If you’ve never been to Hawaii before, planning a trip there can be completely overwhelming. And the first big decision you’ll have to make is which Hawaiian Island to visit.
Oahu is called the “gathering place” because of its diversity and big city feel. More than any of the other islands, Oahu really feels like two islands in one. You have city (or “town” as the locals call it) and country.
Maui is called the “valley isle” or the “honeymooner’s isle” because of its laid back feel and unparalleled natural beauty. Maui is quite developed for tourism (nice resort areas and plenty of shopping and dining), but it never feels nearly as crowded as Oahu.
Also known as the “garden isle,” Kauai may be the prettiest island of them all. Famous for being the backdrop for movies like Jurassic Park and Indiana Jones, Kauai is stunningly beautiful. Its jagged green mountains and lush valleys are the stuff Hawaii dreams are made of.
The Big Island (also just called Hawaii) is probably the most unique of the Hawaiian Islands. It’s also, as you might have guessed, the biggest. In fact, all of the other Hawaiian Islands could fit inside the Big Island with plenty of room left over. It’s also the newest island and it’s still growing.
If you’re still not sure which island is for you, here are some recommendations: First Trip: Maui. For culture/history: Oahu. For honeymooners: Maui. For hiking: Kauai. For kids: Maui.