Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit?

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• About Oahu
• About the Big Island
• About Maui
• About Kauai
• FAQ About Picking a Hawaiian Island to Visit

If it’s your first time visiting Hawai’i, picking the right island can feel a bit overwhelming. Each one offers its own unique mix of landscapes, activities, costs, and ease of getting around.

But don’t worry—you’re in the right place! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the four main Hawaiian islands to help you figure out which one fits your travel style best.

And once you’ve picked your island, Shaka Guide is here to help you explore it like a pro.

With self-guided audio driving tours for O’ahu, Maui, Kaua'i, and the Big Island, you’ll discover must-see attractions, hidden spots, and stories that bring Hawaii’s culture and history to life.

Whether it's your first trip or your fifth, we’ll make sure it’s unforgettable.

How to Choose the Perfect Island for Your Hawaiian Vacation

Ka‘ena Point | Photo by Joshua Ness theexplorerdad, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Choosing the perfect Hawaiian island to visit really comes down to your budget and what you’re hoping to get out of the trip.

Want to hike volcanoes? Lounge on quiet beaches? Save a few bucks?

In this travel guide, we’ll explore what each of the main islands has to offer, so you can choose the one that is the best fit for you and your family.

About Oahu

Honolulu Hawai'i| Photo by tommy143 via Pixabay

Oʻahu is the most bustling and developed of all the Hawaiian Islands—and it’s packed with things to do!

Whether you’re swimming at world-famous Waikiki Beach, hiking up Diamond Head, exploring the historic sites of Pearl Harbor, or watching surfers tackle waves on the North Shore, Oʻahu offers a little bit of everything.

With more visitors flocking to this island than any other, it’s no wonder O’ahu is called “The Gathering Place.”  

Beaches on Oahu 

Hanauma Bay

Oʻahu is a beach lover’s dream, offering everything from calm waters for swimming to world-class waves for surfing. 

For snorkeling, Hanauma Bay can’t be beat—but be sure to book ahead, as advance reservations are required.

Check out Shaka Guide’s Hanauma Bay Reservations - Everything You Need to Know.

If you're more into sunbathing or swimming, Waikiki Beach is a favorite, with its soft sand and stunning views of Diamond Head.

For a quieter escape, head east to the beautiful beaches of Kailua or Waimānalo on the Windward Side, or explore the peaceful lagoons of Ko Olina on the island’s southwest side.

Want to spot sea turtles or catch a picture-perfect sunset? Head to the North Shore.

During the winter, the North Shore is also home to some of the best surfing conditions in the world and hosts several major surfing competitions, including the famous Billabong Pipemaster and Eddie Big Wave competitions. 

Hikes on Oahu 

Diamond Head

Looking to get out in nature while you're on Oʻahu? Hiking is a great way to do it—and there are trails for every type of explorer!

A great place to start is the famous Diamond Head hike, which offers incredible views and a bit of a workout, too.

Just make sure to reserve your spot in advance—it’s a popular one. 

You can find all the details in Shaka Guide’s Diamond Head Reservations - What You Need to Know. It’s one of the first stops on our East O’ahu Shoreline Drive tour!

Oʻahu has plenty of other scenic trails to check out. Some of our other favorite hikes on Oʻahu include:

• Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail - We’ll take you to this scenic coastal hike on our East O’ahu Shoreline Drive.
• Manoa Falls - Explore this spectacular jungle waterfall on our Honolulu Backyard Rainforest Tour.
• Koko Crater Tramway - This epic climb is not for the faint of heart. But the views are oh, so worth it!
• Aiea Loop Trail - Enjoy a forested hike along a ridge above Halawa Valley with views of O’ahu’s southern coastline. 

Before you hit the trail, don’t forget the essentials! Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and mosquito repellent—Hawaiian hikes can be sunny and buggy.

And while flip-flops are great for the beach, you’ll want sturdy shoes for the trail.

One more thing: always check the weather and trail conditions before you go, just to be safe!

