Hawai‘i comprises six major islands: Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, Molokai and Lanai. From urban Honolulu on Oahu to the volcanoes of the Big Island, the calm beaches of Maui to the rugged jungles of Kauai, you’ll get a mix of relaxation and adventure on each. But it can be hard to decide which island is the best to visit in Hawai‘i for the first time.
“Each Hawai‘ian island has its own heartbeat — a unique vibe, landscape and rhythm that make each unforgettable,” Fora Advisor Caroline Weilert said, adding how each “offers its own magic, making Hawai‘i endlessly intriguing for every type of traveler.”
Read on to determine which Hawai‘ian island you should visit for your first time, based on your travel interests and style.
How to choose the best island in Hawai‘i to visit for your first time
Hawai‘i is an incredible destination, and it’s easy to forget it’s part of the US.
“No passport needed, no language barrier and no foreign currency to manage,” Fora Advisor Sara Jeanne Gulley said.
Visiting Hawai‘i is a no-brainer. But deciding which part of Hawai‘i to visit is much less clear. The best places to visit in Hawai‘i are spread throughout the islands, and it’s unlikely you'll be able to see everything in a single trip. Before we break down each island, the following factors can help you make a decision.
Consider the duration of your trip
How many days you spend in Hawai‘i is an important factor. For example, spending time on Oahu is going to look differently from spending time on the Big Island: Oahu is condensed, while the Big Island’s attractions are fairly spread out. If you’re only able to spend a few days in Hawai‘i and want to pack as much in as possible, Oahu is the better choice. The island is well developed and travel times between activities is minimal. On the Big Island, travel times between sites may limit your itinerary. On the other hand, if you’re only interested in relaxing at a resort, then any of the islands will do regardless of your time constraints.
Think about flight schedules and ease of travel
Image courtesy of 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
Oahu is the only Hawai‘ian island with a major international airport; it’s the easiest to get to, which is one of the reasons it’s the best Hawai‘ian island for families to visit. Many — but not all — flights stop in Oahu en route to other islands, which can eat into your total travel time. Our guide on how to travel between the Hawai‘ian islands offers more tips, but internal travel is something to consider if you’re looking for convenience.
Consider your desired activities and attractions: nightlife, beaches, parks, eateries, shopping
If it’s your first time to Hawai‘i, the island you visit depends on what you want to do. Oahu is home to the widest variety of things to do in Hawai‘i, including a bumping nightlife, beaches and opportunities for cultural immersion. But if you prefer nothing but relaxation, you might consider a trip to Maui or Lanai instead (though both of these islands also offer adventure). Molokai, meanwhile, may be of greater appeal if you’re interested in immersing yourself in Hawai‘ian culture at its most authentic. The Big Island and Kauai are both great choices if you want adventure with a side of relaxation.
Consider your preferred accommodations
The best places to stay in Hawai'i range from beautiful beachside resorts to intimate boutique gems. While all the islands have resorts and smaller hotels, your choice of island will determine your options. Oahu has the widest selection of accommodations, but the Big Island, Maui and, to a lesser extent, Kauai, are better known for their resorts.
Oahu
Image courtesy of Fora Advisor Lisa Roah
Oahu is bucket-list-worthy, in part because there’s so much to do. Think of it as the sampler island. You can get a bit of culture, relax on the beaches and party in Waikiki. Oahu offers a taste of everything. It’s also the most accessible of the islands, and has the widest variety of hotels. Overall, it makes a strong case to be the best island to visit in Hawai‘i for first timers.
“If you want a lively city feel with beautiful beaches and some of the comforts of home, Oahu is the best option,” Fora Advisor Amy LaGrow-Rodgers said. “Famous Waikiki Beach offers the beautiful beach vibe just steps away from bustling city streets [of Honolulu], so you get the best of both worlds.”
Oahu’s beaches cater to different tastes
There’s a beach on Oahu for every type of vibe. (If you’re looking for the greatest geological variety of beaches, Maui wins that crown — but just barely.)
“Oahu offers the perfect blend of city excitement and North Shore tranquility,” Fora Advisor Caroline Weilert said. “Spend a few days in Waikiki, enjoying top-notch restaurants, bustling farmers' markets, luxury shopping and the longest sandy beach in the islands.”
Then head to the North Shore for a nature moment. The beaches around Honolulu and Waikiki are lively, with plenty to do. Oahu’s North Shore beaches are more untouched and rugged because of the rougher surf.
