Hawaii, with its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and endless opportunities for adventure, is a dream destination for many travelers. Comprising six main islands, each with its own unique charm and attractions, deciding which one to visit can be a daunting task. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, thrilling outdoor activities, or cultural experiences, there’s an island in Hawaii to suit your preferences. In this blog post, we’ll explore the highlights of each island to help you decide which one is the perfect fit for your Hawaiian getaway. But let me be clear, there is no “best” island! 

A QUICK OVERVIEW OF THE ISLANDS

• Oahu: Urban atmosphere with Honolulu and Waikiki Beach, historical landmarks like Pearl Harbor, family-friendly activities and beaches and vibrant nightlife and dining scene. 
• Maui: Stunning landscapes including Haleakalā and Road to Hana, pristine beaches like Ka’anapali and Wailea, ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkeling and whale watching, charming towns and cultural attractions.
• Big Island (Hawaii island): Diverse landscapes from active volcanoes to black sand beaches, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for volcanic exploration, Hapuna Beach and other beautiful coastal areas, rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
• Kaui: Lush landscapes and dramatic cliffs, including Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, Poipu Beach and other family-friendly beaches, abundance of outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking. 

Now that you have a brief overview of the islands, lets dig a little deeper to give you a sense of which island is best for you to visit. 

Grab my Free Hawaii Cheatsheets here!

WHO SHOULD VISIT OAHU

Known as the “Gathering Place,” Oahu is Hawaii’s most populous island and home to the state capital, Honolulu. With its vibrant city life, historic landmarks, and world-famous Waikiki Beach, surfing competitions, Oahu offers a perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty.  

Oahu is the cheapest island to visit, so it’s a great island for families to vacation. There are tons of activities for kids and teens and you can stretch your vacation budget. Oahu is best for those looking for a lively vacation, history buffs, singles or solo travel looking for nightlife and anyone who is looking to visit Hawaii on a budget. 

OAHU HIGHLIGHTS

• Waikiki Beach: Ideal for families, Waikiki Beach boasts gentle waves and shallow waters, perfect for swimming and beginner surfing. It is crowded but beautiful. Two-miles of white sand beach, Beachwalk with hotels and restaurants with Diamond Head in the background. 
• Pearl Harbor: History enthusiasts can explore the USS Arizona Memorial and other historic sites commemorating the events of December 7, 1941. It is a historic landmark on Oahu, approximately 30 miles west of Waikiki. 
• Culture: Visit Chinatown, tour the Bishop Museum, visit Iolani Palace and spend the day at the Polynesian Cultural Center. There is plenty to see. 
• North shore: One of my fav spots on the island! Get away from the crowds in Waikiki and head to the North Shore for hiking, surfing, shark diving, ATVs, SUP, food trucks & shopping with a countryside feel. 
• Disney’s Aulani Resort: Disney junkies will enjoy the only Disney resort in Hawaii.
• Cheapest island to visit 
• Honolulu aka the “LA of the Pacific”, is a City, which means traffic, large buildings, high rises and people. 
• Nightlife: Oahu has a bustling nightlife unlike other islands which get quiet at sundown. 
• Hiking: Oahu has the most hiking options of all the islands for the adventurous travelers.

WHO SHOULD VISIT MAUI

Nicknamed the “Valley Isle,” Maui is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches. It is the second largest island. Visitors to Maui can enjoy a wide range of activities, from snorkeling and whale watching to exploring charming towns and scenic drives along the famous Road to Hana. When you visit Maui, you get three islands: included in Maui county and just a ferry ride away is the islands of Lanai and Molokai. 

Maui is the most expensive island to visit. It also has a lot of visitors. If you want to escape the crowds, you’d be better of visiting Kauai or The Big Island. You can still beat the crowds in Maui, there are plenty of options to stay away from the resort areas! 

