so these with an costly style have come to the best 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 embellished with chic 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 greatest wager.
There are many choices for these wanting mid-range to funds lodging. The island has two principal hostels –Howzit Hostels and Tiki Beach Hostel. Howzit Hostels is barely cheaper however positioned out of town middle, whereas Tiki Beach Hostel is costlier however positioned within 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 motion pictures – primarily because of its gorgeous Na Pali Coast. Apart from superb seashores completely suited to enjoyable seaside days, Kauai has attribute dramatic cliffs and coastal surroundings. The crinkled cliffs of north shore Kauai are world-famous and iconic of their cloaked layer of inexperienced vegetation.
Kauai is nicknamed ‘the Garden Isle’, and judging by the gorgeous 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 mountain climbing trails.
Things to do in Kauai
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You can’t go to Kauai and never see the Na Pali Coast. There are a number of viewpoints alongside this shoreline; you may even take a helicopter tour if you would like an thrilling expertise and aerial view. However, the Kalalau Trail is an ideal solution to see the Na Pali Coast for out of doors lovers who like staying energetic. The path is roughly 11 miles lengthy and is rated as a difficult hike, greatest suited to skilled hikers. Because of the terrain, permitting a complete day to finish the Kalalau Trail is advisable. You received’t thoughts, belief us. The views are so good you may cease for breaks each 30 seconds.
The Kalalau Trail is certainly one of our high suggestions in our information to the 16 stunning and greatest 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 dwelling to the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific,’ and the phrase Waimea means ‘reddish water’. The colossal canyon is made up of crimson 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 may take your decide 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 must be in your itinerary when visiting Kauai. The bridge was constructed again within the early 1900s as a purposeful resolution to permit 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 slender bridge and snapping footage as you go.
Where to remain on Kauai
Kauai is greatest suited to these on a mid-range to luxurious funds. There are a few hostels, just like the Kauai Beach House Hostel, however primarily three to four-star inns with charges of round $200 per evening. We counsel reserving prematurely for lodging on Kauai, as it will possibly shortly promote out and go away 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 fantastically with torch-lit stone walkways and landscaped gardens with ponds. And the inside is simply as gorgeous, with floor-to-ceiling home windows in most rooms. Kauai is certainly a phenomenal nook of the world, o it is smart to ebook lodging that maximizes the nice views and matches in with the pure magnificence.
4. Oahu
Oahu is a metropolis; there aren’t 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 within the Hawaiian archipelago, with a residential, extra citified ambiance. Oahu is an action-packed and built-up alternative for these eager about politics, historical past, and modern-day Hawaii. It can also be dwelling to the Daniel Ok. 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 delightful 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 dwelling to a lot of historic and political sights. Plus, if you wish to escape for a couple of days of tranquility, the north coast offers a refuge from the metropolis of Honolulu.
Things to do on Oahu
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- Pay your respects on the Pearl Harbor National Memorial
- Relax on Waikiki Beach
- Learn about Hawaii’s monarchy at Iolani Palace
As we stated, Oahu is filled with 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 beneath. The end result was catastrophic. Over 2,403 U.S. personnel died in the course of the strike on Pearl Harbor, and round 21 U.S. warships had been sunk or broken. Now at Oahu, you may 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 whenever 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 bushes and glitzy high-rise inns and resorts. It is a revered surf spot in Hawaii, and you may spot the huge statue of Duke Paoa Kahanamoku alongside the beachfront. It is a good spot to sit down and watch the surfers or get entangled your self by renting a board or reserving a surf lesson. If you’re extra of a complicated surfer then we propose the North Shore.
Speaking of political historical past in Hawaii, Iolani Palace is a crucial vacationer attraction. The Nineteenth-century palace was dwelling 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 complete article on Oahu’s greatest issues to do right here. Jot some down, and also you’ll have a full itinerary very quickly.
Where to remain on Oahu
Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani is a unbelievable resort in case you are chasing luxurious. The four-star property is partnered with the Honolulu Museum of Art and shows stunning art work all through the property. The resort additional options an infinity lap pool, scorching tub, pool bar, and even a backyard with a reflexology path. Fitness lovers will love the on-site gymnasium and weekly courses. At the identical time, spa lovers can rejuvenate at SpaHalekulani, simply throughout the road.
Polynesian Hostel Beach Club is an efficient possibility for extra budget-conscious company. This hostel gives dormitory rooms for aggressive costs and is right for solo vacationers desirous to make new associates. Guests can take pleasure in a standard room, barbecue, and laundry amenities. While just a little dated in sections, the hostel is a good ‘what you see is what you get’ place to remain on Big Island. The location is unbelievable, 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 amenities, together with a championship-level golf course. It is right for these wanting a quiet however luxurious resort ambiance.
Apart from being an virtually totally privately owned resort island, Lanai has a phenomenal choice 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 may ebook excursions along with your resort, so there are at all times actions and issues to do and see.
