Hawaii: Choosing an Island

Hawaii Photos | Advice to Visitors | Choosing an Island | Guide Books | Itineraries

Because Hawaii consists of eight major islands (six of which you can visit), the first question you must ask when planning your trip is, "What island or islands should I go to?". Each one is very unique in its culture, climate, and activities offered. Although most will have many of the same activities, such as snorkeling or whale watching, I have found that some islands offer vastly better opportunities than others.

To choose which island(s) to visit, you should write down a list of things you absolutely want to do on your trip and determine which islands will have those activities. Also keep in mind your budget, since some destinations are more expensive than others. There are, of course a number of books (see list) that will help guide you as to what are each island's main activities and sights. You should also view my photos of the different islands to help you get acquainted with each island. While this page is not meant to be your only resource in making this decision, it should help you narrow your focus and know what to look for when you flip through your tour books.

Below is a brief summary of the islands. These are all my subjective opinions based on my travels...

The Islands of Hawaii

Oahu	Oahu is by far the most populated of the Hawaiian islands. Honolulu, the state capitol, is the largest city in the state. Oahu is most famous for Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, the great surfing spots on the North Shore, and snorkeling at Hanauma Bay. Oahu is a good choice if you're looking for a vacation that will give you a bit of everything that Hawaii has to offer. There is excellent snorkeling, beaches, whale watching, surfing, nightlife, shopping, hiking, dining, hotels, luau's, museums, etc. Because there are so many hotels, you are sure to find something that will fit into your budget. Also, since most shipments from the mainland go through Honolulu, things tend to be a bit less expensive on Oahu than the other islands (although still significantly more than what you're used to).
Maui	Maui is probably the place you think of when you picture a tropical paradise. It is most famous for "The Road to Hana", waterfalls, whale watching, Haleakala National Park, fancy resorts, perfect sunsets, pristine oceans for snorkeling, etc. However, Maui is also the most expensive island. Most people stay in west Maui on their trip, in either Kihei, Lahaina, or Kaanapali. These have the most beachfront hotels, resorts, restaurants, and stores. They are quite expensive.
Kauai	Kauai is a popular destination as well, but not nearly as much as Maui or Oahu. It is most known for the three-thousand foot sea cliffs of the Na Pali coast, Waimea Canyon (the Grand Canyon of the Pacific), helicopter rides, and beautiful uncrowded beaches in Poipu. It can get expensive though, since there are a limited number of locations you can stay.
The Big Island	The island is called Hawaii, but obviously that's confusing, so it is typically referred to as "The Big Island". The island is huge, and so you also need to decide if you want to stay Kona-side or Hilo-side. Kona and Waikaloa are where all the nicest resorts are, and the weather is best. Hilo is much closer to the volcano and is more affordable, though it rains more often. If you must see a volcano and lava on your trip to Hawaii, this is the only island for you to do that. It is also known for its excellent snorkeling, hiking, Kona Coffee, whale watching, and resorts. The Big Island's geography is defined by its two largest mountains, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, both of which are over 13,000 feet high and will have snow at times during the winter.
Molokai	Molokai receives the least tourists of any island, and has very few of the amenities you'd expect, but is a great destination if you're looking to do something different than the standard Hawaiian vacation. You'll have a harder time finding good books on Molokai, and often it will be included in the Maui guidebooks. Molokai's highlights include the Kalapaupa peninsula and historic leper colony, the mule ride, the highest sea cliffs in the world, and the longest sandy beach in Hawaii (which you might even have mostly to yourself).
Lanai NO PHOTO AVAILABLE	Because I have not been to Lanai, I can't review it. However, its offerings are somewhat limited. You will likely find info on it in the Maui guidebooks.