Which Hawaii island to visit?
Like a lot of visitors to Hawaii, you're probably wondering, which Hawaiian island is the best for you and your travel party? The islands are so diverse, that selecting the right island really is an important decision. And once you've started visiting the islands, coming back to a different island can often feel like a totally different place with a whole new set of experiences, sights, and attractions. Having been to all the major islands, we've already formed some bias on which we favor. But we'll put our bias aside for a while and objectively tell you about the beautiful islands in the Hawaiian chain so you too can pick the island that's just right for you. In due time, we're sure you'll pick your own favorites. The following quiz was developed using a variety of resources around the web. There are many similar quizzes out there, and a lot of chit-chat about the "best" island. Ultimately, if you still can't decide, you might try heading over to TripAdvisor.com and asking your questions there. We usually hang out on a few of the forums daily as well.
Selecting the best Hawaiian Island for you
As noted, selecting the right island is no easy task for many visitors. It can be a confusion and even frustrating job, and that's probably the last thing anyone wants when planning a trip to Hawaii. So we've done our homework and created a little quiz that should help you determine the best island for you.
Instructions
Basically you're going to read a series of questions below and score each applicable question with a set number of points for each island. It's OK to leave questions blank you feel don't apply to you or your travel party; in fact, that's almost essential to make this quiz work correctly. ONLY choose (score) items pertinent to your interests. The last three questions on money, accommodations, and transportation should be answered by everyone (since they are applicable to all visitors).
While there are six major islands that you can visit in Hawaii, we've only detailed four of them. Why? Because the bulk of all visitors, probably some 98%, will never visit Molokai or Lanai. Even though you probably think we're crazy to omit them at this stage, we can assure you through experience that at this point, you'll be much better off selecting and visiting one of the major four. Once you've completed the quiz, simply tally the points for each island, and you should have an good idea of where to book your next trip.
For starters, take a piece of paper and create the following chart with each island as a column. Or, click on the image below to open a PDF file that you can print out. There are 25 questions in all; and again, ONLY score points to those applicable in this first section.
Answer ONLY those applicable to your travel party
1.) Volcanoes
Coming to see how the islands were formed? While every island has reminders of how they were formed, it's certainly a lot harder to distinguish the volcanoes on some islands than others. If it's lava you want, then the Big Island is the ONLY option. But all of the four islands have volcanic remnants to be seen.
2.) Love and Romance
Whether it's your honeymoon or just a romantic trip for you and your significant other, you couldn't have selected a much better choice than Hawaii. Hawaii is the destination of choice for most couples looking to get away for a romantic vacation, and for good reason. If romance is important to you, keep this on your list.
3.) Hiking:
There's no question about it. We chose Hawaii because of this very option; it's a mecca of trails. If you're like us, and are crazy about hiking to see the often unseen, then definitely consider this option. From gorgeous coastal trails, barren lava hikes, to lush jungle, you can do it all in Hawaii.
4.) Beaches & Swimming:
Some of the best beaches on earth can be found right here in Hawaii. If you consider yourself a beach-going person, then you're going to love Hawaii's choices. Take your pick of white, yellow, black, green, or even red sand.
5.) Sunny Weather
This is a really important option for some folks. If you are absolutely set on having optimal weather, then add this to your list. Keep in mind that the windward side of each island will always have a chance for showers, but that in general, some islands are just drier than others. We're going to assume in this option you're staying in one of the accommodation hot-spots on each island.
6.) Kayaking:
If kayaking is your thing, then in Hawaii you'll certainly have a chance to get out and row somewhere special.
7.) Cultural Spots
If it's the history of the places you visit that intrigues you, then this is a category to put on your list. Hawaii has an incredibly rich history that is unique to all the world. Lucky for us, much of this history has been preserved throughout the islands in various historical sites.
