What Hawaiian Island Should You Visit? First-Timers Guide
First time visiting Hawaii and not sure which island to choose? You’re not alone. Each of Hawaii’s four main islands — Oʻahu, Maui, Hawaiʻi Island (the Big Island), and Kauaʻi — has a distinct personality, landscape, and vibe.
Mark Twain once called Hawaii “the loveliest fleet of islands that lies anchored in any ocean.” The name evokes images of beaches and relaxation.
According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, approximately 9,683,113 visitors traveled to Hawaii in 2024. Travelers occasionally forget how large the islands are. They don’t take the time to think about which Hawaiian island to visit.
Some islands are better for beaches and nightlife, while others are perfect for hiking, scenic drives, or relaxing in luxury. This guide breaks down the best reasons to visit each island, highlights top attractions, and answers frequently asked questions to help you pick the right island for your perfect Hawaii vacation.
Oʻahu: The Island That Has It All
Oʻahu is also known as The Gathering Place because it is the most visited island in Hawaii, and it’s often the best choice for first-time travelers. It’s home to Honolulu, the capital city, and offers a vibrant blend of natural beauty, history, shopping, and nightlife.
What to Expect:
- Bustling city life balanced with natural wonders
- Famous beaches and world-class surf
- Cultural and historic sites
Must-See Attractions:
- Waikīkī Beach: This iconic stretch of sand is famous for beginner surfing in the summer months, stunning sunsets, and easy access to hotels, restaurants, and shops. Waikiki Beach can get crowded, check out our article on Oahu Beaches to discover more beach options.
- Pearl Harbor National Memorial: Learn about World War II history with a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, Aviation Museum and Pacific Fleet Museum.
- Diamond Head State Monument: Hike Lēʻahi Trail to the top of this volcanic crater for sweeping views of Honolulu and the Pacific. Reservations are required and can be made 30-days in advance.
- Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve: A great spot for snorkeling with coral reefs and tropical fish in a protected bay. Reservations are required to visit as daily capacity is limited to protect its delicate ecosystem and marine life.
- North Shore: Known for its legendary surf breaks like Waimea Bay and Pipeline, it's a paradise for beach lovers and wave watchers alike. Beyond the surf, you'll find quaint towns like Haleʻiwa, bursting with local shops, food trucks, and Hawaiian culture.
Who It’s For:
- First-time visitors
- Families
- Travelers seeking a balance of beach and city life
- History and culture buffs
FAQ – Oʻahu
- Is Oʻahu crowded?
Yes, Oʻahu is the most visited island in Hawaiʻi, so it can feel crowded, especially in popular areas like Waikīkī Beach, Hanauma Bay, and Pearl Harbor. If crowds aren't your thing, consider visiting during off-peak periods like the spring or fall. - Can I get around without a car?
Yes, in Honolulu/Waikīkī, but if you want to explore the North Shore or Windward Coast, renting a car is recommended.
Maui: Scenic Luxury and Outdoor Adventure
Maui is the second most visited island and is a favorite for honeymooners and families who want a relaxing escape with just enough adventure. It’s known for its upscale resorts, beautiful beaches, and dramatic landscapes.
What to Expect:
- Luxury resorts and quiet beaches
- Scenic drives and high-elevation views
- Whale watching in the winter months
Must-See Attractions:
- Road to Hāna: This famous drive takes you along the island’s lush eastern coast, with stops at waterfalls, scenic lookouts, black sand beaches, and botanical gardens. Don’t miss Wailua Falls, Waiʻānapanapa State Park, and the Seven Sacred Pools at ʻOheʻo.
- Haleakalā National Park: Watch the sunrise above the clouds from Maui’s highest peak (reservation required), or hike through the park’s moon-like crater.
- Molokini Crater: A partially submerged volcanic crater that offers excellent snorkeling in clear, calm waters.
- Lāhainā Town: Once a royal capital and whaling village, this historic town was the heart of West Maui (currently being rebuilt after the 2023 wildfires).
- Kāʻanapali Beach & Wailea: Two of Maui’s most famous beach areas, offering soft sand, snorkeling spots, shopping, and oceanfront dining.
Who It’s For:
- Couples and honeymooners
- Families
- Luxury travelers
- Nature lovers and photographers
FAQ – Maui
- Is the Road to Hāna safe to drive?
Yes, but it’s narrow and winding. Take your time or book a guided tour if you’d prefer not to drive. - What’s the best time to visit?
December to April is great for whale watching. Summer offers calmer waters, extended daylight hours, and minimal rainfall making it ideal for beach days.
