How To Choose The Right Hawaiian Island For Your Next Vacation

Have your heart set on Hawaii for your next vacation, but not sure which island to stay on?

Hawaii is home to a whopping 137 islands, some of which are more popular with tourists than others.

Whether you are looking for complete rest and relaxation, an abundance of things to see and do or you want to immerse yourself in local culture, you are guaranteed to find the perfect Hawaiian island for your next vacation below.

Oahu – Best for food and fun

If your idea of the perfect vacation revolves around food and fun, then Oahu is the Hawaiian island for you. The most-visited island in Hawaii, Oahu also offers miles of beautiful beaches and forest trails which are great for exploring.

For real foodies, there are so many amazing eateries, with options to suit all budgets and tastes including first-class restaurants, casual food trucks, and everything in between. Plus, if you love to party the night away, Oahu promises a vibrant nightlife.

Kaui – Best for romance

A popular island for honeymooners, Kaui is known for being a romantic hotspot. Also referred to as The Garden Isle, this lush island is filled with green cliffs, shimmering taro fields, and stunning botanical gardens.

Accommodation-wise, there are lots of lavish resorts to choose from which guarantee to make your vacation just that little bit more special.

Big Island – Best for natural beauty

If you want to get away from the crowds and enjoy a quieter vacation, then the Big Island is the Hawaiian island for you. Although still one of the most popular islands in Hawaii, it is much less developed than Maui and Oahu, with the focus very much on natural beauty and heritage.

Immerse yourself in the stories of old kings, gods, and traditions and visit some of the most sacred sites in Hawaii, including Pu’uhonua o Honaunau.

Maui – Best for first-timers

If you have never been to Hawaii before, then the island of Maui is the perfect choice. Easy to explore and with an abundance of beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, this island will help you fall in love with Hawaii and its people.

For the ultimate road trip, drive along the Road to Hana, which boasts one of the most scenic drives in the country. Maui’s main tourist area is the lively Lahaina which is a waterfront town that is lined with restaurants and cafes.

There are also some amazing condo rentals in maui which are great for families and groups, offering luxury accommodation at great prices.

Molokai – Best for an authentic experience

One of the least populated Hawaiian islands, Molokai is a haven for travelers who want to meet native Hawaiians and immerse themselves in local culture.

A quiet island where big tour buses do not exist, Molokai boasts both the world’s highest sea cliffs and Hawaii’s longest continuous fringing reef.

Final thoughts

When choosing the right Hawaiian island for your next vacation, think carefully about the type of experience you and your fellow travelers want.

Still can’t decide? Have you considered extending your trip and visiting multiple islands?