Hawaii’s a fan-favorite destination that sits atop many travelers' bucket lists, but with six islands to choose from, how do you know which one to visit first? We’re breaking down the six inhabited islands–the Island of Hawai'i, Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Lanai, and Molokai–with our recommendations on what to do, where to stay, and what to expect on each island to ease any indecisiveness.
Island of Hawai'i
There’s no shortage of places to explore on the Island of Hawai'i, after all, it’s the largest of the Hawaiian Islands, so it’s the perfect destination for our adventurous travelers. It’s most notably known as the home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Maunaloa. You can adventure to Hawai’i Volcano National Park to get up close and personal with these natural wonders, or you can just enjoy the rocky volcanic terrain on one of the island’s black sand beaches if that’s more your style.
You can also explore towering waterfalls, green sand beaches, and snow-capped mountains (don’t worry, the snow is only found at the tippy-top of the island’s highest peaks) while on the island. As for a home base for your adventures, we recommend staying at a resort in Kona or the neighboring Waikoloa Village to be near great beaches, shopping, restaurants, and coffee shops (Kona coffee, anyone?). Plus, both these spots sit on the island’s west coast, which sees more sunshine and gives you a front-row seat to the world-famous Hawaiian sunsets.
Maui
If you’re looking for a spark of passion on your island getaway, Maui’s the place for you. It’s a hot spot for honeymooners and couples for obvious reasons–it’s absolutely stunning! The southern cove of Wailea is home to luxury resorts like the Andaz Maui and Grand Wailea and is perfect for couples seeking a quiet, romantic escape, but Maui’s island beauty is beloved by families, too. We recommend the Kaanapali region and resorts like Hyatt Regency Maui and Aston Kaanapali Shores for a family-friendly getaway to the Valley Isle.
As for things to do and see, you can never go wrong with starting your day by watching the sunrise at Haleakala, the island’s dormant volcano. It’s the highest point on the island, offering sweeping views of all of Maui and the surrounding Pacific Ocean, but if you really want to see the whole island, set a day aside to explore the Road to Hana. This 10–12-hour roundtrip drive takes you through the unblemished landscapes of the island and ultimately to the town of Hana. Too long of an excursion? Opt for a half-day snorkeling cruise to the Molokini Crater, Hawaii’s only marine sanctuary. It’s a crowd favorite!
Oahu
Do you want to be in the center of the action? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Oahu is home to Hawaii’s capital, Honolulu, and is buzzing with things to do, so it’s the perfect island for group getaways with family or friends. The electric district of Waikiki is home to world-class dining, shopping, and nightlife, with dozens of towering beach resorts lining its sands. The Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort alone consists of five towers!
As we said, there are so many things to do, so don’t make the common mistake of staying within Waikiki your whole time on the island. For a little dose of history, you can visit the Pearl Harbor memorial and the Iolani Palace, the only official royal residence in the United States! Sneak in a scenic workout and hike Diamond Head, a volcanic crater boasting 360-degree panoramic views. It’s about an hour up to its summit with its steepest portions offering stairs, so it’s doable for novice hikers.
You can also venture up to Oahu’s North Shore for some of the world’s best beaches and craziest surf. Hit Laniakea Beach to spot some green sea turtles and watch world-class surfers take on 20-30-foot waves at Waimea Bay! And if you’re a movie junkie, take a guided ATV tour through Kuala Ranch to see where Jurassic World was shot.
Kauai
Nicknamed the Garden Isle, its peaceful tranquility draws in its visitors, as well as the fantastic hiking trails through its mountains, rainforests, and valleys. In Kauai, it’s easy to block out the hustle and bustle of your day-to-day life and focus on yourself and your natural surroundings, so you’re bound to return home relaxed and rejuvenated.
Kauai is divided by its two shores–the rainy but gorgeous north shore and the sunny and drier south shore. During the dry season, rain comes and goes rather quickly, but remember that rain is hard to avoid on any vacation to Kauai. Many of the island’s top beach resorts, like the Grand Hyatt Kauai, are on its south shore, but many must-see sights lie north. Many beautiful beaches are scattered along the north shore, as well as the picturesque 17-mile stretch of cliffs along the Napali Coast. We recommend taking a boat tour out of Hanalei to see all of Kauai’s hidden north shore treasures.
Lanai & Molokai
The last two inhabited Hawaiian Islands are Lanai and Molokai, both of which boast a unique off-the-grid experience. Lanai is for the kind of traveler looking for unbothered luxury. The 140-square-mile island is home to two lavish Four Seasons resorts, so it’ll feel like you’re glamping on this remote island paradise. You’ll likely find dolphins playing offshore at Hulopoe Bay, and you’ll be surrounded by some of Hawaii’s best off-roading tours on Lanai (follow the unpaved roads and discover the infamous the Garden of the Gods).
Across the Kalohi Channel is Molokai, and this island offers an off-the-grid experience without all the bells and whistles of a luxury beach resort. Here you’ll find small, locally-owned hotels and very few tourists compared to the other five islands. It’s a truly immersive look into Hawaiian culture, and it’s home to the highest sea cliffs in the world! You can even take a traditional mule ride down the towering cliffs and into the peninsula town of Kalaupapa.
Remember, there is no wrong answer here. In all honesty, there’s something for everyone on each island. After all, the Spirit of Aloha is what entices travelers to visit and makes visitors never want to leave!
