We think it’s safe to say that the Hawaiian Islands are on just about everyone’s travel bucket lists. And if they aren’t, then they definitely should be! Enjoy turquoise waters, friendly people, delectable food, and volcanoes bursting with lava. All of this and more is at your fingertips – and if you live in the US, you don’t even need a passport! But which island should you choose?
Despite their small size, the Hawaiian Islands are home to a plethora of landscapes and activities. This diversity can make it difficult to decide which one of these islands you should spend your time on. To help you answer this age-old question once and for all, we’ve rounded up a list of each island’s most unique and unforgettable experiences.
THE BIG ISLAND
Best for: Adventure seekers, coffee drinkers
The Island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, is Hawaii’s largest and youngest island–and it’s still growing! From glowing lava flows and black sand beaches to rainforests and lush valleys, the Big Island is an adventurer’s playground. If this sounds like you, then check out these top experiences to make the most of your time on the Big Island.
GET YOUR CAFFEINE FIX
So, you’re an adventure seeker. Naturally, a relaxed visit to a coffee farm might not be what you had in mind but hear us out. Your grand Hawaiian adventure is going to require some energy. And what better way to fuel your trip than with a nice cup of 100% Kona coffee? The cloudy climate and volcanic soil make Kona an ideal location for farming coffee and there are literally hundreds of coffee farms that call the hills of Kona home. These farms are a must-see for coffee lovers and are a great place to supercharge your epic Hawaiian journey. If you’re lucky enough to be in Kona during the month of November, don’t miss the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival!
Snorkeling with manta rays? Seriously? Seriously. Attracted to the microplankton-rich waters, these gentle giants can be found almost nightly just off the coast of Kona. Get a front row seat to nature’s bizarre nocturnal ballet as these magnificent animals feed and glide effortlessly through the water. Snorkeling at night with these magnificent creatures is an experience that is unique to the Big Island. If you’re truly an adventure seeker, this is one activity that should be at the top of your list!
VISIT AN ERUPTING VOLCANO
Let’s be honest, you can’t travel to the Big Island and not visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Here, you can watch fire and water collide and experience two of the world’s most active volcanoes: Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. View the park’s otherworldly landscapes on foot with a guided hike, or get a birds eye view from the safety of a helicopter. For a truly special and breathtaking view of Hawaii’s volcanoes, consider a night hike. Keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant glow of flowing lava! Since this is a dynamic landscape and viewpoints can change, be sure to check in with a ranger before going out.
GO ON A PETROGLYPH HUNT
Take a step back in time and view thousands of lava rock etchings created centuries ago by Native Hawaiians. With sites all over the island, some of the best petroglyph fields can be uncovered in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, and Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve. Discover carvings of human forms, canoes, turtles and more. Try to decipher the meaning behind the symbols and enjoy a day out in the Hawaiian sunshine!
While you’re in Hawaii, you have to take advantage of its crystal-clear, turquoise waters. What better way to explore them than by visiting one of the world’s best snorkeling destinations? Grab your masks and fins and embark on an adventure to Kealakekua Bay, a 315-acre marine sanctuary near the Captain Cook Monument. You will be absolutely amazed by all of the marine life teeming below you. Follow up your underwater safari with something truly adventurous: a close up look at Hualali, Hawaii’s 3rd youngest volcano. Explore the volcano’s neighboring sea caves and lava tubes and be on the lookout for dolphins, whales, and sea turtles!
EXPLORE THE ISLAND ON FOOT
Sometimes the best adventures happen when you leave the main road and travel into the backcountry. The Big Island is riddled with unique hiking trails spanning from easy, short walks to multi-day backpacking excursions. Discover the green sands of Papakolea Beach, walk into a lava tube in Kaumana Caves State Park, or make the trek out to Waimanu Valley, one of the most beautiful and difficult hikes on the Big Island. If you do explore Hawaii’s backcountry, please practice Leave No Trace, and don’t go unprepared. Bring plenty of water, food, sturdy boots, and tell someone where you are going.
Adventure and caffeine not really your thing? Continue reading for more island insights.
MAUI
Best for: Whale watchers, water lovers
Hawaii’s second-largest island, Maui, is a dreamy destination for anyone that loves water. Home to a plethora of classic aquatic activities such as snorkeling, surfing, and paddleboarding, Maui is also a phenomenal place to view epic waterfalls. Sprinkle in the annual migration of humpback whales and you have the perfect package for anyone looking to explore the waters of Hawaii. Discover the magic of Maui and make the most of your vacation with these incredible experiences.
