The Hawaiian Islands are a diverse land. While in general they are very similar, each offering spectacular natural beauty, crystal clear waters and a rich Polynesian culture, the six major islands that make up the U.S. state of Hawaii are as diverse as the corals found in Hawaii’s reefs. Though the island of Oahu is by far the most popular as it is the location of the capital city of Honolulu, each of the other islands offers a different kind of experience making it important for the visitor to know what they want to get out of their Hawaiian retreat before they go. Get to know a little bit more about each of the main Hawaiian Islands and choose the right one for your next vacation in the South Pacific.
Oahu – Location of Honolulu, shopping, fine dining and cultural destinations are easy to find on this most populous island. Home to some of the most well known and iconic attractions in the island, if you want to see the most popular attractions, this is the place to be. From Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor to Hanauma Bay and Sunset Beach, you can’t go wrong on a visit to the “Gathering Place”.
Kauai – Otherwise known as the Garden Isle, Kauai may be the fourth largest island but it is much less developed than the island of Oahu offering a much more “natural” kind of experience. Here mountains and valleys are the stars of the show, however, fine dining, accommodations and shopping can still be found making it a great mix of both worlds.
Maui – Second largest island, Maui is home to the town of Lahaina, well known for its shopping and attractions but is also home to some of the best traditional experiences the islands have to offer including Luaus and other cultural experiences as well. Diverse, accommodations ranging from just enough to luxury are all found on Maui.
Hawaii – Known as the “Big Island”, Hawaii is the largest of all the islands in the chain. Although all the islands of Hawaii are made from Volcanic activity, Hawaii is the only island that still has active volcanoes and lava today. Home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a great place to experience the wilder side of the world, Hawaii is also home to many other state and national parks that are definitely worth exploring. Quite affordable, Hawaii is the ideal destination for travelers of all budgets.
Lanai – A truly wild and peaceful side of this state, what Lanai lacks in more easily accessible modern conveniences it makes up for in stunning natural beauty. Though Lanai does offer luxury hotels, they are surrounded with many more natural surroundings than you would find in the other more commercialized islands in the chain.
Molokai – The most authentic of the islands, Molokai is home to stunning coastlines, unspoiled wilderness and very few modern accommodations and amenities. Lacking in “chains” here you find the real Hawaii. Small towns, authentic food and authentic experiences are easy to find.
Which island is right for you?
Tradewinds Vacations invites you to learn more about travel and vacations worldwide. Explore tips, reviews and information to help you become a more informed traveler and make the most of your valuable travel dollar before you go.
Connect With Us!