Best Island to Visit in Hawaii In 2023: How To Choose

The islands in Hawaii are dream-worthy. The range of every isle is fascinating, from pristine seashores to snow-capped mountains and even energetic volcanoes. Hawaii has six main islands – Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, the Big Island, and Oahu. This could make it actually troublesome to select only one.

Each Hawaiian island has a definite character and totally different causes to go to. For occasion, Big Island is dwelling to Volcanoes National Park, so if you need to hike an energetic volcano, select this island. Others are higher identified for luxurious seashore resorts (Maui has significantly luxurious resorts). When choosing the right island to go to in Hawaii, you want to take into account what sort of journey you need.

Hawaiian Islands to Visit in 2023

This information will assist you to select the most effective island to go to in Hawaii. All the islands in Hawaii are stunning, however in a world that often leaves us brief on time and finances, chances are high you want to slim issues down. Let’s discover your match made in heaven.

Regenerative Tourism

One factor that has modified not too long ago is the implementation of Regerative Tourism which went into impact in May of 2022. The concept behind this initiative is two-fold; to give again to the communities on the Hawaiian islands and to handle site visitors and over-tourism challenges going through the state. What this implies for international guests is that you’ll now have to make reservations in advance when it comes to among the hottest areas.

For instance, if you need to go to The Diamond Head Monument for the wonderful views over Waikiki Beach you should have to make a reservation for a 2-hour time slot. Or if you need to watch the dawn at Haleakala National Park, additionally, you will want a reservation which you can also make up to 60 days in advance at recreation.gov. The value for the reservation is $1 and is in addition to the per-vehicle price of $30. But, aside from the dawn viewing interval from 3-7 AM, reservations are usually not required. S

This simply makes planning your journey to the Hawaiian islands slightly extra tedious nevertheless it additionally helps protect these stunning areas for future generations. So, ensure you examine all the major points of interest to see in the event you want reservations so that you don’t miss out. ee the Division of State Parks for openings and closures.

1. Big Island

The Big Island (or Hawaii Island) is the biggest in the archipelago of Hawaiian islands. Many take into account it the most effective Hawaii Island to go to for first-timers, and it’s dwelling to a bunch of gorgeous pure spots. Despite being the youngest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, Big Island is a hub of motion in Hawaii. And at twice the dimensions of all the opposite islands in Hawaii mixed, it’s simple to see the way it obtained its nickname.

Big Island is thought for its volcanoes and exquisite seashores. The island is dwelling to Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park and two energetic volcanoes. If you might be fortunate, there’s even the possibility to spot working lava. Furthermore, there are quite a few inexperienced and black sand seashores to discover. Big Island has a beneficiant sprinkle of the whole lot that makes Hawaii well-known, conveniently slotted right into a single island. If you need someplace with a ‘have it all’ vibe, this Island ticks many packing containers. Plus, it’s the most accessible island to get to, with loads of direct flights from everywhere in the world.

Things to do on The Big Island

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There are so many wonderful issues to do on the Big Island. As we mentioned, this Hawaiian Island has a group of all the most effective issues to do throughout the archipelago, making it an excellent sightseeing and exercise vacation. The first must-do on the Island is to go to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You can embark on wonderful hikes in the park, see working lava (preserve your fingers crossed), and attend instructional occasion applications. It is value mentioning that the mountaineering trails in this nationwide park are among the most stunning in Hawaii, and a few obtained a point out in our greatest hikes in Hawaii information.

Next up, you need to go to the Kula Kai Caverns. The caverns are a community of previous lava caves the place previous eruptions have carved tunnels and passages by way of the rock. The caverns are an perception into the island’s geological historical past and cultural historical past – as indigenous individuals used to use the caverns for shelter and early survival. For an identical expertise on the island’s east aspect, head to Kaumana Caves or Kilauea Caverns of Fire.

Finally, Mauna Kea is a wonderful attraction on Big Island. Mauna Kea is the world’s largest observatory and has 13 totally different telescopes. There are many stunning locations on the bottom, however don’t miss out on wanting to the skies. Stargazing is a phenomenal factor to do when visiting Big Island.