8.) Tropical Flora and Fauna
OK, so when I said hiking was the only reason we picked Hawaii, I lied. This was the other reason. If you're a big fan of tropical plants and birds, then make sure to put this on your list. Hawaii offers some of the most diverse plant and animal life on the planet, and several species are endemic to the islands, meaning they ONLY exist here.
9.) Fishing:
Can't resist the urge to grab a fishing pole and see what you can catch? Whether its local shore fishing or deep sea, be sure to add these to your score.
10.) Visual Diverseness (Topography, Geography, etc):
There are some islands in Hawaii that can literally make you feel like you've been on a road trip around the entire continental United States. Others remain the same pretty much all the way around. If you are really interested in the diverse ecology of the islands and you'd like to see a lot of change when driving around, then this choice is for you.
11.) Children-oriented activities:
If you're a family with children, then this is definitely an option for you. Some of the islands offer an incredible array of activities and sights for families, like zoo's, aquariums, water parks, and more.
12.) Golf:
Take your pick of many beautiful world-class golf courses throughout the islands. If you're into golf, then Hawaii is definitely a place to take a swing at a game you'll never forget.
13.) Luxury Dining:
You'll have a variety of dining options on any of the four major islands. But some are much better equipped to give you a incredible experience than others (for a price). Some islands are better at serving up local produce than others, and that's reflected in our score as a positive thing. General dining is the next option, so skip this one if you're not looking for luxury dining.
14.) General Dining:
Whether it's a small restaurant's or a fast food place, if you're not as concerned about where the food is, but only that you don't have to fix it, then this option is for you.
15.) Government Parks (National and State)
Hawaii certainly has it's fair selection of beautiful state and federal parks. It's home to two National Parks including Haleakala National Park on Maui and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. You'll also find several National Historic sites on certain islands.
16.) Nightlife
If nightlife is important to you, then make sure you keep this option on your list. A lot of Hawaii shuts down after dark, but if you're just starting when most are heading to bed - add these to your score.
17.) Getting away from it all (privacy)
If you're looking to escape while on your vacation, and get away from it all, then put this option on your list. Remoteness isn't always easy to come by in Hawaii, but it does exist - on some islands more than others.
18.) High-class Shopping
Take your pick from some of the worlds greatest shops. Hawaii offers the big city names in the places you might least expect them. If fine art and high-class merchandise are for you, then add these to your list. General shopping is the next option, so feel free to skip to it if you're not a high-class kind of shopper.
19.) Souvenir Shopping
If you're more budget oriented and are really looking for some great things to take home with you, then this is the choice for you. You don't have to break the bank to take home some incredible art, local crafts, or souvenirs.
20.) Scuba or Snorkeling
If it's what's under the waves that piques your interest, then you've come to the right place. Hawaii has some incredible opportunities for anyone interested in these two activities.
21.) Water sports
Love to surf, body surf, or wind surf? Then come hang on the waves in Hawaii. During the winter months, you can't find a much more optimal location.
22.) Whale Watching
If you simply have to see the whales during your trip, then make sure this is on your list. Also, make sure your trip falls between the months of December and April if you want the best chance of seeing the Humpbacks. The whales can show up as early as October and depart as late as May, but optimal times are Dec-April (or even March some years).
Questions all visitors should answer
23.) Accommodations (Select ONE option):
World Class Resorts - For folks looking to live the high life on their vacation, this is probably the choice for you. If you're not likely to leave the resort, want to relax on the beach most of your trip, play golf, enjoy a large pool, etc - then consider this option.
OR Hotels - The choice of the average traveler, hotels provide very nice accommodations for a much cheaper rate than the big resorts. While they certainly don't have the same services and additional amenities, they serve the purpose of giving you a great place to spend your vacation. Ideal for families.
OR Condos - The choice of many budget oriented travelers, condos are a good way to save some money during your stay in the islands. This is also a great option for anyone not looking to spend a lot of time actually in their room. Condos often include a kitchenette for fixing meals in your room if you so choose. Ideal for families.
