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Sunset over Oahu island in Hawaii

Island Guide: The Hawaiian Islands

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By Tash Lunt


Each of the Hawaiian islands has its own distinct character, so it’s worth visiting two, three or even four different islands if time permits. This guide will give you an insight into your perfect Hawaiʻi holiday combination!

Oʻahu

The south is home to Honolulu’s world-famous Waikīkī Beach, a magnificent crescent of golden sand lined by glittering hotels and a wide variety of restaurants, shops and entertainment. From here you can visit Pearl Harbour on an insightful tour, join an evening of Polynesian fun at a Hawaiian village Lūʻau to enjoy a traditional feast, musicians, hula dancers and fire twirlers!


Heading north you will see the change in backdrop with acres of lush rainforest and green valleys, a stop at Kualoa Ranch, filming location of movies such as Jurassic Park and Jumanji, is the perfect location for a jungle expedition, tour a working farm or enjoy some horseback riding. Then travel up to the North Shore’s legendary surf beaches, a great place to watch the pro surfers navigate the famous big waves. 


Best for: a huge variety of resorts and a fascinating history


TF top experience: Oʻahu Grand Circle Tour – spend a full day with your local guide learning about Hawaiian history and culture whilst visiting top attractions including Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole, the Byodo-In Temple and the surfing beaches of the North Shore.


 

An aerial view of Waikiki Beach on Oahu island in Hawaii

Maui

Maui epitomises the idyllic tropical paradise with some of the best beaches in the world to swim, snorkel and sunbathe. You can also find black sand beaches, renowned surfing and windsurfing spots and you will find less visitors than neighbouring Oʻahu. The scenic resort towns of Kāʻanapali, Kīhei and Waimea are perfect for exploring pristine beaches and also ideal for humpback whale excursions through the winter months of Dec-Apr. Jump aboard with experienced naturalists as they share the story of the migrating majestic mammals.


For staggering scenery visit Haleakalā National Park positioned at the edge of Maui’s volcano, home to a mix of geologic wonders and cowboy culture. Explore the expansive variety of trails available by foot to follow on foot or by horseback. Hit the Hāna Highway for a scenic zig-zagging route along Maui’s north-eastern shores where you will find incredible views of waterfalls, beaches and tropical rainforests.


Best for: active adventurers and devoted beach-worshippers


Top TF experience: Molokaʻi Voyage Helicopter Tour - Take this thrilling opportunity to gaze over two stunning Hawaiian islands, Maui and Molokaʻi, from above! Spectacular waterfalls shoot through the lush rainforest below as you glide over remote Molokaʻi, home to the tallest sea cliffs in the world – an incredible experience on any Hawaiʻi holiday.


 

An aerial view of Maui island, Hawaii

Kauaʻi

Known as the ‘Garden Isle’ Kauaʻi is covered in tropical rainforest and famous for its stunning natural beauty including the Waimea Canyon and jaw-dropping rugged emerald cliffs of the Nāpali Coast - often featured in Hollywood films and for good reason! Inaccessible by road, this coastline is a geological wonder with natural rock spires, take to the skies for incredible views from above or join a cruise along the coast and dive into the crystal clear waters for some unforgettable snorkelling.


On the south east coast find a plethora of resorts surrounding some of the island’s best beaches and cultural experiences including Kauaʻi Museum and Grove Farm Homestead and Sugar Plantation Museum.  For the adventurous nature-lovers take to one of the many hiking trails or fly through the skies on a ziplining tour.


Best for: hikers and nature-lovers


Top TF experience: Journey to Waimea Canyon - Get transported back in time on this tour and learn all about the collapsed volcano, ragged cliffs and dramatic deep gorges that form Kauaʻi's magnificent natural wonder. Enjoy a walk in Kōkeʻe State Park and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings of native Hawaiian flora before sipping a brew at the Kauaʻi Coffee Estate.


 

The green rainforest in Kauai island, Hawaii

Island of Hawaiʻi

The Island of Hawaiʻi offers dramatic contrasts from lush rainforests to black lava fields and snow capped peaks, 11 of the world’s 13 climates can be found here. Volcanic activity dominates the landscape and is certainly the island’s biggest draw, explore Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park which is home to windswept deserts, arctic tundra, and canopied rainforest alongside its active volcanoes!


Along the west coast the sun-washed district of Kona is home to a multitude of resorts and the focal point of the island’s tourism. In the south west the calm and clear waters are perfect for snorkelling, diving, sailing and spotting dolphins and honu - Hawaiian green sea turtles. Visit the historic Kailua Village, a lively seaside town boasting shopping, dining and important historic sites – stick around for sunset here to experience the nightlife Hawaiʻi Island style.


Best for: explosive nature-lovers and conservation enthusiasts


Top TF experience: Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour - Journey to new heights for a truly magical evening. Standing at 14,000ft, Mauna Kea is Hawaiʻi's highest mountain and one which offers unrivalled panoramic views. Ascend to the summit by 4WD with your guide to watch a magnificent sunset before a memorable stargazing experience.


 

An aerial view of the black sand beaches on the island of Hawaii

For more inspiration take a look at our Hawaiʻi Holidays pages.

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Written by Tash Lunt

Tash is a Senior Procurement Manager for Australia and New Zealand, based in Kensington head office. Tash has worked at Trailfinders since 2017 and has travelled to 40 countries. Her favourite destinations include South Africa, Thailand and New Zealand.

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