Hawaiʻi Island (The Big Island): Volcanoes and Epic Landscapes
The Big Island is all about adventure and extremes. It's larger than all the other Hawaiian Islands combined and is home to active volcanoes, black and green sand beaches, lava tubes, and even snow-capped mountains. It is the third most popular island and has the second-largest city in the state, Hilo.
What to Expect:
- Lava flows, volcanic craters, and geothermal activity
- Vast, open landscapes and fewer crowds
- Incredible stargazing opportunities
Must-See Attractions:
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park: Visit Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, explore the Thurston Lava Tube, hike crater trails, and (if lava is active) witness volcanic activity up close.
- Mauna Kea Visitor Center: Located at 9,200 feet, this is one of the best places on the planet for stargazing. Bring warm clothes!
- Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach: A striking beach with jet-black sand where you’ll often find Hawaiian green sea turtles resting.
- Green Sand Beach (Papakōlea): A rare sight accessed by a long hike or 4WD ride. The olive-hued sand is created from volcanic olivine crystals.
- Kona Coffee Belt: Tour a local farm and sample world-famous Kona coffee. Kona coffee belt stretches 30 miles along the leeward side of the Big Island; this coastal zone offers perfect conditions for cultivating world-renowned Kona coffee.
- Boiling Pots: A visit to the Boiling Pots in Hilo offers a unique glimpse into the island’s volcanic landscape and natural beauty. This series of terraced pools and cascading waterfalls on the Wailuku River gets its name from the way water appears to bubble and “boil” during heavy rain.
- Hilo: Visit Rainbow Falls, the Liliʻuokalani Gardens, and the Hilo Farmers Market for a taste of local life.
Who It’s For:
- Adventurers and outdoor lovers
- Science and geology enthusiasts
- Travelers looking to avoid crowds
- Anyone curious about Hawaii’s volcanoes
FAQ – Big Island
- Should I stay on the Kona or Hilo side?
Kona is sunnier and more tourist friendly. Hilo is greener, more local, and closer to Volcanoes National Park. - Do I need a rental car?
Yes. The Big Island is spread out and public transportation is limited.
Kauaʻi: The Garden Isle
Kauaʻi is the most lush, rural and dramatic of the main Hawaiian Islands. With its towering sea cliffs, emerald valleys, and cascading waterfalls, it’s a dream for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful, natural escape.
What to Expect:
- Stunning landscapes and fewer tourists
- Incredible hiking, kayaking, and photography opportunities
- Charming small towns and uncrowded beaches
Must-See Attractions:
- Nā Pali Coast: Accessible by boat, helicopter, or challenging hikes like the Kalalau Trail, this coastline is a jaw-dropping display of cliffs and waterfalls.
- Waimea Canyon: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this colorful gorge offers spectacular views and hiking trails.
- Hanalei Bay: A crescent-shaped bay with mountain backdrops, perfect for paddleboarding, surfing, and relaxing.
- Wailua River: Take a kayak or boat tour up the river to see Fern Grotto and Secret Falls.
- Kīlauea Lighthouse: A scenic viewpoint and wildlife refuge where you can spot seabirds and seasonal humpback whales.
- Poʻipū Beach: A family-friendly beach with great snorkeling and frequent Hawaiian monk seal sightings.
Who It’s For:
- Nature lovers and hikers
- Couples and photographers
- Travelers seeking peace and quiet
- Fans of small-town charm
FAQ – Kauaʻi
- Is it easy to get around Kauaʻi?
Yes, but you’ll want a rental car. The island has only one major highway and no public transportation outside of Līhuʻe. - Does it rain a lot?
Yes, especially Mt Waialeale which is one of the wettest places in the world receiving over 340 inches of rain each year. Most rain is brief and followed by sunshine. The South Shore is typically drier.
Final Tips: Choosing Your First Hawaiian Island
Still can’t decide? Here’s a quick side-by-side to help:
| Island | Best For | Signature Experiences |
|---|---|---|
| O'ahu | First-timers, families, history lovers | Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head |
| Maui | Couples, beach lovers, scenic drives | Road to Hana, Haleakala, luxury resorts |
| Big Island | Adventurers, volcano seekers | Lava flows, Mauna Kea, Kona coffee farms |
| Kaua'i | Nature lovers, photographers, hikers | Na Pali Coast, Waimaea Canyon, Wailua River |
Travel tip: If you have at least 10 days, consider splitting your trip between two islands. Inter-island flights are short and relatively inexpensive.
Plan Your Perfect Hawaiian Vacation
No matter which island you choose, your first trip to Hawaii will be full of unforgettable sights, culture, and aloha spirit. Use this guide to narrow down your options, think about the kind of experience you want, and start building your perfect itinerary.
For even more insider tips, attraction highlights, and local recommendations, check out This Week Hawaii — your go-to guide for exploring the islands like a pro.
