How Do You Choose a Hawaiian Island to Visit? This Guide Will Help

Hawaii is a top vacation destination. But it can be confusing to figure out which island or islands to visit. Do you even want to island hop? Or do you want to settle on one island where you can kick back and relax? No matter where you travel in Hawaii, you’ll find magnificent beaches, friendly locals, and traditional and unique eats. Read on to learn about Hawaii’s islands. You may discover that you’d like to visit all of them.

How to Choose a Hawaiian Island to Visit?

Before you book your vacation with your Travel Planners International travel agent, use this mini guide to help you determine which Hawaiian Island(s) you may want to visit. Bon voyage!

Maui

Maui is known as the “Valley Isle.” Artist communities, charming towns and local favorites have been here for generations. Go to Wailku and you can buy deserts and pastries from “mom and pop” type of bakeries. Those who eat organic can head to Lahaina to get a bite of Maui’s farm to table foods. Beach lovers can relax while basking in the sun or snorkeling calm coves or riding the waves. If hiking is your thing, you’ll love the trails, from a bamboo forest to high ridgetops. Maui has been voted “Best Island” by readers of Conde Nast Traveler for 19 years. It’s easy to see why. There’s something for everyone.

O’ahu

It’s a bit crowded and you may bump into people on the sidewalks and public transportation (if you don’t rent a car). But the miles of beaches, forest trails, and cuisine are worth it. Surfing was born in Waikiki, so it’s the perfect spot to catch a wave or two or learn how to surf. Put on your hiking boots and hike one of the thirty-five trails. Tantalize your palate with foods from top Hawaiian chefs or one of the many food trucks. You may want to check out the scene in Chinatown or immerse yourself in the history at Iolani Palace. Visit O’ahu and you’ll see how the East and West have come together with Hawaiian traditions to create a unique experience.

Hawaii Island

The Island of Hawaii is referred to as the “Big Island,” so it doesn’t confuse visitors with the name of the state. It’s twice as big as the other islands and offers you an awe-inspiring vacation. A visit to the green rainforests of the Hamakua Coast will quench your thirst for nature. The jet-black sands of Punaluu Beach will dazzle you. See the molten magma flow from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You may also want to go horseback riding in Waimea. The possibilities are endless!

Lana’i

The isolated feel of Lanaʻi is perfect if you want to kick back and relax and get away from the rest of the world. Stay at one of the two Four Season Resorts. Or for an ‘old plantation charm’ experience, stay at Hotel Lanai in Lanai City. Bask in the sun on Hulupo’e Beach or snorkel. Or take a day trip to Maui and Molokai [Lana’i, Maui and Molokai are known as “The Magic Isles.”].

Moloka’i

Preservation of culture and land are at the heart of Moloka’i. You won’t find any traffic lights – only a relaxed atmosphere that embodies “Aloha.” It’s a place where you can quiet your mind and spirit. Tap into your sense of adventure (and faith) by descending 1,700 feet on a mule to Kalaupapa. Or let guides show you Halawa Valley where you’ll be awestruck by ancient temples and heart pounding waterfalls that spill into breathtaking pools.

Kaua’i

On Kaua’i, you’ll find small towns such as Old Koloa Town and Hanapepe. The latter celebrates its artists every Friday, from 6-9pm, with galleries opening their doors –you can see the marvelous artistry of painters, sculptors, and craftsmen. If you want ‘fun in the sun’, visit Poipu Beach, put your shades on and soak up some rays. Kaua’i also boasts canyons and cliffs, perfect for adventure enthusiasts.

Which Hawaiian Island Do You Want to Visit?

Should you become a beach bum on Maui? Soak up the dynamic energy of the capital island, O’ahu? Stay on Hawaii Island? Experience luxurious Lana’i or go rural in Moloka’i? Visit ancient Kaua’i? Whichever island(s) you choose, the Aloha State is waiting for you. All you have to do is book your Hawaiian vacation now.
by Amandah T. Blackwell, Savvy-Writer