Best Hawaii Islands to Visit For A Tropical Escape

Choosing the right Hawaii islands destination can be overwhelming with all the beauty all around but it doesn't have to be. Each island offers their own unique experiences that make Hawaii one of the world's most beloved vacation spots. It does not matter whether you are seeking adventure, romance or pure relaxation, understanding what each of these islands in Hawaii offers will help you to pick the perfect tropical vacation for you and your family.

Maui is consistently ranking as one of the best island to visit in Hawaii according to Travel + Leisure's 2025 World's Best Awards. From watching sunrise atop Haleakala volcano to snorkelling at Molokini Crater, Maui delivers the perfect dreamy Hawaiian vacation. So, what are you waiting for? Read on further to know about these Hawaii islands in detail so that you choose your preferred island for your vacation.

5 Best Hawaii Islands to Visit

Here is the list of some of the best Hawaii islands to visit for a refreshing and memorable tropical vacation with your loved ones.

1. Oahu

Oahu is the vibrant heart of islands in Hawaii and easily earns its reputation as one of the best islands to visit in Hawaii. Picture turquoise waves lapping golden shores, world famous Waikiki beach buzzing with surfers and sunskeers and the iconic Diamond Head crater peeking over the skyline. It is the "gathering place" of Hawaii for a reason and it truly offers something for everything whether you are family or a couple looking for a romantic getaway. Oahu is also home to some of the most significant historical sites in the United States such as Pearl Harbor National Memorial. If you are an adventurous person then you can hike the iconic Diamond Head Crater Trail for the stunning panoramic views.

If you are coming to Oahu with your family then you can explore places like Kualoa Ranch, Polynesian Culture Center and Waimea Valley along with the waterfall where you can swim in the pool. So, if you are looking for an island where you can spend peaceful time with your family then book your flights to island of hawaii with Experian Airfare.

2. Maui

When you picture Hawaii you are probably picturing which is famous for its stunning natural beauty and it truly lives up to its hype. Maui is one of the Hawaii islands that has a beach for every occasion like white-long sand beach for swimming and relaxing then head to Ka'anapali Beach or Wailea Beach. Looking for a dramatic unique coastline? You will find black sand at Waiʻanapanapa State Park which is absolutely stunning for its volcanic rock. A must-do is a trip to Haleakalā National Park. The volcano's summit, over 10,000 feet high, is an otherworldly landscape of craters and cinder cones. Many people make the trek up for a sunrise or sunset that you'll never forget.

The waters around Maui are a paradise. Go snorkeling at the Molokini Crater, a crescent-shaped volcanic islet that's a marine life conservation district. You'll see schools of colorful fish, sea urchins, and maybe even a Hawaiian green sea turtle. If you're visiting in the winter (roughly November to May), you're in for a treat: Maui is the whale-watching capital, and you can take a boat tour to see majestic humpback whales. Maui is a place where you can relax on a pristine beach one day and be hiking a volcanic crater the next. Maui has a way of making you feel both relaxed and adventurous at the same time, which is why it holds a special place in the hearts of so many travelers.

3. Big Island

Ready to plan a Hawaiian vacation? While all the Hawaiian islands are beautiful, there's a special magic about the Big Island that makes it the best island to travel to in Hawaii for many. Nicknamed "Hawaii's Island of Adventure," its sheer size and diverse landscapes mean you can experience an incredible range of activities and scenery, all on one island.

Imagine a place where you can go from seeing an active volcano to lounging on a white-sand beach and then stargazing from a snowy mountain peak, all in a single day. That's the Big Island for you! It's a place that feels less crowded and more like a true adventure, perfect for travelers looking for more than just a beach holiday. The star of the show is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to two of the world's most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. You can hike across vast, otherworldly lava fields, walk through the Nāhuku (Thurston) Lava Tube, and, if you're lucky, witness the breathtaking glow of an active lava flow at night.