BECOME A BEACHCOMBER
Since Maui is famous for its beaches, this seems like a fitting place to start. With over 30 miles of beautiful, sandy beaches ranging in color from white, gold, black, and even red, Maui is truly a beach bum’s paradise. Grab your sunhat and a Mai Tai and spend the day just relaxing in the sun or go for a stroll on the sand. Enjoy a leisurely walk and take in the iconic island views or comb the beach for unique shells and colorful sea glass!
Picture this: you’re out on Maui’s crystal-clear waters when suddenly a spout of air and mist erupts from the sea. It’s followed by the emergence of a beautiful humpback whale. The whale slowly dives back below the surface, rewarding you with a glimpse of its magnificent tail. Only moments later, the massive whale launches its whole body out of the sea, a behavior known as ‘breaching’. Every winter, thousands of humpback whales migrate from Alaska to the warm waters of Hawaii to mate and raise their young. Some of the world’s best whale watching can be done along Maui’s coast and if you're traveling between December and May, you absolutely cannot miss this opportunity!
LEARN A NEW WATER SPORT
There’s no better place to play in the water than along the pristine coasts of Maui. Catch a wave and try your hand at surfing, a sport that has deeply intertwined itself in Hawaii’s history and culture. Combine the surge of the ocean with the power of the wind and dive into the thrilling sports of kiteboarding and windsurfing. If you're seeking a sport that is a little less adrenalizing, consider a crash course in SUP (stand up paddleboarding) and gently glide your way through Maui’s cerulean waters. You’ll be surprised at just how easy it is to balance on a paddleboard. As always, be sure to keep your eyes open for marine life such as fish, turtles, dolphins, and more!
GO FOR A SCENIC DRIVE
Sometimes there’s no better way to view a place’s epic landscapes than by going on a scenic drive. One of Maui’s most famous drives is the Hana Highway, a 52-mile drive that passes by towering waterfalls, lush rainforests, and epic beach views. You may think that 52 miles sounds like a piece of cake. However, this highway should not be taken lightly. With countless hairpin turns, one-way bridges, and blind curves, this is one road that you’ll never forget. So, pack your patience, take your time, and get ready for some truly breathtaking views that only the Road to Hana can offer.
If you’re a fan of waterfalls, then this scenic helicopter tour around Maui should be on the top of your list. Shortly after takeoff, you will be treated to epic views of West Maui, one of the wettest places on Earth. See Maui’s tallest waterfall and the Wall of Tears. You won’t believe your eyes as you watch water from 17 waterfalls plummet down the lush green walls of the West Maui Mountains. Go off the beaten track and catch a glimpse of some of Maui’s hidden treasures such as the Seven Pools, an incredible network of waterfalls and pools that empty into the ocean. You’ll also be rewarded with new perspectives of some of Maui’s most iconic destinations such as the Haleakala volcano, the rainforests of Hana, and Ho'okipa Beach.
EXPLORE THE WATERS OF MAUI TO THE FULLEST
If you can’t decide between kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring Maui’s waterfalls, why not do all three? With this incredible tour around Maui, you don’t have to settle on just one activity. Begin your day by kayaking around Maui’s rugged coastline and get ready for breathtaking island views. Take a dip and spend some time snorkeling with rainbow-colored fish and possibly sea turtles! From there, your Maui adventure will head inland where you will embark on a short hike to two waterfalls and dreamy pools. Jump in and enjoy a Maui-style shower as you swim beneath the cascading water.
Searching for an island with a little more seclusion? Keep reading, Lanai and Molokai might be just what you're looking for!
LANAI
Best for: beach-sleepers, privacy seekers
Little Lanai is the smallest inhabited Hawaiian island that is open to tourists. This charming island only has two hotels and no stoplights making it an ideal spot for privacy seekers. What Lanai lacks in size, it definitely makes up for in personality! Spend your days napping on a secluded beach, play a round of golf, or explore hidden gems along the island’s rugged back roads. Whatever you choose, here’s a couple of our favorite Lanai adventures.
EXPLORE HULOPOE BEACH
Located on the southern end of Lanai, Hulopoe Beach has something for everyone: a beautiful beach, snorkeling, and plenty of space to enjoy a picnic lunch. Bring a good book and spend the day relaxing on the beach or stroll down the coast to a nearby lava shelf where you can explore several tide pools. You can also take a short hike along the coast for a view of Puu Pehe, an iconic rock formation that is home to many seabirds.
