How to Choose the Best Hawaiian Island to Visit

Millions of people travel to Hawaii every year. They all have different opinions about which Hawaiian Island is the best one to visit. It mainly depends on both one’s budget and preferences. There are a couple of things to pay attention to when choosing the best Hawaiian island to visit and here they are.

I have to mention that all the islands are amazing and you’ll love each and every one of them. We all have different opinions and things we like, but still, I’d like to give you some general tips on choosing a Hawaiian island that suits you best. Check them out.

1. Your Budget

Hawaii woman with flower lei garland of white plumeria

If you’re not one of those lucky few who don’t need to worry about how much they will spend, your budget is probably the most important factor when travelling. However, let me tell you right away that a trip to Hawaii is not cheap. Still, you can save some money on accommodation as well as on food if you choose well.

Lanai is the most luxurious Hawaiian island, so if money is not a factor for you, head straight there. On the other hand, if you do need to save, maybe Oahu is the right choice for you. Any island can be more or less expensive depending on what you want to do and where you want to stay. Make sure you gather as much information as you can before you start your trip. Organize yourself in the best possible way.

2. Your Interests

Surfing beach woman

Choose a Hawaiian island to visit based on the things you would like to do. You may be looking for relaxation and soaking in the sun, or some fishing, diving, surfing, or maybe something different.

If you’re into great beaches, clear waters and warm sun – well, choose whichever you like, they all have great beaches and give you a chance to sunbathe. For great nightlife as well as surfing, snorkeling and all other kinds of water fun – choose Oahu. It’s the home of the famous Honolulu and Waikiki beaches, as well as Pearl Harbor and Sea Life Park. There are a lot of shops and great restaurants, so you’re sure to enjoy it there.

For all those who are into natural beauty and unspoiled nature, the Big Island and Kauai are the places to visit. The Big Island is the home of world’s most active volcano as well as world’s tallest mountain measured from the ocean floor. You can book a helicopter ride above the Kilauea Crater and enjoy the stunning view of the hot sea of lava pouring down. The Big Island also offers unique black and red sand beaches.

Kauai is the island of unspoiled natural beauty, rare flora and miles of beautiful sandy beaches. It is the home of the amazing Emerald Cliffs, famous for its hiking trails as well as hundreds of breathtaking waterfalls.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for some peace and quiet and still want to visit Hawaii, choose Molokai for your destination. The so called “Hidden Island” is the least commercial island on Hawaii. It is never crowded and it is perfect for a restful vacation, but it’s far from being dull. You can enjoy some supreme hiking or even mule riding down some very steep cliffs. Fishing is also an option here. In the evening, there will be no crowd or noise and you will be able to rest and enjoy the island.

3. “Maui no ka oi”

sunset beach on maui island during golden hour

The phrase from this headline is very often heard on the island of Maui. It means “Maui is the best” and that is why Maui is getting a special place in this article.

They call it “the Valley Isle” as well as “the Magic Isle”. Maui usually fulfills the needs of each traveler, which is why it is one of the most visited Hawaiian Islands. It is also one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world – so, if you’re a newlywed, look no further.

Maui is the perfect balance between the crowd and the hustle of the city you will find in Oahu, and the calm and restful country life, characteristic for the Big Island, and Kaui. It has something for everyone. For those looking for an adventure, there’s snorkeling, whale watching, surfing and many other activities. Romantic souls can choose to watch a sunset from a boat, and for families with kids – the Maui Ocean Center was voted one of the best Hawaiian attractions for families.

No matter what you are looking for, Maui can offer it. For more information about all of the great things you can see and do in Maui, visit the official page of the island at www.gohawaii.com. The website also offers info about all the other islands. Check it out before planning your trip.

Hawaii is certainly beautiful. Whichever island you choose to visit, you will have a wonderful time. If you are still indecisive, visit this link. The site offers you a series of 24 questions you need to answer in order to choose the ideal Hawaiian island to visit.

You can easily take a budget vacation to even the most popular destinations on the islands, including Honolulu. Here’s 20 reasons why you should plan to spend your next vacation in Hawaii and ways you can do them on a budget.

If you’ve already visited one of the Hawaiian Islands, please share your experience.

About the author

Sarah

I’m a free spirit who likes to travel, cook and fly. Licensed paraglider pilot, I spend all my spare time flying. In the meantime, I like to share my recipes and travel experiences.

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  • hi, Im 21 years old i won a raffle at the school and its a free trip and i have never been to hawaii and i would like to go. i would most likely be going alone, i would like to go somewhere secluded but also be able to go snorkelling and surfing and all those other things which island would work for that?