{{This post might contain affiliate links. If you use any of these links to buy a product, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you}}. Read my full disclosure for more details.

 

Planning your trip to Hawaii and wondering which island to visit? Read further about the 4 best islands to visit in Hawaii for the first time.

 

When visiting Hawaii, you will have the chance to relax, retreat, and have the escapades of a lifetime. There are four islands that are the primary destinations for tourists–Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and The Big Island. Carefully read about each of the 4 best islands to visit in Hawaii for the first time and pick whichever best suits your needs and desires.

4 Best Islands to Visit in Hawaii for the First Time

1. Oahu

This island cascades with beautiful mountain ranges and tropical scenery. Oahu still has the conveniences of a metropolitan city with the ability to go outside the city and submerge in the incredible landscape.

Must-See Attractions in Oahu

Oahu is known for having an amazing balance of city life and wildlife. With lush valleys and serene coastlines, Oahu has so many areas that are worth exploring. No matter what your itinerary consists of, there are a few things you must do when visiting Oahu.

If you are looking for a full guide to Oahu, check out the Ultimate Oahu Itinerary.

1. Manoa Falls

Manoa Falls is a 150-foot waterfall that is both impressive and easily accessible. You can enter the well-maintained trailhead at the bottom of Old Paradise Park.

 

The hike is not only about reaching the waterfall, the views along the way are fascinating and extremely lush. It seems as though you are journeying through a jungle or rainforest.

 

You will pass plants, including eucalyptus, lavender, guava, and bamboo. This trail is less than 2 miles in total, but definitely worth the view! Check out the full guide to Manoa Falls, or explore a Manoa Falls guided tour to the waterfall. These falls are located less than 6 miles north of Honolulu.

2. Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Pearl Harbor National Memorial marks the resting place of many U.S. citizens that were victims of the Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. This attraction is one of the most visited destinations across all of the Hawaiian Islands.

 

Here you can find remains of the sunken battleships and learn the rich history of this battle. Visiting this monument allows you the opportunity to remember, honor, and understand some of the events that have shaped our lives today.

 

Check out the comprehensive guide to tours and activities in the Pacific Historic Parks. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is less than 20 minutes from downtown Honolulu.

3. Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is a vibrant beach that is typically known as a place that is great for surfing. When visiting Oahu, Waikiki is a beach that is near many of the other popular attractions that you may be seeing. Reasons to visit Waikiki Beach include:

 

1. Unbelievable sunsets

2. The beach and downtown area are within walking distance of one another

3. Beautiful ocean bliss with the backdrop of the Honolulu skyline

4. Nuuanu Pali Lookout

Roughly 5 miles north of Honolulu, the Nuuanu Pali Lookout offers views of seaside cliffs, the Hawaiian Botanical Garden, and the lush coastline. This lookout offers a getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city and allows for a sense of exploration and serenity.

2. Maui

Once you are in Maui, you will be surprised by its beautiful beaches and lush terrain. Maui is filled with small towns, large volcanoes, sandy shores, and diverse wildlife. Maui travel will be an unforgettable experience once you land.

Must-See Attractions in Maui

Maui is known for its relaxed vibe, lush terrain, and its unique beaches. There are so many unique Maui activities to be had on the island of Maui, including biking down a volcano and exploring the Road to Hana. It is hard to narrow down the top attractions of Maui, but here are a few of favorites.

 

If you are staying in Maui for the entirety of your vacation, check out the helpful tips for planning your Maui itinerary here.

1. Haleakala National Park

The Haleakala National Park is home to the highest peak on the island of Maui. A day spent at this national park provides you with an opportunity to see jaw-dropping sunsets, beautiful flowers, and cascading waterfalls.

 

This park has two different regions – the coastal region and the summit region. The Haleakala Crater is one of the most visited attractions in the park. This crater is massive. Consider watching the sunrise from the crater summit.

 

In addition to hiking or touring the summit, you will want to explore the Kipahulu Coastal area. When visiting the coastal area, make sure to check out the incredible Pools of Ohe’o. This national park is located in the southern portion of Maui.

 

If you are staying in the northern half of the island or in an area near Lahaina, traveling to the park will take you roughly 1.5 hours.

2. Iao Valley State Park

This park features dozens of hikes that explore the lush greenery in the heart of the island. The park is centered around a striking rock called the Iao Needle. This formation was created through erosion but is now detailed in foliage.

 

This park provides great access and views of the lush foliage that Maui is known for. Iao Valley State Park is located in the northern half of Maui, roughly 30 minutes from Lahaina.

3. Molokini Island

Molokini Island is famous for being the most amazing place to snorkel in Hawaii. The island is formed from a partially submerged volcanic crater but is home to a diverse population of marine animals.

 

Not only must you see the reefs surrounding Molokini, but the island itself is also stunning! Molokini Crater is located along the southern coastline of the island.

4. Coastal Redwoods in Poli Poli State Park

According to the locals, coastal redwoods are a site in Maui that you cannot miss! Located in Poli Poli State Park, the redwood trees are over 150 feet tall. These trees are absolutely majestic! This park is in the southern half of the island, near the Haleakala National Park.

5. Waimoku Falls

Not only are Waimoku Falls a sight to be seen, but getting there is half the fun! Utilizing the Waimoku Falls Trail, you will pass through the bamboo forest, abounding banyan trees, and small waterfalls.

 

The hike ends with a stunning view of the almost 400-foot-tall Waimoku Falls. These falls are located on the southern tip of Maui, roughly 2.5 hours from Lahaina but within an hour of Haleakala National Park.

