Which island fits you best?
Whether it’s your 1st or 15th trip to Hawaii – there’s an island for everyone. Here’s a quick need-to-know so you pick the island(s) that fit your travel style. You can find extreme adventure or serenity in luxurious spas and sunbathing. There is no wrong choice but there is a best choice for you.
Oahu
Great for first time visitors, visit the capital city, Honolulu. Relax on Waikiki beach and enjoy the best high end-shopping and fine dining. If you want to break away from the hustle of the island, the North Shore provides hiking trails, waterfalls, food-tucks, and a much more laid-back, local vibe. If you choose to explore this great island, Pearl Harbor is a must visit for those interested in historic sites.
Known as: The Gathering Place
Best for: shoppers, foodies, surf seekers
Where to stay?
Book with Melted&Moved for perks:
- Discount and promotion monitoring
- Dining reservation assistance
- Character locations or meet & greets
- Itinerary planning & spa/golf reservations
The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort
Book with Melted&Moved for perks:
- Full breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom at Surf Lanai restaurant
- $100 USD Resort Credit resort credit
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Maui
Maui is the most famous of the islands, with the frequent famous visitors as well. Drive the Road to Hana, one of the most gorgeous drives on the planet with farms and plantations (give me all the dragon fruit) along the way. In the winter, it’s the best island to see migrating humpback whales. Swim or snorkel in the water next to the crater of a volcano or consider a helicopter tour of the world’s largest dormant volcano at Haleakala National Park.
Where to stay?
Hotel Wailea: romantic, adults only
Montage Kapalua Bay: nestled in a local area, residence rooms (with kitchens) great for kids
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort: modern and minimalistic feel, with tiered and lagoon pools
Book with Melted&Moved for perks:
- Daily breakfast for two guests per room
- $100 USD Resort Credit resort credit
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Known as: The Valley Isle
Best for: honeymooners, travelers with kids, multigenerational trips
The Island of Hawaii
Visit one of the five national parks or explore the volcano, Kilauea, by boat. While Hawaii has several volcanoes this one is still active so you can see the solid but steaming lava lake. For the adventure seekers, you can zipline, ATV, scuba dive, or kayak through an old sugar cane plantation. With the world’s tallest mountain, Mauna Kea, the landscape seems supernatural.
Where to stay?
The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
Book with Melted&Moved for perks:
- Daily breakfast for two guests per room
- $100 USD Resort Credit resort credit
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Known as: The Big Island
Best for: luxury travelers, adventure seekers
Kauai
Kauai is the oldest of the main islands with eroded landscape and waterfall adventures by day and alfresco dining views at night. Consider snorkeling or hiking. You can only reach a small portion of the island by car so tours are encouraged to see the greenest, and postcard worthy island. Parts of Jurassic Park were filmed here if that gives you an idea of the luscious jungle feel this island offers.
Where to stay?
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa
Book with Melted&Moved for perks:
- Daily breakfast for two guests per room
- $100 USD Resort Credit resort credit
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Known as: The Garden Isle
Best for: Nature lovers
Lanai & Molokai
Smaller islands are a chance to experience Hawaii in a remote setting, but there is less to do. I would recommend visiting only after you’ve spent time exploring the larger islands.
Lania, known as the Pineapple island has off-road jeeps to rent and explore the island with an incredible Four Seasons Resort. Molokai in contrast, has no brand name hotels and is mainly for locals, so you will experience an authentic island stay like a local.
Every island offers a unique experience that should fit your travel style and what you are searching for on your next adventure.
This is a good jumping off point. Are you ready to create a completely customizable experience?
Let’s set up a complimentary discover call to discuss how we can co-create a the perfect trip for you.
Love, Kate