Forget just white-sand beaches. The Big Island is famous for its unique and beautiful shores. You can relax on the famous black sand beaches, like Punalu'u Beach, created from volcanic materials. There are also pristine white-sand beaches on the Kohala Coast, like Hāpuna Beach, and even a rare green-sand beach, Papakolea, one of only four in the world! Off the Kona Coast, you can join a night snorkel tour where giant, harmless manta rays glide and "dance" in the water, feeding on plankton attracted by your boat's lights.

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4. Kauai

Often called the "Garden Isle" for its dramatic, verdant landscapes, Kauai is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. While other islands might offer bustling city life and endless nightlife, Kauai's beauty lies in its unspoiled, raw charm. It's the kind of place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural world. From the moment you arrive, you'll understand why Kauai is so special. The island is a feast for the eyes, with scenery that looks like it's been plucked straight from a movie (and it often has, with classics like Jurassic Park and Raiders of the Lost Ark being filmed here).

The Nā Pali Coast is the crown jewel of Kauai's beauty. A breathtaking coastline of towering, emerald-green cliffs plunging into the turquoise Pacific Ocean, the Nā Pali Coast is a sight you'll never forget. Since there are no roads, you can only experience it by air, sea, or on foot. A helicopter tour will give you a stunning bird's-eye view, while a boat tour will get you up close to the sea caves and secluded beaches. Take a boat tour along the Nā Pali Coast, go snorkeling in the vibrant reefs of Tunnels Beach, or try your hand at surfing with a lesson in Hanalei. For a truly unique experience, go mountain tubing through old sugar plantation irrigation canals.

Whether you're a couple on a romantic getaway, a family looking for adventure, or a solo traveler seeking peace and solitude, Kauai offers something for everyone. It's an island that invites you to slow down, breathe in the fresh, tropical air, and reconnect with nature in a way you never thought possible. If you're looking for the best island to travel to in Hawaii, one that promises both exhilarating adventure and tranquil beauty, Kauai is waiting for you.

5. Lanai and Molokai

Lanai, once known as "The Pineapple Isle" for its history as a major pineapple producer, has earned a new nickname: "The Private Island." This is thanks to its unique combination of luxurious resorts and untouched landscapes. Lanai offers an experience that feels both exclusive and adventurous. The beaches here are stunning and often feel like your own private paradise. Hulopoe Bay, a marine conservation area, is the most popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. You might even spot a pod of spinner dolphins!

If Lanai is about luxurious seclusion, Molokai is about authentic, laid-back charm. Known as "The Friendly Isle," Molokai has preserved its slow-paced lifestyle and deep connection to its Hawaiian roots. Here, you won't find a single traffic light, and the tallest buildings are palm trees. A helicopter tour is the best way to truly appreciate the scale of Molokai's stunning sea cliffs and waterfalls, many of which are only visible from the air. You can also visit the historic Kalaupapa National Historical Park, a poignant former settlement at the base of the cliffs.

Whether you're drawn to the exclusive luxury and off-road adventures of Lanai or the authentic, tranquil, and culturally rich experience of Molokai, these islands are the best islands to travel to in Hawaii for a truly unforgettable and rejuvenating trip. Book your cheap flights to hawaii island now with Experian Airfare and enjoy your tropical vacation.

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FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Hawaii Island?

April to June & September to November offer mild weather & fewer crowds.

2. How can I get around Hawaii Island?

Rent a car for flexibility or use island shuttle services and taxis.

3. What are must-see attractions on Hawaii Island?

Visit Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea summit, Akaka Falls, Pu'uhonua O Honaunau.

4. Is Hawaii Island family-friendly?

Yes; family-friendly resorts, safe beaches, interactive cultural activities and outdoor adventures abound.

5. Do I need reservations for tours?

Yes; book popular activities like lava tube tours, snorkeling trips, helicopter rides in advance. So, call Experian Airfare now and get all your bookings sorted along with the cheap flights to Hawaii island.