RELATED: O'ahu Hikes That Give Stairway to Heaven a Run for Their Money

Shopping on Oahu

If shopping is on your vacation to-do list, Oʻahu has you covered! From big-name brand stores to charming local boutiques, there’s something for every style and budget.

Need to stock up on snacks or gas? Costco’s a great choice. In fact, the Iwilei Costco in Honolulu is the busiest Costco in the world!

Want to browse a wide variety of stores? Head to Ala Moana Center, the world’s largest open-air shopping mall.

And if you’re hunting for fun souvenirs, you’ll find plenty of tourist shops in Waikiki and all along the North Shore. 

Historic Sites on Oahu

USS Arizona Memorial

If you are a history buff, O'ahu is the island for you! From museums to memorials, you’ll find plenty of places that bring the past to life. 

For World War II fans, there are a number of memorable sites on O'ahu where you can dive into WWII history. Here are some of the top spots to check out: 

• Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
• USS Arizona Memorial 
• Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
• Battleship Missouri
• National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl Cemetery)

RELATED: Shaka Guide’s Pearl Harbor Travel Guide.

Want to learn more about Hawaii’s unique history and vibrant culture? Check out one of O'ahu’s museums and gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Hawaii’s people and past:

• ‘Iolani Palace - Tour the home of Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs. 
• Queen Emma’s Summer Palace - Visit the summer retreat of Hawaii’s Queen Emma.
• Bishop Museum - Explore Hawaii’s unique cultural and natural heritage.
• Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives - Learn about the impact of the first missionaries to Hawai'i in the 1800s.
• Hawai’i Plantation Village - Explore this recreation of a plantation village to learn about Hawaii’s unique multi-ethnic heritage.

Special Experiences on Oahu

Kualoa Ranch

If you’ve got the time and budget, Oʻahu offers some unforgettable experiences that are truly one-of-a-kind.

Treat yourself to a traditional luau, go on a movie tour or off-road adventure at Kualoa Ranch, immerse yourself in Pacific Island culture at the Polynesian Cultural Center, or explore the famous Dole Plantation.

These activities will give you a deeper connection to O’ahu and create memories to last a lifetime!

Advantages of Visiting Oahu

O’ahu has something for everyone–from scenic beaches and historic landmarks to an incredible foodie scene and bustling nightlife. It's a great island for first-time visitors who want to get a taste of Hawai’i.

In general, getting to O’ahu is easier than getting to some of the other islands. With a major international airport in Honolulu, there are direct flights to O’ahu from most major cities.

If you’re watching your budget, O’ahu is a smart choice! When it comes to cost, visiting O’ahu is comparatively less expensive than the other islands.

There are also significantly more options for accommodations on O’ahu, from budget-friendly economy hotels to luxury resorts with all the amenities. 

While the cost of renting a car is roughly the same on all the islands, one advantage to staying on O’ahu is that it has an extensive public transportation system. This means you have other options if you don’t want to rent a car.

Dining out? O’ahu offers a ton more options than the other islands. From local hole-in-the-wall cafes and food trucks to renowned restaurants, O’ahu is a foodie heaven!

And if you plan to dine in, the price of groceries on O’ahu, while high compared to the mainland, is less than on the outer islands. The same goes for the price of gas.

Disadvantages of Visiting Oahu

While the abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions means more options and generally lower prices than the other islands, it also means more visitors like a ton.

And more visitors means beaches and attractions can get annoyingly crowded, especially during peak tourist season. 

O’ahu also has the largest population, with nearly one million residents sharing this relatively small living space.

So traffic, especially on the North Shore and on the highways during rush hour, can be a nightmare.

If you are hoping to get away from the crowds on your Hawaiian vacation, we suggest you visit O’ahu during the off-season or choose another, quieter island.

A Quick Overview of Oahu

We recommend O’ahu if you are a first-time visitor, traveling on a budget, want to visit famous sites like Waikiki and Pearl Harbor, or just enjoy the mix of city and island life.  