Fora Advisor Chirag Panchal recommends families visit Oahu’s Ko Olina area.
“It’s a quieter side of the island with calm lagoons, perfect for young children to safely enjoy the water,” he said.
He noted that the area offers a variety of resorts, including the family-friendly Disney Aulani Resort and the luxurious Four Seasons.
Oahu is arguably the best island for shopping
Honolulu alone makes Oahu the best island to visit in Hawai‘i for first-timers most interested in the shopping. It’s Hawai‘i’s only major metropolitan city. While you can find boutiques, upscale retailers and more casual shops across all the Hawai‘ian islands, nowhere else compares to Honolulu’s breadth of offerings. The best shopping areas include Ala Moana Center, one of the largest malls in the world, Waikiki’s Luxury Row and Kalakaua Avenue, which feature high-end retailers, Hawai‘ian-inspired boutiques and souvenir shops. Fora Advisor Winnie Harwell recommended shopping locally, highlighting the KCC Farmers Market and Aloha Stadium Swap Meet, for unique finds and souvenirs.
Oahu has a vibrant international food scene
Image courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay
One of the top things to do in Oahu: sample its gastronomy. The island is a foodie’s paradise, and one of the main places in Hawai‘i where you can find a lineup of both international — especially Asian — and local cuisine. Honolulu has the most variety, and as you venture away from the urban areas you’ll find a greater variety of authentic Hawai‘ian flavors.
Fora Advisor Kristen Kellogg described Oahu as her favorite island for food: “I love sending my clients on custom food tours or to a Hawai‘ian cooking class,” she said.
“Head to the Northern part of the island for authentic experiences and local flavor,” Fora Advisor Sara Jeanne Gulley added.
Sara recommends leaving the comfort of your resort to sample food from Oahu’s famous food trucks. Her favorites include the Famous Kahuku Shrimp Truck (which had the “biggest and most delicious coconut shrimp I've ever tasted!”) and Ry's Poke Shack for amazing, fresh and authentic ahi tuna bowls.
The island has many landmarks and historical sites
Beyond Waikiki Beach and Honolulu’s shopping, there’s Pearl Harbor and the Battleship Missouri Memorial, Diamond Head’s cultural activities and a variety of museums. Fora Advisor Katie McAvoy recommends visiting Iolani Palace, the only official royal residence in the United States.
Oahu is the easiest Hawai‘ian island to navigate without a car
Oahu is the easiest Hawai‘ian island to navigate. While all the major islands have functional and efficient highway systems, none are as extensive as Oahu’s. If you’re only visiting a resort (on any of the islands) with little or no intention to leave, transportation networks won’t apply to you. But if you’re the type of traveler who loves to explore, you don’t necessarily need to rent a car on Oahu. The island has a robust public transportation system. TheBus, for instance, travels to popular spots like Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head and even the North Shore. For areas beyond the bus routes, ride-sharing services and bike rentals are readily available. You can still rent a car on Oahu if you prefer the freedom to explore at your own pace; a Fora Advisor will arrange this for you.
Where to stay for your first time in Oahu, Hawai‘i
Image courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay
With options comes affordability — and luxury. All the islands feature world-class resorts, but Oahu offers the widest range of approachably priced, mid-tier and luxe resorts split between the north and south shores. The former offers large, laid-back and semi-secluded resorts; the latter — where you’ll find Honolulu and Waikiki — tends toward urban and beachfront hotels. Stay on the North Shore if you want privacy and the “resort experience.” Choose the South Shore if you prefer urban access and city vibes.
Fora Advisor Winnie Harwell highlighted Waikiki as a convenient base that offers plenty of hotel and dining options. You can easily take day trips to anywhere on the island. (Check out the best hotels in Waikiki.)
The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay: The Ritz-Carlton’s Turtle Bay location is Fora’s top-booked property across Hawai‘i. This North Shore resort is a laid-back, oceanfront escape with beautiful beaches, golf courses and access to famous surf spots.
“The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay is the kind of place where you go to ‘experience’ Hawai‘i,” Fora Advisor Maggie Moran said. “This is the land of laid-back surfer culture, and to me, the best traveler is one who wants to be active.”
Maggie added that the resort offers an impressive range of activities and experiences on property, from night snorkeling to lessons at a world-class surf school. Fora Advisor Kristen Kellogg added that the property also features a lei-making class and helicopter rides.