VISIT ANOTHER PLANET
Ok, so you can’t actually visit another planet, but to be fair, the unique desert landscape of Lanai’s Garden of the Gods will make you feel like you’ve left planet Earth. To get to this bizarre place, you’ll definitely need a 4-wheel-drive vehicle as the trip uses Lanai’s rugged back roads. Take things slow and steady–you won’t be sorry! Upon arriving, you’ll be rewarded with expansive views and interesting rock formations.
UNCOVER A SLICE OF HISTORY
Visit Lanai’s Shipwreck Beach for, you guessed it, stunning views of a real-life shipwreck! Take in eerie views of an old, rusted out WWII US Navy concrete fuel tanker. Built in the 1940s, this old ship is sure to provide a ghostly backdrop for your day at the beach. Although the waters nearby may seem inviting, this area is prone to shipwrecks for good reason. Powerful swells and currents make it a dangerous place to be out in the water.
MOLOKAI
Best for: Minimalists, culture vultures
Molokai is often considered the least visited of all the Hawaiian Islands, but it is also arguably the most authentic as well. The residents of Molokai have worked hard to stay true to their Hawaiian roots and have resisted large-scale tourism. You won’t find giant resorts or commercialized restaurants on Molokai. Instead, you’ll find people with a deep connection to their land and traditions. Here’s our top recommendations for how to spend your time on this cultural and captivating island.
VISIT THE MOLOKAI FARMERS MARKET
Located in the central town of Kaunakakai, Molokai’s Saturday farmers markets are an incredible opportunity to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables while supporting the locals. Beyond produce, you can also shop beautiful handmade goods and island-grown flowers. While indulging in your tropical treats, strike up a conversation with Molokai’s residents and uncover the culture and lifestyle that they have upheld for generations. After wandering the market, be sure to stop at the famous Kanemitsu's Bakery for a fresh loaf of onion-and-cheese bread.
GO MULE-BACK RIDING
Embark on a unique trek across Molokai’s sheer sea cliffs on the back of your very own mule! Take in spectacular views of the coast before entering one of Hawaii’s most remote settlements. Step into Kalaupapa National Historical Park and learn about this park’s tragic past. Once a prison for individuals with leprosy, the park now stands as a refuge for its remaining, now healed, residents and is dedicated to eradicating the fear surrounding this disease.
GET LOST
Trust us when we say that we don’t ACTUALLY want you to get lost. However, when you explore the secluded forests of the Kamakou Preserve, you’ll feel like you are thousands of miles away from civilization. Stroll along a small boardwalk and discover over 250 rare Hawaiian plants. Many of these plants are found nowhere else in the world! Listen to native birds sing above you and enjoy one of Hawaii’s most pristine and untouched rainforests.
Looking for an island with more amenities but still want a cultural experience? The Island of Oahu might be a perfect choice for you!
OAHU
Best for: City lovers, foodies
Oahu is the third largest Hawaiian Island and is fittingly nicknamed “The Gathering Place”. The majority of Hawaii’s population resides on Oahu, resulting in the most wonderful cultural melting pot. Explore bustling cities and shop until you drop or discover a mellow surf town. Whatever you decide, Oahu is certainly a wonderful mix of the modern and historical. There’s no limit to the activities on Oahu, but here’s our list of must-sees.
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN POLYNESIAN CULTURE
Experience not one but SIX incredible cultures at the world-renowned Polynesian Cultural Center! Learn how to hula with the Hawaiians, taste authentic Tahitian coconut bread, play Tongan shuffleboard, and more. Feeling hungry? Celebrate life and culture with a traditional luau. Indulge in traditional cuisines including Imu Pua'a Pork, Ahi Shoyu Poke, Huli Chicken, and many others. End your day with an incredible show dedicated to the story of Mana and Lani. Complete with fire sticks, special effects, and surround sound, this ancient story of love, family, death, and triumph should not be missed!
It could be argued that your time in Oahu is not complete without a visit to Pearl Harbor. In 1941, this US naval base was the scene of one of the most pivotal moments in American history. Now preserved as a National Memorial, you can explore the sites of that tragic day with a guided tour. Step back in time as you walk through the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri, and more. Your tour will conclude at the National Memorial Cemetery at Punchbowl Crater, the final resting place for over 38,000 men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.
