Which of the Hawaiian Islands Is the Best to Visit? (Complete Guide)

Choosing the Best Hawaiian Island for Your Trip

As a first-time visitor to Hawaii, you may be wondering how to choose between them. Although there are eight Hawaiian Islands considered major, most travelers choose between four: Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island of Hawaii. Molokai and Lanai are also visited, although less frequently. For this article, I will focus on the first four. If you’re asking yourself, ‘Which of the Hawaiian islands is the best to visit?’, this guide will help you decide.

So, what Hawaiian island is best for a first-time visitor?  I have lived on Oahu and visited the other main islands multiple times.  They each offer something special and may depend on who you are traveling with and what your travel style and interests are.  

When considering which of the Hawaiian islands is the best to visit, remember that your experience may vary greatly depending on your interests and travel companions. Choosing which of the Hawaiian islands is the best choice involves thinking about what activities you enjoy the most.

Oahu, known as “The Gathering Place,” is the most populous Hawaiian Island, home to the capital of Honolulu.  Oahu also gets over 50% of Hawaii’s visitors each year.  Oahu is a great choice for first-time visitors as it has a blend of city and nature.  Oahu is also home to Pearl Harbor, which many first-time visitors want to add to their itinerary.  In my humble opinion, Oahu also has some of the best hiking on all the islands.

Maui is the second-largest island and boasts a significant tourist industry, attracting the second-highest number of visitors each year.  Maui has a few major resort areas with nice restaurants and shopping, but it has less of a city vibe than Oahu.  Maui is a great choice for those who want a wide variety of activities.  

Hawaii Island, also known as the “Big Island,” is not only the largest Hawaiian island, but the largest island in the United States.  The Big Island gets the third most visitors each year.  The Big Island is a great choice for nature and adventure lovers.  The Big Island is a must for those who want to explore volcanic landscapes.

Kauai, “The Garden Isle”, is the fourth largest island.  It gets the least amount of tourists out of the top four islands.  Kauai is great for nature lovers and those who want to see pristine landscapes.  Kauai is also home to the “wettest spot on Earth”.  

Oahu – Best Hawaiian Island for First-Time Visitors

Why visit Oahu

Visit Oahu to see a blend of rich history, world-class surfing, shopping and nightlife, and stunning nature.  Oahu has something for everyone.  There is a culinary scene that is unmatched here, from upscale restaurants to food trucks.  Hawaiian culture abounds here with many festivals held throughout the year, as well as museums and historic sites of the Hawaiian Kingdom.  There is diverse shopping from the high-end stores in Waikiki to local farmers’ markets.     

Top things to do on Oahu

Waikiki Beach is probably the most famous beach in all of Hawaii.  Waikiki offers clear, warm waters, and it is suitable for swimming year-round.  Waikiki also offers breathtaking views of Diamond Head.  The beach is dotted with many resorts, which makes it an ideal place for people to stay. 

Every Friday night, there is a free fireworks show put on by the Hilton Hawaiian Village.  Kalākaua Avenue is lined with world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment options.  The famous statue of Duke Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing, is located right on Waikiki Beach. 

Pearl Harbor is a must-do for first-time visitors to Hawaii.  The Pearl Harbor Museum and grounds are run by the National Park Service.  The visitor center has interesting exhibits and memorials, sharing the stories of those who were there on December 7, 1941. 

Visitors can take a shuttle boat to the USS Arizona Memorial, which sits above the wreckage of the USS Arizona.  This underwater grave serves as the final resting place for approximately 1,102 of the 1,177 men who died during the attack on Pearl Harbor.  The oil slick on the water is still visible after all of these years.  

The North Shore, which I wrote about separately here, is the unofficial surfing capital of the world.  If you are visiting in the winter months, you may have an opportunity to view world-class surfers battling the waves.  Most of the major surfing competitions take place in November and December.  

Haleiwa town on the North Shore is a laid-back historic town featuring plantation style buildings from the sugar mill era.  Now it is home to surf shops and boutiques, local restaurants, art galleries, and more.  Haleiwa is worth a visit to get the small-town atmosphere that is lacking in other tourist-heavy areas.  

Diamond Head is the volcanic tuff cone visible first from your flight landing, and then from the beach in Waikiki.  Diamond Head is probably Hawaii’s most recognized landmark.  It is also known for its hiking trail, scenic viewpoints, and military history. 

