Hawaii’s six unique islands provide varied experiences for any traveler
The fresh Hawaiian, floral air energizes you. The warm, tranquil waters refresh you. The breathtaking, natural beauty renews you. There’s no place on earth quite like Hawaii. Whether you’re a new visitor or returning.
The Big Island
Hawaii Island, most often referred to as “The Big Island” is the youngest and largest island in the Hawaiian chain and boasts some of Hawaii’s most varying landscapes, but it’s extraordinary for more than just its size. The Big Island encompasses 12 separate climate zones that range from the warmth found amid balmy tropical rainforests to the snowcapped peaks dotting the slopes of Mauna Kea. Just imagine yourself visiting Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, or tour the culturally inspiring Puuhonua o Honaunau, a historic park that was once a place of refuge. Whether you’re walking on a black sand beach, snorkeling with manta rays, horseback riding in Waimea, or sailing along the Kona Coast, Hawaii, the Big Island offers a huge variety of adventure.
Maui
Nicknamed “The Valley Isle,” because of the great valley that lies between its two major volcanoes, Maui is known for its stunning natural beauty. It’s peppered with quaint towns, artist communities and local favorites that have been around for generations. From shimmering beaches like the sparkling sands of Kaʻanapali Beach to hiking in the lush ‘Iao Valley, visiting Haleakala National Park (called the House of the Sun) or simply taking a drive on the jaw-dropping Road to Hana, or watching the sunset on Haleakala, Maui has it all.
Kauai
Known as “The Garden Isle,” it should not be a surprise that Kauai is a breathtaking island with its wealth of lush, rich lands, among which include vast tropical rainforests, jaw-dropping mountains and stunning white beaches. Unwind and let the pure rich air of Kauai’s Wailua River invigorate your spirit and soul as you hike to a cascading waterfall. Or breathe deeply at the edge of the time-swept Waimea Canyon as you feel it speaking to you without words. Experience the untouched Na Pali Coast cliffs, its majestic Mount Waiʻaleʻale and many other scenic treasures it has in store. From the small towns of Hanapepe and Old Koloa Town to the beautiful and sunny Poipu Beach, you can see what we mean about it’s beauty.
Oahu
For those with more metropolitan tastes, there’s plenty to do on the island of Oahu, also known as “The Gathering Place.” Here you can learn to ride the waves in Waikiki, where surfing was truly born or catch the big one on Oahu’s famed North Shore. Between sunrise and sunset, you’ll have hours to explore the hottest restaurants, window shop the latest designer and local fashions, check out the hot urban art scene in Chinatown or travel back in time into Hawaii’s history at the royal family’s residence of ʻIolani Palace. When the sun goes down, the “Heartbeat of Hawaii” awakens to a new beat, and the party is just starting.
Molokai
The island of Molokai, Nicknamed “The Friendly Isle,” remains true to its island roots. There are no shopping malls with parking lots filled with cars, or traffic lights and no skyscrapers reaching to the clouds — just lush rolling hills to tropical rain forests, and white sand beaches without anyone in sight. Travelers here truly seeking peace and quiet will embrace the simple pleasures offered by this island paradise while they quiet their spirit and feel the mana (power) that protects the island, to the indescribable beauty of Halawa Valley.
Lanai
For those seeking peace, tranquility and an escape from the hectic everyday life will find solace in the serenity offered by Lanai “the Pineapple Island”. Hawaii’s smallest inhabited island, Lanai, offers travellers a true reprieve from everyday life. Originally an island-wide pineapple plantation, and thus it’s nickname, Lanai, now is known for its quiet beauty and luxury, five-star resorts with two Four Season Resorts to pamper you. Go for a stroll among charming boutiques in the island’s central town of Lanai City, or make memories road tripping along the Norfolk pine-lined Munro Trail, a roadway offering sweeping and majestic views of the island’s pristine beauty. Have a picnic overlooking Puu Pehe (Sweetheart Rock), named for a maiden Puu and her handsome warrior. Also a must do, is a visit to Hulopoe Bay, a protected marine reserve with a wealth of sea creatures including Hawaii’s famous spinner dolphins.