You are here: Home | North America | USA | Top 5 Most Popular Islands of Hawaii
Do you have dreams of relaxing with your toes in the sand, a drink in your hand, mountains behind you, and sparkling azure waters before you? Then look no further than the islands of Hawaii. Hawaii is made up of several islands, with five of them being the top vacation destinations. The best island to visit in Hawaii totally depends on your preferences. All of them are stunningly beautiful, so you truly cannot go wrong. Trips to Hawaii do not have to break the bank, there are many options that can be within your budget. If you are looking to take a Hawaii vacation, then let's start by narrowing down which island you want to discover.
Share or Save this Post for Later:
Oahu is the third-largest island in Hawaii, but it has the highest resident population and the highest number of tourists. There are so many activities that you can do here. The most popular beaches are Waikiki beach and the legendary birthplace of big wave surfing, North Shore Beach. Snorkeling is very popular at Hanauma Bay, which is a protected marine area. Head off the beaten path to swim in Makapu'u Tide Pools and jump off the diving board into the ocean. Or visit the capital city of Honolulu and the U.S. Military base, Pearl Harbor. See the full list for the Top Experiences in Oahu.
Maui is the second-largest island and its gorgeous landscape is covered in mountains and valleys. There are 3 active volcanoes, stunning waterfalls, black sand beaches, and more. Maui is considered to have the best beaches in the world. Also, Kaleakala National Park is a beautiful place to catch a sunrise. You can even drive through part of the park on the famous Road to Hana. You will find lush green landscapes, waterfalls, pools, and more. Find out what not to miss in Maui before you go!
Hawai’i is the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago. It has everything from white sand beaches to snow-capped mountains. There are waterfalls, rainforests, and botanical gardens. In addition, you can view Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanos, in the Hawaii Volcanos National Park. You will also see a dormant volcano, called Mauna Kea. This peak stands at over 4-miles high, making it the highest point of elevation in all the islands of Hawaii. There tons of epic things to do on the Big Island, so your trip will be one to remember.
Kaua’i is known as the Garden Isle. It is aptly named, too as the landscape here is so rich, vibrant, and diverse. Kaua’i is much smaller than the other islands and it is much less crowded. If you are interested in hiking to see spectacular views, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs, then this is your island. The Kalalau Trail is one of the most difficult yet rewarding trails in the Aloha State. Be sure to get a permit before you go. There is also the Waimea Canyon, which is nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” You can hike up to the canyon’s lookout point for absolutely breathtaking views. There are so many ways to see the Na Pali Coast, you can hike, kayak, or even take a helicopter tour.
Moloka’i consists of two extinct and collapsed volcanic ranges. Their remains give Moloka’i some of the highest cliffs in the world. If you are looking to escape tourists and crowds, then you are invited to check out Molokai. It is an island where there is so little automobile traffic, there is not a single traffic light. There are no malls, no big cities, and no neon signs. However, there are breathtaking tropical landscapes, pristine coral reefs, and deep Hawaiian traditions. Moloka’i is believed to be the birthplace of hula dancing. There is an annual Moloka’ Ka Hula Piko festival held on the island.
As you can see, Hawaii is an excellent location for your next vacation, if you can decide which beautiful island to visit of course. Once you finally select an island, you can start planning activities and adventures like the top things to do in Oahu and what not to miss in Maui.
Back to overview
Hi there!
We are Jacob and Taylor. Travel is our passion and we love sharing our experiences here at The Travelling Souk. Our hope is that you would be inspired by this little blog to try something new, embrace an adventure, and live life to the fullest.