The trail to Diamond Head’s summit is .8 miles and is fairly steep and challenging.  The trail features some stairs, switchbacks, and a tunnel.  The elevation gain is about 560 feet.  At the top, you are rewarded with stunning views.  There is now also a reservation system, so this visit must be reserved in advance.   

There is so much more to see and do, but Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, and Diamond Head are some of the top activities to do on Oahu.  There are also plenty of hiking trails, water activities, museums, and historical places to visit.    

Pros and cons of Oahu

Since Oahu is the top destination for visitors, it is probably the easiest to find flights from the mainland.  You can fly direct from many cities in the western United States and Canada, and even from as far away as New York City.  Sadly, the Boston to Honolulu route is no longer available on Hawaiian Airlines, so Bostonians will have to make a connection somewhere.  

Oahu has urban amenities that are not present in other islands.  Since there is a large city, Honolulu, Oahu has a cosmopolitan feel to it.  There are plenty of restaurants, nightlife, and shopping.  

Oahu has a lot of iconic places that visitors want to see, from Waikiki Beach to the North Shore.  There are diverse activities from hiking to historic landmarks to shopping and sunbathing.  There is truly something for everyone here.  

Oahu also has some cons associated with having a large city and overall population.  Traffic congestion is significant.  There is a state highway system, but since there are so many cars going in the same direction, traffic consistently backs up.  Heading into Honolulu in the morning and out of Honolulu in the afternoon can be extremely time-consuming.  

There can also be overcrowding at popular spots.  Patience and planning ahead are key to avoiding crowded attractions.  Some places, like Diamond Head mentioned above, have implemented reservation systems to avoid this.  If you have flexibility, visiting in off-peak months like the spring and fall can be much less crowded and significantly cheaper.

Oahu – Ideal for first-timers, nightlife, and easy access

Oahu is the first choice for many visitors to Hawaii.  Since it offers such a diversity of experiences, it is an excellent choice for those who want to get a taste of the islands.  Depending on your activity level and the time of year, you can stay in hotels or vacation rentals throughout the island.  The island is small enough that you can drive all over the island to visit the attractions on your list. You can read more posts on Oahu here.    

Maui – Best for Honeymoons and Scenic Drives

Why visit Maui

Maui is probably what many people think of when it comes to Hawaii.  It features stunning natural beauty from rainforests to volcanic landscapes.  There are many unique activities to do on Maui, from visiting Haleakala National Park, driving the Road to Hana, seasonal whale watching, and visiting beautiful beaches.    

Top things to do on Maui

The Road to Hana is a scenic 64-mile route that runs from Paia to Hana.  It is famous for its stunning scenery, from waterfalls to black sand beaches.  The numerous curves, one-lane bridges, and hairpin turns make the journey quite an adventure. You can read more about the Road to Hana here.  

Haleakala National Park is a dormant volcano located on Maui.  Haleakala means “house of the sun”.  Many visitors like to come here for the sunrise (reservations required) and sunset.  A scenic road takes visitors all the way to the summit.  There are numerous hiking trails for all skill levels throughout the park. 

Whale watching is a seasonal activity on Maui that visitors absolutely must do.  I wrote a separate post about whale watching here.  During the winter months of November through March, humpback whales venture from Alaska to Hawaii to give birth and teach their calves to swim and breach.  

Maui has many world-class beaches for swimming and snorkeling. 

If you are staying on the west side at Kaanapali, this long 3-mile stretch of sand has many resorts and condos right along the beach.  Black Rock at the end of the beach is a popular spot for snorkeling.    

Makena State Park in South Maui, also known as “Big Beach,” is one of the largest beaches on Maui.  Makena State Park stretches 1.5 miles and is as wide as 100 feet in some places.  Big Beach is less crowded than some of the resort locations.  It is considered one of Maui’s signature beaches. 

Wailea Beach, also in the south, is another beach area with many resorts facing it.  Wailea is an excellent beach for swimming.  There are also restrooms and equipment rentals.  Wailea Beach has a paved beach walk allowing visitors and residents to walk past restaurants, shops, and hotels. 