Intrigued by the Big Island? Our article has tons extra exercise concepts on the greatest issues to do on Hawaii Island. Take a search for some extra inspiration. Otherwise, let’s head straight onto your subsequent large determination – the place to keep on Big Island.

Where to keep on Big Island

It goes with out saying that you’re spoiled for alternative when selecting lodging on this island. The Big Island is filled with totally different lodging decisions – from hostels to motels and luxurious resorts. These are our prime solutions.

Speaking of volcanoes, Volcano Inn is an enchanting spot to spend your time on Big Island. The four-star property provides cozy but luxurious quarters on the outskirts of the Volcanoes National Park. The tiny property is fully self-contained, guaranteeing you privateness and peacefulness. With all its picket options, it blends prettily into its rainforest environment and even provides a scorching tub exterior.

Pele’s Hana ‘Ana Hostel is relatively new on the scene, but it has been blessed with glowing reviews. The interior is bright and comfortable, and prices are incredibly reasonable. The hostel is ideal for anyone wanting a budget-friendly place to stay on Big Island. The property is right next door to a cafe, so you can quickly treat yourself to a few meals. It is also ideally located on the east side of the island, just a twenty-minute drive from the volcanoes and the most beautiful hikes.

2. Maui

As the second largest island in Hawaii, Maui is a popular choice for its lively tourist scene and exciting attractions. The island is nicknamed ‘The Valley Isle’. It has been voted the ‘best island in Hawaii’ by the posh journey journal Conde Nast Traveler for over 20 years. Maui is extensively hailed as a incredible place to go to – a dependable indicator that you just’ll have a dreamy expertise visiting Hawaii in the event you select Maui.

Maui has some spectacular points of interest on land and glorious mountaineering trails. It is dwelling to Hawaii’s tallest mountain, Haleakala, the Hana Highway, and a collection of serene waterfall hikes. However, its actual magnificence is in its stunning seashores, wildlife-filled oceans, and idyllic coastal views. Maui has among the greatest seashores in Hawaii and is a whale-watching hotspot. Maui is the place to be if you’re in whale-watching excursions. The island’s surrounding waters include the world’s densest humpback whale inhabitants. Each yr sees over 10,000 whales migrate to the island’s waters. You’ll additionally see false killer and pilot whales if you’re fortunate.

Things to do on The Valley Isle

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It goes with out saying that one of many prime issues to do in Maui is to go whale watching. You ought to go to between November and May to catch a glimpse of whales. And in this era, January to March is the optimum window. Most whale-watching excursions embark from West Maui, dotted alongside the west coast in areas like Kaanapali. Make certain to convey a digicam, as recognizing a humpback whale is actually spectacular and a second you’ll need to cherish perpetually.

Next up is mountaineering in Haleakala National Park. Haleakala National Park is situated in South Maui and is famed for Haleakala. This 10,023-foot dormant volcano marks the best level in Hawaii. From this volcano summit, essentially the most bold hikers can take pleasure in dawn views. It is a type of issues you’ll not neglect and this tour is a good way to do it. It even contains breakfast.

Driving the Road to Hana Highway is one other wonderful suggestion from our listing of issues to do on Maui. The freeway takes round 10 to 12 hours to drive. We recommend renting a automobile with a number of drivers on the insurance coverage so to rotate drivers as you go. Alternatively, select to drive a technique and spend the night time in Hana earlier than returning the following day. The Hana Maui Resort is an effective possibility Check charges and availability.

The Road to Hana is essentially the most well-known drive in Hawaii and among the finest street journeys in the world. The route cuts alongside Maui’s north coast, hugging a coastal freeway that twists and turns by way of jungles, bamboo forests, and previous waterfalls. All the whereas treating you to gorgeous ocean views. Many stop-off factors alongside the best way embody botanical gardens known as the Garden of Eden Arboretum, Waikani Falls, Hana Lave Tube, and a zipline. We have written a whole information on driving the Road to Hana Highway, so be at liberty to get extra inspiration from there.