OR B&B (Bed and Breakfast) - The choice of those seeking seclusion and the 'warmth' of a living home on their vacation. B&B's make a very nice choice for many couples who are on their honeymoon, or for individuals looking to have a local person to talk with on a regular basis. It's a much more intimate accommodation situation, but for many, they'd choose no other option.
24.) Transportation (Select ONE option):
Public Transit - For folks who prefer modes of public transportation like the bus, taxis, etc, this is the choice for you. We'll be honest, your choices are limited.
OR SUV - Despite the fact you cannot legally drive off-road on ANY Hawaiian island (without renting from a company that expressly permits it), some folks still prefer a SUV on their trip. Some islands have roads more suited for these larger vehicles than others.
OR Regular Car - The choice of most vacationers, a regular car is the best way to get from point a to point b.
OR Other or Walking - Applicable only on the islands with larger cities, this choice is not encouraged.
25.) Money (Select ONE option):
Money isn't a concern - If you're looking for ultimately luxury and don't consider money an option, this is the choice for you.
OR Save a little - Want to both spend a little and save a little? Then this is the choice for you. Optimal for most visitors looking to save when it comes to accommodations, food, vehicle rentals, and purchases - but still have good fun on activities.
OR Budget travel - If you are looking to stick to the cheapest accommodations, don't want to rent a car, and want to save as much as possible, this is the option for you.
Your results
If you haven't already, tally your results and we'll discuss each island below. The higher your score for each island, the better choice it'll be for you and your travel party. The lower the score, the more inclined we are to tell you to skip that island (for now).
Oahu
If Oahu ranked up the most points on your scorecard then you're probably someone who enjoys the big city, fine accommodations and dining, and the general atmosphere that comes with a big city. Honolulu is the 11th largest city in the US and is probably where you'll spend a lot of your time. Oahu has the best selection of both cultural and historical sites in the islands, including good museums. The island is an excellent place for water spots, and the beaches will be sure to please. Oahu lives up to its nickname, "The Gathering Place." Want to learn more about Oahu? Just visit our Oahu Guide section.
Maui
A lot of folks say "Maui no ka oi," which means "Maui is the best." Whether or not your score card shows this, Maui is a fine location for almost all visitors to the islands. It's the middle-ground between the big city on Oahu and the country life of Kauai and the Big Island. A lot of folks choose Maui as their honeymoon destination. Many families love the large selection of condos available here. The Hana Highway is one of the worlds premier driving attractions and Haleakala, one of Hawaii's National Parks, is a incredible place to visit. Golfers and windsurfers will also find Maui very suitable to their liking. Maui's nickname is the Valley Isle, and when you arrive, you'll see why. Haleakala to the east and the West Maui mountains to the west - incredible! Want to learn more about Maui? Just visit our Maui Guide section.
Hawaii's Big Island
If the Big Island topped your list, we don't blame you. It's our favorite too, and for good reason. The Big Island is by far the most diverse of all the Hawaiian islands, and it's BIG - really, it's the size of all the others COMBINED! From barren grasslands to lush jungle, lava fields to snow capped mountains - it's all here. Plus, it's the only island you can literally walk on land younger than you are! How cool is that? Kilauea is still erupting, and often puts on quite a show for visitors where lava enters the ocean. The Big Island offers a solid selection of world class resorts on the Kohala 'Gold' coast, condos around the island, and excellent B&B's in both Kona and near the Volcano area. The Big Island also is bustling with activities to partake in, be it hiking to a recent lava flow or riding horseback in gorgeous Waipio Valley. Plenty of good hiking is available, and bird watchers will love the volcano area as well. Want to learn more about the Big Island of Hawaii? Just visit our Big Island Guide section.
