Which Hawaiian Island to visit?
Hawaii is therefore not only one single travel destination, but really six different destinations, and each island has its own distinct personality, attractions and appeal.
Oahu
I think Oahu doesn't get enough credit because so many people just stay in Waikiki when they come here and think that Waikiki is Oahu. If you take the time to explore the island, Oahu is actually one of the most diverse and beautiful of the islands. I live on the quiet, windward side in a small beach town called Kailua. I'll argue that Lanikai Beach, with the famous Mokulua Islands in the background, is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
If you come to Oahu, you'll most likely be staying in Waikiki, and I definitely suggest renting a car for at least one or two days to explore the north shore and east coast. In addition to Waikiki Beach, the best known stretch of sand in the world and where you can shop, eat, sun, dance, and do basically any activity you desire, the island also offers rainforests, valleys and canyons, waterfalls, coral reefs, gold-sand beaches and mountains nearly a mile high. The north shore has stretches of Pineapple Fields and the Dole Pineapple Plantation, world-class surfing, funky little towns, as well as the Polynesian Cultural Center with a nightly luau and show.
Maui
For first time visitors to Hawaii, I'd definitely recommend Maui, also known as the "Magic Isle" or "Valley Isle". Consistantly voted by travelers as one of the best islands on the planet Maui has it all - from dormant volcanoes to waterfalls, valleys to lush rainforests, miles of beautiful beaches and lively coral reefs, luxury resorts to moderately-priced condos. Maui is truly the ideal tropical paradise.
The lively, little town of Lahaina is sprinkled with cute shops, gourmet restaurants, galleries, fun night spots and bars. The northern shore of the island has excellent surfing and kite boarding and the world-famous "Jaws" breakline. The well-known Road to Hana is a scenic 3-hour drive to the sleepy town of Hana. The west side of the island is home to the vast West Maui Mountains and Haleakala Crater. A trip to the crater during sunrise or sunset is a must - you really feel like you're on the moon!
Maui has more miles of swimmable beach than any other island in Hawaii, and you're sure to find a perfect spot to sunbathe, snorkel, or just relax. And although there are endless options for activities and fun, a secluded beach or cove is never hard to come across.
Kaua'i
The "Garden Isle", also known as the
"Island of Discovery", Kaua’i is the oldest of the major Hawaiian
Islands. If you’re looking for unsurpassed tropical beauty and a
really laid-back, "island-style" atmosphere, this is the island for you. The Na Pali
Coast on the northwestern shore is absolutely breathtaking and magical, comprised of
steep 3,000-foot cliffs, beautiful bays, beaches and caves that are
only accessible by boat or hiking several miles. Helicopter tours also allow you to view the Na Pali from the air.
Other areas of the island have lush valleys, taro fields, waterfalls, picturesque resort communities, heiaus (ancient Hawaiian temples), palm-tree lined beaches, and old sugar plantation towns. On the west side of the island you can find Waimea Canyon, the 10-mile long "Grand Canyon of the Pacific.) Kaua’i also has plenty to offer in regards to activities, including golf, shopping, dining, movies and more, but it also carries a very "untouched" feel as well.
Hawai'i (the Big Island)The Big Island is actually named "Hawai’i," but everyone calls it the "Big Island" to avoid confusion with the name of the entire chain of islands. The Big Island is home to the only active volcano, and has an amazing range of climates and geological landscapes. You can theoretically ski and surf in the same day if the conditions are right! The contrasts on the island are amazing!
The Kohala Coast, on the northwestern side, is where you want to stay if you’re looking for white-sand beaches and perfect weather. The many luxury resorts located here offer world-class golf courses as well. Kailua-Kona and Keauhou are the more economical resort areas located more south on the west coast, and these areas are oceanfront on lava rock, with some of the world’s best snorkeling and deep-sea fishing. Kailua-Kona is a cute little town with restaurants, shops, and nightlife.
The sleepy and rainy town of Hilo is on the windward (east) side of the island, and only 40 minutes from Volcanoes National Park, where you can hike to see lava flowing into the sea.
The Big Island is famous for its excellent Kona Coffee, macadamia nuts, and orchids. Organic farms are abundant throughout the island. And you probably didn't know that Hawaii has real cowboys, called "Paniolo," and you can find them here as well at Parker Ranch.
The Big Island is like one big playground, and if you're adventurous, the possibilities for exploration are endless.
Molokai
A trip to Moloka’i is like a step back in time. If you really want privacy, seclusion, and quiet, you’ll find it here The island doesn’t have any stop lights, tall buildings, or night clubs, but it’s rich in cultural history and there’s plenty of natural beauty to explore - the world’s tallest sea cliffs, Hawaii’s tallest waterfall, coral reefs, fishponds, gorgeous valleys, white-sand beaches and sand dunes. The closest you’ll get to a city is the main town of Kaunakakai, a one-street town with a fishing wharf, gift shops and boutiques.
Lana'iLana’i is the other option if you’re really looking for privacy, seclusion, and quiet. However, the seclusion on Lana'i is luxurious rather than rustic like on Molokai, and this is evident as well in the difference in price. Lana’i only has two resorts, both gorgeous 5-star properties owned by Four Seasons. If you want to spend your days playing golf on superb courses, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and pampering yourself in luxury, Lana’i is a great choice. The island also appeals to adventure seekers, with plenty of snorkeling and diving opportunities, hunting, hiking, archery, sporting clays, horseback riding and four-wheeling.
I hope that helps you decide where you want to begin your Hawaiian adventures!
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What a great way to break down the Hawaii experience for thhose who are not familiar with all its splender. Everyone knows of the hot spots but this vacation experience specialist obviously knows how to really capture a true Hawaii experience. Know if I could only afford to go on a vacation....
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