From a laid-back, budget-friendly, beach getaway with the kids, to a luxury, adults-only, tropical trip to a hidden gem frequented by celebrities, the Hawaiian islands offer options for every type of traveller. So how do you choose which Hawaiian island to visit for your next sun-seeking sojourn?
In the past year, I’ve had the chance to visit four of the most frequented Hawaiian islands: Oahu, Maui, Lanai, and Kauai, and while I’ve discovered that each island has its own unique character, one thing remains consistent across them all: the unparalleled people that call each island home, exuding the aloha (love) that beats through the essence of each island. Here are what I think are the most desirable highlights of each Hawaiian island:
For garden grazers and adventure seekers: Kauai
Kauai is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a beyond-the-beach Hawaiian escape.
If you’re looking to explore lush landscape, and awe-inspiring sights from land, air, and sea, Kauai is the island for you. With 80% of the island inaccessible by foot, car, or boat, the raw beauty of the untouched areas of this magical island will bring tears to your eyes. Locals will tell you that Kauai isn’t just about the beauty of its beaches; it’s the essence of the island, the emotional connection that exudes from the lush land, the passionate people, and the culture that connects past to present. Go beyond the beaches and discover the beauty that lies within the “garden isle” of Hawaii.
Read More: From Coast To Clouds: Kauai’s Must-See Sights (BC Living)
For foodies and fashionistas: Oahu
Escape the bustling city of Waikiki and get a taste of the food locals love at these great farm-to-table spots.
Many head to Oahu for the fusion of food, fashion, culture, and stretches of beach, and indeed, this island does have something to offer for everyone. If you’re looking for a bustling night life, and upscale shopping, Waikiki is your best bet, but if it’s locally-sourced cuisine that you seek, you can find your fit on this island as well. Home to the majority of Hawaii’s diverse population, there is no shortage of places to see, things to do, and food to eat, making this one of the most popular Hawaiian destinations for visitors.
Read More: From Farm To Feast: Where To Eat Like A Local On Oahu (BC Living)
For sun-seeking families: Maui
From the slopes of the Haleakalā to the shores of Kapalua Bay, take a tasty round-the-island tour of Maui’s must-try, farm-to-table culinary scene.
If you’re looking for a laid-back beach vacation to enjoy with your kids, Maui is my top pick. The beaches are stunning, and the island offers a range of family-friendly places to stay, but there’s so much more to the “Valley Isle” than beaches and brunch. Brimming with backstory, the island of Maui exudes cultural connection—not only through the historical sites, but through the music, the food and the people who call Maui home. This is the island that you’ll want to make your annual getaway destination, because there’s always more to see and do, and the people are so welcoming, you’ll want to return to “talk story” with the locals year after year.
Read More: Pass The Pupus: A Taste Of Maui’s Culinary Scene (BC Living)
For luxury lovers and curious explorers: Lanai
From miles of lunar-like rock formations to jaw-dropping red lava cliffs and world-renowned snorkelling spots, Lānaʹi is rich with must-see landmarks.
Lured by the luxury, exclusivity and tranquility of the island’s star-studded, five-star resort, many of Lanai’s visitors (approximately 70 per cent) come for the sun and never leave the grounds of the luxe hotel. But the island of Lanai isn’t just for the rich and famous, and its appeal certainly doesn’t end at the sandy shores of Manele Bay. Go beyond the beach and fall in love with the island on which the famed resort has planted its roots. Only a 40-minute ferry ride from Maui, you can explore the island in one day, or make Lanai the home base for your Hawaiian getaway.