Where to keep on Maui

Maui is thought for its luxurious lodging and basic resort, so these with an costly style have come to the fitting place. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea doesn’t disappoint and boasts three outside swimming swimming pools, three eating places, tennis courts, and a spa and wellness middle. The rooms are embellished with chic style and loads of pure options like wooden paneling and stone worktops. For a deluxe expertise of staying in Maui, we expect the Four Seasons is your greatest guess.

There are many choices for these wanting mid-range to finances lodging. The island has two major hostels –Howzit Hostels and Tiki Beach Hostel. Howzit Hostels is barely cheaper however situated out of the town middle, whereas Tiki Beach Hostel is dearer however situated in the middle of Lahaina.

Check out our full information on Where to Stay in Maui: The Best Areas and Hotels

3. Kauai

While not as massive as the opposite Hawaiian islands, Kauai makes up in pure magnificence what it lacks in measurement. Kauai is just like the supermodel of the islands in Hawaii, and this island has been featured in numerous Hollywood motion pictures – primarily thanks to its gorgeous Na Pali Coast. Apart from wonderful seashores completely suited to enjoyable seashore days, Kauai has attribute dramatic cliffs and coastal surroundings. The crinkled cliffs of north shore Kauai are world-famous and iconic in their cloaked layer of inexperienced vegetation.

Kauai is nicknamed ‘the Garden Isle’, and judging by the gorgeous pure views, it’s clear to see why. Kauai has jaw-dropping pure surroundings for individuals who need an actual wow issue when visiting Hawaii. It fits guests wishing to spend time outside and discover essentially the most stunning mountaineering trails.

Things to do in Kauai

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You can’t go to Kauai and never see the Na Pali Coast. There are a number of viewpoints alongside this shoreline; you may even take a helicopter tour if you need an thrilling expertise and aerial view. However, the Kalalau Trail is an ideal method to see the Na Pali Coast for outside lovers who like staying energetic. The path is roughly 11 miles lengthy and is rated as a difficult hike, greatest suited to skilled hikers. Because of the terrain, permitting an entire day to full the Kalalau Trail is beneficial. You gained’t thoughts, belief us. The views are so good you may cease for breaks each 30 seconds.

The Kalalau Trail is one in all our prime suggestions in our information to the 16 stunning and greatest hikes in Kauai– which you’ll take a look at for extra inspiration.

Waimea Canyon State Park is the following must-do attraction on Kauai. The park is dwelling to the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific,’ and the phrase Waimea means ‘reddish water’. The colossal canyon is made up of purple rock and patches of lush rainforests, stretching over ten miles and dropping 3,000 ft in depth. There is a community of trails round Waimea Canyon, so you may take your choose from quite a few hikes and expertise it on foot. If you like to drive, there are additionally many drive-up lookouts to benefit from the surroundings.

Finally, crossing Hanapepe Swinging Bridge must be in your itinerary when visiting Kauai. The bridge was constructed again in the early 1900s as a purposeful answer to permit residents to simply cross the river. However, the rickety suspension bridge has change into an iconic landmark on Kauai. You can immerse your self in nostalgia by crossing the slim bridge and snapping photos as you go.

Where to keep on Kauai

Kauai is greatest suited to these on a mid-range to luxurious finances. There are a few hostels, just like the Kauai Beach House Hostel, however primarily three to four-star motels with charges of round $200 per night time. We recommend reserving in advance for lodging on Kauai, as it may possibly shortly promote out and go away you caught if you’re reliant on snagging bargains.

For these wanting luxurious lodging, although, there’s no rush. Kauai has loads of five-star properties to select from, together with Koloa Landing Resort at Po’ipu, by the Autograph Collection. Koloa Landing Resort at Po’ipu is located on Kauai’s south shore and options two large swimming swimming pools with beautiful views. The resort is laid out fantastically with torch-lit stone walkways and landscaped gardens with ponds. And the inside is simply as gorgeous, with floor-to-ceiling home windows in most rooms. Kauai is unquestionably a phenomenal nook of the world, o it is sensible to ebook lodging that maximizes the nice views and suits in with the pure magnificence.