Kauai
If you like all things green, like seclusion, and love to hike - OK, if you're into nature... welcome home! Kauai offers the paradise to all folks interested in ecological-based activities. Kauai is the oldest of the major Hawaiian islands and has certainly earned it's nickname, "The Garden Isle." Beautiful flora and fauna exist all around the island. Being the oldest island, Kauai also has some incredible beaches. But what really wins the price on Kauai is the fact that the bulk of it can't be reached by car. So, that means grab your hiking pole and head out to hits the trails. Kauai offers the best hiking of any island in the chain; be it the beautiful coastal Kalalau trail on the Na Pali coast or a hike inland to see Wai'ale'ale's "weeping wall," you can't beat the hiking on Kauai. Kauai is also home to Waimea Canyon, which Mark Twain called, "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Kauai is definitely one of the more romantic islands as well. The only downside is often the weather. All things green means lots of rain. But don't let that worry you, Kauai is an incredible island to visit; a personal second favorite in the chain. Want to learn more about Kauai? Just visit our Kauai Guide section.
As noted, selecting the right island is no easy task for many visitors. It can be a confusion and even frustrating job, and that's probably the last thing anyone wants when planning a trip to Hawaii. So we've done our homework and created a little quiz that should help you determine the best island for you.
Instructions
Basically you're going to read a series of questions below and score each applicable question with a set number of points for each island. It's OK to leave questions blank you feel don't apply to you or your travel party; in fact, that's almost essential to make this quiz work correctly. ONLY choose (score) items pertinent to your interests. The last three questions on money, accommodations, and transportation should be answered by everyone (since they are applicable to all visitors).
While there are six major islands that you can visit in Hawaii, we've only detailed four of them. Why? Because the bulk of all visitors, probably some 98%, will never visit Molokai or Lanai. Even though you probably think we're crazy to omit them at this stage, we can assure you through experience that at this point, you'll be much better off selecting and visiting one of the major four. Once you've completed the quiz, simply tally the points for each island, and you should have an good idea of where to book your next trip.
For starters, take a piece of paper and create the following chart with each island as a column. Or, click on the image below to open a PDF file that you can print out. There are 25 questions in all; and again, ONLY score points to those applicable in this first section.
Answer ONLY those applicable to your travel party
1.) Volcanoes
Coming to see how the islands were formed? While every island has reminders of how they were formed, it's certainly a lot harder to distinguish the volcanoes on some islands than others. If it's lava you want, then the Big Island is the ONLY option. But all of the four islands have volcanic remnants to be seen.
Points - Big Island (18), Maui (13), Oahu (6), and Kauai (4)
2.) Love and Romance
Whether it's your honeymoon or just a romantic trip for you and your significant other, you couldn't have selected a much better choice than Hawaii. Hawaii is the destination of choice for most couples looking to get away for a romantic vacation, and for good reason. If romance is important to you, keep this on your list.
Points - Big Island (10), Maui (7), Oahu (3), and Kauai (12)
3.) Hiking:
There's no question about it. We chose Hawaii because of this very option; it's a mecca of trails. If you're like us, and are crazy about hiking to see the often unseen, then definitely consider this option. From gorgeous coastal trails, barren lava hikes, to lush jungle, you can do it all in Hawaii.
Points - Big Island (12), Maui (9), Oahu (3), and Kauai (15)
4.) Beaches & Swimming:
Some of the best beaches on earth can be found right here in Hawaii. If you consider yourself a beach-going person, then you're going to love Hawaii's choices. Take your pick of white, yellow, black, green, or even red sand.
Points - Big Island [Kona-Side Only] (8), Maui (11), Oahu (7), and Kauai (6)
5.) Sunny Weather
This is a really important option for some folks. If you are absolutely set on having optimal weather, then add this to your list. Keep in mind that the windward side of each island will always have a chance for showers, but that in general, some islands are just drier than others. We're going to assume in this option you're staying in one of the accommodation hot-spots on each island.