“This place is magical,” Fora Advisor Sara Jeanne Gulley said of Turtle Bay. “It feels like an intimate getaway at the edge of the earth.”
Fora’s Marriott STARS partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki: This South Shore property is a Fora Reserve partner and one of the best hotels on Oahu. It’s an ultra-luxe, boutique property with nine elegant suites. Each spans an entire floor, with two to three bedrooms, personalized butler service, private saunas and infinity pools.
Fora Reserve perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Maui
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Maui is a world-class destination for natural beauty, relaxation and a dash of adventure. Stunning beaches like Ka’anapali and Wailea are ideal for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling. The famous Road to Hana — a scenic drive with waterfalls, rainforests and charming stops along the way — satisfies the urge for laid-back exploration. Nature-lovers must not miss Haleakalā National Park in particular, where sunrise hikes reward you with views above the clouds.
“Maui is where endless white beaches meet vibrant island energy, making it a perfect starter island for first-time visitors,” Fora Advisor Caroline Weilert said.
Relaxation and adventure are front and center on Maui’s beaches and resorts
Many resorts in areas like Wailea and Kapalua feature beachfront views, excellent accommodations and élite spas. Maui beaches, such as Napili Bay and Baldwin Beach, offer soft sands and calm waters. And lush landscapes, with bamboo forests and waterfalls, invite you to slow down and immerse yourself in the island’s nature and bohemian vibes. That said, Maui does not lack adventure.
“Maui is magic: There is so much natural wonder to explore, both above and below the water,” Fora Advisor Katie McAvoy said. “Maui can be as chill or adventurous as you like.”
Among her recommended things to do in Maui: swim under waterfalls, watch the sunrise and sunset above the clouds, snorkel in crystal-clear water right off the beach, play in the waves, explore and swim in tide pools. Fora Advisor Carlie Lee urges snorkeling enthusiasts to embark on a tour to Molokini crater. Carlie also listed a few popular snorkeling spots worth checking out, including Honolua Bay, Maluaka Beach and Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve.
Where to stay for your first time in Maui, Hawai‘i
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Maui makes a case for being the best island to visit in Hawai‘i for first timers seeking a (semi) remote resort stay. The island strikes a balance between exclusivity and access; it’s easier to reach than Kauai or the Big Island, but less busy than Oahu.
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea: Four Seasons’ Maui resort is one of the unique places to stay on the island. Fora Advisor Chirag Panchal said the Wailea property’s incredible resort grounds and consistently attentive staff make it one of his favorite resorts to recommend, especially for anyone looking for a refined experience.
“I recently had clients celebrating a babymoon at the Four Seasons, and the resort truly made their stay exceptional,” Chirag said. “From the breathtaking views in their room to the personalized baby-friendly welcome gifts, the attention to detail was impeccable.”
Fora Advisor Nadia Bess had several pro tips for enhancing your stay at Four Seasons Resort Maui. First, she recommended Hawaiian Stars Evening, which recounts the history of Polynesian wayfinders who used the stars, wind and currents to journey to the Hawai‘ian Islands. Nadia noted that the property doesn’t charge extra for cabanas, nor does it charge resort fees, which can add up to thousands of dollars in value over the course of a week.
If you’re looking for a two-island experience, Nadia recommends taking the ferry from Maui to Lanai. Four Seasons has two properties (Four Seasons Resort Lanai and Sensei Lanai) there, where you can enjoy more of the brand’s impeccable service in an entirely new setting.
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits.
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort: One of our top-booked hotels in Hawaiʻi, Andaz Maui is another luxury choice in the Wailea area. Enjoy high-end dining options like Ka’ana Kitchen (local) and Morrimoto (Japanese) — or beachside lu'au feasts on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday nights. Accommodations range from ocean-view suites and guest rooms to massive private villas. The island has many more resort options. As always, a Fora Advisor can help you decide where to stay in Maui.
Fora Perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Kauai
Image courtesy of 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
The “Garden Isle” is a fantastic choice for first-time visitors to Hawai‘i who are drawn to lush landscapes and laid-back vibes. Kauai’s natural beauty is near unparalleled, with highlights like the stunning Nāpali Coast, Waimea Canyon and countless waterfalls and beaches that showcase the island's rugged wilderness.
