When I get asked about my favorite travel destination, I always answer: Hawaii! Hawaii is probably one of the top bucket list destinations for many people. Feeling the sea, the sand, the wind and immersing yourself in another world. And trust me, during a Hawaii island hopping trip, you will realize that a vacation in Hawaii has so much more to offer:

From fairytale landscapes with untouched forests and beaches; volcanoes and huge lava fields; numerous opportunities for activities such as hiking, surfing, diving or snorkeling; to the metropolis of Honolulu with its magnificent boulevards, you will find a true vacation paradise on the Hawaiian Islands.

With a distance of around 4000 km (12,000 miles) from the mainland, Hawaii is one of the most remote island groups in the world. Of the more than 130 islands, only six can be explored. Each of them is unique and shows its own distinctive and enchanting side, even though they are so close together. Island hopping is therefore a great idea during your trip to Hawaii – but which Hawaiian island is the best?

In this post, I’ll introduce you to the six main islands – with their respective advantages and possible disadvantages for your Hawaii vacation. You’ll find out which island suits you best.

Weather – When is the best time to travel to Hawaii for a vacation?

The best time to travel to Hawaii for your vacation depends on your interests and activities, although the climate zones of the islands also vary a little. In any case, it is warm all year round on all islands , between 22 and 30 degrees Celsius (72 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit).

From November to April it rains more frequently, sometimes very heavily, but usually only for a short time. These months are ideal for hiking and, of course, surfing. Summer, from May to October, is ideal for the beach, swimming and snorkeling.

Map of the Hawaiian Islands:

Hawaii island hopping – which island is the best?

O’ahu – the bustling island

O’ahu is the main island. It is home to Honolulu – the capital of Hawaii, the only metropolis of the islands with millions of inhabitants and the economic center. Most people live here. In Honolulu, you’ll find skyscrapers, huge hotels, shopping malls and attractive boulevards, just like in you know it from the US. However, the city is surrounded by lush green mountain ranges.

Of course, O’ahu is not just Honolulu. The island has so much to offer. Kāne’ohe Bay, to name just one example, is a picturesque sheltered bay interspersed with reefs. The first Polynesians arrived here in their canoes around 1000 years ago. O’ahu is ideal for a road trip to see all the beauty of the island at your pace.

O’ahu – Advantage:

None of the other islands offer as much diversity as O’ahu: city life, fantastic hiking trails with breathtaking views and some of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii, such as Waimānalo Beach.

→ Click here for my post with the most beautiful beaches on O’ahu 

Downside:

Most international flights as well as flights from the US mainland land in Honolulu. As a result, this and places close to Honolulu are by far the busiest tourist destinations. During the last few years, an online reservation system has been introduced at some attractions to regulate the crowds of tourists. This even applies to some beaches and nature parks. Nevertheless, it is worth planning a few days of your Hawaiian vacation on O’ahu. By car, you can also discover quiet, remote places and hiking trails as well as beautiful beaches.

Who will love O’ahu?

• Surfers – the North Shore is home to some of the most famous surf spots in the world, where international competitions are held
• City lovers who love the hustle and bustle of Honolulu
• Hikers & beach lovers

• Budget-friendly: → A la Moana Honolulu → Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki Beach
• Special: → Aulani Disney Resort
• Luxurious: → The Royal Hawaiian → Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani → Four Seasons at Ko Olina

Hawai‘i Island – The Big Island – the active island

The youngest of all the Hawaiian Islands, formed around 300,000 to 1,000,000 years ago from a total of 5 volcanoes, is also by far the largest – hence its official nickname: The Big Island. Nevertheless, only around 200,000 people live here, as the majority of the island is uninhabited.

Active volcanism shapes the island every single day and allows it to grow constantly. Lava deltas are constantly forming. Lava flows towards the coast and then from a height of 20 meters (66 feet) into the Pacific. The 1000 °C (1000 °F) hot lava meets 20 °C (68 °F) cold water. Huge fountains of water vapor are created at these spots. Finally, the lava plunges 6,000 meters (20,000 feet) into the sea until a new delta forms months later.

