Which island in Hawaii to visit

The state of Hawaii is made of eight major islands also known as the Hawaiian islands. In this article, we’ll cover four of the main islands that are most frequently visited – Kaua’i, Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii (also known as the Big Island) and help you choose the right island for you.

Kaua’i (The Garden Isle)

Kauai is Hawaii’s second oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian Island chain.  It is covered with lush green jagged mountain peaks and deep valleys. It is the island that is mostly untouched, least crowded, and laid-back. It has a small-town island vibe that is great for unwinding and relaxing. It doesn’t have much nightlife or “things to do”, but that is what’s great about Kaua’i. If you’re looking for a non-commercialized tropical paradise, then this is the island for you.  

Known for: Waimea Canyon, Na Pali Coast, Hanalei Bay, chickens everywhere
Best for: relaxing, slower, laid back atmosphere
For: Honeymooners, outdoor enthusiasts
Favorite hotel: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

Waikiki Beach

Oahu (The Gathering Place)

Oahu, home to the state capital of Honolulu is the 11th largest city in the U.S. This island comes to mind when most people think of Hawaii with iconic places such as Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and Hanauma Bay. It’s the most heavily populated island with more than 75% of the state’s total population on Oahu. It has great culture, history, entertainment, shopping, dining, and activities. It is the most metropolitan of the Hawaiian islands. There are also plenty of natural places to visit if the hustle and bustle isn’t your thing. 

Known for: Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, North Shore, Lanikai, Hanauma Bay
Interesting facts: Jurassic Park, Lost, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, 50 First Dates among others were filmed here
Favorite hotels: Halekulani, Moana Surfrider, The Royal Hawaiian, Disney Aulani (for kids)
Recommendation: For first-time Hawaii visitors, families 

Haleakala

Maui

Maui is the second largest island and is known as “The Valley Isle”. Most visitors who’ve been to Hawaii several times always choose Maui as their favorite island as it has the best of both island life and untouched beauty with modern conveniences. One of the popular natural attraction is Haleakala “House of the Sun”, which is the world’s largest dormant volcano. One of the sought after experiences is to wake up early to catch the spectacular sunrise.

Known for: Haleakala, Road to Hana, Lahaina, Kaanapali Beach
Favorite hotel: Grand Wailea
Recommendation: Top pick if you’ve already been to Oahu several times

Mt. Kilauea

Hawai’i (The Big Island)

The Big Island is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands even with all the islands combined. It is also the youngest and encompasses many of the world’s climate zones such as black sand beaches to mountains covered with snow. It has four active volcanoes and Kilauea volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. 

Known for: Active volcanoes, Kona coffee, black sand beaches
Interesting facts: Mauna Loa, is the largest volcano in the world. Kilauea volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Also, the Big Island is one of the only places to explore white, black, and green sand beaches.
Favorite hotel: The Hilton Waikoloa
Recommendation: Best place to see volcanoes, visit coffee farms and for Hawaiian history

Have you been to any of these islands? If so, let me know which one is your favorite? As always, mahalo for reading!