4. Oahu

Oahu is a metropolis; there aren’t any two methods about it. The island’s capital metropolis is Honolulu (on the South Shore), which is suitably nicknamed ‘the Gathering Place’. Oahu is essentially the most populated island in the Hawaiian archipelago, with a residential, extra citified ambiance. Oahu is an action-packed and built-up alternative for these in politics, historical past, and modern-day Hawaii. It can also be dwelling to the Kona International Airport, the primary level of contact for a lot of guests to Hawaii.

Despite being Hawaii’s’ boss’, Oahu additionally has time for downtime. There are loads of sandy seashores and exquisite surroundings dotted across the island. And whereas the south shore is essentially citified, Oahu’s north shore is rather more tranquil – consisting of some coastal cities and Turtle Bay. Oahu is dwelling to plenty of historic and political points of interest. Plus, if you need to escape for just a few days of tranquility, the north coast offers a refuge from the metropolis of Honolulu.

Things to do on Oahu

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Pay your respects on the Pearl Harbor National Memorial Relax on Waikiki Beach Learn about Hawaii’s monarchy at Iolani Palace

As we mentioned, Oahu is filled with political and historic issues to do. One of the island’s main points of interest is visiting the Pearl Harbor memorial. The website commemorates the Pearl Harbor assault of 1941 when Japanese planes rained bullets and bombs down on the ships docked under. The end result was catastrophic. Over 2,403 U.S. personnel died through the strike on Pearl Harbor, and round 21 U.S. warships have been sunk or broken. Now at Oahu, you may go to a museum and study extra concerning the tragedy. It is a must-visit in Oahu, and it speaks to Hawaii’s involvement in WWII. Definitely plan to go to Pearl Harboor while you go to Oahu.

As a bit extra of a light-hearted attraction, Waikiki Beach is a particular on your itinerary when visiting Hawaii. The iconic seashore is backed by rows of palm timber and glitzy high-rise motels and resorts. It is a revered surf spot in Hawaii, and you’ll spot the huge statue of Duke Paoa Kahanamoku alongside the beachfront. It is a good spot to sit and watch the surfers or become involved your self by renting a board or reserving a surf lesson. If you might be extra of a sophisticated surfer then we advise the North Shore.

Speaking of political historical past in Hawaii, Iolani Palace is a crucial vacationer attraction. The Nineteenth-century palace was dwelling to Hawaii’s final monarch. In 1893, U.S. troops overthrew Her Majesty Queen Lili’uokalani and introduced an finish to Hawaii’s royal line. You can study extra concerning the nation’s rightful monarchy at her previous palace, which has been reworked right into a museum for instructional functions.

Would you want some bonus suggestions? We have a whole article on Oahu’s greatest issues to do right here. Jot some down, and also you’ll have a full itinerary in no time.

Where to keep on Oahu

Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani is a incredible resort if you’re chasing luxurious. The four-star property is partnered with the Honolulu Museum of Art and shows stunning art work all through the property. The resort additional options an infinity lap pool, scorching tub, pool bar, and even a backyard with a reflexology path. Fitness fanatics will love the on-site gymnasium and weekly courses. At the identical time, spa lovers can rejuvenate at SpaHalekulani, simply throughout the road.

Polynesian Hostel Beach Club is an effective possibility for extra budget-conscious visitors. This hostel provides dormitory rooms for aggressive costs and is right for solo vacationers wanting to make new mates. Guests can take pleasure in a typical room, barbecue, and laundry services. While slightly dated in sections, the hostel is a good ‘what you see is what you get’ place to keep on Big Island. The location is incredible, too – you might be simply minutes from Kuhio Beach.

5. Lanai

Lanai is without doubt one of the smallest Hawaiian islands. Nicknamed the ‘Pineapple Island’ after its plantation historical past, Lanai as soon as produced 75% of the world’s pineapples. The island is 98% privately owned by Larry Ellison – making it largely a non-public space of Hawaii. Visitors can nonetheless plan journeys to Lanai, although. The island has a handful of luxurious resorts with world-class services, together with a championship-level golf course. It is right for these wanting a quiet however luxurious resort ambiance.

