Article Written By Simone Zain
Being one of the most timeless travel destinations in the world, Hawaii is equal parts beautiful, welcoming and adventurous. With 8 main islands, including Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe and the Big Island- your options are endless. Each island has a distinct look, personality and overall vibe. We are here to touch upon 4 of the most popular islands for some inspiration on where to head first.
Kauai
Known as “the garden isle”, Kauai’s reputation does not disappoint. Arguably, Kauai has the most beautiful terrain of all the islands with its countless flora and fauna, sea cliffs, canyons and waterfalls. You will be amazed no matter where you look and sometimes might even recognize your surroundings from the numerous Hollywood films that have featured this beautiful island. In addition to the stunning landscapes, Kauai is also wonderful for those looking for active travel. Kauai boasts wonderful hiking and snorkeling, with award winning spas to allow for both activity and relaxation.
Restaurants you cannot miss:
Eating House 1849– 2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka Rd A-201, Koloa, HI 96756
Beach House Restaurant– 5022 Lawai Rd, Koloa, HI 96756
Porky’s Kauai– 9899 Waimea Rd, Waimea, HI 96796
Koloa Fish Market- 3390 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756
Great Hotel Options:
Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort at Poipu Beach
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa
The Lodge at Kukui’ula
Maui
For a combination of everything Maui is your best bet. It has fantastic restaurants, endless activities and some of the best whale watching in the world (from November- May). With two resort areas, Kaanapali and Wailea on the West side of the island and more remote options along the road to Hana (a must do island drive) you can have the best of both worlds. Maui allows for the option of quiet day trips and resort side nightlife in quaint towns like Lahaina, Paia, Wailea and Kihei.
Restaurants your Cannot Miss:
Honu Seafood and Pizza– 1295 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761
Paia Fish Company– 632 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761 OR 100 Baldwin Ave, Paia, HI 96779
The Mill House– 1670 Honoapiilani Hwy #1, Wailuku, HI 96793
Honokowai Okazuya Deli– 3600 Lower Honoapiilani Rd D, Lahaina, HI 96761
Great Hotel Options:
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Andaz Maui
The Big Island
When I think of the big island three things come to mind, volcanos, pie and sea turtles. The least touristy option of the more populated islands, the big island has a lot to offer with little crowds.
Restaurants you cannot miss:
Roys– 69-250 Waikoloa Beach Dr, Waikoloa Village, HI 96738
Moon and Turtle– 51 Kalakaua St, Hilo, HI 96720
Da Fish House– 613659 Kawaihae-Mahukona Rd, Waimea, HI 96743
Merriman’s Big Island– 65-1227 Opelo Rd B, Waimea, HI 96743
Great Hotel Options:
Hilton Waikaloa Village
Mauna Lani
Four Seasons Hualalai
Oahu
Oahu, truly the island that has a little bit for everyone. Enjoy the city life of Honolulu, food, drinks, luxury hotels and hustle and bustle of Wikiki Beach. Feel like a local on the North Shore, grab some shrimp at one of the many food trucks, catch a wave or chase some waterfalls, this stunning island has no shortage of adventure. Take a tour at Kualoa Ranch and feel like you are in the set or Jurassic Park, because you are!
Restaurants you cannot miss:
Matsumoto Shave Ice– 66-111 Kamehameha Hwy #605, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck– 66-472 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Ono Seafood– 747 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
Duke’s Waikiki– 2335 Kalakaua Ave #116, Honolulu, HI 96815
Halekulani Hotel
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina
The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
Day Trip Add On
Molokai
For a local, quiet and historically rich experience, Molokai is the way to go. While it lacks in nightlife options, with authenticity it doesn’t disappoint. Seen as a once in a lifetime trip, some must dos include snorkeling and kayaking over the longest reef on any Hawaiian island, Molokai’s barrier reef, hopping on a mule and travelling to the Kalaupapa Leper Colony (by invitation) and touring one of the many coffee plantations. The stand out part of visiting this island in particular is your chance to really connect with the locals and experience the beautiful, but challenging history of the Hawaiian people.
