Which is the Best Hawaiian Island to Visit

Last updated on April 21st, 2025 at 07:14 pm

Hawaii is a premier family vacation destination, blending natural charm, cultural depth, and activities suitable for all ages. Finding the best Hawaiian island to visit for families and friends can be overwhelming, but it depends on your family’s interests.

Each island offers unique experiences, from romantic atmospheres and scenic drives to scenic hiking trails and açaí bowls, outdoor adventures, quiet vacations, and educational opportunities. Visiting all the main islands together will provide a memorable family vacation.

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How to choose the best Hawaiian Island to visit?

Selecting the ideal Hawaiian island for your family vacation can be daunting, but the decision primarily depends on your family’s interests. Oahu is often touted as the best island for families, considering the main Hawaiian Islands.

Maui is a haven for families who adore the beach. With its breathtaking beaches and activities suitable for children, Maui is a strong choice.

The Big Island is perfect for families seeking adventure and natural wonders. It is home to four active volcanoes and diverse climates.

Each Hawaiian Island Is Unique

Each Hawaiian island provides a distinctive experience, underlining the importance of understanding each island’s unique offerings.

Oahu, often called “The Gathering Place,” combines a cosmopolitan atmosphere with stunning beaches and historic sites like Pearl Harbor. It’s perfect for families with kids who want a mix of adventure and culture.

Maui is known for its beautiful beaches, which are suitable for honeymoons, families, and friends’ vacations. Its diverse landscapes, from the Haleakalā Crater to the lush Hana Highway, offer endless activities.

The Big Island’s incredible diversity, featuring 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones, provides unique experiences, from active volcanoes to snow-capped mountains.

Kauai, celebrated for its natural beauty, offers an authentic Hawaiian experience. Its breathtaking landscapes include the Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon.

Each Hawaiian island has unique characteristics and attractions suitable for families with enjoyable vacations, making it essential to choose the right one for your trip.

Each Hawaiian Island Has Epic Beaches

Hawaii is famous for its magnificent beaches, each with its unique appeal. Whether you’re looking for calm waters for toddlers to splash in or the best spots for snorkeling and surfing, every Hawaiian island has you covered.

For example, Lanikai Beach on Oahu is frequently recommended as the ideal beach for families in Hawaii because of its tranquil, azure waters and stunning views. Due to these features, Many consider it the best beach for families.

No matter which Hawaiian island you choose, you’ll find beautiful beaches with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Every island offers plenty of sand and surf, from the famous beaches of Waikiki on Oahu to the serene shores of Wailea on Maui. This makes Hawaii travel with kids a perfect beach trip.

What is the Best Island to Visit in Hawaiʻi?

Oahu

Oahu is the best for families seeking an authentic Hawaiian vacation filled with endless activities from sunrise to sunset. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Oahu offers everything you imagine when thinking of the quintessential Hawaii experience.

During the day, you’ll find far more than just relaxing beaches. Families can dive into adventures such as scuba diving and snorkeling, exploring vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. For thrill-seekers, Oahu provides some of the world’s best surfing spots, especially along its iconic North Shore. Don’t miss the chance to visit Pearl Harbor, an essential historical site that offers educational and moving experiences suitable for all ages.

As the sun sets, immerse your family in Hawaiian culture by attending an unforgettable Luau featuring traditional dances, music, and mouth-watering island cuisine. For those seeking vibrant nightlife, Honolulu and Waikiki boast lively entertainment options ranging from bustling nightclubs to relaxing beachside bars.

While Honolulu, Hawaii’s bustling capital, offers numerous attractions and amenities, areas like Kaneohe and the North Shore also provide wonderful family-friendly accommodations and quieter, laid-back vibes. Here you’ll discover charming vacation rentals, proving you don’t need to stay in larger cities to enjoy an incredible family-friendly Hawaiian getaway.

Family-Friendly Adventure Activities on Oahu

Things To Do In Oahu

• Visit Pearl Harbor
• Hike to Diamond Head
• Tour the island and see waterfalls
• Snorkel in Hanauma Bay (one of the best beaches in Hawaii for families)
• Discover island cultures at the Polynesian Cultural Center, which has Hawaiian attractions.
• Visit The Dole Plantation
• Kualoa Ranch Movie Tour
• Horseback Riding At Kualoa Ranch
• Enjoy Famed North Shore Surf Town Haleiwa
• Spend Beach Day in Kailua or Lanikai (one of the best kid-friendly beaches in Hawaii for families)
• Enjoy Waikiki Beach (and watch the fireworks in front of the Hilton on Friday nights)
• Paradise Cove Luau

Maui

Maui is widely regarded as the best Hawaiian island for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Known for its uniquely stunning beaches—including famous black sand and rare red sand beaches Maui offers experiences you can’t find anywhere else.