SHOP WAIKIKI
Beach views, streets lined with palm trees, and tons of shops. What could be better? Whether you’re shopping for Hawaiian souvenirs, mementos, or luxury items, Waikiki has you covered! Step into the beautiful, open-air International Market Place and browse familiar brands, discover something new, enjoy international cuisine, and marvel at massive banyan trees. For a unique and fun shopping experience, consider visiting Waikiki’s Pearl Factory. Here, you can choose your own oyster, reveal your very own pearl, and have it set into a beautiful piece of jewelry. Every time you wear it, you will remember Oahu!
Oahu is home to one of the world’s most unique and adventurous yoga classes. Let us give you a few hints: It takes place at night, is out on the water, and involves multi-colored lights. Give up? It’s a Nighttime Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga Class, of course! Do something out of your comfort zone and paddle out into the Hawaiian night aboard a paddleboard lit underneath by a neon-colored light. You’ll be astonished at how easy it is to balance on a paddleboard, even whilst doing yoga! Move into child’s pose and let your fingers dip into the water. Take a deep breath and soak up the views of twinkling city lights. This magical excursion should be at the top of your list!
So, you’ve already explored Oahu on foot. Well, what about from the air? Get a one-of-a-kind view of some of Oahu’s most iconic destinations from the safety of a helicopter. Did we mention that the helicopter has no doors? Mix sightseeing with adrenaline on this incredible Doors Off Helicopter Thrill Ride! See Honolulu Harbor, Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, Jurassic Park Valley, and more on this heart-pumping aerial adventure. If you’re lucky, you may even get a bird’s eye view of spinner dolphins, manta rays, humpback whales, and more!
Channel your inner party animal and take to the sea for the ultimate BYOB sunset cruise! Hop aboard a luxury powerboat and watch as the sun begins to sink below the horizon. Once the sun goes down, it's party time! Decked out with twinkle lights, make your way to the dance floor and show off your moves. This cruise is BYOB but snacks are complimentary. For a truly Hawaiian experience, we recommend bringing ingredients for a traditional Mai Tai!
Do you prefer to explore canyons rather than cities? Would you rather go hiking instead of shopping? Well then, you’re in for a treat on the Island of Kauai!
KAUAI
Best for: Hikers, nature-lovers
The “Garden Island”, also known as Kauai, is the oldest island in the Hawaiian chain. Its surface is riddled with lush valleys, impressive mountains, jagged cliffs, and incredible waterfalls! With so many different landscapes to explore, Kauai is hands-down the best option for all of the hikers and nature-lovers out there. Lace up your hiking boots and browse some of our favorite spots in Kauai.
HIKE WAIMEA CANYON
Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, Waimea Canyon is one of the most impressive landscapes in all of Hawaii. Red soils contrast with bright green plants and can be viewed by multiple drive-up lookouts, vantage points, and of course, hikes! Trek to the bottom of the canyon on the Kukui and Waimea Canyon trails or check out Waipoo Falls using the Canyon Trail. While hiking, don’t forget to stop and smell the roses, or should we say hibiscus? Hundreds of native plants grow in and around Waimea Canyon. Consider purchasing a plant ID guide prior to hiking and see how many you can identify!
GO BIRD WATCHING
As you can imagine, the beautiful Island of Kauai is home to some of the world’s most gorgeous and unique species of birds. So grab your binoculars and get ready to explore Kauai in a way that you may not have ever considered. Search the trees for the impressive crimson Hawaiian honeycreeper with its odd, curved bill. Listen for the chirps of the myna bird, then wander the coast and keep your eyes peeled for great frigatebirds, black-footed albatross, and more! Some of the best places to go birding on Kauai include Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge, and Kokee State Park.
CHASE WATERFALLS
To view two of Kauai’s most stunning waterfalls, head to the island’s eastern side. Easily accessible, the stunning Wailua Falls was featured in the opening credits of the television series Fantasy Island. You’ll feel like you’re living in a fantasy world as you watch water plummet 173 feet into a crystal-clear pool. If you go when the light is just right, you may even be treated to an incredible rainbow! Nearby, Opaekaa Falls features a 40-foot-wide waterfall that cascades gracefully over volcanic basalt. Can’t get enough of these natural wonders? Consider taking a helicopter tour of the island and get an up-close look at falls that are off the beaten path.
Still aren’t sure which island is calling your name? Discover more island fun by clicking here. If you’ve made your decision, we hope you have an absolutely magical time in Hawaii. Aloha!