Things to do on Lanai
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Lanai may be 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 approach to supply particular excursions and experiences – so that you received’t miss out. You’ll most likely must cease in Maui or Oahu on the best way 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 crimson rocks and sand in all places. The Garden of the Gods is predicated close to Lanai’s north shore and is greatest explored by 4WD. Just try in case your resort excursions embrace this journey.
For a extra basic Hawaiian expertise, Hulopoe Beach gives that tropical paradise vibe. The calm seaside has a quiet ambiance and serene waters which can be excellent for snorkeling or swimming. As a protected marine reserve, it is usually a hotspot for recognizing wildlife – together with inexperienced turtles in case you are fortunate. Hulopoe Beach is the place to go and loosen up on Lanai.
Finally, for the last word splurge, ebook a helicopter tour. You can sightsee the landscapes of Lanai and its neighboring islands, having fun with an unmatched view from the skies. You can verify out a spread of completely different excursions right here. While for extra inspiration about issues to do in Lanai, try this information.
Where to remain on Lanai
So, the place do you have to keep in Lanai? Your principal possibility 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 hardly ever helps you to down in terms of 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 (preserve your eyes out for whales) and personal tropical gardens.
The resort additionally incorporates 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 company at Honolulu Airport. You can take pleasure in meals, drinks, wifi, and concierge providers whilst you wait on your connecting flight.
Would you like a extra mid-range keep? Tucked away within the middle of Lanai is Hotel Lanai – a simplistic however fairly, moderately priced lodging alternative. The resort has plantation-style rooms and a continental breakfast to take pleasure in every morning. It is a humble retreat with a peaceable ambiance, not like the enormous resorts close by.
6. Molokai
Molokai is likely one of the principal Hawaiian islands if you wish to spend money on volunteering and serving to in conservation. If you want to get entangled with Hawaii’s sustainability packages, not simply go to for a vacation, Molokai is an ideal alternative. The island is principally uninhabited and has a few 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 vastly impactful studying extra concerning the islands’ battle for conservation. Environmental consciousness is crucial to sustainable tourism in Hawaii, and Molokai is a good place to embrace that.
Molokai has an attention-grabbing, 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 may 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
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- Go mountain climbing within the Molokai Forest Reserve
- Learn on the Molokai Museum and Cultural Center
- Go for a seaside stroll at Papohaku Beach Park
Molokai is filled with issues to do. While it’s primarily a countryside island, it has some cultural and pure sights. Molokai Museum and Cultural Center is a unbelievable place to get extra cultural perception into the island. The small museum gives a historical past of Hansen’s illness and the tragedy of leprosy on Molokai. It moreover particulars the historical past of the sugar trade on the island, with preserved equipment and industrial areas so that you can discover. The Molokai Museum is budget-friendly, too, costing simply $5 per grownup and $1 per pupil.
Of course, you don’t go to Molokai for those who don’t wish to immerse your self in nature. Molokai Forest Reserve is the massive jungle expanse on the island’s east facet. Visitors can go mountain climbing, take a guided tour, and admire protected natural world. Molokai Forest Reserve is a extremely particular piece of protected land. It holds lots of Hawaii’s cherished species of crops and animals.
Papohaku Beach Park is positioned distant on the other facet of Molokai. While it’s nonetheless remoted and peaceable, this park has a number of extra amenities. You’ll discover picnic tables, campsites, and a consolation station. The space is simply over 10 acres in dimension. While it’s normally too windy for swimming, it’s excellent for lengthy seaside walks. If you’re fortunate, you can too spot whales from the shore.
Where to remain on Molokai
Molokai is just a little restricted in lodging choices. This is primarily as a result of the island just isn’t designed to cater to tourism. In reality, it takes a extra sustainable stance in direction of avoiding over-tourism. Therefore, the island gives a choice of mid-range inns, not giant five-star resorts.
Hotel Molokai is a standard lodging alternative well-suited to a mid-range funds. The resort sits on Kamiloloa Beach with oceanfront rooms – be ready to be blown away by the views. While if you wish to spend time outdoors, the property has a big out of doors swimming pool. Or alternatively, you may hire scuba diving and snorkeling gear and head to the seaside.
Another possibility in Molokai is Castle Molokai Shores. Castle Molokai Shores gives a choice of oceanfront flats. It is right for these wanting self-catered lodging. Each residence has a completely outfitted kitchen with all of the utensils you want. Outside are extra eating amenities, barbecues, and scenic picnic tables. Each residence comes with a balcony or patio with ocean views as properly.
Best Hawaiian Island: FAQs
Now that you just’ve discovered your greatest 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 normally. 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 dwelling 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 gorgeous mountain climbing trails.
Which is healthier, Oahu or Maui?
Oahu is greatest if you would like a busier ambiance, whereas Maui is greatest if you would like a quiet, peaceable expertise.
To Conclude
We hope that you just’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 unbelievable vacation vacation spot.
Even although you’ve chosen the very best island to go to in Hawaii, it doesn’t imply you may’t see different Hawaiian islands. Check out day journeys out of your island of alternative for those who really feel further adventurous. For extra inspiration about the place to remain in your island of alternative, you can too check out our detailed information to the very best lodging in Hawaii.