Hawaii for First Timers: Which Island Should You Choose?

Every island is beautiful. They just suit different travelers, and the most common first trip mistake is trying to see three of them in eight days.

Oahu

The most to do and the easiest to reach. Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, great food, and real city energy. Best for first timers who want variety and don't want to rent a car every day.

Maui

The classic Hawaii honeymoon and family island. Excellent beaches, the road to Hana, Haleakala at sunrise, and the widest range of resorts. Best all around choice if you're only picking one.

Kauai

The greenest and quietest. Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and beaches that feel undiscovered. Fewer big resorts and less nightlife. Best for couples and outdoor lovers.

The Big Island

Volcanoes, black sand, snorkeling with manta rays, and a landscape that changes every twenty minutes of driving. It's large, so plan two bases rather than one.

How long, and should you island hop?

Give any island at least five nights. For a week, stay on one. For ten days or more, two islands works beautifully. Inter island flights are short and frequent, but each move costs you the better part of a day.

When to go

April, May, September, and October have the best mix of weather, price, and crowds. Winter brings big surf on the north shores and whale watching from December through April.

Practical notes

Rent a car everywhere except Waikiki. Book popular activities (Pearl Harbor, Haleakala sunrise, luaus) well ahead. Respect the reservation systems at state parks: several now require them.

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