Lonely PlanetJul 28, 2026
Which Hawaiian Island is best for you?
Our guide showcases the pleasures of Hawai‘is’s six major islands.
25 things in this story
- Punaluʻu Black Sand BeachSightBeach with sand from pulverized lava rock where turtles lounge.
- ʻAkaka FallsSightOne of the most eye-catching natural features on the Big Island.
- KilaueaSightKīlauea is an active shield volcano in the Hawaiian Islands.
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National ParkSightFilled with steam vents, lava tubes, and occasional lava streams.
- Mauna KeaSightTallest mountain in the world measured from seafloor to peak.
- Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical ParkSightLearn about ancient Hawaiians' way of life through ruins.
- Mauna LoaSight
- Manta Ray Dives of HawaiiPlace
- Kona Snorkel TripsPlace
- Elsewhere
- Nāpali CoastSightKauaʻi, United StatesDeep, lush ridges and cascading waterfalls accessible by foot.
- HonoluluNeighborhoodOʻahu, United Statesstate of Hawaii, located in the Pacific Ocean.
- ʻIolani PalaceSightOʻahu, United StatesOnce home to Hawaiian royalty, later site of kingdom's overthrow.
- Pearl HarborSightOʻahu, United StatesSite of the 1941 bombing, prompting US entry into WWII.
- USS Arizona MemorialSightOʻahu, United StatesThe USS Arizona Memorial, at Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, Hawaii, marks the resting place of 1,102 of the 1,177 sailors…
- Hanauma Bay State ParkSightOʻahu, United StatesProtected bay with safe snorkeling and abundant marine life.
- Lanikai PillboxTrailOʻahu, United StatesShort, steep hike for amazing views of Kailua and islands.
- Kalalau TrailTrailKauaʻi, United States22-mile round-trip trail through Nāpali Coast's emerald landscapes.
- HanapēpēNeighborhoodKauaʻi, United StatesHistoric town bursting with cafes, shops, landmarks, and festivals.
- Talk Story BookstorePlaceKauaʻi, United StatesShop in historic Hanapēpē.
- Waik ī k īNeighborhoodOʻahu, United States
- USS Missouri MemorialSightOʻahu, United States
- Waiahole Poi FactoryRestaurantOʻahu, United States
- Helena’s Hawaiian FoodRestaurantOʻahu, United States
- Triple Crown of SurfingFestivalOʻahu, United States
- Eddie Aikau Big Wave InvitationalFestivalOʻahu, United States