Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit?

Dreaming of swaying palm trees, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture? With breathtaking landscapes and endless adventures, Hawaii is a beautiful collection of islands, each with its own unique personality!

Choosing the perfect Hawaiian island your vacation can be a delightful dilemma. Let’s explore the unique charms of Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, and Lanai to help you find your slice of paradise.

Oahu: The Vibrant Heartbeat

If you crave a blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, Oahu is your island. Home to Honolulu and iconic Waikiki Beach, Oahu offers a dynamic fusion of culture, history, and outdoor adventures. Explore Pearl Harbor’s historic sites, hike to the summit of Diamond Head for panoramic views, or immerse yourself in the bustling food scene of Honolulu’s Chinatown.

Top Attractions in Oahu

Pearl Harbor: Visit the USS Arizona Memorial and other historic sites to delve into the island’s World War II history.

Diamond Head State Monument: A moderate hike rewards you with panoramic views of the island’s coastline and Honolulu skyline.

North Shore: Renowned for its big wave surfing in the winter, this area is also perfect for a scenic drive or sampling local shrimp trucks.

Insider Tip: For a less crowded beach experience, head to Lanikai Beach on the windward coast. Its powdery white sand and turquoise waters are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

Best Time to Visit Oahu

Oahu is a year-round destination, but for fewer crowds, consider visiting in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). If you’re a fan of surfing, winter (November to February) is ideal for catching the North Shore’s famous waves. Spring and fall also bring fantastic weather for outdoor adventures and sightseeing.

Maui: The Romantic Getaway

Maui embodies the essence of romance with its stunning sunsets, lush landscapes, and luxury resorts. From the scenic road to Hana to the otherworldly beauty of Haleakalā National Park, Maui captivates with its diverse terrain. Snorkel alongside sea turtles at Molokini Crater, indulge in farm-to-table dining in Upcountry Maui, or simply relax on the golden sands of Kaanapali Beach.

Top Attractions on Maui

Road to Hana: This iconic drive takes you through lush rainforests, past waterfalls, and along dramatic coastlines. Don’t miss the black sand beaches at Wai’anapanapa State Park.

Haleakalā National Park: Witness the sunrise from the summit of Haleakalā, then explore the park’s unique volcanic landscape.

Molokini Crater: A snorkeling paradise where you can encounter vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters.

Insider Tip: Reserve a table at one of Maui’s farm-to-table restaurants, like Mama’s Fish House or Merriman’s Kapalua, for a memorable dining experience featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Best Time to Visit Maui

Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and often better prices. For whale enthusiasts, winter (December to March) is prime whale-watching season, as humpback whales migrate to Maui’s warm waters during this time.

Kauai: The Garden Isle

Nature enthusiasts rejoice on the Garden Isle of Kauai, where emerald valleys, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs await. Known for its lush rainforests and rugged coastline, Kauai offers endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. Embark on a helicopter tour to witness the majestic Na Pali Coast, hike the scenic trails of Waimea Canyon, or kayak along the serene Wailua River.

Top Attractions on Kauai

Na Pali Coast: Accessible by boat, helicopter, or hiking, this stunning coastline is one of Hawaii’s most iconic landscapes.

Waimea Canyon: Dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this vast canyon offers breathtaking views and scenic hiking trails.

Wailua River: Take a peaceful kayak trip down this river, stopping at the Fern Grotto, a beautiful natural amphitheater.

Insider Tip: For a truly magical experience, visit Hanalei Bay at sunset. The golden light reflecting off the water against the backdrop of lush mountains creates a picture-perfect moment. Afterward, enjoy fresh poke at a local spot like Hanalei Poke or indulge in a shave ice treat from Wishing Well Shave Ice.

Best Time to Visit Kauai

The best months to visit are April to June and September to November, which provide excellent weather for outdoor activities. Winter (December to March) can be rainier, but it’s also the best time for lush greenery and fewer crowds.

The Big Island: Nature’s Playground

For an island of epic proportions, look no further than the Big Island of Hawaii. From fiery volcanoes to snow-capped peaks, this island boasts unparalleled diversity. Witness the primal forces of nature at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can witness lava flows and glowing craters up close. Snorkel with manta rays off the Kona Coast, stargaze atop Mauna Kea, or traverse the otherworldly landscapes of the Kohala Coast.

Top Attractions on the Big Island of Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Explore the park’s vast landscape, including the active Kilauea volcano, lava tubes, and hiking trails.

Mauna Kea: Visit the summit for some of the best stargazing in the world, but remember to acclimate to the altitude gradually.

Kona Coffee Country: Tour coffee farms and sample the island’s famous Kona coffee.

Insider Tip: Rent a 4WD vehicle if you plan to explore Mauna Kea or venture off the beaten path on the island’s more rugged roads.

Best Time to Visit the Big Island

The Big Island is ideal year-round, but the dry season from May to October is perfect for outdoor adventures. November brings the annual Kona Coffee Festival—a must-visit for coffee lovers. Winter months are also great for whale-watching along the coast.

Lanai: The Secluded Retreat

Escape to the secluded paradise of Lanai, where tranquility reigns supreme. With its luxurious resorts and pristine beaches, Lanai is the epitome of relaxation. Tee off at world-class golf courses overlooking the Pacific, embark on a jeep safari to explore the island’s rugged interior, or simply unwind on the secluded sands of Hulopoe Beach.

Top Attractions on Lanai

Hulopoe Beach: This pristine beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

Garden of the Gods: Explore this otherworldly landscape of rock formations and sweeping vistas.

Shipwreck Beach: Visit this remote beach, where you can see the remains of a WWII-era shipwreck offshore.

Insider Tip: For a truly luxurious experience, consider staying at the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, where you can enjoy world-class amenities in a serene setting.

Best Time to Visit Lanai

Lanai’s mild weather makes it great year-round, but spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are especially pleasant. These seasons also bring fewer visitors, creating an even more serene experience.

Kids in tow?

Family-Friendly Island Picks: Maui and Oahu

If you are traveling with kids, Maui and Oahu are your best bets. These islands offer a wide range of family-friendly activities, attractions, and resorts equipped with kids’ clubs and amenities designed to keep your little ones entertained.

Maui: Visit the Maui Ocean Center, where kids can learn about Hawaii’s marine life, or take a family-friendly hike through Iao Valley State Park.

Oahu: Explore the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, or enjoy a day at the beach in Ko Olina, where calm waters are perfect for young swimmers.

Insider Tip: To ensure your kids have just as great a vacation as you, we can work together to choose a resort with a fantastic kids’ club that offers activities like hula lessons, lei-making, and more.

Whether you seek adventure, romance, or relaxation, there’s an island waiting to welcome you with open arms. So, pack your bags and embark on the ultimate Hawaiian getaway – paradise is calling, and adventure awaits!

Why Plan Your Hawaii Trip with Where To Go Travel Co?

Ready to turn your dreams of exploring Hawaii into reality? Look no further – we’re here to make it happen.

We take care of every detail, from selecting the ideal accommodations to arranging roundtrip international airfare, interisland flights, and rental cars or private drivers. With our concierge service, you can sit back and relax while we handle your spa appointments, activity bookings, and dining reservations.

In addition, we often get exclusive perks and amenities we can offer our clients. Think complimentary upgrades and daily breakfast – the cherry on top of your unforgettable journey to this bucket list destination.