About the Big Island 

Flowing lava from a volcano | Photo by skeeze

The Island of Hawai’i, also known as the Big Island, is not only the largest island in the state of Hawai’i–it’s the largest island in the entire United States. And it’s still growing!

Out of the five shield volcanoes that make up the island–Kohala, Hualalai, Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Kilauea–four of them are considered active.

So, if you want a chance to visit a volcano–and maybe see one in action–then the Big Island is the place to be! 

Here, you can visit the most active volcano in the world, Kilauea, as well as stargaze atop the tallest volcano in the world—measured from base to summit—Mauna Kea. 

And that’s not all. The Big Island is one of the most ecologically diverse places on Earth. Within a day’s drive, you can encounter:

humid tropical rainforests,

• deserts
• rolling grasslands
• sandy beaches
• and even polar tundra!

If exploring diverse landscapes sounds like your kind of vacation, then the Big Island is the isle for you. 

Viewing Volcanoes on the Big Island

Want to experience a volcano up close? The Big Island has you covered.

At Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on the island's southeast side, you can hike through a rainforest and across a hardened lava lake, view steam vents, traverse Kilauea’s summit caldera, and walk through a lava tube.

Shaka Guide’s Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park tour guides you through this fascinating volcanic landscape with history and legends.

On the other side of the island, Mauna Kea offers incredible stargazing opportunities with its high elevation and clear night sky.

Experience this mountain-top location on our North Island Jungle Adventure Loop or our South Island Epic Coastal Journey.

Beaches on the Big Island

Hapuna Beach

The east side of the island, in and around Kona and Waikoloa, features some of the island's most popular beaches.

Hapuna Beach and Maniniowali Beach (Kua Bay), north of Kona, are known for their pristine sand and fantastic snorkeling.

We’ll take you to some of the Big Island’s best swimming and snorkeling spots on our Kona Big Kahuna Loop tour. 

For a unique experience, you can also visit Punalu’u Black Sand Beach on the island’s south side on our South Island Epic Coastal Journey.

Hikes on the Big Island

Akaka Falls

If you’re looking for memorable hikes on your Hawai'i vacation, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a place you won’t want to miss!

This fascinating volcanic landscape offers some of the best and most unique hiking experiences on the island!

There, you can walk through a lava tube, hike down into a crater, explore the power of past volcanic eruptions on the Devastation Trail, and visit ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs.

Learn about these trails and more on our Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park tour.

Other popular Big Island hikes showcase the island’s diverse landscapes:

• Onomea Trail - This breathtaking coastal hike is featured on our North Island Jungle Adventure Loop tour.
• Akaka Falls - Stroll a short paved trail to this spectacular waterfall—also included on our North Island Jungle Adventure Loop tour.
• Pololu Valley Hike - Hike into this beautiful coastal valley with a black sand beach on our Kohala Coast Backcountry Tour.

Shopping on the Big Island

The Big Island is the second least rural, having two major towns with lodging, shops, and commercial airports. 

The two major cities on the Big Island are Kona on the island’s sunny west side and Hilo on the island’s rainy and lush east side.

You’ll find major stores and shopping malls in both towns, but they each have their own flavor.

Kona is definitely a tourist town and offers a variety of shops and boutiques that cater to visitors.

Hilo’s historic downtown is a fun place to explore, featuring centuries-old wooden storefronts housing shops, art galleries, restaurants, and cultural sites.

And, as you travel around the island, you’ll find small local shops selling everything from homegrown coffee, baked goods, and honey to other made-in-the-Big Island products. 

Historic Sites on the Big Island

The Big Island is home to many historic Hawaiian sites, including ancient temples called heiau and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, a sacred place of refuge.

You'll also find important battlefields and Kealakekua Bay, where Captain James Cook met his fateful end.

