Hawaii consists of 137 volcanic islands that make up an archipelago that span 2400km at the centre of the north Pacific Ocean.
Blessed with spectacular natural beauty, thriving wildlife, high-octane water activities and a host of top-tier luxury resorts, Hawaii truly offers something for every type of traveller. So, if you’re planning a visit, it’s fair to say that it might all seem a bit overwhelming.
To help you out, we've rounded up th sure-fire spots to get your holiday on so you can spend more time doing more important things like you know, ordering another round of Mai Tais.
Read on for the best islands in Hawaii to visit.
Oahu
Oahu, also known as “The Gathering Place”, is the third largest island and most populated, home to over two-thirds of the state’s population and the most visited by tourists. Hawaii’s capital city, Honolulu, is located on the southern side of Oahu, known for its busy downtown, vibrant nightlife and the famed white sand Waikiki Beach.
If you drive one hour north of the capital, you’ll reach the North Shore, world-famous for big-wave surfing, with waves of over 30 feet during the winter. Elsewhere, you can visit the historical WWII site of Pearl Harbor, as well as stunning natural attractions like the ancient volcanic Diamond Head Crater, the tranquil Waimano Falls, and the snorkelling haven Hanauma Bay.
Best for: sampling a bit of everything Hawaii has to offer
Don’t miss: watching the pros surf at the world-famous North Shore
Maui
The second largest island in Hawaii, Maui is known as “The Valley Isle” owing to the two volcanoes at opposite, and the “valley” between them. Maui’s main resorts and hotels (including the likes of the Four Seasons Resort Maui) are located on the south and west of the island, with Wailea, Kaanapali and Kapalua popular tourist destinations.
Surrounded by beautiful beaches with views of migrating humpback whales during the winter months, areas like Wailea Beach offer up incredible kite surfing and snorkelling opportunities. You can also hike through Iao Valley, a lush state park, covered in dense rainforest and home to one of the island’s most famous landmarks, the Iao Needle, a 365-metre-tall rock formation. On the other end of the island, the Haleakala National Park is home to the largest dormant volcano in the world, with guided tours of the famous Haleakala Crater available to visitors.
Best for: kicking back at a luxe retreats and pristine beaches
Don’t miss: touring around the world’s largest dormant volcano
Kauai
If you want a break from luxe resorts and expensive hotels, Kauai is the perfect wilderness escape. Known as “The Garden Isle”, Kauai is the oldest and fourth largest of Hawaii’s main islands. It is the most northern of the island chain, meaning it sees more rainfall and produces vibrant green vegetation and breathtaking emerald landscapes.
Kauai is ideal for those looking for an adventure holiday: its immense network of hiking trails can take you to the dramatic red-dust depths of Waimea Canyon (the so-called “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”), to the multi-day Kalalau Trail that runs along the epic Na Pali Coast. For those seeking even more excitement, try kayaking down the Wailua River, snorkelling off the volcanic Poipa Beach, or mountain tubing through a 17,000-acre former sugar cane plantation. When you’re ready to put your feet up, Kauai is one of the best places in all of Hawaii for secluded beaches, such as not-so subtly named Hideaway Beach and Secret Beach.
Best for: nature trails and outdoor exploring
Don’t miss: hiking the epic Kalalau Trail
Big Island
Unsurprisingly the biggest of all Hawaii’s islands, Big Island is also its most diverse, offering everything from towering volcanos, pristine beaches, and top snorkelling spots. The most popular towns are Kona on the west coast, and Hilo on the east, with the vast Hawaii Volcanos National Park between them. Some of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii are located here, including the island’s largest white sand beach, Hapuna Beach, in the north, and the secluded Papakolea Green Sand Beach, to the south.
Big Island is also one of the best places to experience Hawaii’s diverse sealife: look out for green sea turtles at the famous black sand Punalu’u Beach, go whale watching during the humpback’s migratory winter months, or snorkel with Manta Rays, including at the original location the species was discovered, Keauhou Bay.
Best for: seeing active volcanoes and water sports
Don’t miss: night swimming with Manta Rays
Lanai
Lanai is a tiny island with a population of less than 3000 residents. Once used only for pineapple farming, you can still visit the vintage pineapple plantation and learn about this centuries’ old trade. But the main reason people make the journey to Lanai is for the chance to escape other tourists and recharge their batteries at an isolated luxury resort, including Four Seasons Resort Lanai, Hotel Lanai and Sensei Lanai.
A short ferry ride from Maui, there are only a few paved roads on the island, no traffic lights, and public transport mostly supplied by the hotels. For those wishing out to step outside their pool-side paradise, there’s something for every kind of visitor, ranging from golf courses and horse-riding, to zip-lining, e-biking, and most popularly, over 600km of 4-wheel-drive trails for exploring off-grid.
Best for: private and peaceful getaways
Don’t miss: off-grid drives through stunning scenery
When it comes to your next adventure, Flight Centre is your perfect partner for letting you book your way with ease. With deals for everyone on flights, accommodation and packages, book now instore, online or via the app.
Want to start filling your itinerary? Check out the best things to do in Hawaii right here.
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