Dec 8, 20213 min read

Which Hawaiian Island Should You Choose?

Updated: Mar 16, 2022

Tropical Paradise Yes, but so Much More

Waikiki Beach on the Island of Oahu with Diamond Head in the distance — Waikiki Beach on the Island of Oahu with Diamond Head in the Distance

From Volcanoes to reefs, black sand beaches (white, green, and red too) rainforests and coffee plantations, and 80 golf courses, Hawaii has much more than many realize. Let's not forget historical sites such as Pearl Harbor. Most islands are easy to maneuver by car and the best way to see this island. But, how do you decide which Island to see or how many to see? Consider three things 1) what you want to do or see 2) the amount of time you have, and 3) the budget you have set to determine how many Islands to see.

Oahu

Oahu boasts some of the most well know sites from Waikiki Beach, Downtown Honolulu, and Pearl Harbor memorial. Oahu offers great shopping, dining, and of course surfing. The landscape varies with pastureland, a dormant volcano, even the Dole plantation. Get out and explore this wonderful island. This island is great for first-time visitors to the islands and can be a destination alone with so much to do and also leaving time to relax.

Hawai'i

The Island of Hawaii, known to some as the Big Island, is the newest of the islands and has the most diverse terrain of the islands. Rainforests, snowy mountain peaks, molten magma fields, pastureland, and black sand beaches. Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park and Akaka Falls State Park are not to be missed. This island has stunning overlooks, stargazing, and cowboys! This is another great island for first-time visitors and can be a week-long adventure without even leaving the Island.

Kaua'i'

Kaua'i's natural beautify is a site to see. With numerous waterfalls, sea cliffs rising to 4,000 feet, sea caves, water sports, horseback riding, ziplines, and the famous Waimea Canyon, there is much for the nature-lover to do. Not into Nature? Try one of the numerous golf courses, beaches, spas, or shopping perhaps?

Maui Maui is home to luxury resorts, fine dining, boutiques, white-sand beaches, and charming small towns. If you want to see marine life, Maui is where you want to go. In fact, it may be the best place in the world to see whales. Each year, 10,000 to 20,000 humpback whales swim from Alaska to Hawai'i. December through May is your best bet for whales.

Moloka'i

Moloka'i remains much like "Old Hawaii". It is only 38 miles long and ten miles wide. But don't let that deter you from this secluded island, it also has the world's highest sea cliffs and longest continuous fringing reef. Halawa Valley is great for hiking and has a not-to-be-missed 250-foot waterfall named Mo'oula Falls. You'll need a guide to explore the Valley. Papohaku Beach Park has one of Hawaii's largest white-sand beaches.

Lana'i

Lana'i is the smallest inhabited island in the chain and contains ancient rock sculptures, waterfalls, and some of the best spots for snorkeling. Take a hike on a rustic trail or visit the red rocks of Keahiakawelo. Keahiakawelo has no vegetation, no birds, but is a rocky landscape that, when the sun sets, creates beautiful red and purple hues on the rocks. You will need a 4-wheel drive for this one. The Munro Trail is a 1600 ft climb to the top of Mt Lanaihale which stands 3,370 ft. I hope this brief rundown of the Islands helps you decide which Island, or how many Islands are right for you. Don't forget to take in a Luau while there!

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