Adventure lovers will enjoy hiking the trails of Haleakalā National Park, featuring dramatic volcanic landscapes and breathtaking viewpoints. Maui is also home to the scenic Road to Hāna, one of the most beautiful drives in Hawaiʻi, filled with lush waterfalls, incredible vistas, and hidden gems.

Another highlight of visiting Maui is experiencing the best whale-watching tours in Hawaiʻi. From December through April, humpback whales put on unforgettable shows right offshore. Plus, Maui is uniquely positioned for helicopter tours around the towering sea cliffs of Molokai the tallest sea cliffs in the world, accessible only from Maui.

One of Maui’s greatest advantages is its family-friendly atmosphere. Many of Maui’s top sights, such as the Waihee Ridge Trail, can be enjoyed without strenuous hiking, making it an ideal destination for families and couples of all ages and fitness levels.

But don’t be mistaken Maui isn’t just about relaxing. The island also boasts some of Hawaiʻi’s tallest waterfalls, exciting outdoor adventures, and endless opportunities for exploration. To fully experience Maui’s diverse landscape, I recommend booking accommodations in multiple areas around the island, allowing you to see and do everything at a leisurely pace.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a thrilling adventure, Maui truly offers something for everyone. With a rental car and the willingness to explore, you’ll find endless things to see and do on this unforgettable Hawaiian island!

Things To Do With Kids On Maui

And olso Maui is the perfect for family outings. Kaanapali Beach is family-friendly, with plenty of amenities and activities, including snorkeling and paddleboarding. Wailea Beach is another favorite, known for its calm waves and clean sand, making it ideal for younger kids.

• Drive the Road To Hana
• Take a Hike in Iao Valley
• Snorkel Day in Kapalua (one of the best Hawaiian beaches for families and a great spot to see occasional sea turtles)
• Take a Snorkel Trip to Molokini Crater 
• Learn to Surf
• Visit Haleakalā National Park
• Enjoy Zip Lining at Camp Maui
• Spend a Beach Day in Kaanapali
• Take a lei-making, hula dancing, or ukelele lessson
• Watch the whales (in the winter)
• Attend a Luau
• Take a hike and swim under waterfalls on a guided adventure with Hike Maui

Big Island

A Reimagined Guide to the Big Island

The Big Island of Hawaiʻi is best known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, highlighted by the remarkable lava flows at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

Beyond lava sightings, this island is home to rare and unique attractions like the stunning black sand beaches at Punaluʻu, the mesmerizing green sands of Papakōlea, and wide-open scenic drives that showcase the island’s extraordinary diversity.

Adventure seekers also flock here to experience the island’s tallest peak, Mauna Kea, the picturesque Kohala Mountains, and the renowned Kona Coast, famous for its sunsets and world-class Hawaiian coffee.

What truly sets the Big Island apart from its neighbors is its geological youth. Unlike the older islands like Kauaʻi, where erosion has created dramatic, steep cliffs, the Big Island remains actively shaped by volcanic activity.

It’s the youngest Hawaiian island, continuously expanding and evolving, making its terrain distinctively fresh and rugged.

While the Big Island might have fewer beaches compared to islands like Oʻahu or Maui, the beaches here offer unparalleled uniqueness. You’ll find spectacular shorelines such as the renowned green sand at Papakōlea Beach one of only a handful worldwide.

Whether you prefer exploring hidden coves or lounging at iconic coastal spots, each beach offers something extraordinary.

No matter how you plan your trip, the Big Island delivers unforgettable experiences on every coast. Explore the lush and rainy east side near Hilo, which gives easy access to waterfalls and the national park, or unwind on the sunny west side’s famous Kona Coast, enjoying pristine beaches, coffee plantations, and breathtaking ocean sunsets.

Ultimately, the Island of Hawaiʻi cannot be summed up in just a few highlights. It’s a land of endless adventure, where you can journey from active volcanic craters at Kīlauea Volcano to the snow-capped summit of Mauna Kea at nearly 14,000 feet (4,267 m). If you’re ready to explore, this island offers a lifetime of discoveries.

Things To Do On The Big Island

• Spend a Full Day Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park 
• Enjoy a hike in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
• Hike Kilauea lki Trail
• Take a Helicopter Tour To See Volcanoes From Above
• Snorkel Boat Tour with Ali’i Tours
• Visit Akaka Falls
• Experience Flumin’ Kohala
• Visit Waipi’o Valley
• Enjoy a Beach Day at Mauna Kea
• Visit Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area for a Beach Day
• Splash in teal water at Kua Bay
• Visit Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

Kauai

Kauai is the best place to go in Hawaii if you’re a nature lover, particularly if you’re not seeking high-end resorts, gourmet dining, or a bustling nightlife scene. That said, Kauai still offers an array of fantastic activities to fill your days.

Embrace Kauai’s charm by cruising its scenic two-lane roads to reach muddy trails that lead down to pristine, sugar-sand beaches, sometimes leaving only your own footprints behind. Nicknamed “The Garden Isle,” parts of the movie The Descendants were filmed here, offering a glimpse of Kauai’s lush landscape if you watch it.

The Na Pali coastline on the island’s north shore stands out as Kauai’s premier attraction. Admire this dramatic stretch of emerald cliffs by air on a helicopter tour a bucket-list experience that’s second to none. The north shore is rugged and picturesque, but expect abundant winter rainfall.

If you plan to spend a week on Kauai in the summer, it’s wise to split your time between the north shore and the more developed area of Poipu on the south shore. Poipu features a handful of resorts, plenty of vacation rentals, and accessible beaches that are great for snorkeling in shallow waters.

While you’re on the north shore, soak up every possible view of the jagged Na Pali coastline, whether you explore by boat, by foot, or simply from scenic overlooks. Make time to hike at least a portion of the iconic Kalalau Trail, which starts near Tunnels Beach at the island’s northern tip—perfect for a refreshing swim and snorkel afterward.

The entire Kalalau Trail stretches 11 miles over muddy, rocky terrain, and intrepid adventurers secure permits well in advance to spend the night camping on a remote beach before returning. If that’s not your style, a short initial segment of the trail still rewards you with once-in-a-lifetime vistas.

Another unforgettable stop on the north shore is Queen’s Bath, a lava rock pool accessed by a short but sometimes slippery hike. Nearby Hanalei Bay is excellent for kayaking while paddling along the Wailua River, and swimming under a waterfall is another popular day trip.

Once you relocate to Poipu on the south shore, make sure to set aside a day to drive clockwise around the island to Waimea Canyon, dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Though it’s not far from the Kalalau Trail as the crow flies, driving there from the north shore requires a two-hour loop. From Poipu, however, it’s much more convenient.

Even non-hikers can relish jaw-dropping canyon views by stepping out of the car at Kalepa Ridge, where you’ll catch yet another remarkable panorama of Kauai’s rugged coastline.

Things To Do With Kids In Kaua’i

Kauai’s diverse outdoor activities provide endless opportunities for families to connect with nature and create lasting memories. Some of the activities you can enjoy on the island include:

• Visit Waimea Canyon State Park
• Snorkel at Poipu Beach 
• Have a family beach day at Lydgate Beach
• Take a kid-friendly Hike at:
  • Iliau Nature Loop Trail
  • Kuilau Ridge Trail
  • Mahaulepu Heritage Coastal Trail
• Beach Day in Hanalei (one of the best beaches in Hawaii for families)
• Fern Grotto and Kayaking
• Discover the Na Pali Coast By Boat 
• Koloa Ziplines
• Captain Andy’s Boat Tour 

Molokai

Lanai for a Quiet Family Getaway

Molokai: The Best Island in Hawaii for a Quiet Vacation

Molokai is the best Hawaiian island for travelers seeking a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path vacation. Known for having the fewest visitors of any Hawaiian island, Molokai offers a uniquely authentic small-town Hawaii experience.

If your ideal getaway involves uncrowded beaches, tranquil trails, and locally run restaurants, you’ll quickly discover that Molokai’s relaxed pace rivals only that of neighboring Lanai.

What Makes Molokai Unique?