Hookipa Beach Park on the North Shore of Maui is a world-famous contest venue for professional windsurfing.  Like Oahu, the waves on the North Shore can be massive in the wintertime.  This is also a known spot for sea turtles to bask in the sand.

Waiʻānapanapa State Park on the Road to Hana is another North Shore beach.  This one requires reservations in advance.  This black sand beach offers swimming, snorkeling, and freshwater pools.  

Napili Bay is a known spot for excellent snorkeling on Maui.  Snorkeling is possible here year-round because the bay is protected by a large reef.  Napili has a large sea turtle habitat with many sea turtles visible, especially during the morning and evening hours.  In winter, Napili is a great place to watch for whales right from the shore.  

Pros and cons of Maui

Maui is often called the best overall island to visit because of the wide variety of options for all travelers.  Maui offers luxury resorts, unique beaches, and outdoor activities like Haleakala National Park and the Road to Hana.  Since Maui offers a lot of condos, it is a popular choice for families.  

Maui suffered devastating fires in Lahaina back in 2023.  Many locals were directly impacted or knew someone who was.  Tourism is one of Maui’s biggest industries, but there is also a need to protect this place and allow Native Hawaiians to live and thrive here.  It is essential to be respectful of this beautiful place and the people who live here year-round.  

Another consideration when traveling to Maui is the high costs of food, lodging, and rental cars.  Some areas can be crowded at certain times, like Haleakala at sunrise or the Road to Hana.  Show consideration for locals on the Road to Hana and pull over when someone wants to pass you.  It is likely a local who knows the road and doesn’t want to sit behind a tourist for 64 miles.      

Maui – Ideal for couples, luxury stays, relaxation

Maui is often considered one of the best options for families and couples.  Since Maui offers such a variety of activities, all ages and abilities can find something to do that meets their needs.  Maui is also considered a luxury destination due to the number of high-end resorts here.  Affordable spots are available here, but will require planning in advance and flexibility in travel dates.  Maui’s beaches are also world famous and ideal for relaxation, with many making “best beach” lists over the years.

Big Island – Best for Volcanoes and Variety

Why visit the Big Island

The Big Island has diverse landscapes, including volcanoes, rainforests, and both black and white sand beaches. There are unique activities you can participate in here, like Manta Ray night snorkeling and stargazing at Mauna Kea. There are also many locations with deep historical and cultural significance to Hawaiians.

Top things to do on the Big Island

Volcanoes National Park is probably what Hawaii Island is known for.  Kilauea is known as the world’s most active volcano due to its continuous, frequent eruptions.  Kilauea has been erupting off and on since December 2024.  

Even if you do not go during an active eruption, I can confirm there is much to see and do at Volcanoes National Park.  There are hiking trails, flora and fauna, and lava tubes.  Visitors can hike and drive along the volcanic landscapes, visit the Kilauea Caldera, see steam vents and Sulphur Banks, and walk through the Thurston Lava Tube.  

Visitors to Kilauea are also rewarded with excellent stargazing because of the park’s remote location and high elevation.  At night, the Volcano House restaurant is an excellent place to dine, and it is located right on the crater rim.  Even though I have not been there during an active eruption, I was able to see lava in the caldera from right outside the Volcano House restaurant, glowing red at night.  

Kona coffee is world famous because the rich soil in the region, along with the western slopes, allows for coffee plants to flourish.  Kona coffee is known for its rich flavor profile.  While on the Big Island of Hawaii, you can visit a working Kona farm for a free tour, try samples of coffee brews, and buy some beans to bring home.  

Hawaii Island also has some of the most stunning waterfalls in the Hawaiian Islands.  Akaka Falls State Park features a dramatic 442-foot waterfall that is easily accessible by walking a paved loop trail.  Rainbow Falls in Hilo is another 80-foot-tall waterfall that is free to visit and only a short .1 mile walk.  

Hawaii Island also has many historical sites that visitors can go to in order to learn about Native Hawaiian history and culture.  The Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, or Place of Refuge, is a sacred site that served as a sanctuary for lawbreakers.  Hawaiian royalty also established ceremonial sites here, known as the Royal Grounds.

Waipio Valley is another sacred site that was once home to many early Hawaiian ali’i (royalty).  It was also the boyhood home of King Kamehameha.  Visitors can look down onto the valley from a lookout point, but it is a sacred site only open to Native Hawaiians.  