Points - Big Island (11), Maui (10), Oahu (8), and Kauai (6)
6.) Kayaking:
If kayaking is your thing, then in Hawaii you'll certainly have a chance to get out and row somewhere special.
Points - Big Island (8), Maui (4), Oahu (2), and Kauai (12)
7.) Cultural Spots
If it's the history of the places you visit that intrigues you, then this is a category to put on your list. Hawaii has an incredibly rich history that is unique to all the world. Lucky for us, much of this history has been preserved throughout the islands in various historical sites.
Points - Big Island (9), Maui (8), Oahu (10), and Kauai (8)
8.) Tropical Flora and Fauna
OK, so when I said hiking was the only reason we picked Hawaii, I lied. This was the other reason. If you're a big fan of tropical plants and birds, then make sure to put this on your list. Hawaii offers some of the most diverse plant and animal life on the planet, and several species are endemic to the islands, meaning they ONLY exist here.
Points - Big Island (8), Maui (10), Oahu (3), and Kauai (12)
9.) Fishing:
Can't resist the urge to grab a fishing pole and see what you can catch? Whether its local shore fishing or deep sea, be sure to add these to your score.
Points - Big Island (8), Maui (5), Oahu (2), and Kauai (0)
10.) Visual Diverseness (Topography, Geography, etc):
There are some islands in Hawaii that can literally make you feel like you've been on a road trip around the entire continental United States. Others remain the same pretty much all the way around. If you are really interested in the diverse ecology of the islands and you'd like to see a lot of change when driving around, then this choice is for you.
Points - Big Island (16), Maui (11), Oahu (6), and Kauai (7)
11.) Children-oriented activities:
If you're a family with children, then this is definitely an option for you. Some of the islands offer an incredible array of activities and sights for families, like zoo's, aquariums, water parks, and more.
Points - Big Island (8), Maui (10), Oahu (14), and Kauai (7)
12.) Golf:
Take your pick of many beautiful world-class golf courses throughout the islands. If you're into golf, then Hawaii is definitely a place to take a swing at a game you'll never forget.
Points - Big Island (9), Maui (15), Oahu (1), and Kauai (5)
13.) Luxury Dining:
You'll have a variety of dining options on any of the four major islands. But some are much better equipped to give you a incredible experience than others (for a price). Some islands are better at serving up local produce than others, and that's reflected in our score as a positive thing. General dining is the next option, so skip this one if you're not looking for luxury dining.
Points - Big Island (3), Maui (12), Oahu (9), and Kauai (4)
14.) General Dining:
Whether it's a small restaurant's or a fast food place, if you're not as concerned about where the food is, but only that you don't have to fix it, then this option is for you.
Points - Big Island (8), Maui (9), Oahu (12), and Kauai (6)
15.) Government Parks (National and State)
Hawaii certainly has it's fair selection of beautiful state and federal parks. It's home to two National Parks including Haleakala National Park on Maui and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. You'll also find several National Historic sites on certain islands.
Points - Big Island (15), Maui (10), Oahu (6), and Kauai (6)
16.) Nightlife
If nightlife is important to you, then make sure you keep this option on your list. A lot of Hawaii shuts down after dark, but if you're just starting when most are heading to bed - add these to your score.
Points - Big Island (4), Maui (7), Oahu (14), and Kauai (1)
17.) Getting away from it all (privacy)
If you're looking to escape while on your vacation, and get away from it all, then put this option on your list. Remoteness isn't always easy to come by in Hawaii, but it does exist - on some islands more than others.
Points - Big Island (9), Maui (1), Oahu (0), and Kauai (15)
18.) High-class Shopping
Take your pick from some of the worlds greatest shops. Hawaii offers the big city names in the places you might least expect them. If fine art and high-class merchandise are for you, then add these to your list. General shopping is the next option, so feel free to skip to it if you're not a high-class kind of shopper.
