Which Hawaiian Island is the Best to Visit? Our 2024 Ranking
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View AllMaui - Tropical paradise with stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture.
View AllHonolulu - Oahu - Tropical paradise with beaches, culture, and vibrant city life.
View AllKaua'i - Tropical paradise, lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, serene beaches.
4
View AllHawaii - The Big Island - Volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, diverse climates, stunning beaches.
- 5
View AllLanai - Lanai: Tranquil Hawaiian island, luxury resorts, outdoor adventures.
Which Hawaiian Island is the Best to Visit? Our 2024 Ranking
1.
Maui
Maui, the second-largest island in Hawaii, is a paradise renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse attractions. Known as "The Valley Isle," Maui offers visitors dramatic coastlines, lush rainforests, and the towering Haleakalā volcano. The island boasts world-famous beaches like Kaanapali and Wailea, ideal for sunbathing, snorkeling, and surfing. The scenic Hana Highway, with its winding roads and cascading waterfalls, is a must-see. Maui’s vibrant culture is reflected in its charming towns like Lahaina, rich with history and local art. Whale watching, especially during the winter months, is a spectacular experience. Whether hiking in Iao Valley or enjoying a traditional luau, Maui provides an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and Hawaiian culture.
Hotels
- Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
- Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
- The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
- Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui
- Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
- Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
- Wailea Beach Resort
- Marriott, Maui
- Kaanapali Beach Hotel
- The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka'anapali
- Montage Kapalua Bay
Dining
- Mama's Fish House
- Lahaina Grill
- Merriman's Kapalua
- Duke's Beach House
- The Mill House
- Nalu's South Shore Grill
- Fleetwood's on Front St.
- Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman
- Pacific'O Restaurant
- Kimo's Maui
2.
Honolulu - Oahu
Honolulu, located on the island of Oahu, is a vibrant blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. The city is famed for its stunning Waikiki Beach, where turquoise waters meet golden sands, attracting surfers and sunbathers alike. Beyond the beach, Honolulu offers rich cultural experiences, such as the historic Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States. The bustling streets are lined with upscale shops, world-class dining, and lively nightlife. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Diamond Head, a dormant volcanic crater offering panoramic views of the island. Honolulu's mix of natural splendor, historical landmarks, and modern amenities make it a must-visit destination in Hawaii.
Hotels
- Halekulani
- The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort
- Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
- Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort
- The Modern Honolulu
- Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
- Sheraton Waikiki
- Prince Waikiki
- Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel
- Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa
Dining
- Marukame Udon
- Roy's Waikiki
- Helena's Hawaiian Food
- Orchids
- Alan Wong's Honolulu
- Duke's Waikiki
- House Without A Key
- The Pig and the Lady
- MW Restaurant
- Merriman's Honolulu
3.
Kaua'i
Kaua'i, often referred to as the "Garden Isle," is a lush, tropical paradise located in the Hawaiian archipelago. Known for its dramatic landscapes, the island features emerald valleys, sharp mountain spires, and jagged cliffs aged by time and the elements. One of its most famous sites is the Nā Pali Coast, a 17-mile stretch of towering sea cliffs and pristine beaches accessible only by foot, boat, or helicopter. Waimea Canyon, dubbed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," offers breathtaking vistas and hiking trails. The island is also home to numerous waterfalls, including the picturesque Wailua Falls. With its rich biodiversity, Kaua'i provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Hotels
- Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
- Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection
- Kauai Beach Resort & Spa
- Hanalei Bay Resort
- The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas
- Sheraton Kauai Resort
- Ko'a Kea Hotel & Resort
- Marriott's Kaua'i Beach Club
Dining
- Tidepools
- The Beach House Restaurant
- Merriman's Fish House
- Duke's Kauai
- Red Salt
- JO2 Natural Cuisine
- Bar Acuda
- Plantation Gardens Restaurant & Bar
4.
Hawaii - The Big Island
Hawaii's Big Island, officially known as Hawaii Island, is a captivating destination renowned for its diverse landscapes and natural wonders. It is home to Mauna Kea, the world's tallest sea mountain, and Mauna Loa, one of the most active volcanoes on Earth. Visitors can explore the lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls of Hilo, the black sand beaches of Punalu'u, and the striking lava fields of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The island also offers rich cultural experiences, including ancient Hawaiian temples and petroglyphs. With its vibrant marine life, snorkeling and diving in Kona's crystal-clear waters are unforgettable. The Big Island's unique blend of fiery volcanoes, verdant valleys, and pristine beaches make it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Hotels
- Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
- Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
- Fairmont Orchid
- Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
- The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
- Hilton Waikoloa Village
- Royal Kona Resort
- Volcano House
Dining
- Merriman's Big Island
- Huggo's
- Lava Lava Beach Club
- Roy's Waikoloa Bar & Grill
- The Fish Hopper
- Brown's Beach House
- Hilo Bay Cafe
- Kenichi Pacific
- Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill
- Jackie Rey's Ohana Grill
5.
Lanai
Lanai, also known as the "Pineapple Island," is one of Hawaii's lesser-known gems, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of more tourist-heavy islands. Covering just 140 square miles, Lanai is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty, pristine beaches, and rugged landscapes. The island's attractions include the lunar-like terrain of the Garden of the Gods, the secluded Polihua Beach, and the picturesque Hulopoe Bay, known for its excellent snorkeling and marine life. Visitors can explore the quaint Lanai City with its charming shops and eateries. Lanai's rich history, stunning vistas, and opportunities for adventure make it a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and a deeper connection with nature.
Hotels
- Four Seasons Resort Lanai
- Hotel Lanai
Dining
- Nobu Lanai
- One Forty
- Malibu Farm
- Views at Manele Golf
- Lanai City Bar & Grille
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