Here’s Some Information On The Best Hawaiian Islands To Visit
In this article, we will talk about Hawaii, its stunning landscapes, diverse list of activities, rich culture, and more of what it has to offer for every single type of tourist. Whether you are seeking adventure, adrenaline, cultural immersion, or relaxation, Hawaii has something for you. This guide will help you navigate the things
Hawaii has to offer and will tell you all about the best Hawaiian island to visit, depending on what you’re looking for in your time on the Hawaiian islands. From tall volcanoes of Mauna Kea to the lush valleys of Kauai, these islands are a paradise and will certainly provide you with unforgettable experiences. Each island has its own special features, cultural importance, natural sites, and a friendly spirit.
Many first-time visitors indulge in island hopping because the islands in Hawaii offer different sorts of activities for every type of traveler. It is also very easy to go to different islands once you are in Hawaii because there are many inter island flights available.
Here’s an overview of the Hawaiian islands
We will be talking about the six main Hawaiian islands in this article.
1. Oahu:
This Hawaii island is widely known as the “Gathering Place” and is also home to Honolulu and some amazing beaches like Waikiki Beach with great views of the Pacific Ocean. It is a hub for history, nightlife, Hawaiian culture, and relaxation.
Honolulu is a big city and it offers everything a major city of its scale should with its city life and more. Some of the biggest advantages are that you have access to stunning beaches, public transportation, tons of island activities, and more.
2. Maui:
Often referred to as the “Valley Isle”, this island is celebrated for its luxury resorts, stunning beaches, and also the scenic Road to Hana. It is one of the only islands that offer so many activities like scuba-diving (you swim with sea turtles, tropical fish, and even sharks), many hiking trails, whale watching, sunset dinners, snorkeling, etc.
3. Kauai:
This Hawaiian island is widely known as the “Garden Isle”. This garden island is lush and green and known for its natural beauty. It is the best island for people who love nature and gorgeous hiking trails.
4. Hawaii (Big Island):
This island is the biggest of all the Hawaiian Islands and it features very diverse landscapes, pristine beaches, scenic hiking trails, upscale resorts, two active volcanoes, and more. It is also famous for featuring black sand beaches. It has many national parks that offer some of the best views you can get.
5. Lanai:
This Hawaiian Island is small compared to the other islands and is very well known for luxury resorts and secluded private beaches. It is a great location for couples and people who want peace and quiet. Your resort will be right on the beach and you can enjoy the ocean breezes as you get a massage or a drink at a bar.
6. Molokai:
This is the right Hawaiian island if you want to experience authentic Hawaiian culture. It has a less commercialised atmosphere compared to the other Hawaiian islands. You can learn all about Hawaiian history on this island.
Choosing The Best Hawaiian Island To Visit
There are multiple factors that will come into consideration when you are choosing the best island for your vacation. It will depend on your interests. All the islands offer a mix of activities and things to do and each island is unique in its own way.
Highlights for Oahu
Pearl Harbor
It is a historic site where you can learn all about the Second World War and also visit the USS Arizona memorial. There are many museums and some historical monuments that will give you information on the attack on Pearl Harbor. This attack was a turning point in the war as it got the USA to involve itself in the war.
Diamond Head Crater
It’s a famous volcanic crater with a trail leading to stunning views of Honolulu. It was also used as a military lookout in the 1900s. This crater gives you great views of the Waikiki shoreline. Diamond Head crater is also known to be extinct because no actions have occurred in a long time. It is also the most famous crater in all of the Hawaiian Islands.
The North Shore
The North Shore of Oahu is an extremely popular site known for its city breaks and also a laid-back atmosphere. It is the place where tons of surfers from around the world come to ride the waves during the winter months. The waves can even get as high as 30 feet. The North Shore is known for its famous beaches.
Haleiwa Town
The North Shore is also known for its charming towns. Haleiwa Town is a must-visit for anybody who wants a slice of local culture. You will have access to unique boutiques, art galleries, and many food trucks which offer you authentic Hawaiian cuisine. They also serve up delicious Hawaiian treats like garlic shrimp and shaved ice.
Waimea Bay
Check out Waimea Bay, known for massive waves. Sunset Beach is also another popular destination where you will find significant surfing competitions like the Vans Triple Crown.
Shark’s Cove
It is a popular snorkeling spot that offers vibrant marine life during the calm summer months where you don’t see large waves.
Surf Competitions
The North Shore hosts some of the biggest surfing competitions during the winter months that attract top surfers from all around the globe.
Oahu is a relatively large island in the Pacific Ocean and is also home to the capital city of Honolulu. If you are someone who wants a mix of a city experience while also wanting to enjoy everything an island has to offer, Oahu is the best choice for you. Although, you need to consider your budget. Due to its popularity, it is an expensive island to stay on for a longer vacation.
Highlights for the Big Island
For people seeking adventure and adrenaline, the Big Island has been known to offer unique geological features and tons of outdoor activities like hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and even exploring lava tubes. It is a geologically diverse island that attracts all kinds of people from around the world. It caters to every single type of tourist.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
It is home to active volcanoes of Mauna Loa and Kīlauea. Visitors can actually see lava flowing on the unique volcanic landscapes.
Kona Coffee Farms
You will be able to explore milk and coffee farms and also indulge in some tasting tours of one of Hawaii’s famous exports.
