A paradise within the Central Pacific, the Hawaiian Islands are filled with beauty, adventure and fascinating culture. For those dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, the best first step is figuring out which islands are right for your desired travel experience. Read on to learn about the identity of each of the 6 main islands: Kaua?i, O?ahu, Moloka?i, Lana?i, Maui and the Island of Hawai?i. While each island offers something different, all will reward you with a unique experience and beautiful backdrop for whatever journey you choose.
The oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain, Kaua?i is called the "Garden Island?. Draped in emerald valleys, sharp mountain spires and jagged cliffs aged by time, this island is filled with tropical rainforests, forking rivers and cascading waterfalls. Here, you can kayak the Wailua River, snorkel on Poipu Beach, hike the trails of Kokee State Park, or zipline above Kauai's lush valleys. The laid-back atmosphere and rich culture found in its small towns is what makes this island truly timeless. Make your escape to Kaua?i and discover the undeniable allure of the island.
Known as ?The Gathering Place,? O?ahu certainly lives up to its reputation. The third largest Hawaiian island is home to the majority of Hawaii?s diverse population, a fusion of East and West cultures rooted in the values and traditions of the Native Hawaiian people. It?s this fundamental contrast between the ancient and the modern that makes discovering O?ahu so enjoyable. From bustling city life to laidback surf towns, there are plenty of different options for exploring O?ahu's unqiue regions, adventures, and its eclectic restaurants, nightlife and accommodations.
Only 38 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest point, Moloka?i is home to the world?s highest sea cliffs and the longest continuous fringing reef. Moloka?i remains true to its island roots, having a high population of Native Hawaiian ancestry. They continue to preserve their rural lifestyle thanks to their love of the land. Whether you?re led by a guide along the cliffs leading to Kalaupapa National Historical Park or discovering Papohaku Beach, one of Hawaii?s largest white-sand beaches, Molokai is truly an island of outdoor adventure where the past comes alive!
Don?t let its size fool you. As the smallest inhabited island in Hawai?i, Lana?i offers big enticements to its visitors. Just nine miles away from Maui, Lana?i takes on the personality of two different places. The first is found in luxurious resorts where visitors can indulge in world-class amenities and championship-level golf. The other is found in off-the-beaten-path treasures, such as bouncing along the island?s rugged back roads in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle. You?re sure to find serenity, adventure and privacy on Lana?i.
Known for its world-famous beaches and the sacred Iao Valley, Maui is the second largest Hawaiian island. Nicknamed ?The Valley Isle?, visitors can enjoy views of migrating humpback whales (during winter months), farm-to-table cuisine and the magnificent sunrise and sunset from Haleakala. Voted as the "Best Island in the U.S." by Cond? Nast Traveler readers for more than 20 years, it is no surprise people fall in love with Maui.
Nearly twice as large as all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined, the island of Hawai?i is the youngest in the Hawaiian chain. Nicknamed ?Big Island?, you can travel through all but four of the world's different climate zones here, ranging from Wet Tropical to Polar Tundra. From the molten magma flowing at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to the snow-capped heights of Maunakea; from the lush valleys of the Hamakua Coast to the jet-black sands of Punaluu Beach, the island of Hawai?i is an unrivaled expression of the power of nature. No matter how you decide to experience this place, it will leave you humbled and inspired.
