What’s the Best Hawaiian Island to Visit? It Depends. Here’s How to Decide!
Planning a trip to Hawaii is exciting, but choosing the perfect island for you can feel overwhelming. Why? Because there’s no right answer.
With six incredible islands to explore, each offering its own unique vibe and experiences, it’s tough to know which one is the perfect fit for your dream vacation.
After all, a trip to Hawaii is a big investment, and you want to make sure you get it right.
That’s where I come in.
As an Oahu resident and a regular visitor to the other five islands, I know the ins and outs of each one. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another taste of paradise, I’ll help you break down the highlights of each island so you can decide which one suits your travel style, interests, and budget.
Let’s explore the islands of Hawaii together and find the one that’s calling your name.
But first…
How many Hawaiian Islands are there?
Hawaii is made up of 137 islands, islets, and atolls, but only eight main islands are typically recognized.
Of those eight, six are open to visitors: Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island (Hawai’i Island), Lanai, and Molokai. The seventh island, Niihau, is privately owned and generally off-limits to tourists, while the eighth, Kahoolawe, is uninhabited and inaccessible due to its history as a former military testing site.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will likely blow on mai tais, poke, and shave ice. All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
Each of the six accessible islands offers its own unique landscapes, culture, and attractions. And while most visitors choose between Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island, you may find that Lanai or Molokai is more your speed.
Fun Fact: Las Vegas is considered the unofficial “9th island.”
Why? Over the years, many people from Hawaii have relocated to Las Vegas resulting in a deep connection between the city and the islands. Lower housing costs, job opportunities, and a different lifestyle make it an appealing destination with a much lower cost of living.
Because of this close-knit relationship, many Hawaiians consider Las Vegas a home away from home and the unofficial “9th island.” And yes, the local Hawaii news stations even give the weather forecast for the “9th island” along with the rest of Hawaii.
But let’s get back to the actual Hawaiian islands. Before we dive into a breakdown of the six possible islands to visit, you might be wondering…
Can I visit more than one island on my trip?
Absolutely! And you should. Interisland flights are cheap, quick, and easy.
Choosing two islands for a one-week trip is very reasonable. Visiting multiple islands is one of the best ways to experience the unique charm of each island – you’ll quickly realize they’re each very different.
If you want to explore three or more islands, you’ll need more than a week to truly enjoy your time. Inter-island travel does add some extra logistics. By focusing on fewer islands, you’ll have a more relaxed and memorable vacation while still soaking in the beauty of Hawaii.
Packing in too many islands in just one week is one of the top mistakes I think some Hawaii visitors make.
Read More: Headed to Hawaii? Don’t Let These 10 Common Mistakes Ruin Your Trip!
So which island (or islands) should you visit? Well, that’s why we’re here.
Starting with the largest, all the way down to the smallest, let’s get to know them one by one.
Hawai‘i Island – “The Big Island”
The Island of Hawaii lives up to its nickname with a staggeringly diverse landscape and micro-climates ranging from lush rainforests to volcanic deserts.
Despite being the largest island by land area, its population density is relatively low compared to Oahu. The population is spread out between the Hilo and Kona sides of the island.
On the Big Island, you can go from snow-capped mountains to black sand beaches on the same day. With active volcanoes, stargazing at Mauna Kea, and some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii, the Big Island is an adventure junkie’s paradise.
The Big Island is home to one of Hawaii’s most famous attractions, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can witness the power of active volcanoes, and Mauna Kea, one of the world’s best spots for stargazing.
This island feels vast and untamed and, to me, the only downside of visiting the Big Island is its sheer size. Unlike the other islands, which you can easily circle in a day, the driving times between activities on the Big Island are much longer.
Most visitors choose either the Hilo side or the Kona side and stick with it for the majority of their stay.
Hotels and resorts are primarily located on the Kona side and one of my favorite boutique hotel finds near town is the oceanfront Kona Tiki Hotel. For the resort experience, head to the Waikoloa area where you’ll find popular resorts like the Hilton Waikoloa Village and the luxe Fairmont Orchid Gold Experience.
Best Things to Do
Top sights include exploring the volcanic landscapes of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay, and soaking up the sun on black and green sand beaches like Punalu‘u and Papakōlea.
Don’t miss a visit to the Hilo side for its gorgeous waterfalls and botanical gardens. The Kona side is home to coffee farm tours and sunny beaches.
Read More: 10 Incredible Things to Do on Hawaii’s Brilliant Big Island
Who will love it
The Big Island is a dream for adventurers, nature lovers, and geology enthusiasts. Its vast size and variety of activities make it ideal for travelers who enjoy road trips and exploring rugged landscapes. If you’re looking for nightlife or a purely beach-focused vacation, this is probably not your island.
Speaking of beaches…let’s talk about Maui.