Big Island has another special feature to offer: Of the 23 existing climate zones in the world, 20 can be found on this island alone. You shouldn’t miss out on this and should therefore definitely include Big Island in your island hopping itinerary during your trip to the Hawaiian Islands.

The Big Island – advantage:

There’s never a dull moment on the Big Island, because there’s so much to discover. Where else can you snorkel and see dolphins early in the morning, stand in front of huge waterfalls in the rainforest at midday, hike on an active volcano in the afternoon and marvel at the clearest starry sky at night, high above the clouds, next to a NASA station, while there is a high probability of snow.

Another tip for the night: diving with manta rays. A group of diving companies has equipped an area at a depth of 10 meters (33 feet) with light sources. This attracts plankton, which in turn attracts the manta rays. It is a breathtaking spectacle and absolutely unforgettable. But please make sure to book your diving tour with a certified diving company. Unfortunately, the rise in tourism has led to more and more operators carrying out activities with manta rays without paying attention to the welfare of the animals. Reputable dive operators are on the green list of the Hawaii Ocean Watch initiative. You can find out more → here

Big Island is pure adventure and should therefore not be missed on your Hawaiian island hopping itinerary.

Disadvantage:

You will find few classic “beach motifs ” with white sand and palm trees, but instead unique coastlines with black lava formations, cliffs, fantastic snorkeling spots and black or even green sand.

In addition, due to the size of the Big Island, it is sometimes necessary to travel longer distances by car to explore the island.

For whom is Big Island the best island in Hawaii?

• Adventure and nature lovers

• Budget-friendly: → Courtyard by Marriott Kona
• Luxurious: → Fairmont Orchid → Kona Village

Kauai – the spectacular Hawaiian Island

Although Kauai is the oldest Hawaiian island, it is one of the smallest. There is no longer any volcanic activity here. For over 6 million years, wind and water have formed deep canyons and impressive, densely green coastlines, which are characteristic of the “Garden Island”, as it is lovingly called. The Na Pali coastline is considered one of the most beautiful in the world and was the backdrop for the movie “Jurassic World”.

Only 20 percent of Kauai is connected by roads, the rest is pure wilderness. You can well imagine how wonderfully untouched the landscape is. There are secluded beaches in front of spectacular mountain ranges, healthy rainforests with mighty waterfalls, such as the Wailua Falls – a gigantic double waterfall – or hiking trails with fantastic views, such as the Kalepa Ridge Trail.

 The best way to explore Kauai is by rental car. But to admire the remote natural beauty, you should treat yourself to a helicopter flight. It’s definitely worth it, as you will enjoy breathtaking views of the island which are only possible from the air. You can also take a boat tour to admire secluded beaches or stop for a snorkel and marvel at the magical turtles and wild dolphins. For me, Kauai is the best Hawaiianisland and represents the absolute Hawaiian feeling – so it should definitely enrich your Hawaiian island hopping.

Kauai – Advantage:

Kauai is less frequently visited. That’s why there are hardly any crowds of tourists here, instead you’re more likely to find miles of deserted beaches. In addition, the most spectacular hiking trails and views in the world await you here. You can find them all in my → Kauai Travel Guide.

Disadvantage:

Kauai is a paradise, so I can hardly think of any disadvantages. You could perhaps mention the size – as Kauai is very small, you can explore the island relatively quickly. Three days are already enough to see the most beautiful spots, which speaks in favor of putting Kauai on your itinerary for a Hawaiian island hopping trip. Apart from that, the choice of restaurants, hotels and shopping options is relatively limited.

For whom is Kauai the right choice for a Hawaii island hopping trip?

• Hiking fans
• Adventure and nature lovers
• Travelers who are looking for peace and quiet in nature

• Budget-friendly: → Outrigger Kauai → Hilton Garden Inn Kauai
• Luxurious: → Koloa Landing Resort → 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

Maui – the sunny island

Maui is particularly popular for a beach vacation. Compared to the other Hawaiian islands, Maui is surrounded by almost 200 km (124 miles) of coastline with many beautiful soft sandy beaches, which are ideal for sunbathing and swimming, but also for water sports. Here you can watch a wonderful sunset every evening.