All of Shaka Guide’s Big Island tours include stories about the island’s past, but if you want a deep dive into Hawaiian history, we highly recommend our Kona Big Kahuna Loop tour!

Special Experiences on the Big Island

If you’re looking to add something truly memorable to your island vacation, the Big Island has plenty to offer.

Enjoy helicopter rides, ziplines, dinner cruises, or a magical manta ray night snorkel adventure.

A Quick Overview of the Big Island

Overall, the Big Island is a good middle ground between remote and accessible. It offers a wide range of landscapes and activities for all ages.

Where else can you swim at the beach in the morning and stargaze on the tallest mountain in the world that same night?

Finally, if you’re specifically hoping to see lava, the Big Island is home to Kilauea, which has been erupting on and off for most of the last three decades.

If you happen to visit when the volcano is awake, you’ll be treated to a magical experience like no other!

About Maui

Black Black Sand Beach in Maui | Photo by kdvandeventer via Pixabay

The beautiful island of Maui is about the same size as O’ahu but receives almost half as many visitors.

The local population is also quite a bit smaller than O’ahu’s, giving it a less crowded feel than the main island.

Maui definitely has a more touristy vibe than Kaua'i or the Big Island, but the scenery and landscape are some of the most stunning of all the islands!

Cruise the famous Road to Hana, catch the sunrise or sunset at the top of Haleakala, or soak in the sun at one of Maui’s spectacular beaches.

Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, you’ll find it on the “Valley Isle.”

Beaches on Maui

Kāʻanapali Beach

Maui boasts a whopping 30 miles of beaches! And many of these are great for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing.

So, if you’re looking to hop from beach to beach, Maui is an ideal vacation destination.

Many of Maui’s best beaches are on the west shore at Ka’anapali and Kapalua.

Our West Maui Coastline Tour features some of these fantastic snorkeling and swimming spots.

You’ll also find a few great beaches on the famous Road to Hana. The black sand beach at Wai’anapanapa State Park is a favorite—but be sure to book ahead as advance reservations for entry and parking are required.

For all the details, check out Shaka Guide’s Wai’anapanapa State Park Travel Guide - Black Sand Beach on Maui. 

Hikes on Maui

ʻĪao Valley State Monument

Maui offers a variety of hikes from coastal trails and jungle treks to fascinating volcanic landscapes atop Haleakala! Some of our favorites include:

• ‘Iao Valley State Park - Walk up the short trail to gaze at the ‘Iao Needle, a 2250-foot rock pinnacle rising from this beautiful, misty valley. It’s one of the first stops on our West Maui Coastline Tour.
• Haleakala Sliding Sands Trail - You don’t need to hike far on this trail to experience Haleakala’s unique volcanic landscape. We’ll guide you there on Shaka Guide’s Haleakala Sunrise or Sunset tours.
• Pipiwai Trail - Explore the beauty of the rainforest and waterfalls at Haleakala National Park at Kipahulu on our Classic Road to Hana Tour.

Scenic Drives on Maui

Road to Hana

If you enjoy scenic drives, Maui has some pretty epic ones! The most famous has got to be the Road to Hana.

Explore this stunning coastal highway with turn-by-turn directions, stories, and travel tips on one of our popular Road to Hana driving tours.

And did we say banana bread? You’ll find some of the tastiest island banana bread on the Road to Hana!

The West Maui Coastline and the road up to the summit of Haleakala are also must-do scenic drives on this beautiful Valley Isle.

Special Experiences on Maui

Looking for more adventure? On Maui, you can skydive, zipline through the jungle, or explore a lava tube cave!

There are beautiful botanical gardens, farm and plantation tours, and Maui Ocean Center, one of the top aquariums in the nation.

These are just a few of the unique experiences you can enjoy when you visit Maui. 

A Quick Summary of Maui

The Valley Isle offers visitors everything from luxury resort vacations to epic scenic drives and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Its beauty and charm are renowned.

