What Is Your Favorite Hawaiian Island?
The Hawaiian islands have a mystical call -- a story to tell. The aloha spirit can be felt from the most luxurious hotels to a local coffee shop in a village. Adventure awaits you, whether it’s surfing on the north shore, exploring the rain forest, or spending a day in the hotel spa.
Of all of the destinations this world has to offer, Hawaii is one of my favorites -- it’s the ohana -- the family feel. It feels like home.
Maui
Maui offers small towns with village charm, historic sights, and a rich culture and 120 miles of coastline. Most cities are within 2 mile drive from Kahului Airport so you will not be short of activities and destinations. Lahaina is the Laguna Beach of Hawaii with a thriving art culture and over 40 galleries - you’ll definitely want to visit this town on Friday nights when galleries showcase artists. Farmers markets, affordable accomodations and kayaking are compelling reasons to visit the small town of Kihei. Ziplining, hiking, and camping welcomes the nature lover while golfing, shopping, and road trips appeal to the city folk.
Kid-Friendly Hotel: Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa
Luxury Romantic Getaway: Montage Kapalua Bay
Budget Traveller: Maui Coast Hotel
Best Beach: Big Beach
Must See: Road to Hana
Kaua’i
The lush island of Kaua’i beckons to the nature lover in us all. The areas of interest are within 40 miles of Lihu’e’s airport. The waterfalls on Kaua’i are accessible through the roadside or after a robust hike with rainbows, hidden pools, and the faint scent of ginger. Helicopter tours and off-road adventures speak to the thrill seekers while the fern grotto is an excellent place to meditate and breathe in nature.
Kid-Friendly Hotel: Grand Hyatt Resort and Spa
Luxury Romantic Getaway: The St. Regis Princeville Resort
Budget Traveller: Kauai Marriott Resort
Best Beach: Po’ipu
Must See: Waterfalls
Hawai’i aka The Big Island
Seventy degree ocean temperatures with soft ocean breezes on 90 miles of coastline is what greets you on the big island of Hawai’i. From a national park to a macadamia nut factory, the longest drive you’ll have from Kona international is a two hour drive to Hawai’i Volcano National Park. This island offers an escape from your daily grind or commute on the 405. Adventure on Hawai’i is as varied as your imagination -- from sea level to 13,000 feet -- snorkeling, hiking, shopping, garden tours, museums, and, of course, a relaxing day at the resort of your choice.
Kid-Friendly Hotel: Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa
Luxury Romantic Getaway: The Fairmont Orchid Hawaii
Budget Traveller: Holua Resort at the Mauna Loa Village
Best Beach: Hāpuna beach
Must See: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
O’ahu
From city adventures, a vibrant nightlife, to tranquil seas, to historic waves on the north shore, this Island of O’ahu has something for everyone. Shop in the playground of royalty at Waikiki, hike Diamond Head, or explore 112 miles of coastline on a road trip. Cuisine ranges from five star restaurants to a traditional lu’au to garlic shrimp at the north shore. Farm to table to loco moco, your taste buds will not be bored. You could visit O’ahu every year and have a completely different experience every time. This is truly my favorite place in the world.
Kid-Friendly Hotel: Sheraton Waikiki
Luxury Romantic Getaway: The Royal Hawaiian
Budget Traveller: Aqua Palms
Best Beach: Lanikai
Must See: Diamond Head
Regardless of which island you choose, Hawaii never disappoints. It’s the perfect destination for a group of friends, family vacation, and an anniversary celebration. Beaches, parks, lush waterfalls, vibrant nightlife, shopping, and more -- Hawaii feels like home but without the stress.
