Which Hawaiian Island Is Right for You: Oʻahu, Maui, or the Big Island?

Hawaiʻi is a dream vacation destination, known for its stunning landscapes, tropical weather, and deep-rooted cultural traditions. But with six major Hawaiian islands wooing travelers, choosing which one to visit can be confusing, especially for first-time visitors. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, craving beachside relaxation, or looking to unplug and slow down, there’s an island to suit your style.

Here’s a primer on Hawaiʻi’s three most popular islands so that you can decide which one is best for you.

The Big Island

Who should visit The Big Island?

Hawaiʻi’s Big Island—simply named Hawaiʻi—is “truly unlike any other island in the Hawaiian archipelago,” says Jaydeen Kanekoa, a Big Island native and senior marketing manager for the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa.

She says the Big Island is ideal for travelers who want to experience raw, powerful nature—from erupting volcanoes to star-filled skies—with a slower, more expansive feel than the other islands.

The Big Island is also a paradise for food lovers. “The island’s bounty is unlike anywhere else,” Kanekoa adds. “100-percent Kona coffee, cacao, macadamia nuts, tropical fruit, and ocean-raised seafood like kanpachi are all grown or harvested here.”

What is there to do on the Big Island?

“[The Big Island offers] unmatched diversity of landscapes and experiences,” Kanekoa says. “From snow-capped Mauna Kea and lush rainforests to black sand beaches and Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes.”

Whether you’re exploring the island’s natural wonders or immersing yourself in its cultural heritage, there’s no shortage of memorable things to do, including the following:

Visit Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

This awe-inspiring park is home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, dramatic lava fields, and lush rainforests. Hike through an International Biosphere Reserve, and discover thousands of ancient petroglyphs.

Stargaze from Mauna Kea

A dormant volcano and sacred site in Native Hawaiian culture, Mauna Kea offers some of the world’s clearest night skies.

Tour a Kona coffee plantation

Get a taste of the island’s famous 100-percent Kona coffee with a visit to one of the region’s many farms, where you can see how beans go from tree to cup.

Take a cultural walking tour

At Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, guests can join a guided tour through sacred ʻAnaehoʻomalu Bay, ancient fishponds, lava fields, and royal sites. 

Try traditional Hawaiian activities

Paddle an outrigger canoe, learn to play the ukulele, or join a lei-making session to connect with local traditions.

Savor local flavors and fine dining.

Dine on locally grown produce and freshly caught fish at Hawaii Calls. Or for fine dining, consider the AAA Four Diamond Meridia, which offers spectacular ocean views and a Mediterranean-inspired menu.

Oʻahu

Who should visit Oʻahu?  

“Oʻahu is a dynamic mix of city and sea,” says Luana Maitland, area director of cultural experiences for Outrigger Resorts & Hotels, which includes Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort on Oʻahu.

If you're drawn to the energy of a big city but don’t want to sacrifice beach time, Oʻahu might be your perfect match. The island blends the cosmopolitan vibe of Honolulu, Hawaiʻi’s capital, with world-class surfing, upscale shopping, and a famously relaxed attitude.

It’s also an ideal island for travelers interested in Hawaiian history and culture, offering everything from historic landmarks to immersive cultural experiences.  And because most flights from the mainland arrive in Honolulu, Oʻahu is especially convenient for first-time visitors looking to explore without the need to island-hop.

What is there to do on Oʻahu?

Highlights while on Oʻahu include the following:

Surf (or sunbathe) at Waikīkī Beach

Widely regarded as one of the world’s best surfing spots, Waikīkī is great for both beginners taking lessons and experienced surfers catching waves. Or, simply grab a chair and lounge in the sun.

Visit Pearl Harbor

History buffs can explore this landmark American naval base, attacked by Japanese forces in 1941, which drew the US into World War II.

Hike Diamond Head State Monument

This dormant volcanic crater offers a relatively short hike with sweeping panoramic views of Oʻahu’s coastline.

Shop at Ala Moana Center

The world’s-largest open-air shopping mall, Ala Moana is perfect for travelers looking to browse hundreds of stores and eateries.

Stroll the Royal Hawaiian Center

This high-end shopping destination is often compared with New York’s Fifth Avenue.

Experience Hawaiian culture

Waikīkī Beach Marriott Resort & Spa features a Cultural Parlor and Queen’s Parlor, where guests can take part in activities such as Hawaiian language lessons, hula, and storytelling

Explore a royal palace

Wander through Iolani Palace and its expansive grounds to learn about the King and Queen who ruled over Hawaii before the Hawaiian islands became a part of the US.

Maui

Who should visit Maui?

Maui is a choose-your-own-adventure island because there is something for every type of traveler, says Minh-Huyen Nguyen, director of marketing and communications at the AAA Four Diamond Wailea Beach Resort.

“It’s not too busy, not too slow,” adds Anjelica Cocson, guest services coordinator for Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa. “You won’t find skyscrapers like on Waikīkī, but just enough options for fun [compared with] the slower pace of the Big Island.” 

In short: Maui is ideal for travelers who want a balance of relaxation and activity—without the crowds of Oʻahu or the slower pace of the Big Island.

What is there to do on Maui?

Highlights on Maui include the following: 

Explore diverse beaches

From golden sands to rare black and red beaches, Maui’s shores are perfect for surfing, snorkeling, or simply relaxing.

Hike Haleakalā National Park

Climb to the summit of one of the world’s largest dormant volcanoes for breathtaking sunrise views and unique landscapes.

Drive the Road to Hana

This legendary scenic route winds past rainforests, waterfalls, and towering sea cliffs, with plenty of stops for exploring.

Zipline and bike adventures

For thrill-seekers, ziplining through lush canopies or biking down volcanic craters offers unforgettable experiences.

Whale watching (in winter)

Each year, thousands of humpback whales migrate to Maui’s waters, creating spectacular viewing opportunities.

Experience Hawaiian culture

Attend spectacular luaus featuring fire knife performances, such as those at the AAA Four Diamond Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka’anapali. Both the Westin and Wailea Beach Resort offer classes on lei making, hula dancing, and more.

. . . . .

Each Hawaiian island is special in its own way, from an urban escape with beach town vibes to a tranquil oasis. Choosing the right one, or combination, is the first step towards planning your dream getaway.

For a deep dive into the Hawaiian islands, check out Explore the Magic of Hawaiʻi.