The one drawback to visiting this island is the high cost. Hotels are generally upwards of $400, and you'll be hard-pressed to find something on the inexpensive side.

However, if budget is not a consideration, or if you prefer a more touristy destination with all the resort amenities, Maui is the perfect choice.

It’s also perfect for hikers, beach lovers, honeymooners, and families.

For those lucky enough to live on this island, there’s no comparison. As the locals say, “Maui no ka ‘oi!” or “Maui is the best!” And they aren’t wrong.

About Kauai

Napali Coast Kaua'i Nawiliwili | Photo by kdvandeventer

If you want to escape the crowds and move at a slower pace, then Kaua’i is the island for you!

Not only does this island receive the fewest visitors, but it’s also the most laid-back.

But what really makes Kaua'i stand out is its breathtaking scenery.

From the majestic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast and spectacular canyons of Waimea to its pristine white-sand beaches and lush valleys, the Garden Isle is rich in natural beauty.

So, if you’re all about the outdoors and adventure, you can’t go wrong with Kaua'i! 

Beaches on Kauai

Poipu Beach

If you love beaches, then Kaua‘i’s North Shore is the place for you!

From snorkeling at Tunnels and Anini Beach to swimming and sunbathing near Hanalei, it’s perfect—especially in summer.

On our North Shore Kaua'i Driving Tour, we’ll show you all the best spots! 

You’ll also find several popular beaches, like Lawa’i Beach, Poipu Beach, and Shipwreck Beach on Kauai’s south shore.

You can explore these beaches—and maybe even spot a sunbathing sea turtle—on our Poipu and Koloa Driving Tour.

Hikes on Kauai

Kalalau Trail

There’s no doubt about it—the epic Kalalau Trail on the Na Pali Coast is one of Kauai’s bucket list hikes!

Featuring dramatic views of the rugged Na Pali Coast and Pacific Ocean, this popular trail at Ha’ena State Park requires advance reservations for entry and parking (and a camping permit if you plan to overnight).

For reservation details, check out our North Shore Kauai Driving Tour Itinerary.

The Na Pali Coast is just one of many spectacular places to explore on the Garden Isle. Check out these other beautiful trails on Kaua'i:

• Canyon Trail at Waimea Canyon - As the name suggests, this trail offers stunning views of Waimea Canyon. We’ll guide you there on our Waimea and Na Pali Driving Tour.
• Sleeping Giant Hike West Trail - Enjoy sweeping views of Kapa’a Town and the coast on our Wailua Valley and Waterfalls Tour. 
• Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail - This trail offers stunning panoramic views of the coast and the ancient Pa’a Sand Dunes. You’ll find it on our Poipu and Koloa Driving Tour.

Shopping on Kauai

While Kaua'i isn’t as touristy as O’ahu or Maui, you’ll find plenty of quaint stores, galleries, and gift shops on the island.

Pick up a Kaua'i red dirt shirt or try some local grinds (eats) in one of Kauai’s charming small towns:

• Koloa
• Hanalei
• Kapa’a, and 
• Hanapepe

Historic Sites on Kauai

Wailua Valley

If you’re interested in Kauai’s rich culture and history, we highly recommend visiting the Wailua Valley.

There, you'll find ancient Hawaiian temples called heiau and the Royal Birthstones where Kauai’s kings were born.

Other historic sites include:

• Kaneiolouma Cultural Complex - Stop by this ancient Hawaiian fishing village on our Poipu and Koloa Driving Tour.
• Makauwahi Cave - Tour this ancient limestone cave, one of the richest fossil sites in Hawaii! Also on our Poipu and Koloa Driving Tour.
• Pa’ula’ula (Russian Fort) - Learn the fascinating backstory about this old Russian Fort and home of Kauai’s last king on our Waimea Canyon and Na Pali Driving Tour.

