Which Hawaiian Island is the Right Fit?
Hawaii is the reason clichés exist – blue skies, white sand, turquoise water – it’s a paradise and a dream holiday destination visited by millions. The tropical climate and natural attractions are beyond enticing. So you’ve decided that you want to visit America’s 50th state, but it’s made up of 136 islands with 8 main ones. Picking the right island for you is imperative for enjoying the trip. To get the most out of your vacation, you will need to be well informed on all the islands and what they have to offer.
Oahu
This is where the majority of Hawaii’s population lives. It has the capital city Honolulu, the bustling Waikiki and the best action with the added benefit of not having to take another flight when arriving internationally. You can treat yourself to high-end restaurants, boutique shopping, and beautiful bars. If you came to Hawaii intending to spend money, then these are the zones in which you will spend it. Treat yourself to your heart’s content.
However, if you want the hustle and bustle, but a more laid back side to visit is the North Shore – just around 30 minutes’ drive away from Honolulu, the beach towns give you a chance to relax and explore the nearby reserves. Why not try a film location tour while you’re there? Or even some water sports?
Old, young, luxury lifestyle or on a budget – Oahu has something for everyone.
Maui
Maui is the second-largest island, but with the biggest range of activities. It is the perfect middle between bustling Oahu and the quieter islands. It also boasts the Road to Hana drive – a 64.4-mile drive along cliffs and coastline that will make you change your outbound flight so you can experience it for longer. The outstanding beaches mean a sun, sea, and sand holiday is fully on the cards, but for the more adventurous there are volcanos to climb, snorkeling, surfing and a whole heap of activities to keep you busy for weeks.
It’s a great island for a group with different tastes as no one will be bored while visiting – it has something for everyone. If your trip has romantic intentions, Maui is the perfect place to find a love nest and you will find a wide range available to you.
Big Island
This one does what it says on the tin and makes the other islands look like a spec of golden Hawaiian sand. It is bigger than all the other islands put together! Like the oldest sibling, Big Island has taken it upon itself to do everything. Not content with the usual stunning scenery, it has added some game-changers such as one of four green sand beaches in the world (Papakolea), lava fields, volcanoes, and snow! Why not visit Kilauea which is still erupting and you can see lava tumbling into the water?
You can spend your time climbing waterfalls, exploring jungles or even relaxing on the beach, watching the Hawaiian turtles swim around. If you love the outside, you will love Big Island – there’s no doubt about it.
Kauai
This special island has been nicknamed ‘the Garden Isle’, but could have just as easily been named ‘the Adventure Isle’. Over half of the island isn’t accessible and the parts that are display everything green. There are hikes, trails, lookouts and the fantastic Waimea Canyon that will make you forget all about that other famous canyon. There is also a variety of animals that you can find at Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge that will showcase the diversity of the island.
If you are a keen hiker, or just want to reconnect with nature – forget the car and try to reach the 80% of the island you can’t reach by vehicle. There are coastal, inland or canyon hikes that will refresh you with its green damp air. Ready for the adventure? Maybe pack a raincoat just in case.
Lanai
This little island is little known and little traveled. It used to be used by the Dole company as a beautiful pineapple farm, but those days are over now. Instead, the majority of the island is owned by a billionaire named Larry Ellison. It has two Four Seasons resorts that offer all the opulence you desire and there are galleries and boutiques to boot.
While this isn’t for everyone, if you are visiting Hawaii for a tranquil pampering – Lanai is the place to go.
Molokai
This is island life personified. There is no hustle, no bustle, and no traffic lights. If you are looking for introspection and privacy, then look no further. There is plenty to look at and hike to. Why not visit the Kalaupapa National Historical Park which is where Hawaiian natives with leprosy were sent to be isolated?
If you want busy, or even to entertain the kids then this may not be the place for you. If you want to soul search or turn off your phone completely, Molokai will complement that perfectly. Haven’t got time to stay there? There are helicopter rides that will showcase the beauty of the island and are much quicker than staying a few nights.
Lanai
This is another secluded paradise, with walking trails and stunning views of the Pacific Island. Think Four Seasons resort, golf, untouched bays and that sort of lifestyle. Luxurious and perhaps less commercial because of it.
You can get a ferry from Honolulu, which is cheap and will give you a chance to take in the beautiful scenery.
Ni’ihau and Kaho’olawe
These two get a mention, but they are off-limits to tourists. Ni’ihau is a native Hawaiian, US Navy and guests only deal with sacred Hawaiian culture. Fancy a trip to the ‘Forbidden Isle’? Good luck!
Kaho’olawe is uninhabited for spiritual reasons so no need for FOMO – no one is invited.
With so many options there is no reason not to visit Hawaii. Grab your friends, family or maybe just your hiking boots and let your Hawaiian adventure begin. Don’t forget to take some pictures to make the memories last longer!