As the second largest island in Hawaii , Maui naturally has so much more to offer. Mystical crater cones also characterize its distinctive image. Lava lovers will adore Wai’ānapanapa State Park with its black sand.

The biggest scenic highlight is the wild coastline along the 85 km (50 mile) long Road to Hana. During the spectacular drive to the small village of Hana, which is located in the east, you should definitely make several stops, otherwise you would miss so many wonderful sights. These include stunning views of the deep blue Pacific, gigantic waterfalls cascading into natural pools and the lush green rainforest with exotic plants such as the rainbow eucalyptus trees that grow here.

For me, Maui is also one of the most beautiful islands in Hawaii and a popular stop on a Hawaiian island hopping trip.

Maui – Advantage:

While other parts of Hawaii are characterized by a lot of rain, Maui offers largely guaranteed sunshine,especially on the most popular beaches.

Disadvantage:

If you really want to look for a disadvantage on Maui, the only thing I can really think of, similar to Kauai, is the relatively small number of restaurants.

Who will feel at home on Maui?

• Beach lovers and sun seekers

• Budget-friendly: → Palms at Wailea → Napili Village Hotel
• Luxurious: → Four Seasons Maui → Hotel Wailea

Unfortunately, we have not yet traveled to the following two islands ourselves – Moloka’i and Lanai – but I don’t want to skip them in this article.

Moloka’i – the traditional island

Moloka’i is the fifth largest island in Hawaii. On the North Shore Pali you will find the world’s highest sea cliffs, with a height of almost 1200 meters (3900 feet). The locals are largely descended from indigenous people, feel a strong connection with nature and preserve their Polynesian culture.

Moloka’i is the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and tranquillity with Pāpōhaku Beach, one of the longest and least crowded white beaches in Hawaii. Snorkeling paradises await you at Kumimi Beach in the east and Kapukahehu Beach in the west. The second is also an ideal place to end the day with a beautiful sunset.

Hiking enthusiasts will also be delighted: the guided hike along the cliffs to kalaupapa National Historical Park is an impressive experience.

Due to its proximity, you can easily combine Moloka’i with a stay on Maui and add Moloka’i to your Hawaii vacation itinerary.

Who will love Moloka’i?

• Peace seekers
• beach lovers
• Those interested in the original Hawaiian culture

Lana’i – the smallest island in Hawaii

The tiny island of Lana’i is located in the center of the archipelago, only about 15 km (9 miles) from Maui. It is perfect for a day trip and therefore a must-see when island hopping in Hawaii. I recommend taking the ferry from Maui . The approximately one-hour trip is simply beautiful. In winter, humpback whales are often out and about. Spinner dolphins are also at home here, especially in the morning they like to hang out in this region of the Pacific.

There is only one small town and one road on Lana’i. On the one hand, you will find a luxury resort and golf courses here and on the other, peace and seclusion.

Hulopo’e Bay is home to one of Hawaii’s most beautiful sandy beaches – ideal for snorkeling and relaxing. You can always find a shady spot under the palm trees. Just a 10-minute walk away is Manele Bay with Manele Harbor. Both bays are part of a marine conservation area– home to numerous species of fish and spinner dolphins that you can watch jumping. The landmark of Lana’i rises majestically between the bays – the bizarre rock formation Puu Pehe, also lovingly called “Sweetheart Rock”.

For whom is Lana’i the ideal island?

• Nature lovers
• Those seeking peace and quiet
• Newlyweds who want to spend a very special honeymoon

The only hotel on the island: → The Four Seasons Resort Lana’i

So which is the best Hawaiian island? Is it even possible to ask the question like that? I think everyone has to answer this for themselves. Due to the incredible variety of landscapes and the available activities, each island radiates its own characteristic charm. You need to discover it for yourself to find out! And who knows, maybe you too will find your own personal favorite Hawaiian Island

If you only spend your Hawaii vacation in Honolulu at a resort by the pool (which unfortunately many Hawaii vacationers do) you really can’t say you’ve seen Hawaii. I hope this post has inspired you to plan a diverse and exciting Hawaiian Island trip and discover your personal “best Hawaiian island”.

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