Points - Big Island (5), Maui (7), Oahu (12), and Kauai (3)
19.) Souvenir Shopping
If you're more budget oriented and are really looking for some great things to take home with you, then this is the choice for you. You don't have to break the bank to take home some incredible art, local crafts, or souvenirs.
Points - Big Island (8), Maui (11), Oahu (13), and Kauai (6)
20.) Scuba or Snorkeling
If it's what's under the waves that piques your interest, then you've come to the right place. Hawaii has some incredible opportunities for anyone interested in these two activities.
Points - Big Island (8), Maui (11), Oahu (6), and Kauai (5)
21.) Water sports
Love to surf, body surf, or wind surf? Then come hang on the waves in Hawaii. During the winter months, you can't find a much more optimal location.
Points - Big Island (2), Maui (11), Oahu (15), and Kauai (4)
22.) Whale Watching
If you simply have to see the whales during your trip, then make sure this is on your list. Also, make sure your trip falls between the months of December and April if you want the best chance of seeing the Humpbacks. The whales can show up as early as October and depart as late as May, but optimal times are Dec-April (or even March some years).
Points - Big Island (7), Maui (11), Oahu (3), and Kauai (4)
Questions all visitors should answer
23.) Accommodations (Select ONE option):
World Class Resorts - For folks looking to live the high life on their vacation, this is probably the choice for you. If you're not likely to leave the resort, want to relax on the beach most of your trip, play golf, enjoy a large pool, etc - then consider this option.
Points - Big Island (11), Maui (10), Oahu (4), and Kauai (6)
OR Hotels - The choice of the average traveler, hotels provide very nice accommodations for a much cheaper rate than the big resorts. While they certainly don't have the same services and additional amenities, they serve the purpose of giving you a great place to spend your vacation. Ideal for families.
Points - Big Island (3), Maui (8), Oahu (11), and Kauai (6)
OR Condos - The choice of many budget oriented travelers, condos are a good way to save some money during your stay in the islands. This is also a great option for anyone not looking to spend a lot of time actually in their room. Condos often include a kitchenette for fixing meals in your room if you so choose. Ideal for families.
Points - Big Island (5), Maui (12), Oahu (4), and Kauai (8)
OR B&B (Bed and Breakfast) - The choice of those seeking seclusion and the 'warmth' of a living home on their vacation. B&B's make a very nice choice for many couples who are on their honeymoon, or for individuals looking to have a local person to talk with on a regular basis. It's a much more intimate accommodation situation, but for many, they'd choose no other option.
Points - Big Island (8), Maui (4), Oahu (2), and Kauai (3)
24.) Transportation (Select ONE option):
Public Transit - For folks who prefer modes of public transportation like the bus, taxis, etc, this is the choice for you. We'll be honest, your choices are limited.
Points - Big Island (0), Maui (1), Oahu (5), and Kauai (0)
OR SUV - Despite the fact you cannot legally drive off-road on ANY Hawaiian island (without renting from a company that expressly permits it), some folks still prefer a SUV on their trip. Some islands have roads more suited for these larger vehicles than others.
Points - Big Island (8), Maui (4), Oahu (5), and Kauai (5)
OR Regular Car - The choice of most vacationers, a regular car is the best way to get from point a to point b.
Points - Big Island (10), Maui (11), Oahu (8), and Kauai (10)
OR Other or Walking - Applicable only on the islands with larger cities, this choice is not encouraged.
Points - Big Island (3), Maui (1), Oahu (4), and Kauai (0)
25.) Money (Select ONE option):
Money isn't a concern - If you're looking for ultimately luxury and don't consider money an option, this is the choice for you.
Points - Big Island (15), Maui (18), Oahu (10), and Kauai (12)
OR Save a little - Want to both spend a little and save a little? Then this is the choice for you. Optimal for most visitors looking to save when it comes to accommodations, food, vehicle rentals, and purchases - but still have good fun on activities.