If you are looking for an adult-only vacation (honeymoon, etc) then you should visit Maui. Maui is the only island that has an adults-only resort. Family vacation? Maui also has a ton of family-friendly resort options and/or AirBnB options. Maui is good for beach bums, adventure seekers and luxurious vacation experience. 

MAUI HIGHLIGHTS

• Haleakalā National Park: Witness the breathtaking sunrise from the summit of Haleakalā, Maui’s dormant volcano, then explore the park’s otherworldly landscapes on foot or by bike. Reservations are required and a very early wake up for the sunrise tours. 
• Road to Hana: Embark on a scenic drive along the winding Road to Hana, stopping to admire waterfalls, bamboo forests, and panoramic coastal views. There are 620 curves and 59 bridges! There are tours available for full day and half day, or rent a jeep and drive it yourself! We highly recommend staying a night at the Waianapanapa State Park Cabins or the Hana Maui resort.
• Ka’anapali Beach: Relax on the golden sands of Ka’anapali Beach, where gentle waves and shallow waters make it ideal for families with young children.
• Whale Watching: If you are visiting Maui between December-April, I’d highly recommend spending some time whale watching. There are different tour options available, from large boat tours to up close and personal on kayaks.
• Snorkeling: Maui has some of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii. 
• Day trip to Lanai: Snorkel, see dolphins, enjoy the beach! 

WHO SHOULD VISIT THE BIG ISLAND

The largest and most diverse of the Hawaiian Islands, the Big Island offers a wealth of natural wonders, from active volcanoes to black sand beaches and lush rainforests. Visitors can experience the island’s unique geological features, rich cultural heritage, and abundant outdoor activities. 

The island is Big and spread out, but the driving is pretty easy. Also, if you plan to visit Hilo prepare for some rain, it’s a rainforest! 

BIG ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS 

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world’s most active volcanoes, and witness the fiery glow of molten lava at night.
• Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area: Spend a day soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Hapuna Beach, one of the Big Island’s most popular beaches.
• Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park: Discover ancient Hawaiian history and culture at this sacred site, where you can explore reconstructed temples, royal grounds, and traditional fishing ponds.
• Visit Hilo and Kailua-Kona towns
• Mauna Kea Observatory: Watch a sunset or go stargazing and get the views from nearly 14,000 feet in altitude. 
• Kona Coffee Farms 

WHO SHOULD VISIT KAUAI

Known as the “Garden Isle,” Kauai is renowned for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and pristine wilderness areas. Visitors to Kauai can explore the island’s natural beauty through hiking, kayaking, and scenic boat tours along the breathtaking Na Pali Coast. 

Kauai is the least populated island and the smallest. 

KAUAI HIGHLIGHTS 

• Na Pali Coast: Embark on a thrilling boat tour or hike along the rugged Na Pali Coast, where towering cliffs, hidden beaches, and cascading waterfalls. 
• Waimea Canyon State Park: Marvel at the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” a spectacular geological wonder featuring deep gorges, colorful cliffs, and panoramic views of the island’s interior.
• Poipu Beach Park: Relax on the sunny shores of Poipu Beach (named one of the best beach in the US), where calm waters and a protected swimming area make it perfect for families with children.
• Wailua Falls: Kauai has some of the best waterfalls and many of them, like Wailua Falls, are easily accessible.
• Kalalau Trail: This 11-mile trail leads you along the Na Pali coast and is one of the most beautiful — and possibly most dangerous — trails you’ll find in the US.
• Hanalei: On the North of Kauai. Hanalei has a laid back vibe, it’s perfect for hitting the beach, the shops, or one of the wonderful restaurants or food trucks.

Ready to take your family off the beaten path? I’d love to design your creative, custom itinerary for you. You can connect with me on a complimentary consultation call to get started!

Join my Free Facebook Community: Family Vacations by Kristin: All-Inclusive/Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii Travel where I share my top travel tips, deals, news, giveaways & so much more! I’d love to connect!