Lonely PlanetJul 28
Which Hawaiian Island is best for you?
Our guide showcases the pleasures of Hawai‘is’s six major islands.
Protected bay with safe snorkeling and abundant marine life.
25 things in this story
- HonoluluNeighborhoodstate of Hawaii, located in the Pacific Ocean.
- ʻIolani PalaceSightOnce home to Hawaiian royalty, later site of kingdom's overthrow.
- Pearl HarborSightSite of the 1941 bombing, prompting US entry into WWII.
- USS Arizona MemorialSightThe USS Arizona Memorial, at Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, Hawaii, marks the resting place of 1,102 of the 1,177 sailors…
- Hanauma Bay State ParkSightProtected bay with safe snorkeling and abundant marine life.
- Lanikai PillboxTrailShort, steep hike for amazing views of Kailua and islands.
- Waik ī k īNeighborhood
- USS Missouri MemorialSight
- Waiahole Poi FactoryRestaurant
- Helena’s Hawaiian FoodRestaurant
- Triple Crown of SurfingFestival
- Eddie Aikau Big Wave InvitationalFestival
- Elsewhere
- Nāpali CoastSightKauaʻi, United StatesDeep, lush ridges and cascading waterfalls accessible by foot.
- Punaluʻu Black Sand BeachSightHawaii Island, United StatesBeach with sand from pulverized lava rock where turtles lounge.
- ʻAkaka FallsSightHawaii Island, United StatesOne of the most eye-catching natural features on the Big Island.
- KilaueaSightHawaii Island, United StatesKīlauea is an active shield volcano in the Hawaiian Islands.
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National ParkSightHawaii Island, United StatesFilled with steam vents, lava tubes, and occasional lava streams.
- Mauna KeaSightHawaii Island, United StatesTallest mountain in the world measured from seafloor to peak.
- Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical ParkSightHawaii Island, United StatesLearn about ancient Hawaiians' way of life through ruins.
- 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.
- Mauna LoaSightHawaii Island, United States
- Manta Ray Dives of HawaiiPlaceHawaii Island, United States
- Kona Snorkel TripsPlaceHawaii Island, United States