Hawaii, a dream destination for many, isn’t just one place, but a collection of six unique islands, each offering its own distinct flavor and experiences. Planning a trip to Hawaii can be exciting, but also overwhelming when deciding Where To Go In Hawaii for the first time, or even for a repeat visit. With so many incredible islands to choose from, how do you pinpoint the perfect Hawaiian island that matches your travel desires?
Over the past 25 years, we’ve explored nearly every corner of these stunning islands, and we’re excited to share our insights to help you decide where to go in Hawaii. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, thrilling adventures, or rich cultural experiences, there’s a Hawaiian island perfectly suited for you. So, grab your virtual lei, and let’s explore the best options for where to go in Hawaii!
To quickly discover the ideal island for your Hawaiian getaway, take our Best Hawaii Island for You Quiz.
TL;DR – Why Oahu is a Great First Choice
TLDR HawaiiGuide Summary
TL;DR – Where to Go in Hawaii for First-Timers: Oahu Often Shines
For those wondering where to go in Hawaii for their first trip, Oahu often stands out as the best all-around choice. It masterfully combines breathtaking natural beauty with convenient, budget-friendly options and a dynamic city vibe. If you are unsure where to go in Hawaii, Oahu provides a fantastic introduction to the Aloha State.
Oahu Hawaii On Oahu, you can experience the world-famous Waikiki Beach, challenge yourself with a hike to the summit of Diamond Head for panoramic views, and delve into significant historical sites like Pearl Harbor, immersing yourself in both Hawaiian and American history. With a diverse range of accommodations, from budget-friendly to luxury, and endless dining and activity choices, Oahu delivers a comprehensive and captivating Hawaiian experience, making it a top recommendation for where to go in Hawaii.
You’ll find yourself in excellent company if you choose Oahu when considering where to go in Hawaii. The island consistently attracts the largest number of visitors. The main Hawaiian islands, from west to east, are Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and the Big Island of Hawaii. We focus on the four most popular for visitors on this site, to better guide your decision on where to go in Hawaii.
Hawaii Visitation by Island (2024)
Hawaii Visitation by Island (2024) – demonstrating Oahu’s popularity as a destination for where to go in Hawaii.
More Factors to Consider When Deciding Where to Go in Hawaii…
However, when thinking about where to go in Hawaii, there are still more aspects to consider, particularly what type of Hawaii traveler you are. For instance, if budget isn’t a concern and you desire a luxurious, all-encompassing Hawaiian island experience for a truly memorable trip, Maui might be a superior choice for where to go in Hawaii. On my first Hawaiian adventure in 2002, I almost randomly selected Maui, and it instantly captivated me. If I were planning my first trip today, knowing what I know now about where to go in Hawaii, I would likely still lean towards starting with Oahu to get a broad introduction to the islands, followed by Maui, and then exploring the Big Island and Kauai on subsequent trips. While the latter two are personally my favorites, I aim to provide an objective perspective for first-time visitors trying to decide where to go in Hawaii.
Ultimately, the key takeaway when deciding where to go in Hawaii is understanding that each island possesses a unique character shaped by its development and natural landscape. Oahu is the most urban, home to Honolulu, a vibrant metropolis, yet it retains rural areas on its North Shore and west side. Maui offers a suburban feel, a collection of charming small towns, balancing convenience with spaciousness. The Big Island of Hawaii, despite housing Hilo, the state’s second-largest city, is predominantly rural and expansive. Kauai is the most rural of the four, boasting a relaxed ambiance and limited large-scale development. The overall atmosphere of each island greatly influences where to go in Hawaii based on your desired vacation vibe.
Let’s delve deeper into our detailed guide to help you pinpoint where to go in Hawaii and discover the island that perfectly aligns with your dream Hawaiian escape!
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Quiz: Finding Where to Go in Hawaii – Which Hawaiian Island is Right for You?
Choosing where to go in Hawaii can be challenging. It can feel confusing and even stressful, especially when planning a relaxing vacation. To simplify your decision about where to go in Hawaii, we’ve created this helpful quiz to guide you to the perfect Hawaiian island.
