The Best Places to Visit in Hawaii
There are many beautiful and majestic Hawaiian islands worth visiting, but how do you know which one to pick? Honestly, you can’t really go wrong with any island, but we’re here to help you narrow down your choices a bit. Let’s take a look at some popular Hawaii islands below!
Oahu
Of all the most visited islands on the Hawaiian islands, Oahu is among the most popular. Also known as “The Gathering Place,” this beautiful islands gets 4.7 million visitors on an annual basis. While Oahu is the third largest island in the Hawaiian chain, it comes first in population, with nearly 900,000 people sharing the 600 square miles of mountains and beaches. Almost half of Oahu’s residents live in the bustling city of Honolulu, as well as in a nearby resort town called Waikiki.
As the state capital of Honolulu, this island is frequented by tourists from all over the world. It boasts a wonderful climate, world-renowned beaches, and inexpensive accomodations. The eastern coast of Oahu features a gorgeous mountain range with three of the island’s best beaches. The north shore, on the other hand, is a surfer’s paradise, and has a surprisingly unpopulated feel to it.
Maui
The second-most visited island in Hawaii is Maui, with around 2.3 to 2.5 million visitors each year. As the second-largest landmass in the Hawaiian island chain, this island is also known as the “Playground of the Wealthy.” If beaches are your thing, you’ll love visiting the west coast of Maui where there are an abundance of picturesque beaches to relax, swim, and surf. Some popular Maui attractions include:
Magic Molokini
This is a crescent moon-shaped islet that is one of Hawaii’s most recognized snorkel destinations. Sea creatures of all kinds like to congregate in the calm waters within this crater, and the rocky diameter protects them from harmful currents and waves. You’ll see thriving corals, sea turtles, seals, fish, and even sharks in this magical place.
The Pipiwai Trail
At the end of Hana Highway, you’ll find one of Maui’s most beautiful hikes. The Pipiwai Trail is very well kept, and it will take you over rocky streams, through bamboo forests, and to the incredibly beautiful Waimoku Falls.
Kauai
Kauai is the fourth-most visited island along the Hawaiian coast, with 1.3 million visitors flocking to it on an annual basis. As the oldest of the Hawaiian islands, Kauai was created by a volcano almost six million years ago! It is also the smallest of the islands, with a population of just 65,000 people.
Many people love this island because of its amazing scenery and relaxed environment, not to mention the island boasts more beaches than any other island in the chain. If you decide to visit this incredible island, you’ll be able to sunbathe on pristine shores, wade in the warm water, and enjoy an abundance of coral and wildlife.
If you love spending time outdoors, you should definitely check out the Kalalau Trail. While this is one of the toughest hikes in the Aloha State, this 22-mile hike is definitely worth taking. Along this trail, you’ll get to see breathtaking vistas and solitary beaches. Want to visit a one-of-a-kind waterfall? Kauai is home to dozens of incredible waterfalls as well.
Na Pali Coast
One popular place to visit in Kauai is the Na Pali Coast. This breathtaking coastal range is only accessible by helicopter tours, boats, and hiking, but it is known to be one of the most beautiful places on earth. Situated on the north shore, the Na Pali Coast is full of velvety green cliffs, incredible waterfalls, and narrow valleys.