Points - Big Island (13), Maui (15), Oahu (18), and Kauai (13)
OR Budget travel - If you are looking to stick to the cheapest accommodations, don't want to rent a car, and want to save as much as possible, this is the option for you.
Points - Big Island (7), Maui (10), Oahu (15), and Kauai (8)
Your results
If you haven't already, tally your results and we'll discuss each island below. The higher your score for each island, the better choice it'll be for you and your travel party. The lower the score, the more inclined we are to tell you to skip that island (for now).
Oahu
If Oahu ranked up the most points on your scorecard then you're probably someone who enjoys the big city, fine accommodations and dining, and the general atmosphere that comes with a big city. Honolulu is the 11th largest city in the US and is probably where you'll spend a lot of your time. Oahu has the best selection of both cultural and historical sites in the islands, including good museums. The island is an excellent place for water spots, and the beaches will be sure to please. Oahu lives up to its nickname, "The Gathering Place." Want to learn more about Oahu? Just visit our Oahu Guide section.
Maui
A lot of folks say "Maui no ka oi," which means "Maui is the best." Whether or not your score card shows this, Maui is a fine location for almost all visitors to the islands. It's the middle-ground between the big city on Oahu and the country life of Kauai and the Big Island. A lot of folks choose Maui as their honeymoon destination. Many families love the large selection of condos available here. The Hana Highway is one of the worlds premier driving attractions and Haleakala, one of Hawaii's National Parks, is a incredible place to visit. Golfers and windsurfers will also find Maui very suitable to their liking. Maui's nickname is the Valley Isle, and when you arrive, you'll see why. Haleakala to the east and the West Maui mountains to the west - incredible! Want to learn more about Maui? Just visit our Maui Guide section.
Hawaii's Big Island
If the Big Island topped your list, we don't blame you. It's our favorite too, and for good reason. The Big Island is by far the most diverse of all the Hawaiian islands, and it's BIG - really, it's the size of all the others COMBINED! From barren grasslands to lush jungle, lava fields to snow capped mountains - it's all here. Plus, it's the only island you can literally walk on land younger than you are! How cool is that? Kilauea is still erupting, and often puts on quite a show for visitors where lava enters the ocean. The Big Island offers a solid selection of world class resorts on the Kohala 'Gold' coast, condos around the island, and excellent B&B's in both Kona and near the Volcano area. The Big Island also is bustling with activities to partake in, be it hiking to a recent lava flow or riding horseback in gorgeous Waipio Valley. Plenty of good hiking is available, and bird watchers will love the volcano area as well. Want to learn more about the Big Island of Hawaii? Just visit our Big Island Guide section.
Kauai
If you like all things green, like seclusion, and love to hike - OK, if you're into nature... welcome home! Kauai offers the paradise to all folks interested in ecological-based activities. Kauai is the oldest of the major Hawaiian islands and has certainly earned it's nickname, "The Garden Isle." Beautiful flora and fauna exist all around the island. Being the oldest island, Kauai also has some incredible beaches. But what really wins the price on Kauai is the fact that the bulk of it can't be reached by car. So, that means grab your hiking pole and head out to hits the trails. Kauai offers the best hiking of any island in the chain; be it the beautiful coastal Kalalau trail on the Na Pali coast or a hike inland to see Wai'ale'ale's "weeping wall," you can't beat the hiking on Kauai. Kauai is also home to Waimea Canyon, which Mark Twain called, "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Kauai is definitely one of the more romantic islands as well. The only downside is often the weather. All things green means lots of rain. But don't let that worry you, Kauai is an incredible island to visit; a personal second favorite in the chain. Want to learn more about Kauai? Just visit our Kauai Guide section.
79°F
The comments below do not necessarily reflect the views of Hawaii-Guide or its affiliates.
Questions directed at our staff will be answered as quickly as possible.
Once you've gone through all the questions and jotted the points down in their respective columns, just add them up. The island with the highest number of points is your best bet.
Aloha,
John