Quiz Instructions
Simply answer the questions below, choosing “Yes”, “No”, or “Somewhat”. Each answer corresponds to a point value, which will be tallied at the end to suggest where to go in Hawaii. Answer all questions for the most accurate recommendation.
While there are six major Hawaiian islands, this quiz focuses on the four most visited when deciding where to go in Hawaii. Around 98% of visitors choose Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island, making these the most practical choices for most travelers deciding where to go in Hawaii.
Here’s each Island’s total scores:
Big Island: 0
Maui: 0
Kauai: 0
Oahu: 0
Hawaii Islands Introduction: Understanding Where to Go in Hawaii
The ideal Hawaiian experience hinges on your personal preferences. Whether you seek adventure, culinary delights, relaxation, cultural immersion, or luxury, each island offers a unique tapestry of experiences to help you decide where to go in Hawaii. Most of us have a favorite island, and below, we’ll give you a brief introduction to each to aid your decision on where to go in Hawaii.
Oahu Hawaii Oahu – The Gathering Place: A Popular Choice for Where to Go in Hawaii
Oahu welcomes the largest number of visitors, approximately 4.7 million annually, making it a popular choice for where to go in Hawaii.
Oahu is largely defined by Honolulu, Hawaii’s state capital, along with Pearl Harbor, and the iconic Waikiki Beach. These landmarks draw countless tourists daily, solidifying Oahu’s position as a key destination for where to go in Hawaii.
Oahu boasts a pleasant climate, diverse and affordable accommodations, extensive shopping, and world-renowned beaches. Its appeal is undeniable, attracting visitors globally seeking where to go in Hawaii for a quintessential island experience. However, some find the crowds overwhelming and prefer quieter islands, seeking alternative options for where to go in Hawaii.
Yet, Oahu offers much more than Honolulu and Waikiki. It might be the most beautiful of all the major islands if you know where to explore. Oahu provides a perfect mix of urban amenities and natural wonders. You can enjoy city life in Honolulu and easily escape to stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and scenic hiking trails, making it a versatile option for where to go in Hawaii.
More on Oahu in-depth…
Maui Hawaii Maui – The Valley Isle: Considering Where to Go in Hawaii for Beauty and Luxury
Maui is the second most visited island, attracting around 2.7 – 2.9 million visitors each year, making it a strong contender for where to go in Hawaii. Tourism significantly shapes Maui, offering a wide array of resorts, hotels, condos, and vacation rentals across the island.
Maui is another excellent choice for first-time visitors deciding where to go in Hawaii. Known as the “Valley Isle,” Maui is celebrated for its gorgeous beaches, world-class resorts, and relaxed atmosphere. Top attractions include the breathtaking Road to Hana, with its waterfalls and black sand beaches, and Haleakala National Park, famous for its sunrise views above the clouds, all contributing to Maui’s appeal for where to go in Hawaii.
Often called the “playground of the wealthy,” Maui caters to those seeking luxury accommodations without the bustling crowds of Oahu, influencing some decisions about where to go in Hawaii. However, Maui accommodates all budgets, dispelling the myth that it’s only for the super-rich. The island welcomes all types of tourists, making it a flexible option for where to go in Hawaii.
More on Maui in-depth…
Big Island of Hawaii Hawaii – The Big Island: Where to Go in Hawaii for Adventure and Diversity
The Big Island of Hawaii is the third most popular choice for visitors deciding where to go in Hawaii, welcoming over 1.6 million travelers annually. Most visitors stay in the Kailua-Kona area, drawn to its fantastic weather, shopping, and diverse dining options. It offers a range of accommodations, from high-end resorts to condos, making it a versatile choice for where to go in Hawaii.
The Big Island, officially named Hawaii Island, is the largest and most geographically diverse. Here, you can witness active volcanoes, explore lush rainforests, and stargaze from snow-capped mountains. Highlights include Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can see lava flows and steam vents, and the Mauna Kea observatories, among the world’s best astronomy sites, making the Big Island a unique choice for where to go in Hawaii.