Maui – “The Valley Isle“
Hawaii’s second-largest island is the perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and natural beauty. Best known for its beautiful beaches, Maui’s diverse landscape also includes lush rainforests and the soaring heights of Haleakalā.
Maui is beloved for its laid-back vibe, yet there’s plenty to see and do making it one of the most popular Hawaiian islands for visitors.
Best Things to Do
The island’s most popular activities include driving the famous Road to Hana, catching a sunrise or sunset at Haleakalā National Park, or snorkeling at Molokini Crater.
However, I would argue that some of those activities aren’t for everyone (especially if you get car sick or don’t like getting up at 3:00am while on vacation).
Read More: Yes, it’s OK to Skip These 3 Super Popular Maui Experiences (Here’s Why)
Relaxing on Maui’s world-class beaches like Ka‘anapali Beach, Kapalua Bay, and Wailea Beach is probably the island’s one must-do. And if you visit during the winter months, a whale-watching trip is a truly unforgettable experience.
Don’t miss Upcountry Maui, where you can visit a lavender farm, a goat dairy, or the scenic Ocean Vodka Organic Farm & Distillery.
Read More: First Trip to Maui? Here Are 10 Things You Don’t Want to Miss!
Who will love it
Maui is a great choice for couples, families, and first-time visitors who want a little bit of everything—adventure, relaxation, and luxury. If 5-star resorts are your idea of the perfect vacation, you’ll love Maui’s luxe resorts like the Grand Wailea Resort & Spa or the Ritz Carlton Kapalua Bay.
If you’re looking to start your happily ever after, Maui takes the wedding cake as Hawaii’s best honeymoon destination.
With romantic sunsets, luxurious resorts, and intimate beaches, it’s no wonder the Valley Isle is also nicknamed “The Valley of Love.” Whether you’re sipping mai tais on Ka’anapali Beach, enjoying a couples’ massage at a 5-star spa, or watching the sunrise atop Haleakala – Maui is pure honeymoon gold.
Oahu – “The Gathering Place”
The bustling heartbeat of the Aloha State, Oahu is the most populated and most visited of the Hawaiian islands. It’s where urban energy meets stunning natural beauty, with the bustling city of Honolulu on one side and lush mountains, waterfalls, and world-class surfing on the other.
I might be biased, but I think my home island is the perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure. Stunning beaches, an eclectic food scene, and enough shopping to make your credit card cry.
From the iconic sands of Waikiki Beach to the history of Pearl Harbor, it would be a shame to fly all the way to Hawaii and not at least spend a day or two on Oahu.
Best Things to Do
Oahu’s many sights include Waikiki Beach, the iconic hike up Diamond Head, and a visit to the historic sites at Pearl Harbor. Take a day trip to the North Shore to find legendary surf breaks like Pipeline, the charming town of Hale’iwa, and heavenly shrimp trucks at Kahuku.
On the windward side of the island, don’t miss Lanikai Beach, the Halona Blowhole, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens, and the spectacular Marine Preserve of Hanauma Bay (which I consider the best snorkeling in all of Hawaii). Just remember that you need a reservation for Hanauma Bay and it can be tricky to score one.
Read More: The Foolproof Guide to Hanauma Bay for Snorkeling
For a rich cultural experience, don’t miss a visit to Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, or spend a day at the Polynesian Cultural Center or Kualoa Ranch.
Top Waikiki resorts include the Hilton Hawaiian Village, the Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort, and a terrific assortment of chic, boutique hotels.
Who will love it
Oahu is ideal for first-time Hawaii visitors, history buffs, and anyone who loves a mix of city life and outdoor adventure. It’s a great choice for families, couples, and solo travelers who want easy access to diverse activities, dining, and shopping.
Oh, and if nightlife is important to you, Oahu is about the only place in Hawaii to find it.
Kauai – “The Garden Isle”
Kauai is a lush paradise with dramatic landscapes and a slower pace that makes it feel like a true escape.
It’s the oldest of the Hawaiian islands, and its rugged beauty is evident in its towering sea cliffs, emerald valleys, and pristine white sand beaches. Kauai’s intimate and untamed vibe draws visitors looking for a deep connection with nature.
Kauai’s relatively small population is spread out across small towns like Lihue, Kapaa, and Hanalei.
Best Things to Do
Kauai’s best attractions include the breathtaking Nā Pali Coast, which you can explore by boat, kayak, or helicopter, and Waimea Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”
Relax on secluded beaches like Hanalei Bay or hike trails in the tropical rainforest of the Koke‘e State Park. For a unique experience, visit Spouting Horn or take a kayak tour to Secret Falls. Kauai is another great island for whale watching during the winter months.
Read More: The Top 5 Fun Things to do on Kauai (#1 is a must!)
Poipu Beach, on Kauai’s sunny south shore, is one of Kauai’s best beaches and also my favorite area to stay. It’s full of family-friendly resorts like the Koloa Landing Resort at Po’ipu and Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club. For a luxury, romantic escape, head north to the spectacular 1 Hotel Hanalei.