“Kauai is Hawai‘i’s emerald paradise, where rainbows, waterfalls and rugged coastlines create nature’s masterpiece,” Fora Advisor Caroline Weilert said. “Known for its lush, untouched beauty, Kauai offers everything from thrilling hikes to adrenaline-filled helicopter tours, making it perfect for adventurers and nature-lovers alike.”
Kauai’s unspoiled wilderness is ripe for adventure
Between Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park, Wailua River State Park and half a dozen other nature reserves, beauty and adventure are everywhere on Kauai. Hiking, snorkeling, watersports and more are at your fingertips. If you want to hike along the Nāpali Coast, just be sure to get a permit at least 30 days in advance, Fora Advisor Elizabeth Kaczka said.
“For the best experience, I recommend splitting your stay between the South Shore (Poipu) and the North Shore (Princeville/Hanalei),” Fora Advisor Carlie Lee said. “You'll get to experience both great beaches and the lush, green rainforest.”
Where to stay for your first time in Kauai, Hawai‘i
Image courtesy of 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay: This luxe Kauau North Shore resort has an eco-chic aesthetic and a commitment to sustainability. Set on a cliff overlooking Hanalei Bay, this luxurious Kauai hotel offers views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding verdant mountains. The resort, a Fora Reserve partner and one of Fora’s top-booked properties in Hawai‘i, incorporates natural, reclaimed materials into its design and emphasizes environmental stewardship.
“Your arrival at the resort is an experience in itself,” Fora Advisor Hannah Taylor said. “They pair you with a front desk agent and welcome you with a refreshment. Since it was our honeymoon, we were greeted with a lovely coconut cake and a bottle of Champagne.”
Enjoy wellness-focused amenities, such as a holistic spa, fitness center and farm-to-table dining experiences. At the pool bar, get the BBQ chicken pizza, Hannah advised.
Elizabeth loves the hotel’s “awe-inspiring views” of Hanalei Bay. Its location overlooks some of Kauai's most coveted attractions, like the Nāpali Coast and Princeville golf courses, making it an “ideal base for exploring the island's wonders or simply unwinding in paradise.”
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay also features two world-class spas: Bamford Wellness Spa, “where Hawai‘ian plant medicine and rituals using nature's healing elements bring true transformation,” Fora Advisor Anna Dobrenski said, and Vitality Kauai, a med-spa with a variety of nature-sourced holistic treatments and programs.
Fora Reserve perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Big Island
Image courtesy of Rosewood Kona Village
The Big Island, also known as Hawai‘i, makes its case as the best island to visit in Hawai‘i for first-timers in large part thanks to its diverse and dramatic landscapes, natural attractions and cultural experiences. You can witness active lava flows at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, which also features ancient lava tubes, craters and steam vents. The Big Island’s wide-ranging ecosystems include rainforests, black- and green-sand beaches and even snowy peaks atop Mauna Kea. Experience Hawai‘ian history and traditions at historic sites like Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. Local festivals and hula shows are a regular occurrence, too.
Outdoorsy adventure — and volcanoes — are a big part of the Big Island’s draw for first-time visitors
Natural exploration is accessible and abundant on the Big Island.
“The Big Island is a world of contrasts, where lush green oases emerge from ancient lava fields,” Fora Advisor Caroline Weilert said. “Driving through the vast fields of lava rock feels like stepping onto another planet — until you suddenly come upon vibrant green landscapes that seem to defy the rugged terrain.”
There aren’t many places around the world where you can safely trek through volcanic landscapes — and even fewer that offer jungles and beaches just around the corner. The Big Island satisfies an itch for adventure in unusual landscapes. For a more laid-back experience, Fora Advisor Kaitlynn Schryer recommends unwinding on Hapuna Beach or exploring Akaka Falls’ calming pools.
Rent a car
We recommend renting a car if you’re interested in venturing beyond your Big Island accommodations. Public transportation is sparse outside of the major settlements, but roads will take you anywhere you want to go — and at your own pace.
“Having a car lets you explore hidden beaches, scenic lookouts and off-the-beaten-path spots that aren’t accessible by public transportation, allowing for a complete Hawai‘i Island experience,” Kaitlynn said.
Local farms, farmers' markets and craft fairs throughout the island showcase Hawai‘ian produce — like coffee — as well as traditional crafts like lauhala (think wicker) weaving, wood-carving and lei-making.