Read my top Big Island attractions post here.

Pros and cons of the Big Island

The main pro of the Big Island is that it has an active volcano that is an absolute must-see!  There are many unique beaches with black sand as well.  Waterfalls and rainforest climates are mainly on the Hilo side of the island.  The Hawaiian history that you can view here, from petroglyphs to sacred sites, is quite humbling and spectacular.  There is also a possibility that you will see snow here on the peaks of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.  

One of the major cons of the Big Island is that, because of its massive size, you will have to do a lot of driving to visit all of the different sites.  I don’t think this is truly a con, but that should be taken into consideration, especially if your trip is on the shorter side.  

In addition, if you want nightlife, the Big Island probably isn’t for you.  It has a much more sleepy atmosphere compared to Honolulu or even some spots in Maui.  

The Big Island also has a rocky shoreline in many places.  Some resorts, like the Hilton Waikoloa Resort, have many pools and a manmade lagoon instead of a typical beach. 

Another con of the Big Island is that some areas of Hilo are overrun with homeless people, some of whom appear mentally ill.  It is a sad reality of some parts of Hawaii that visitors should be aware of.       

Big Island – Ideal for: explorers, families, nature enthusiasts

The Big Island is ideal for explorers, families, and nature enthusiasts who want to experience diverse landscapes and unique activities. With its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and lush rainforests, the Big Island offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure and discovery. Families can enjoy educational experiences at places like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or the Mauna Kea Observatories. Nature lovers will be in awe of the island’s biodiversity, from the tropical flowers to the marine life in its crystal-clear waters. The Big Island’s size and variety make it perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in Hawaii’s natural wonders and have a truly unforgettable experience.

Kauai – Best for Nature Lovers and Outdoor Adventures

Why visit Kauai

Kauai is known for its stunning natural beauty.  From the dramatic cliffs of the Napili Coast to the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon, there is so much for nature lovers here.  Because Kauai gets far fewer visitors than Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, it has a much more peaceful, serene feel to it.  

Top things to do on Kauai

Waimea Canyon, affectionately referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” was formed through a unique combination of erosion and the collapse of the volcano that created Kauai.  

Waimea Canyon is full of panoramic views of crested buttes and deep valleys.  The main road, Waimea Canyon Drive, leads to lookout points along the canyon where visitors can view the dramatic landscape.  The road ends at Kokee State Park, where there are numerous hiking trails offering scenery of the Kalaula Lookout and the Napili Coast.  

The Napili Coast is a 15-mile stretch of rugged coastline on the northwest side of Kauai.  The Napili Coast is a popular spot to explore by helicopter and boat.  Visitors can view the sea cliffs, valleys, and waterfalls by air or sea.  

The Kalaulau Trail is also a challenging trail that visitors can hike to experience the views from land.  The full trail is considered extremely challenging and requires advanced permits for camping.  Many hikers choose to do the first 2-4 miles of the trail instead, which offer amazing views of the Napili Coast and an inland waterfall.  I have done the first stretch of this trail a few times and consider it a moderate trail, which can get muddy and slippery after heavy rainfall.  Access to the state park now requires advance parking or shuttle purchases as well.   

Hanalei Town has a timeless feel to it.  It is a lovely small town full of historic places and contemporary art galleries.  Hanalei Pier is a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.  Hanalei Pier is famous after being featured in the musical “South Pacific”.  

The North Shore of Kauai features one-lane bridges.  Vehicles must yield to all traffic coming from one side before crossing the bridge.  

The North Shore also has many beautiful beaches.  Be aware that some of these beaches are extremely hazardous for swimming.  Take note of signs and only swim where lifeguards are present.  

Pros and cons of Kauai

The pro of Kauai is that it offers a peaceful, relaxing place for nature lovers.  The island’s size makes it ideal for solo travelers.  I have visited Kauai twice as a solo traveler, and it was easy to drive all around the island, hiking and exploring.  Another pro of Kauai is that it is far less developed compared to other Hawaiian Islands.  It offers a more relaxed environment for that reason.

One of the big cons visitors share about Kauai is that it rains a lot.  Kauai is the wettest of the Hawaiian Islands.  Frequent rain is particularly common in the North Shore areas in the winter months.  However, because of all this rainfall, Kauai is incredibly lush. Since the island is so small, driving to the south shore in Poipu is possible when it is rainy in other parts of the island.