Who will love it
Kauai is a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and couples seeking a romantic getaway. It’s a great pick for those who prefer tranquility and natural beauty over nightlife and crowds. It’s also a great honeymoon spot if you’re looking for a more tranquil experience than Maui.
Molokai – “The Friendly Isle”
From 1866 to 1969, when Hansen’s disease (leprosy) was introduced to the Hawaiian Islands, all those afflicted were banished to the isolated Kalaupapa Peninsula on the north shore of Molokai. Once a prison, Kalaupapa is now a peaceful refuge that remains completely off-limits to visitors.
The island of Molokai is a glimpse into a simpler, more traditional Hawaiian way of life. It’s less developed than the other islands, with no traffic lights, sprawling resorts, or big-name attractions. Instead, Molokai is about untouched landscapes, a strong sense of community, and a deep connection to Hawaiian culture.
This is NOT the island to visit if you’re looking for luaus and luxury resorts. And honestly, if you want to visit, it’s probably best done as a day trip from Honolulu. But if you’re looking to truly unplug, Molokai just might be your Hawaiian paradise.
Just tread lightly on your visit. It’s not that visitors aren’t welcome on Molokai, but the island’s residents have strongly resisted commercial development and cruise ships and aren’t interested in being a tourist destination.
Best Things to Do
The beauty of Molokai is that there isn’t much to do. Explore the island’s long, pristine beaches like Papohaku Beach. Pick up some famous Molokai bread, and sit back and relax. Molokai is also home to the tallest sea cliffs in the world, best viewed from a boat or small plane.
There aren’t many hotels on the island but the best options are the Hotel Moloka’i and Molokai Shores.
Who will love it
If you’re looking for authenticity, solitude, and cultural immersion, Molokai is the best place to find it. It’s perfect for those who want to unplug and experience Hawaii’s natural beauty without the tourist crowds. But it won’t appeal to visitors looking for nightlife or luxury amenities. And due to the lack of traditional activities, I don’t recommend it for families.
Lanai – “The Pineapple Isle”
With a population of just over 3,000 residents, Lanai is the smallest inhabited Hawaiian island open to visitors. It’s also one of my absolute favorites.
Once dominated by pineapple plantations, it’s now a secluded retreat known for its quiet luxury and unspoiled landscapes. With only a few paved roads and no stoplights, Lanai is a peaceful escape from the busier islands.
And unlike Molokai (which is a bit more standoff-ish when it comes to tourism) Lanai’s cheerful residents love to welcome visitors.
In fact, when we visited on a day trip from Maui, we were flagged down twice while strolling the main square by smiling locals thanking us for visiting and suggesting things to see.
Most of Lanai is privately owned by billionaire Larry Ellison, who purchased approximately 98% of the island in 2012. While visitors are welcome to explore much of the island, some areas have limited access to protect the land and ensure privacy for residents and resort guests.
But public beaches, hiking trails, and the top scenic spots remain accessible for those looking to enjoy Lanai’s natural beauty.
Best Things to Do
My favorite thing to do on Lanai is visit the amazing Lanai Cat Sanctuary, a must-visit for feline lovers. I also love just strolling Lanai City’s main square of quaint shops and grabbing breakfast at the Blue Ginger Cafe.
The pristine sandy beach of Hulopoe Bay is Lanai’s only swimmable beach it’s a stunner. From there, take the short hike to Sweetheart Rock.
When it comes to off-road adventures, spots like Shipwreck Beach and the otherworldly Garden of the Gods (Keahiakawelo) are popular attractions (just keep in mind you need to rent a 4WD vehicle to get to either).
For a romantic splurge, book a room at the world-class Four Seasons Resorts Lana’i at Manele Bay, the island’s primary resort known for luxury accommodations and breathtaking golf courses.
Who will love it
Lanai is the perfect tranquil escape for couples, honeymooners, and anyone seeking 5-star privacy and exclusivity. Like Molokai, it’s a great place to avoid other tourists and unwind with a good book.
It’s not the best choice for families or budget-conscious travelers since accommodations are limited and pricey. However, if you’re visiting Maui, a day trip to Lanai on the convenient ferry is a fantastic way to spend the day.
Read More: How to Plan a PURRfect Day Trip from Maui to Lanai ⛴️🍍🐈
So which Hawaiian Island is Calling Your Name?
Each of Hawaii’s beautiful islands has its own unique charm and I believe there’s a perfect island for nearly every type of traveler.
Whether you’re seeking a fiery adventure on the Big Island, a romantic getaway on Maui, history and culture on Oahu, or peace and tranquility on Kauai, Lanai, or Molokai, there’s an island that’s ideal for your Hawaiian vacation.
If you’re still torn, remember that you can always visit more than one island, especially if you have a bit of extra time. But no matter where you land, you’re bound to discover the magic that makes Hawaii so special. 🌺