Culture is a big part of the Big Island
Image courtesy of Rosewood Kona Village
One of the Big Island’s most significant cultural sites is Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, a place of refuge for ancient Hawai‘ians. Explore traditional structures, sacred temples (heiau) and learn about ancient local practices. Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park is another important site, with petroglyphs, ancient fishponds and lava-rock trails that give insight into the resourceful lives of early Hawaiʻians. Cultural festivals and events abound. Attend the annual Merrie Monarch Festival, in Hilo, which commemorates King David Kalākaua (a.k.a. the “Merrie Monarch”).
The Big Island’s gastronomic scene isn’t as diverse as Oahu’s, but there are few better places to explore every aspect of Hawai‘ian cuisine. Between high-end resorts that provide an elevated take on traditional dishes and casual, authentic eateries around the island, the Big Island delivers on Hawai‘ian food.
Where to stay for your first time on the Big Island, Hawai‘i
Image courtesy Fora Advisor Lisa Roah
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection: The Kohala Coast’s Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection emphasizes cultural connections and natural beauty. The resort has beautifully designed rooms and bungalows with ocean and mountain views, and is surrounded by ancient fishponds, lava fields and white-sand beaches. Mauna Lani is where to stay on the Big Island for cultural immersion. Experiences include lei-making classes, storytelling and the resort’s signature canoeing excursion, where local historians take you around the Kohala Coast. Mauna Lani is also home to the Kainalu Sports program, which offers guided activities like outrigger canoeing, paddleboarding and snorkeling. The resort’s on-site restaurants showcase locally sourced ingredients and Hawai‘ian culinary traditions.
“The sunset canoe experience and dinner at CanoeHouse are not to be missed!” Fora Advisor Kristyne Wada said.
Fora Reserve perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort: Kona Village, one of the first Michelin Key hotels in the US, is on the Big Island’s rugged Kona Coast. Hale-style bungalows are designed to honor the site’s history and culture, and organically blend into the natural surroundings. This is a place to enjoy a digital detox. There are no TVs or telephones; the resort encourages you to find a deeper connection with nature. Kona Village features a network of lava-rock paths and historic petroglyphs. There’s also a spa located in a dormant lava field, plus immersive cultural experiences, including hula lessons, traditional Hawai‘ian crafts and storytelling sessions with local experts. And if you love tennis, you’ll love the courts at Kona Village.
“Kona Village is barefoot luxury at its finest,” Fora Advisor Kara Kasuba said. “It feels like you have stepped into a dream of old Hawai‘i.”
Fora’s Rosewood Elite partner perks include a welcome amenity, daily breakfast and an upgrade whenever possible.
Molokai and Lanai
Image courtesy of Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort
Molokai and Lanai are options worth considering for your first time in Hawai‘i. Molokai is known as the “Friendly Isle” and offers an untouched, traditional Hawai‘ian atmosphere, with a deep-rooted sense of community and culture. Visitors to Molokai can explore the scenic Halawa Valley, one of Hawai‘i’s oldest settlements, visit the historic Kalaupapa National Historical Park or relax on uncrowded beaches.
Lanai is a small island with both high-end resorts and off-the-beaten-path experiences. It’s sometimes called the “Pineapple Island” for its history as a Dole plantation. YExplore landscapes such as the lunar-like rock formations of Garden of the Gods, snorkel at the secluded Hulopoe Bay or relax at one of the island’s exclusive resorts.
Fora Advisor Tracy Burpee described Lanai as somewhere you can maintain privacy or engage in activities at a resort beach club. She added there’s an adorable village on the island, Lanai City, with great poke bowls and traditional Hawai‘ian breakfasts, best enjoyed with locals.
Where to stay for your first time in Lanai, Hawai‘i
Accommodations are limited on Molokai, but Lanai has a few high-end properties.
Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort: This adults-only, Japanese-inspired wellness retreat specializes in personalized programs, including yoga, meditation, spa treatments and fitness consultations guided by wellness experts. The property is surrounded by tropical vegetation and foothills, creating a sense of seclusion on an island already removed from civilization. Tracy noted that if you rent a jeep for sightseeing, you may even catch a glimpse of whales offshore.
