Regional Info
Hawaii has it all and our guide has been designed to help you research and explore with the guidance of Local Experts!
1. Oahu ("The Gathering Place")
Main City: Honolulu (State Capital)
Population: ~1 million (most populated island)
Famous Areas:
Waikiki: Known for its iconic beach, luxury hotels, nightlife, and shopping.
North Shore: Famous for big-wave surfing and a more laid-back vibe.
Pearl Harbor: Historic WWII site with the USS Arizona Memorial.
Diamond Head: A popular hiking trail offering panoramic views of Honolulu.
Activities:
Historical Tours: Pearl Harbor, Iolani Palace, and Bishop Museum.
Beaches: Waikiki, Lanikai, Hanauma Bay (for snorkeling).
Nightlife: Waikiki is bustling with bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Best For: First-time visitors, city-lovers, those seeking history, shopping, and nightlife, and surf enthusiasts.
2. Maui ("The Valley Isle")
Main City: Kahului
Population: ~160,000
Famous Areas:
Wailea: Luxury resorts, golf courses, and fine dining.
Hana: A remote town reached by the scenic Road to Hana, known for its waterfalls and lush rainforests.
Lahaina: A historic whaling village with art galleries and restaurants.
Activities:
Road to Hana: A famous drive with waterfalls, rainforests, and coastal views.
Haleakalā National Park: Known for its volcanic crater and sunrise views.
Whale Watching: Best during the winter months, especially off the coast of Lahaina.
Beaches: Kaanapali, Makena (Big Beach), and Ho’okipa Beach (known for windsurfing).
Best For: Nature lovers, honeymooners, adventurers, and those seeking a mix of relaxation and exploration.
3. Big Island ("Hawai'i Island")
Main Cities: Kona (West), Hilo (East)
Population: ~200,000
Famous Areas:
Volcanoes National Park: Home to Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes.
Kona: Known for coffee farms, snorkeling, and historical sites.
Hilo: Known for its lush rainforests, waterfalls (Rainbow Falls), and local markets.
Activities:
Volcano Exploration: Visit the Kīlauea caldera and see lava fields (when active).
Snorkeling and Diving: Kealakekua Bay and Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau (Place of Refuge).
Mauna Kea: Stargazing and visiting the summit (sometimes snowcapped).
Beaches: Hapuna Beach (white sand), Punalu'u Beach (black sand), and Green Sand Beach.
Best For: Adventure seekers, volcano enthusiasts, stargazers, and those wanting a diverse, rugged landscape.
4. Kauai ("The Garden Isle")
Main City: Lihue
Population: ~70,000
Famous Areas:
Napali Coast: Known for its towering cliffs, lush valleys, and dramatic sea views. Best seen via boat, helicopter, or hiking.
Waimea Canyon: Called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," it offers stunning views and hiking trails.
Hanalei: A picturesque bay town with art galleries, beaches, and lush landscapes.
Activities:
Hiking: Trails in Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon.
Helicopter Tours: To view inaccessible areas of the island.
Beaches: Poipu Beach, Hanalei Bay, and Tunnels Beach for snorkeling.
Gardens and Waterfalls: Fern Grotto, Wailua Falls, and botanical gardens.
Best For: Nature lovers, hikers, those seeking tranquility, and photography enthusiasts.
5. Lanai ("The Pineapple Island")
Main City: Lanai City
Population: ~3,000 (smallest inhabited island)
Famous Areas:
Shipwreck Beach: Known for its rough waters and an old shipwreck visible from shore.
Garden of the Gods: A unique, rocky landscape with stunning rock formations.
Hulopoe Bay: Beautiful beach with tide pools, perfect for snorkeling and sunbathing.
Activities:
Off-Roading: Rent a 4x4 to explore the island’s rugged trails and beaches.
Golf: Manele Golf Course offers incredible ocean views.
Snorkeling and Diving: Especially around Hulopoe Bay.
Luxury Relaxation: Stay at the Four Seasons Resort for an exclusive, secluded experience.
Best For: Those seeking seclusion, adventure, luxury, and nature.
6. Molokai ("The Friendly Isle")
Main City: Kaunakakai
Population: ~7,000
Famous Areas:
Kalaupapa National Historical Park: A former leprosy colony, now a protected historical area.
Halawa Valley: Home to some of Hawaii’s oldest settlements and beautiful waterfalls.
Papohaku Beach: One of Hawaii’s largest white-sand beaches, often uncrowded.
Activities:
Hiking: Through lush valleys and along cliffside trails.
Cultural Tours: Learn about the island’s strong Hawaiian traditions and heritage.
Beaches: Papohaku Beach and more remote beaches with little tourist presence.
Mule Rides: To explore Kalaupapa National Historical Park.
Best For: Culture seekers, those wanting to experience a quieter, more traditional Hawaii, and eco-tourists.
Smaller and Uninhabited Islands:
Niihau ("The Forbidden Island"): Privately owned, access is generally restricted, but there are helicopter tours.
Kahoolawe: Uninhabited and used for military purposes, it is only accessible via volunteer conservation projects.