Apart from being an nearly fully privately owned resort island, Lanai has a phenomenal collection of wildlife. You can spot spinner dolphins and turtles alongside its shores. Of course, that is helped by the island’s restricted inhabitants and capped variety of guests. Lanai is only a brief journey from Maui (the islands are 9 miles aside), so it’s simply accessible. Additionally, you may ebook excursions along with your resort, so there are at all times actions and issues to do and see.

Things to do on Lanai

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Lanai is likely to be nearly privately owned, however that doesn’t imply there aren’t a great deal of issues to do on the island for vacationers. In truth, resorts exit of their method to present particular excursions and experiences – so that you gained’t miss out. You’ll most likely have to cease in Maui or Oahu on the best way to Lanai anyway, so consider staying on Lanai as a bonus journey.

The most spectacular panorama on Lanai is the Garden of the Gods. This tiny desert space is like one thing out of Monument National Park or Death Valley; you’ll discover purple rocks and sand in all places. The Garden of the Gods is predicated close to Lanai’s north shore and is greatest explored by 4WD. Just take a look at in case your resort excursions embody this journey.

For a extra basic Hawaiian expertise, Hulopoe Beach provides that tropical paradise vibe. The calm seashore has a quiet ambiance and serene waters which might be excellent for snorkeling or swimming. As a protected marine reserve, additionally it is a hotspot for recognizing wildlife – together with inexperienced turtles if you’re fortunate. Hulopoe Beach is the place to go and chill out on Lanai.

Finally, for the final word splurge, ebook a helicopter tour. You can sightsee the landscapes of Lanai and its neighboring islands, having fun with an unequalled view from the skies. You can examine out a variety of various excursions right here. While for extra inspiration about issues to do in Lanai, take a look at this information.

Where to keep on Lanai

So, the place do you have to keep in Lanai? Your major possibility is the Four Seasons Resort Lanai. This is for guests that don’t draw back from splurging on luxurious lodging, and it’s a top-tier, five-star lodging alternative.

Four Seasons not often permits you to down when it comes to high-quality resorts, and the Lanai chain isn’t any totally different. The property has two outside swimming pools with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean (preserve your eyes out for whales) and personal tropical gardens.

The resort additionally incorporates a championship golf course, three tennis courts, and a non-public observatory for stargazing. The thoughtfulness even begins earlier than arrival, as Four Seasons has a non-public lounge for its visitors at Honolulu Airport. You can take pleasure in meals, drinks, wifi, and concierge companies when you wait on your connecting flight.

Would you like a extra mid-range keep? Tucked away in the middle of Lanai is Hotel Lanai – a simplistic however fairly, fairly priced lodging alternative. The resort has plantation-style rooms and a continental breakfast to take pleasure in every morning. It is a humble retreat with a peaceable ambiance, in contrast to the large resorts close by.

6. Molokai

Molokai is without doubt one of the major Hawaiian islands if you need to make investments in volunteering and serving to in conservation. If you’re looking to become involved with Hawaii’s sustainability applications, not simply go to for a vacation, Molokai is an ideal alternative. The island is especially uninhabited and has among the most distant, remoted areas of nature in Hawaii. It takes its conservation extraordinarily significantly and has designated ‘tourist-friendly’ areas to restrict the harm of over-tourism. We skilled how fragile the Hawaiian ecosystems are, and it’s vastly impactful studying extra concerning the islands’ battle for conservation. Environmental consciousness is important to sustainable tourism in Hawaii, and Molokai is a good place to embrace that.

Molokai has an attention-grabbing, if upsetting, historical past. The island was as soon as a spot of isolation for these affected by leprosy illness. And in 1966, a proper leprosarium was established for affected residents in Hawaii. Nowadays, you may study extra about Hawaiian historical past, tradition, and sustainability initiatives on Molokai. It’s excellent for these wanting a extra moral expertise of the Hawaiian island chain.

