The best island to visit in Hawaii

If you’re looking for a tropical vacation filled with stunning beaches, lush landscapes and countless activities and excursions, Hawaii might be the destination for you. But which island should you choose? 

It’s hard to go wrong with a Hawaii vacation. But the best island to visit in Hawaii for you might depend on what you’re hoping to get from it. 

This overview of the main islands in Hawaii may help you decide where to take your next vacation.

What you’ll learn: 

• There are eight main islands in Hawaii, but the six most commonly visited are Oahu, Hawaii, Kauai, Maui, Lanai and Molokai.

• You can hike up Diamond Head in Oahu, snorkel alongside sea turtles or just kick back on the beach and soak up the sun.

• Eligible cardholders can earn elevated rewards when they use Capital One Travel to book a trip.

Oahu is also called The Gathering Place, and it’s easy to see why. With picturesque landscapes, a thriving arts and cultural scene and luxurious hotels, it’s a popular destination for all sorts of travelers. The third-largest Hawaiian island, it blends an old-world feel with modern influences. 

Honolulu is a dynamic city offering a diverse range of experiences, from historical landmarks and cultural attractions to world-class dining and shopping. Waikiki is the main hotel and resort area, with its much-photographed golden-sand beaches, gentle waves and skyscraper backdrop. You can climb the iconic Diamond Head for panoramic views of Waikiki, take surfing or canoeing lessons, snorkel among the coral reefs at Hanauma Bay or visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

The North Shore of Oahu has seven miles of shoreline and a laid-back, surf-town atmosphere. Winter draws experienced surfers hoping to catch the perfect wave during one of its massive swells. Summer, with its gentler waters, is a good time for beginners to try their luck. The calm and tranquil waters are also the perfect setting for swimming and snorkeling off the coast. 

The island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, is the youngest of all islands in the Hawaii chain. Spanning over 4,000 miles, Hawaii’s diverse geography includes natural wonders like black-sand beaches, snowy mountains, fiery volcanoes and a lush rainforest. If your travel style is defined by action-packed itineraries and exploration, the Big Island might be for you.

Hawaii has the most national parks in the state, each with its own opportunities to explore, whether you’re interested in hiking trails, horseback riding, ziplining or driving tours. Golfers won’t be disappointed with the variety of courses across the island, either.

You can also take advantage of the coastline for ocean adventures like kayaking and parasailing. For an immersive experience, you can scuba dive or snorkel with manta rays. Or you could go on a deep-sea-fishing charter for big-game sport fishing. Dolphin and green-sea-turtle sightings are fairly common in the gentle waters of South Kona. 

Often called the Garden Isle, Kauai is known for its dense landscapes and rich ecosystems. From the jagged cliffs of the Na Pali Coast to the sunny beaches on the South Shore, Kauai is a great option if you’re looking for a vacation filled with natural beauty and a laid-back pace. 

Tucked away on Kauai’s West Side is Waimea Canyon, also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. You can hike or drive and stop at multiple vantage points around the 3,600-feet-deep canyon. At one end of the main road is Koke’e State Park. There you can look for colorful native plants and birds unique to Hawaii like the moa and iiwi. 

Just north of Kauai’s biggest city, Lihue, is Wailua Falls, a double-tiered 80-foot waterfall at the southern end of the Wailua River. Visit in the morning and you might be greeted by a rainbow forming over the falls. Then drive on to nearby attractions like the historic Kauai Museum and Grove Farm Homestead Museum.

Maui is often considered the most romantic Hawaiian island for a couple’s trip, honeymoon or anniversary getaway. It’s not as busy as Oahu, but not as laid-back as Kauai. 

Maui has several distinct island regions. Here’s a snapshot of what you can enjoy in each: 

• North Shore: World-renowned windsurfing spot Hookipa Beach and the bohemian town of Paia

• South Maui: Picture-perfect coastlines and the world-renowned Wailea Beach 

• East Maui: A scenic drive along the famous Road to Hana, with epic views and legendary stories 

• West Maui: Kaanapali Beach, with its crystal-clear waters and pristine sands 

• Central Maui: Iao Valley State Park and the Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot-tall rock formation 

• Upcountry: Cooler temperatures, farming culture and the dormant Haleakala volcano 

Molokai is smaller and less developed than the other main islands. With wide-open beaches, there’s plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the scenery. Explore Kalaupapa National Historical Park in Molokai, home to the highest sea cliffs in the world, at 3,600-3,900 feet above sea level. Head to the West End of Molokai to sink your toes into Papohaku Beach’s white sands and marvel at the sunset. 

According to the Hawai’i Tourism Authority, the best way to get around the island is by car. You might consider booking a rental car in advance as they can go quickly, especially during busier seasons. Eligible Capital One cardholders have access to rental car insurance. You can check your Guide to Benefits to see what coverage is offered that might provide you with extra peace of mind on your vacation.

Lanai has a vast countryside and trails for an adventurous off-roading experience. Its undisturbed beaches provide the perfect opportunity to connect with nature. Lanai has three main hotels on the island, and its exclusivity is a major draw for visitors looking for a luxurious island getaway.

Dramatic scenery, beautiful beaches and vibrant cultural experiences—it’s all there in Hawaii. And once you’ve picked a Hawaiian island to visit, it’s time to plan your vacation. 

If you’re an eligible Capital One cardholder, Capital One Travel can help you book flights with confidence. The booking site tracks flight prices and predicts when it’s the right time to book, which can help you save an average of 15%. 

If you don’t have a Capital One credit card, access to Capital One Travel is just one of the exclusive cardholder benefits that can help make your travel experience more enjoyable. 

Check out travel credit cards from Capital One—like Venture and Venture X— and start planning your next adventure.