Regardless of whether you’ve traveled to the Hawaiian Island chain before or not, often one of the most difficult decisions you have to make is deciding which of the major Hawaiian Islands - Hawaii (Big Island), Maui, Lana’i, Moloka’i, Oahu & Kauai - or which combination of them, offer the type of adventure and/or relaxation opportunities you seek.
This month, we’re breaking down some of the top activities on each island to help you narrow down your search and have an unforgettable time in your dream destination.
Larger than all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined, the Big Island is the place to go if you’re looking for rugged, natural beauty without the massive crowds, and don’t mind spending hours in the car to see it all.
When vacationing on the Big Island, be sure to take a tour of the various sites in and around Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, reopened in September 2018, to explore attractions like the Crater Rim Drive Tour, Chain of Craters Road and several surrounding hiking trails.
Additionally, don’t miss an opportunity to visit one of only four green sand beaches - Papakolea Beach - in the world, located in the Ka’u district and accessible by a drive followed by a 2 1/2 mile hike. Head out early to beat the crowds, and don’t forget your sunscreen, snacks and water.
World famous for its resident population of manta rays, Kona is the spot to be to see these majestic creatures in person. Sign up for a night dive to Garden Eel Cove with one of the area’s many snorkel and dive companies, and watch in awe as these gentle creatures cruise by, just inches away.
MAUI
While it’s difficult not to fall in love with all things Maui (call us partial, if you like), it’s even harder to choose which Valley Isle activities we love the best.
For starters, no trip to Maui is complete without a making one of the world’s best road trips: the Road to Hana. With endless tropical beauty, from waterfalls to rainforest hikes, bamboo forests, banyan trees, underground lava tubes, freshwater sea caves, black sand beaches, ocean cliffs, tropical gardens and more, your eyes and sense of adventure will surely thank you for the effort.
Because of the shallow channel of water between Maui and its neighbor island of Lana’i, it’s also a favorite playground for Hawaii’s annual population of humpback whales, many of which come to Maui to give birth and teach their young how to swim. Head out on a whale watching boat tour for the best views during the months of November to April.
Finally, make time to explore the 10,023 foot summit of Haleakala National Park during a spectacular sunrise or sunset session above the clouds. For adventurous travelers, a leisurely 26 mile downhill bike ride through Upcountry is the perfect way to see more of the surrounding landscape.
LANA’I
One of the lesser visited Hawaiian Islands, the dramatic and underrated beauty of The Pineapple Isle can be seen by taking a quick and scenic ferry ride from Maui’s Lahaina Harbor to Lana’i.
After arriving on Lana’i, take a quick walk to Hulopoe Bay to enjoy a snorkel or swimming session (when wave conditions allow), and views of the stunning Sweetheart Rock just nearby.
Enjoy a leisurely golf game at the Four Seasons Resort’s Manele Golf Course, or get dusty during a 4x4 trekker tour, UTV ride or horseback ride to some of the island’s most accessible and coolest remote areas.
MOLOKA’I
Dubbed ‘The Friendly Isle,’ Moloka’i is the quietest and most authentically Hawaiian option of the island chain. If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and relax in solitude, Moloka’i offers a world class opportunity to do so.
Learn a bit about Molokai’s rough history as a former banishment ground for those affected with Hansen’s Disease (leprosy) during a scenic, steep and challenging 3 1/2 mile guided hike to Kalaupapa National Historical Park. Keep in mind that visitors under age 16 are not allowed, and a permit to visit must be secured through Damien Tours LLC before your arrival.
Because Moloka’i is home to the world’s tallest sea cliffs, the best way to see them is by helicopter during a combined tour of West Maui and Moloka’i.
An additional guided cultural hiking tour to Halawa Valley is always a good bet, but really, chances are you came to Moloka’i to do a whole lot of nothing and soak in the scenery.
OAHU
By far the most popular - and populated - of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu is a cultural melting pot that offers something for every kind of traveler.
While possibly one of the most touristy activities on the list, it’d be a shame to come all the way to Hawaii without riding at least one wave in the heart of the action: Waikiki Beach. Sign up for a surfing lesson with a local instructor, or head to the north shore to sit back and watch the pros in action at famous surf spots like Waimea Bay or Banzai Pipeline.
Pay your respects while brushing up on your WWII history with a tour of Pearl Harbor - including visits to the USS Battleship Missouri, USS Arizona Memorial, Pacific Aviation Museum and USS Bowfin Submarine - or get lost in the beauty of Oahu’s marine life during a snorkel at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve.
Finally, learn more about Hawaii’s history and culture during a visit to Iolani Palace, which formerly served as the official royal residence for members of the Hawaiian Kingdom.
KAUAI
Last but not least, Kauai - also known as The Garden Isle - offers stunning lookouts, outdoor adventures and plenty of photo opportunities for travelers seeking tranquility, lush landscapes and a bedtime before midnight.
Whether you choose to see it by hiking the 11 mile Kalalau Trail, paddling a kayak or joining a catamaran or helicopter tour, seeing the intense beauty of Kauai’s Na Pali Coast is an absolute must.
Called the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific,’ visitors also won’t want to miss the views at Waimea Canyon State Park. With waterfalls, rainbows, lookouts and and plenty of activities to keep you occupied, from hiking trails to fishing and picnic grounds, this area makes for a stunning day trip.
The largest bay on the north shore, cruise to Hanalei Bay to enjoy miles of sandy beach, mountain views, boutique shopping, food trucks and ideal swimming conditions in calmer summer months.