Explore the Magic of Hawai'i

Hawai‘i is an island paradise of unique charms and incredible attractions just waiting to be explored. From the bustling streets of Honolulu on O‘ahu to the laid-back vibes of Kauai’s North Shore, every island has its own personality. Whether you’re into lush nature, active volcanoes or moments of beachfront bliss, you’ll find it in Hawai‘i.

Hawai‘i is made up of eight main islands, with six open to visitors. The four most popular destinations within this archipelago are O‘ahu, Maui, Kaua‘i and the island of Hawai‘i (also known as the Big Island). How do you choose among them? We’ve created a guide that will help you make your dreamed-of vacation a reality.

O‘ahu

O‘ahu is ideal for first-time visitors to Hawai‘i, as this island truly features the best of all worlds, from big city sophistication to remote North Shore beaches. The most populated island (more than 900,000 residents), O‘ahu is home to the state capital of Honolulu, Waikīkī Beach and Pearl Harbor with the USS Arizona Memorial.

Cultural experiences are everywhere on O‘ahu. History buffs can get a fascinating glimpse into Hawai‘i’s past at the ‘Iolani Palace, the expansive royal residence built in the late 1800s. Nearby, the Honolulu Museum of Art has more than 60,000 paintings, sculptures and artifacts from around the world, including Hawaiian and Asian art and works by Monet, Picasso and Warhol. For a deeper immersion into island life, the Polynesian Cultural Center showcases an array of exhibits and interactive activities (including outrigger canoe rides and a popular lū‘au in the evenings) that celebrate Hawai‘i’s history.

Outdoor enthusiasts adore the island’s scenic mountain hikes, as well as several botanical gardens located across the island. A drive to the island’s North Shore is a must to witness the famous big waves in winter, as well as to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the surf town of Hale‘iwa.

Honolulu attracts shoppers with its abundance of luxury brands as well as locally owned retail stores with made-in-Hawai‘i products that range from coffee to surfboards. Visitors also flock to the island’s massive Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace (open three days a week) for budget-friendly souvenirs.

On Waikīkī’s coastal crescent of powdery-soft white sand backed by high-rise resorts, you can learn to surf the world-famous mellow waves, paddle a traditional outrigger canoe, or take a catamaran cruise to admire views of the city skyline juxtaposed with majestic Diamond Head State Monument, where visitors and locals revel in the 360-degree island and ocean views.

Foodies are just steps away from highly acclaimed restaurants including the Hawaiian fusion Roy’s Waikīkī (owned by celebrity chef Roy Yamaguchi); House Without a Key, famous for its mai tais; and Azure, situated on the beach and ideal for sunset. For casual meals or quick snacks, try some local favorites like a plate lunch, poke bowls and shave ice. Nightlife in Waikīkī is a never-ending party of lū‘aus and live music.

Maui

One of the most romantic destinations in the world, Maui is celebrated for its luxury resorts, jaw-dropping scenery and experiences like the coastal Road to Hana, featuring narrow hairpin turns that reveal stunning beaches, waterfalls and panoramic views. The rustic inland “upcountry” is home to rolling hills, lavender and dairy farms, small markets, a winery and a vodka distillery.

Be sure to savor fresh seafood, take a snorkeling excursion to the Kāpālua Bay or Molokini Crater, and witness the sunrise from the summit of Haleakalā. (Haleakalā National Park requires reservations for vehicles entering between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m.) Other fun things to do on Maui include lounging on Kā‘anapali Beach, touring a cacao farm and taking a thrilling helicopter ride.

As many travelers know, the historic town of Lahaina, in West Maui, was devastated by wildfires in the summer of 2023 and is in the midst of rebuilding. Although businesses are open throughout the island and tourists are very welcome, some families are still displaced. Those who wish to volunteer during their trip can visit HhhMaui.IVolunteer.com/HuaMomonaFarms or MauiNuiStrong.info for information.

Kaua‘i

Kaua‘i is the lushest of the Hawaiian Islands, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Less developed than O‘ahu or Maui, it boasts serene shores and has an easy-going vibe.

The Nāpali coastline is a highlight best viewed via a boat ride that hugs the shore and affords up-close views of rugged peaks, dramatic waterfalls and hidden coves. If you’re lucky you might also spot dolphins and, in winter, whales.

Other natural wonders on Kaua‘i include Waimea Canyon (often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” at 10 miles long and 3,000 feet deep); the North Shore’s postcard-perfect Hanalei Bay; and the South Shore’s Spouting Horn blowhole, a lava tube that sprays ocean water about 50 feet into the air. It’s also fun to take a pontoon cruise on the Wailua River to explore the magical Fern Grotto, a natural lava-rock formation accessible only by boat. Another relaxing excursion is to the National Tropical Botanical Garden, which encompasses three separate gardens around the island.

If you’re feeling adventurous, book a helicopter tour over the island, hike along the rocky cliffs at Shipwreck Beach in Poipu, or take a lava tube ride through mountain caves.

When you’re ready to eat, Kaua‘i has highly rated restaurants such as Merriman’s Kaua‘i, Red Salt and Jo2 Natural Cuisine. For tours and tastings, there’s Kaua‘i Coffee, the Koloa Rum distillery and Lydgate Farms for premium chocolate.

The Island of Hawai’i

The island of Hawai‘i is the largest and the most geographically diverse in the archipelago. Thanks to its eight microclimates, visitors can experience tropical rainforests, fantastic waterfalls, snow-capped mountains and active volcanoes—possibly all in the same day!

The Big Island is home to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, where guided and self-guided tours showcase otherworldly volcanic landscapes. If you’re lucky, you may witness the mesmerizing sight of lava flowing into the Pacific Ocean. If you’re into stargazing, don’t miss the nighttime tour to the top of dormant Mauna Kea, the highest point on the island.

For sunbathing, take your pick of white, red, black—and even green—sand beaches with terrain that runs the gamut from smooth to rocky.

In the north, the remote and sparsely populated Waipi‘o Valley is a once-in-a-lifetime experience accessible only via an official island tour shuttle (reservations are required). On this one-and-a-half-hour visit, you’ll see wild horses and other wildlife, native plants and trees, beautiful mountain views and untouched beaches.

On opposite sides of the island, the laid-back towns of Hilo and Kona are filled with small cafés where you can sip authentic Kona coffee, dine in casual restaurants and browse shops featuring island-made souvenirs.

Whether you’re into nature hikes, volcanic exploration or simply relaxing on gorgeous beaches, Hawai‘i has it all. From the historic sites on O‘ahu to the rugged landscape of the island of Hawai‘i, this destination offers a vacation experience like no other. Once you choose the islands for your own vacation, you’ll find Hawai‘i truly is the paradise you’ve dreamed of.

Where to Stay

The expansive Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa features 600 rooms, including luxurious beachfront accommodations. This AAA Four Diamond resort also offers several dining options on 50 tropical acres on the island’s sunny South Shore.

The oceanfront Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort Lihue has 300 rooms, several restaurants and a world-class spa.

Island Bests

• Best for foodies: O‘ahu, Maui
• Best for volcano-viewing: Island of Hawai‘i
• Best for hiking and adventure: Kaua‘i, Island of Hawai‘i
• Best for history and museums: O‘ahu
• Best for waterfalls: Island of Hawai‘i, Kaua‘i