Mauna Kea
It is the highest point in Hawaii that offers great stargazing opportunities, especially on clear nights.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
It is a world-famous black sand beach and the sand is created from flaming lava rock. It is also well known for being a great spot to see sea turtles.
Hapuna Beach
This beach has pristine white sand and clear blue waters. It is a great place for a relaxed day to snorkel in the water and also get a tan.
Highlights for Maui
If you are looking for a relaxing trip, Maui would be a safe bet because you can unwind at luxurious resorts and even enjoy the beautiful beaches. The Road to Hana has been praised by tons of travelers throughout the years.
Why Maui?
Maui is considered to be a dream destination because it offers a great mix of adventure as well as luxury. It is known for catering to people who love nature, honeymooners, and also people who just want some peace and quiet. It is known to be a very peaceful island that has a laid-back atmosphere in comparison to Oʻahu that can get quite bustling because of Honolulu.
Road to Hana
Maui is an island where you can chill and recharge. The Road to Hana is a world famous breathtaking drive where you can see famous waterfalls, lush vegetation, waterfalls and even rainforests along the way. The natural wonders on this island will certainly make you want to go back again.
Beaches
Kaʻanapali and Wailea beaches are some of the best on the island. They are a great spot for sunbathing, whale watching, and even snorkeling. Whale watching tours are available during most months but they are very popular during the winter due to the migratory patterns of the whales.
Highlights for Kauai
Why Kauai?
To be surrounded by natural beauty, lush vegetation, and gorgeous views from hiking trails, you should go to Kauai, Hawaii. The Napali Coast and the Waimea Canyon are enough to make the decision to go to this island if you love nature. It is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The coastline features some of the tallest sea cliffs, cascading waterfalls, beautiful valleys, and more.
Napali Coast
The Napali Coast offers dramatic cliffs that were featured in the aerial shots of the Jurassic Park franchise. It is a gorgeous coastline that has served as a great reminder that the natural beauty of Hawaii is unparalleled. One of the best ways to get great views of this course is with a helicopter tour.
Waimea Canyon
The Waimea Canyon, which is also referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, is a stunning red rock canyon that will give you great panoramic views. It is a 26-mile drive from popular parts of the island, but it is worth it.
Wailua River
If you are into this report, it is an absolute gem of a place. It is also known to be one of the few navigable rivers in all of Hawaii where you can go kayaking.
Kauai is popular because of its ability to give you a peaceful retreat among its stunning landscapes and teeming waters. It offers tons of dramatic coastline lines, hiking trails, and more that will cater to any kind of visitor. Whether you are a hiker, a nature photographer, or simply someone who wants to escape the ordinary, this island will be a great place to stay for a couple of days.
Highlights for Lanai
Also known as “The Pineapple Isle”, this island was once a great pineapple plantation. It has now transformed into a great haven for secluded beaches and luxury resorts. Although it has retained its original charm and exclusivity.
Shipwreck Beach
If you do visit this island, make sure you visit “Shipwreck Beach.” It is a remote beach where visitors can look at an actual shipwreck that is just off the shore. Many people end up swimming near the wreck as well. It is a popular destination for videography and photography. There are many drone enthusiasts who have some great shots of the beach and the wreck.
Garden of the Gods
It is a rocky landscape that looks like it is from an alien planet. There are some tours that will take you here.
Hulapoe Bay
A protected marine preserve that is ideal for snorkelling. It is also well known for its tide pools and also for being a great spot to see spinner dolphins.
Lanai is popular for many reasons. It is a great destination for people who are looking for an exclusive yet luxurious getaway. Couples, luxury travellers and people who want a private island experience will have a great time here.
Highlights for Molokai
This island offers a very authentic Hawaiian experience when compared to some of the other Hawaiian islands. It has fewer tourists and has a slower pace and is a great destination for people who want to immerse themselves in the local culture and the natural beauty.
Molokai is in no way a popular choice for traditional tourists who are looking for touristy things to do.
This item and holds a special place in the hearts of people who want to connect with nature, local life and the culture of Hawaii. If you go to this island, you will see a lot of cultural travelers, eco-tourists and also those who are looking for some solitude.
Halawa Valley
It is in the ancient valley that is known for its captivating waterfall hikes. You will be able to find many knowledgeable local guides who can tell you all about the area and show you around. These guides are also great at giving you information about local culture and Hawaiian history.
Papohaku Beach
Although not a tourist attraction, it is one of the largest white sand beaches in all of Hawaii. It is often completely empty, which is why it is a great beach if you are interested in some peace and privacy. Some people who have visited there have said that they’ve had the whole beach to themselves at times.
All of the Hawaiian islands have been known to offer a unique blend of activities, cultural experiences, and things that will excite you. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned lover of Hawaii, every island will give you something new to enjoy on each visit. You need to choose the island that properly aligns with what you are looking for on your visit. Oahu offers both a city experience and an island experience as well, but can be a bit on the expensive side. For a first-time visit, you could consider visiting Oahu and Maui as they are crowd favourites.
FAQs
1. What is the prettiest part of Hawaii to visit?
While every single Hawaiian island is known for its natural beauty, Kauai is the one that is known for its natural beauty. But Oahu and Maui are genuinely pretty as well.
2. Which island is best for first-time Hawaiians?
Oahu is the recommended choice for first-time visitors in Hawaii. The island also has a big city atmosphere, great public transportation in and around Honolulu, and endless natural beauty. Maui is a great first-time choice as well.