In addition, Kauai’s shores can be rough and dangerous.  You frequently hear about visitors drowning in the waters off Kauai.  Queen’s Bath, a popular hike, has a sign indicating how many drownings have occurred there.  

Kauai – Ideal for hikers, photographers, peace seekers

Kauai is the perfect destination for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience in Hawaii’s natural beauty. The island’s lush landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and diverse ecosystems offer endless opportunities for exploration and capturing stunning imagery. Hikers can traverse the challenging Kalalau Trail along the Napali Coast or explore the numerous trails in Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park. Photographers will find endless inspiration in Kauai’s breathtaking scenery. With its slower pace and emphasis on outdoor activities, Kauai provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to connect with nature and escape the busier tourist areas found on other Hawaiian islands.

How to Choose Which Hawaiian Island Is the Best for You

So how do you choose which of the Hawaiian Islands is best to visit for you?  First, consider your travel goals, budget, and the duration of your stay.

If you are looking for adventure, you can’t go wrong with either Oahu, the Big Island, or Kauai.  On Oahu, you can hike ridgelines, take a surfing lesson, or explore spots where famous movies were filmed.  On the Big Island, you can hike near active volcanoes, in lava tubes, and see waterfalls and black sand beaches.  On Kauai, you can explore stunning scenery from the Napili Coast to Waimea Canyon.

For romance seekers, Maui and Kauai are probably your best bet.  Maui is a top choice for honeymoons with plenty of luxury resorts with spas and restaurants.  Maui also has an abundance of beautiful beaches and scenic drives.  Kauai is ideal for couples seeking a more natural and quiet romantic setting.

Those looking for a family trip can choose Oahu or Maui.  Oahu provides a wide range of family-friendly activities like the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, and Pearl Harbor.  Maui is a good choice for families because it has many resort condos and beautiful beaches.

Maui is known for its swanky resorts and great food, making it a top choice for luxury travel.  There are also options on other islands.  Oahu has resorts that feature luxury spas in areas like Waikiki, Ko Olina, and the North Shore.  

Another thing travelers should take into consideration is their budget and the accessibility of attractions.  Oahu is probably the most budget-friendly island.  Oahu offers a wider range of affordable lodging.  Oahu also has the best public bus system and a new limited rail.  Flights into Oahu are more frequent, offering travelers a better opportunity to score a deal.

The Big Island is also more budget-friendly, with two main regions travelers can stay at: Kona and Hilo.  There are also a lot of condo rentals that offer more of an opportunity to save money on food.  Because of its size, travelers should plan on renting a car here as well.  

Maui and Kauai are a bit more expensive, with Maui being the most expensive.  The prices for Maui rentals are significantly higher than on other islands.  It is also necessary to rent a car here to explore the island.  Kauai has fewer rentals overall, but it is possible to find budget accommodations.  A rental car is also necessary to explore Kauai.    

Visitors to Hawaii should also consider the duration of their stay when choosing a Hawaiian Island.  Oahu is probably ideal for shorter stays of 4-6 days since it offers many attractions in a compact area.  Maui and Kauai are recommended for stays of at least 5-7 days.  The Big Island should be given at least 7 days because of its size and the distance between many of its main attractions.   

Yes, many people choose to visit multiple islands in one trip. This is best when you have a longer vacation (10-14 days). When considering which islands to visit, think about ‘Which of the Hawaiian islands is the best to visit’ to make the most of your time in Hawaii.

My first trip to Hawaii, I flew into Honolulu for two nights, then spent a week each on Maui and Kauai.  At the time, I remember being mesmerized by Waikiki and the resorts there.  Maui felt like a paradise.  Kauai was the least impressive (at first). 

Later, I moved to Oahu and lived on the North Shore and got to experience another side of that island.  I appreciated Oahu more outside the major resort areas.  I also visited Kauai twice as a solo traveler, and it quickly became my favorite island because of its hiking and overall laid-back feel. 

I truly think every Hawaiian Island is worth visiting because they all have something to offer in terms of Hawaiian culture, nature, scenery, and adventure.  So, if you choose to visit one island on your first trip, explore a different one on your next vacation.

Remember to save/bookmark this Hawaii island guide for your next trip!