 

Check out the Hawaii packing guide

6. Waihee Ridge Trail

The Waihee Ridge Trail traverses across the ridgeline of the Maui mountains. You can see many sights from the trail, including Makamakaole Falls, the valleys of greenery, and many ocean views. This trail is in the northeast part of the island, located roughly 45 minutes from Lahaina.

 

You might be interested in Free things to do in Hawaii

Save big NOW on all US hotel bookings with up to a $100 Cash Back Rebate with code REBATES21! 

3. Kauai

Kauai is the wildest of the Hawaiian Islands. This island is known as the “Garden Island” and is decorated with jagged cliffs, deep canyons, and lush valleys.

Must-See Attractions in Kauai

Kauai beholds incredible amounts of natural and unfathomable beauty. This island has been developed less than the other Hawaiian Islands. “The Garden Island” is known for its jarring coastline, rigorous hikes, raging waterfalls, and massive canyons. When visiting Kauai, your opportunities for exploring are endless!

1. Napali Coast

The Napali Coast spans 17 miles across the North Shore. The coastline is lined with cliffs, ridges, beaches, and waterfalls that comprise from a stunning landscape.

 

The Napali Coast State Parks allow you to view amazing overlooks from the coastline. This coastline is remote, pristine, and one of the most unique landscapes across the globe.

 

Most exploration of the coast is done by plane or boat. Commonly, travelers stay on the eastern coastline of Kauai in a town called Wailua. The Napali Coast is approximately 1 hour from Wailua.

2. Waimea Canyon

The Waimea Canyon is nicknamed The Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Make sure to travel through the entire canyon by car, stopping at the vast overlooks along the way. In addition, there are dozens of trails that will allow you to explore the canyon more intimately.  This canyon is located on the southwestern portion of Kauai, slightly over 1 hour from Wailua.

3. Kalalau Hiking Trail

The Kalalau hiking trail is known for winding through valleys, waterfalls, caves, and vivacious overlooks. This trail is extremely long (up to 22 miles), so many travelers only complete a portion of the hike. The hike begins at Ke’e beach, strolls along hills that coincide with the ocean, and wind along with jungle mountain views, and ends at the road on Kauai’s North Shore. The Kalalau Trail is on the North Shore, approximately 1 hour from Wailua.

4. Fern Grotto

Fern Grotto is an interesting wonder where ferns grow upside down. To travel to Fern Grotto, you must travel through the Wailua River via boat. This grotto is filled with majestic flora, thousands of ferns, and many native Hawaiian plants. Fern Grotto is located in the Wailua area.

5. Kilauea Lighthouse

The Kilauea Lighthouse is located at the tip of a national wildlife refuge. Not only is the view of the lighthouse incredible, but you can also sometimes see whales migrating. The view and wildlife found at the Kilauea Lighthouse are ones that you do not want to miss! Kilauea is on the northern tip of Kauai, roughly 30 minutes from Wailua.

6. Hanalei Bay

The view from Hanalei Bay is one with shimmering waters and steep mountainsides. The Hanalei Pier is located in the bay and lies beautifully against the mountainous backdrop. Hanalei Bay is a secluded place to get away for a day or five. This bay is on the north shore of Kauai, roughly 40 minutes from Wailua.

 

4. The Big Island

The big island of Hawaii is known for its great weather conditions, the clarity of the coast, and its fabulous shopping venues.

 

There are many similarities and differences among the Hawaiian Islands. Whether you decide to go to Kauai, Oahu, or all four islands – you will be able to experience the immaculate views that can be found all throughout the state of Hawaii.

Must-See Attractions on Big Island

The Big Island is nearly twice as large as the other islands that make up Hawaii. This island is known for the volcanoes that continually shape the land. The Kona area is the most well-known and frequented area on the Big Island. Find help to plan a full Big Island itinerary here.

1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes. Recommended activities within the park include the Crater Rim Tour, visiting the Thurston Lava Tube, and seeing the incredible slope from Kīlauea to the ocean. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on the eastern coast of The Big Island, roughly 2 hours from Kona.

2. Mauna Kea

Mauna Kea is home to the largest peak in Hawaii, reaching over 14,000 feet. You can hike the Mauna Kea trails, drive around the peak to see the view, or stargaze from the summit and soak in the vastness of the starry sky. Mauna Kea is located in the center of The Big Island, roughly 1.5 hours from Kona.

3. Akaka Falls State Park

Akaka Falls State Park is home to miles of lush tropical vegetation and vista points. From Akaka Falls State Park, you can overlook the Kahuna Falls and the Akaka Falls and Gorge. The views of Akaka Falls are incredible. Akaka Falls is located in the northeastern portion of The Big Island, approximately 2 hours from Kona.

4. Kealakekua Bay

Kealakekua Bay is located along the Kona Coast and is a popular destination for snorkeling, kayaking, and scuba diving. Check out all the Kealakekua Bay activities that take place at this state park. Kealakekua Bay is located in South Kona, right outside the Kona area.

 

Check out Hawaii events in 2023 here.

Find your best Hawaii vacation rental, here.

 

Final Thoughts

Hawaii is full of hundreds of beautiful beaches, waterfalls, cliffs, and valleys that are waiting to be explored!

 

Diversify your time on the island by experiencing the beauty located across the island and the coastline. Whether you choose to rent a car in Hawaii or participate in group tours, these places to visit in Hawaii are the ones that you must see on your Hawaiian vacation.

 

Pin it for later