More on Big Island of Hawaii in-depth…
Kauai Hawaii Kauai – The Garden Island: Where to Go in Hawaii for Nature and Relaxation
Kauai is the fourth most-visited island, with 1.3 million visitors annually, appealing to those seeking nature and tranquility when deciding where to go in Hawaii. Known for its stunning scenery and relaxed pace, Kauai arguably boasts more beach coastline than any other Hawaiian island. You’ll find many secluded beaches around Kauai, ensuring you can find your perfect spot when considering where to go in Hawaii.
Kauai, nicknamed the “Garden Isle,” is a nature lover’s paradise and a top consideration for where to go in Hawaii if you prioritize natural beauty. With lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and a laid-back vibe, Kauai provides a true escape. Must-see spots include Waimea Canyon, the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” and the dramatic Na Pali Coast, explorable by boat, helicopter, or hiking, solidifying Kauai as a prime option for where to go in Hawaii for nature enthusiasts.
More on Kauai in-depth…
Key Takeaway for Where to Go in Hawaii:
Choosing where to go in Hawaii for your first trip? Think about your ideal vacation. City life and famous beaches? Oahu is your answer. Stunning drives and mountain sunrises? Maui calls. Active volcanoes and stargazing? The Big Island awaits. Lush landscapes and quiet escapes? Kauai is perfect. Consider these factors to determine where to go in Hawaii for your perfect trip.
‘Best Hawaii Island for…’ FAQ: Further Guidance on Where to Go in Hawaii
By Interests, Traveler Types, & more…
We recommend Oahu if any of these describe your preferences for where to go in Hawaii:
- Family Vacation
- Culture Enthusiasts
- Budget-Friendly Travel
- Food Lovers
- Shopping Experiences
- History Buffs
- Nightlife and Entertainment
- Solo Travel
We recommend Maui if any of these appeal to you when considering where to go in Hawaii:
- Romantic Getaways for Couples
- Wellness and Spa Retreats
- Active and Sporty Vacations
- Luxury Travel Experiences
- High-End Budgets
We recommend Kauai if these align with your desires for where to go in Hawaii:
- Relaxation and Tranquility
- Ecotourism and Sustainable Travel
- Photography and Scenic Beauty
- Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
- Beach Relaxation
We recommend the Big Island of Hawaii if you are looking for these experiences when deciding where to go in Hawaii:
- Adventure and Exploration
- Local Farmers Markets and Produce
- Nature Immersion
- National and State Park Visits
Hawaii Visitors by Island: Visitor Statistics to Inform Where to Go in Hawaii
Hawaii Visitors by Island (2024 vs 2023)
Hawaii Visitors by Island (2024 vs 2023) – Comparing visitor numbers to help you decide where to go in Hawaii.
Hawaii Visitors by Island (2023 vs 2022)
Hawaii Visitors by Island (2023 vs 2022) – Reviewing past trends to inform your decision on where to go in Hawaii.
Hawaii Visitors by Island (2022 vs 2019)
Hawaii Visitors by Island (2022 vs 2019) – Examining longer-term visitor trends to assist in choosing where to go in Hawaii.
Conclusion: Making Your Choice on Where to Go in Hawaii
So, where to go in Hawaii? The answer depends on your dream vacation. Oahu is ideal for those wanting a mix of city and beach life. Maui is perfect for nature lovers and scenic drives. The Big Island is an adventure seeker’s paradise. And Kauai offers the ultimate escape with secluded beaches.
Hawaii is calling! Whether it’s Oahu’s bustling beaches or Kauai’s serene landscapes, an incredible journey awaits. Each island has a unique charm that will captivate you and create lasting memories. Start planning, pack your sunscreen, and prepare to fall in love with the beauty of Hawaii. Trust your instincts when deciding where to go in Hawaii – you’ll be thrilled you did!
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Published by: John C. Derrick Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
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Article Published/Updated: 02-26-2025