Special Experiences on Kauai

Want to do something truly remarkable on your vacation? Save up your dollars and splurge on one of Kauai’s unique island adventures! You can:

• Take a helicopter ride to visit a secluded waterfall
• Cruise the coast on a Na Pali Boat Tour
• Enjoy a Kipu Ranch Adventure
• Kayak to Secret Falls
• Enjoy a horseback riding adventure along the coast, 
• And so much more! 

RELATED: Things to Do on Kaua'i

Quick Overview of Kauai

If you’re looking to get away from the daily grind, Kaua’i is the natural choice for you! On this laid-back island, you can truly relax and enjoy the beauty of Nature’s handiwork.

Just watch out for those chickens!

FAQ About Picking a Hawaiian Island to Visit

Hawai'iBeach | Photo by Flotograph via Pixabay

Best Hawaiian Island for Families?

Oʻahu is the best Hawaiian island for families. It offers kid-friendly beaches, beginner surf lessons, and fun attractions for all ages. Adults can explore historical sites, learn about Hawaiian culture, and visit important World War II landmarks.

Most Affordable Hawaiian Island?

Oʻahu is the most affordable Hawaiian island to visit. It offers cheaper lodging, dining, and transportation compared to other islands. Thanks to more hotels, restaurants, and activities, prices stay low through competition. Oʻahu also has plenty of free or budget-friendly things to do.

Best Island in Hawaii for Beaches?

Maui is the best Hawaiian island for beaches, offering calm waters, stunning scenery, and plenty of swimming spots. While Kauaʻi has more shoreline, its strong currents make many beaches less ideal for swimming.

Best Island in Hawaii for Surfing?

Oʻahu is the best Hawaiian island for surfing, with ideal waves for both beginners and pros. Waikīkī offers gentle surf for learning, while the North Shore delivers world-class waves, especially in winter.

Best Island in Hawaii for Shopping?

Honolulu is the major commercial hub of Hawaii, and Waikiki has every designer and boutique you could name. So, if you’re hoping for a bit of retail therapy, your best option is definitely going to be O'ahu. 

Hawai'iHike | Photo by free-photos-242387  on Pixabay

Best Island in Hawaii for Hiking?

Kauaʻi is the best Hawaiian island for hiking, with stunning ridge trails like the Na Pali Coast’s Kalalau Trail. This 22-mile trek offers world-class scenery for backpackers. The Big Island ranks second for hikes through volcanic landscapes in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

Best Island for Viewing Lava?

The Big Island is the best—and only—island to see active lava flows. It’s home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world’s most active volcanoes. Check Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park’s website for real-time eruption updates before your visit.

Best Island in Hawaii for First-Time Visitors?

Oʻahu is the best island for first-time visitors. It’s easy to navigate, has great public transportation, and offers familiar amenities. As the only island with a major city, Oʻahu provides convenient access to stores, services, and top attractions.

However, if you're planning to island hop or looking for a more remote destination, Shaka Guide can help you navigate your vacation on Maui, Kaua'i, or the Big Island.

Parting Thoughts

Overall, there is really no “best island” in Hawai’i. Depending on what you’re looking for, each of the four easily accessible islands could be best for you.

If you’d like a major city and the things that come with it within driving distance, O'ahu is your only option.

If you’re looking for volcanoes and a wide range of landscapes, the Big Island is a clear winner.

Kaua'i is probably your best bet for a slower pace and fewer crowds, and if you’re seeking a resort experience, then you might consider the Island of Maui.

About the Writer: Robin Montgomery

Robin is a former middle school teacher who loves using stories to bring history to life. Born and raised in Hawai’i, she now calls the Pacific Northwest home — but part of her heart will always be in the islands. When not writing or reading about WWII, she’s hiking Mount Rainier, exploring the Olympics, or volunteering as a Volcano Ambassador at Mount St. Helens.

Robin updated and edited the Grand Circle Island Tour, the Legendary North Shore Loop, and the East Oahu Shoreline Drive.

This article was updated on August 6, 2025, by Robin.

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Check out our full collection of Hawaii tours and start planning your trip today!

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