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
You don’t have to limit your first Hawai‘i visit to one island
Image courtesy of Fora Advisor Lisa Roah
Unless you only have a few days, there’s no reason you can’t visit multiple islands on your first trip to Hawai‘i. They’re well connected by water and domestic flights, with mostly short travel times. Fora Advisor Amy LaGrow-Rogers noted that if you have at least 10–14 days, you can easily visit two or more islands without feeling rushed.
“I love the combination of Oahu and Maui for your first visit to Hawai‘i,” Fora Advisor Katie McAvoy said.
You can experience Honolulu's rich history and urban attractions, try surfing in Waikiki and then move on to Maui to unwind at a resort.
Many Hawai‘i cruises allow you to visit multiple islands. Some options depart from Hawai‘i itself, usually Oahu, and require a flight from the mainland. But others depart from California or Asia, with a long voyage on the open ocean first.
The best island to visit in Hawai‘i for first-timers: Fora Advisor insights and tips
Read on for more tips and insights on the best island to visit in Hawai‘i for the first time.
While most travelers choose Maui or Oahu, don’t discount the other islands
Historically, Maui and Oahu are by far the most visited Hawai‘ian islands. But in recent years, Kauai and the Big Island have grown more popular. While Kauai and the Big Island require lengthier travel times, if you want to prioritize exclusive resorts and unwinding in a remote corner of the world, they’re definitely worth considering.
5–7 days is enough for your first visit to Hawai‘i
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
At a minimum, spend at least five to seven days in Hawai‘i to get the most out of your stay. This gives you time to adjust and unwind after a long flight, and actually enjoy the islands. If you’re interested in exploring each major island, we recommend at least a few days per island — you could easily spend a month across Hawai‘i and not see all the highlights.
Kauai, the Big Island and Molokai are the least touristy Hawai‘ian islands
Hawai‘i’s resort areas can be a little touristy, especially in the more developed areas of Oahu, Maui and, to a lesser extent, the Big Island. As you venture away from the popular areas, though, you’ll find authenticity on all the major islands.
Sample Hawai‘ian food on your first visit
Contemporary Hawai‘ian cuisine is a blend of Indigenous Hawai‘ian, Polynesian, Asian and American flavors, with an emphasis on fish, taro — a native root vegetable — and tropical fruits. Grilling and sustainable fishing and farming practices are key aspects of Hawai‘ian culinary tradition. Fora Advisor Winnie Harwell’s list of must-eats in Hawai‘i include spam musubi, plate lunches like garlic shrimp and loco moco ( rich gravy over a fried egg and burger patty on a bed of white rice), haupia pie (a coconut — and sometimes chocolate — pudding pie) and macadamia nut pancakes.
Poke bowls are famously tied to Hawai‘ian cuisine as an import from East Asia, as are malasadas, which originally hail from Portugal. The latter were brought over by immigrants and were met with wild success (there’s even a holiday dedicated to the pastries). Over the decades, Hawai‘ian malasadas have taken on a new life, with a variety of locally inspired and fusion options.
The Hawai‘ian Islands are year-round destinations
Across the islands, the temperatures are comfortably warm. While rainfall is very common, it’s typically limited to around an hour per day. Winter — as much as Hawai‘i has a winter — and summer both see large crowds from the mainland United States and East Asia. Fall and spring see fewer crowds, more approachable rates and more availability.
A note from Fora Advisor Carlie Lee: Visit Hawai‘i between mid-December and mid-March for the best chance to spot humpback whales.
“If you're lucky, sometimes you can even hear them singing underwater while snorkeling or diving,” she said.
The Big Island and Kauai have the best hiking, but Oahu and Maui aren’t far behind
Image courtesy of 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
All the Hawai‘ian islands have hiking trails through gorgeous landscapes. If you want off-the-beaten-path variety, you may prefer the Big Island or Kauai. The former pairs verdant jungles with volcanic parks, while the latter has some of the densest jungle in the United States, as well as a unique desert environment.
Some Hawai‘ian islands are off limits to most travelers
The Hawai‘ian island of Niʻihau, the “Forbidden Island,” is generally off limits to the public, outside of the occasional tour. Niʻihau is privately owned and inhabited by native Hawai‘ian residents who maintain a traditional, secluded lifestyle. Additionally, Kahoʻolawe is uninhabited and off limits due to its history as a former US military base. It’s now a protected reserve, and visits are restricted to cultural and environmental restoration work.
More tropical travel inspiration
Hawai‘i is exceptional, but there are many more amazing tropical destinations around the world: