Exploring the Four Main Hawaiian Islands: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers (2024)

The "garden isle," the "valley isle," the "gathering place," and "the big island" - these four names may transport your thoughts to a heavenly paradise…

Have you ever wondered which islands make up Hawaii?

Discover the diverse and magnificent beauty of Hawaii's four main islands: Oahu (The Gathering Place), Maui (Valley Isle), Kauai (Garden Isle), and Big Island Hawaii (the largest Hawaiian island). Uncover what each island has to offer and create unforgettable memories on your next vacation.

With crystal clear waters, swaying palm trees, and soft sandy beaches... Hawaii truly evokes images of an idyllic island getaway.

How many islands make up this slice of paradise and what are the most desirable ones to visit?

Aloha and E Komo Mai (welcome!) to your quick and easy-to-follow guide, breaking down the four largest of the eight Main Hawaiian Islands - O'ahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.

Exploring the Four Main Hawaiian Islands: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers (2024)

FAQs

What is the best way to explore the Hawaiian Islands? ›

If you're looking to island-hop in Hawaii, you have a few options. Depending on what islands you're traveling between, you can get there by airplane or ferry. You can also book an inter-island cruise or a guided tour to island hop for a day.

What is considered the best Hawaiian island to visit? ›

Maui is Considered Heaven on Earth

If you're a water baby, snorkeling at Molokini islet, sailing off Lahaina and windsurfing at Hookipa Beach are musts. And from November through May, you can embark on a whale-watching cruise.

What is the best way to travel to multiple islands in Hawaii? ›

Flying, taking a ferry, going on a cruise, or joining guided day trips are options for traveling between Hawaiian islands. Inter-island flights are the cheapest way to travel, with prices starting at just $39 each way. Flight times between islands are short, ranging from 30 to 45 minutes for a direct flight.

How many Hawaiian Islands should I visit? ›

With the majority of the islands uninhabited and inaccessible, you can focus on four of the eight largest islands: Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and the Island of Hawaii (often referred to as the Big Island), with the option to add on a few others. Here are some tips for planning an epic multi-island trip to Hawaii.

Where is the best place to go in Hawaii for the first time? ›

Oahu is a perfect choice for your first time in Hawaii as it offers a blend of everything. First and foremost, Oahu boasts some of the most iconic and easily accessible Hawaiian attractions. Honolulu, the capital city, is located on Oahu, making it a hub for flights.

Which Hawaii island is best for non touristy? ›

Molokai is the least-visited Hawaiian island. It has more hotel options than Lanai, but it doesn't have a lot of tourism infrastructure like tour companies and adventure excursions.

How much is the ferry from Honolulu to Maui? ›

$39 one-way Hawaii Ferry fares now available. Plan your Hawaii ferry reservations today.

How do locals travel between Hawaiian islands? ›

To get around the islands of Hawaii, you can fly by helicopter, travel by ferry or hop on a boat.

How much does it cost to island hop in Hawaii? ›

Island Hopping Cost and Deals

You can expect to pay about $100 per person each way, which can add up. So, if you are really hoping to hop around, we suggest booking an island hopping vacation package. We offer some great deals through our partner Tripmaster.

Is Kauai or Maui better? ›

While Maui is more developed as a tourist destination and offers generally drier weather, Kauai is the perfect option if you want to visit a rugged and authentic Hawaiian island that won't ever feel overly crowded, even in the summer months.

What is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit? ›

Due to the abundance of hotels, activities, tours, and attractions, Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit.

What is the most crowded island in Hawaii? ›

O'ahu (Population 876,156, Area 597 sq. miles) The most populated island, where Honolulu is the Capital City, the principal port, the major airport, and business and financial center, and the educational heart of the State.

How do you get around the Hawaiian islands? ›

Transportation options vary from island to island. Many visitors enjoy taking bus tours to conveniently explore the Islands. For most islands you can also get around by shuttle, taxi, ride-sharing app such as Uber or Lyft, or public transportation.

Is it better to fly or take a cruise to Hawaii? ›

For travelers who aren't big on planning, there is no better way to travel within Hawaii than by cruise. It's the ultimate “sit back, relax and enjoy” way to vacation. Cruisers can hop aboard their ship and relax by the pool while all the planning is done for them.

Is Maui or Honolulu better? ›

Hawaii is a stunning location with plenty of fun things to do, no matter which island you visit. If you're in the market for a beachy, relaxing vacation, you may want to head to Maui. Otherwise, consider Honolulu for its abundance of hotels, things to do and plentiful flight connections to other U.S. cities.

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