Molokai stands out among the Hawaiian islands due to its distinctly serene and laid-back atmosphere. You won’t find the usual tourist crowds here—just pristine beaches, breathtaking valleys, and scenic hiking trails, all waiting to be explored at your own pace.

Molokai is particularly ideal if you’re planning to visit more than one island on your Hawaii vacation. Spending one week or three days on Molokai is usually sufficient to experience its top attractions. Afterwards, you can easily hop to busier islands like Oahu or Maui to round out your Hawaiian adventure.

Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting Molokai

While Molokai’s tranquility is its greatest asset, it’s essential to recognize that its quiet charm may not suit everyone:

• Businesses often close early and may not operate daily.
• Limited dining and entertainment options compared to other islands.
• Few visitors and local residents, which creates a calm but quiet atmosphere.

This peaceful simplicity is exactly why Molokai appeals to visitors craving solitude and a more authentic Hawaii experience. Expect to find private, secluded beaches, beautiful coastal drives, and ample opportunities to create your own adventure.

Must-Do Experiences on Molokai

Although Molokai is quiet, it offers unforgettable experiences, including:

• Papohaku Beach – One of Hawaii’s longest and most beautiful white-sand beaches, often practically deserted.
• Pēpēʻōpae Bog Trail – Arguably the most stunning hike in all of Hawaii, offering breathtaking views of Molokai’s remote landscape.
• Molokai Sea Cliffs – The tallest sea cliffs in the world, best explored via a helicopter tour, providing unmatched aerial views.

If you looking for nightlife, extensive shopping, or bustling tourist hotspots Molokai‘s not for your place because it’s so quiet island. However, if your idea of a perfect Hawaii vacation involves slowing down, connecting with nature, and experiencing Hawaii in its most untouched form, Molokai is absolutely worth your time.

Whether as a brief stopover or as part of an island-hopping itinerary, Molokai’s remote beauty, stunning hiking trails, and serene beaches make it one of Hawaii’s best-kept secrets.

Final Thoughts On The Best Hawaiian Island for Families

The decision on the best Hawaiian island to visit with your family vacation would ultimately hinge on your family’s interests, the ages of your children, and the kind of experiences you are after. Each island offers its unique charm and a variety of activities that cater to different tastes.

Here are some recommendations:

• Oahu: Excellent for families with younger children, offering plenty of activities and kids-friendly resorts.
• Maui is also great for families with younger children; it has plenty of activities and beautiful beaches.
• The Big Island: Perfect for adventurous families who want to explore volcanic landscapes and experience unique outdoor activities.
• Kauai is ideal for those who love outdoor activities and lush scenery. There are plenty of hiking trails and beautiful beaches.

Consider these factors when choosing the best Hawaiian island for your family vacation.

No matter your chosen island, Hawaii promises a memorable family vacation filled with cultural experiences and natural beauty. Each island’s unique spirit and aloha will make your trip unforgettable, leaving your family with cherished memories and a longing to return to this paradise.

Summary

Whichever island you choose, your family will indeed have an unforgettable experience. Hawaii offers something for everyone, from exploring historical sites and engaging in cultural activities to relaxing on pristine beaches. Ready to plan your Hawaiian family vacation? The islands are calling, and paradise awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best Hawaiian island for families with toddlers?

Oahu and Maui are both great options for families with toddlers. They offer plenty of kid-friendly activities and accommodations, and your little ones will have a blast in these safe and fun environments.

What are some must-visit attractions for families on the Big Island?

You should visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea, Papakolea Green Sands Beach, and the Kohala Mountains for a fantastic family experience on the Big Island. Enjoy your trip!

Are there family-friendly resorts on Kauai?

Yes, there are family-friendly resorts on Kauai, such as the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa and Timbers Kauai, which offer a variety of amenities and activities for families.

What activities are available for families on Molokai?

You can explore Kalaupapa National Historical Park, visit the Molokai Museum and Cultural Center, enjoy quiet beaches like Papohaku Beach, hike in the Halawa Valley, and visit Purdy’s Natural Macadamia Nut Farm for a fun-filled family vacation on Molokai.

How can I make the most of my family vacation on Oahu?

Make the most of your family vacation on Oahu by visiting iconic sites like Pearl Harbor, exploring the Polynesian Cultural Center, and enjoying the calm waters of Waikiki and Lanikai beaches. Choose family-friendly resorts like Hilton Hawaiian Village or Aulani to stay.