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How To Choose Which Hawaiian Island To Visit First

How To Choose Which Hawaiian Island To Visit First

Are you planning a trip to Hawaii but don’t know which Hawaiian island to visit first? I’ve been in your shoes, so I understand how tough it can be to make a decision. Ideally, you’d have plenty of time to explore all four main islands, but if you’re short on time, keep reading for some helpful tips.

Before we dive into which Hawaiian Island you should visit first, take a moment to ask yourself a few questions: Do you want to relax on a quiet beach away from the crowds? Are you interested in scenic drives with stops at multiple waterfalls? Or maybe you’re craving vibrant nightlife and a wide range of dining options? While this won’t give you a clear-cut answer, it will definitely help you narrow down your choices.

To give you some context, Hawaii consists of 8 main islands, but only four are popular among tourists. Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s take a closer look at what makes these four islands unique.

Hawaiian Island

Table of Contents

How to choose which island to visit in Hawaii

Located in the middle of the Pacific ocean, Hawaiian islands are a paradise for adventure seekers, wave chasers and waterfall lovers. Though these islands are in close proximity to each other, they offer a distinct experience for travelers.

1. O’ahu is a bustling hub and cosmopolitan capital of Hawaii

If you’re after nightlife and enjoy city life, Oahu is the perfect island for you. But it’s not all about the hustle and bustle – Oahu also offers plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained. Just be aware that it’s one of the most popular Hawaiian islands, so it can get quite crowded.

Who is it best for?

Oahu is perfect for those seeking a mix of nightlife and outdoor adventures. If it’s your first time in Hawaii and you’re okay with a more touristy vibe, Oahu could be a great choice.

When is the best time to visit?

Oahu has excellent weather year-round, but if you’re looking for the best weather with fewer crowds, the ideal months to visit are April, May, September and October.

What are the main highlights?

Visit one of the main beaches in Oahu (Lanikai Beach, Sunset Beach, Kailua Beach, Waimanalo Bay, Kawela Bay, Waimea Bay, Waikiki Beach, and Makaha Beach), go on a hike – such as the Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail – or go surfing on the North Shore.

2. Big Island is for volcano lovers

As the name suggests, Big Island is the largest of the 8 major Hawaiian islands and home to two active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa, located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. In fact, Kilauea is one of the most active volcanoes on Earth and a real must-see gem. If you’re a volcano lover, Big Island is certainly the perfect destination. Here, you can experience anything from rainforests and lush valleys to white or black sand beaches.

Who is it best for?

Nature lovers that want to escape the crowds while experiencing a range of outdoor activities.

When is the best time to visit?

Weather on the Big Island is pleasant year-round, but the best time to visit is usually between May and November. But, if you’re interested in whale watching, humpback whales can be seen off these shores between December and April.

What are the main highlights?

As the largest of the Hawaiian islands, the Big Island offers a lot to explore. So, make sure to add these top attractions to your bucket list: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea summit, the Kona district for coffee lovers, Punalu’u black sand beach, Pololu Valley Lookout for jaw-dropping views of the coastline and lush valley below.

3. Maui offers some of the most scenic drives in Hawaii

Maui is one of the four main Hawaiian Island

In my opinion, Maui is the perfect destination in Hawaii for first-timers. If you love the outdoors and want a mix of adventure and relaxation, Maui is the perfect destination. Not only is it home to the Haleakala National Park, but it also boasts one of the most scenic drives in Hawaii. When I was deciding which island to visit first, Maui’s diverse activities and stunning landscapes were key factors in my choice.

Who is it best for?

Maui caters to just about everyone, whether you want to relax by the beach, hike in the crater of a dormant volcano or enjoy a scenic drive with waterfalls and tropical landscapes.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Maui is during the shoulder months of April, May, August, September, and early October.

What are the main highlights?

Some of the top things to do in Maui are driving the Road to Hana, see the sunrise at Haleakala National Park, go snorkeling, hike in the ‘Iao Valley State Monument, explore the different beaches, and experience the Hawaiian Lu’au.

Note: The historic town of Lahaina was destroyed in the horrific 2023 fire, and the rebuilding efforts are still ongoing. In fact, the fires destroyed most of the historic town, including homes, local businesses and cultural landmarks. As the rebuilding process will take many years, responsible tourism is encouraged to help support the local economy. Check Country of Maui’s website for the latest updates.

4. Kauai is best known for its lush landscapes and dramatic coastlines

Kauai is the oldest and northernmost island in Hawaii and a true paradise on Earth. When I think of Hawaii, the landscapes of Kauai are the first to come to mind. Some parts of the island can only be accessed by air or sea, revealing hidden-gems beyond your imagination. If you’re an outdoors enthusiast, you will most likely fall in love with Kauai. With a nickname like “The Garden Isle”, Kauai truly lives up to it.

Who is it best for?

If you want to experience how Hawaii was before all the development changed its landscape, then Kauai is the right island for you. It is especially suited for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, surfing or ziplining, Kauai has something for every adventure seeker.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Kauai for ideal weather is in April, May, September, or October.

What are the main highlights?

To just name a few, take a helicopter ride above the Na Pali Coast, enjoy the vast variety of hiking trails, Waimea Canyon, Wailua River, or Hanalei Bay for a more relaxing experience.

5. The Hidden Isles: Lanai, Molokai, Niihau and Kaho’olawe

Beyond the well-known islands of Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island, there are four lesser-known treasures.

  1. Lanai: a privately owned island that targets luxury resorts and exclusivity
  2. Molokai: one of the least developed Hawaiian islands, with people in mind that look for tranquility
  3. Niihau: access is extremely restricted, as it is home to a small community of native Hawaiians who live in a more traditional way
  4. Kaho’olawe: uninhabited island that was used as a military training ground

Conclusion: Which Hawaiian island should you visit first

Choosing which Hawaiian island to visit first ultimately depends on your personal interests. If you’re a city lover seeking nightlife, Oahu is the clear choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere and want to explore off the beaten path, Kauai might be for you.

Personally, if it’s your first time visiting Hawaii, I’d recommend Maui. The variety of activities here is endless, plus you can explore one of the most unique U.S. national parks. When I say Maui has it all, I really mean it.

I hope this post was helpful! If you have any questions or anything else you’d like to add, feel free to comment below.

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