Things to do on Molokai

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Go mountaineering in the Molokai Forest Reserve Learn on the Molokai Museum and Cultural Center Go for a seashore stroll at Papohaku Beach Park

Molokai is filled with issues to do. While it’s primarily a countryside island, it has some cultural and pure points of interest. Molokai Museum and Cultural Center is a incredible place to get extra cultural perception into the island. The small museum provides a historical past of Hansen’s illness and the tragedy of leprosy on Molokai. It moreover particulars the historical past of the sugar business on the island, with preserved equipment and industrial areas for you to discover. The Molokai Museum is budget-friendly, too, costing simply $5 per grownup and $1 per scholar.

Of course, you don’t go to Molokai in the event you don’t need to immerse your self in nature. Molokai Forest Reserve is the massive jungle expanse on the island’s east aspect. Visitors can go mountaineering, take a guided tour, and admire protected natural world. Molokai Forest Reserve is a very particular piece of protected land. It holds lots of Hawaii’s cherished species of crops and animals.

Papohaku Beach Park is situated distant on the other aspect of Molokai. While it’s nonetheless remoted and peaceable, this park has a number of extra services. You’ll discover picnic tables, campsites, and a consolation station. The space is simply over 10 acres in measurement. While it’s often too windy for swimming, it’s excellent for lengthy seashore walks. If you might be fortunate, you can even spot whales from the shore.

Where to keep on Molokai

Molokai is slightly restricted in lodging choices. This is primarily as a result of the island isn’t designed to cater to tourism. In truth, it takes a extra sustainable stance in direction of avoiding over-tourism. Therefore, the island provides a collection of mid-range motels, not massive five-star resorts.

Hotel Molokai is a standard lodging alternative well-suited to a mid-range finances. The resort sits on Kamiloloa Beach with oceanfront rooms – be ready to be blown away by the views. While if you need to spend time exterior, the property has a big outside swimming pool. Or alternatively, you may hire scuba diving and snorkeling gear and head to the seashore.

Another possibility in Molokai is Castle Molokai Shores. Castle Molokai Shores provides a collection of oceanfront flats. It is right for these wanting self-catered lodging. Each residence has a completely geared up kitchen with all of the utensils you want. Outside are extra eating services, barbecues, and scenic picnic tables. Each residence comes with a balcony or patio with ocean views as effectively.

Best Hawaiian Island: FAQs

Now that you just’ve discovered your greatest island to go to in Hawaii let’s take a look at some widespread FAQs. This part will present solutions to your most burning questions.

What is taken into account the most effective Hawaiian island to go to?

Kauai is taken into account the most effective Hawaiian Island to go to often. The island has tons of pure magnificence and even has the nickname the ‘garden isle’.

Where ought to I’m going for the primary time in Hawaii?

You ought to go to Big Island for the primary time in Hawaii. The island has essentially the most number of issues to do and see, just like the Volcanoes National Park. Alternatively, go to Oahu, which is dwelling to Hawaii’s capital metropolis and Kona International Airport.

Which Hawaiian island is essentially the most stunning?

Kauai is essentially the most stunning Hawaiian Island. It is filled with dramatic inexperienced cliffs, valleys, and gorgeous mountaineering trails.

Which is best, Oahu or Maui?

Oahu is greatest if you need a busier ambiance, whereas Maui is greatest if you need a quiet, peaceable expertise.

To Conclude

We hope that you just’ve discovered the most effective island to go to in Hawaii. You might go to Pearl Harbor, swim with Hawaiian inexperienced sea turtles, or sunbathe on the well-known Waikiki Beach – Hawaii is your oyster. The Hawaiian islands make a incredible vacation vacation spot.

Even although you’ve chosen the most effective island to go to in Hawaii, it doesn’t imply you may’t see different Hawaiian islands. Check out day journeys out of your island of alternative in the event you really feel further adventurous. For extra inspiration about the place to keep in your island of alternative, you can even check out our detailed information to the most effective lodging in Hawaii.