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Keri Bridgwater,contributor
verified forbes
CWith its palm-fringed beaches, spectacular scenery and pike-scented breezes, Hawaii has long attracted travelers seeking a Pacific paradise. The archipelago offers travelers many options to choose from, each with a unique atmosphere. Oahu boasts world-famous Waikiki Beach and the historic Iolani Palace in downtown Honolulu, while well-maintained golf resorts and scenic drives along the Hana Highway are among Maui's top attractions. Active volcanoes and stargazing draw adventurers to the Big Island, while Kauai's "Garden Island" has hiking trails, waterfalls and small towns to explore. The sixth largest yet secluded lanai is a sanctuary for those looking to relax in privacy.
From sunset canoe trips to whale watching and enjoying a sundae after a day at the beach, when it comes to creating unforgettable moments, Hawaii hotels and resorts often play a leading role. The state's dining scene offers elegant suites, popular restaurants, dream spas and even cultural programs that honor the history of Hawaii and its people. If you're planning a trip in 2023, we've selected the best Hawaii resorts for every type of trip.
- Overall, the best resort in Hawaii: Four Seasons Resort Maui em Wailea
- Best Luxury Resort in Hawaii: Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
- Best Boutique Resort in Hawaii:Koa Kea Resort na Praia de Poipu
- Best Spa and Wellness Resort in Hawaii:Sensei Lanai, no Four Seasons Resort
- Best Resort for Golfers in Hawaii:The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalúa
- Best Resort for Couples in Hawaii: Wailea Hotel, relays and castles
- Best Family Resort in Hawaii: Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts collection
- Best group resort in Hawaii:Fairmont Kea Lani
- The best adventure resort in Hawaii:turtle bay resort
- Resort with the best views in Hawaii:1 Bahía de Hanalei Hotel
Best overall resort in Hawaii: Four Seasons Resort Maui At Wailea
Four Seasons Resort Maui em Wailea
Who will love:White Lotus fans and seasoned travelers looking for an upscale experience
Equipe All Star:Three pools and cabanas; three restaurants; Room service is available 24 hours; spa and salon; gym and yoga on the beach; Tennis courts; sculpture garden; wailea car service
What you shouldn't miss:The full suite experience and exclusive "hotel within a hotel" on the club floor.
Location:Kihei, Maui
A royal facility on the south end of Wailea Beach and a favorite with visitors for decades, the Four Seasons Resort Maui in Wailea achieved iconic status with some travelers for filming the first season of HBO's The White Lotus. Instagrammable views are unavoidable as you walk through the grand open-air lobby, especially around the pool's central fountain, and each of the five-star guest rooms has a private outdoor space overlooking the Pacific or the sacred Pacific Haleakala. .
There are lots of thoughtful touches here, from free poolside snacks and reef-safe sunscreen to a museum-level art collection. A free shuttle service and electric bike rentals are available for exploring the area, but it's also easy to spend a day at one of the three pools: the adults-only Serenity Pool is a particularly beautiful spot to take in views of the sunset. sun and night. Don't miss the nightly Hula performances. Renowned for its commitment to luxury, one of the resort's best-kept secrets is the Club Floor, where a dedicated team of Club Concierges oversee the guest experience from private check-in to check-out for just 26 guest rooms and suites. .
Best luxury resort in Hawaii: Four Seasons Resort Hualālai
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Who will love:Celebrities, families and luxury hunters
Equipe All Star:Exclusive Jack Nicklaus golf course; seven swimming pools, including an aquarium for swimming; academy; tennis club, water sports center; private beach; three options to eat
What you shouldn't miss:Snorkel among tropical lifeguard fish at King's Pond
Location:Kailua-Kona, Big Island
Loyal guests return year after year to this elegant A-list favorite, situated on a tranquil stretch of coastline framed by white sand beaches and black lava rocks on the west side of the Big Island. Built on the site of a former Hawaiian fishing village, traditional Polynesian architecture beautifully maximizes indoor and outdoor living, while a multi-million dollar renovation in 2021 reinvented guest rooms and suites in an elegant, understated style. Perks of staying on the ground floor are the stunning outdoor lava stone showers, while the two-story villas are fantastic for groups of friends and family.
Renowned for impeccable service, amenities and experiences impress in every way, from sublime spa treatments to snorkeling among rescued tropical fish at the 1.8 million gallon King's Pond Aquarium. With an 18-hole golf course, museum, cultural center, Kumu Kai Marine Center, and all-day dining at the Beach Tree Bar and Ulu Ocean Grill for great sushi, there's almost no reason to leave this palm-fringed dream property. . Adrenaline seekers can sign up for Only at Hualālai Adventures, which offers a variety of adventure offerings, such as snorkeling with marine conservationist Kimi Werner and a forest tour on the slopes of Mauna Loa.
Best Boutique Resort in Hawaii: Koa Kea Resort in Poipu Beach
Koa Kea Resort na Praia de Poipu
Who will love:Discerning adult travelers looking for privacy, peace and quiet
Equipe All Star:Pool; Spa; fitness centers; the award-winning Red Salt restaurant; Boutique lobby with Kauai merchandise, 24-hour room service; nightly turndown service
What you shouldn't miss:Sunrise yoga class and evening tiki torch lighting ritual.
Location:Coala, Kauai
Koa Kea is an idyllic oceanfront property with direct access to Poipu Beach on the south shore of Kauai, one of the closest beaches to shore. It's a welcoming alternative to larger resorts for travelers seeking peace and privacy. A recent $5 million renovation redecorated the beautiful oceanfront rooms with traditional koa wood accents,Tropical grass woven inserts with coral shells and Capiz and Kapa woven rugs evoke a Garden Isle sense of place while incorporating modern conveniences such as in-room Nespresso machines.
The award-winning Red Salt restaurant, run by Kauai-native chef Noelani Planas, is a must-see during your stay here, as well as participating in the evening tiki torch lighting ritual, with a Hawaiian mai tai at hand , Of course. If you fancy an outdoor Pohaku hot stone massage, book one of the Wa Nui Oceanside cabanas for your treatment at The Spa at Koa Kea, which features a lava stone hot tub to relax in beforehand. If you want to get out and explore the area, you can reserve Teslas in advance.
Best Spa and Wellness Resort in Hawaii: Sensei Lānai, a Four Seasons Resort
Sensei Lanai, no Four Seasons Resort
Who will love:Those who are serious about pampering; Wellness lovers looking to realign body and mind
Equipe All Star:Dedicated Sensei guides; Spa and self-treatmentHales; onsen gardens; Pool; academy; activities calendar; Nobu Sensei Restaurant
What you shouldn't miss:Swim in the forest and ride horses in the hills around Koʻele
Location:Schwartz, Lanai
A private jet flight from Honolulu and a ride in a black car is how guests arrive at this Lanai Garden of Eden spa resort, owned by Silicon Valley billionaire Larry Ellison, where days, even weeks, pass by. . sunrise hikes, spa treatments and meditation sessions and onsen baths. The 24-acre resort is nestled among the pine-covered Cook Mountains and in lush grounds with great art and sculpture near the town of Laina, just 20 minutes from the beach. Sensei's personal guides customize itineraries during an initial consultation, ranging from high-tech health assessments to thermal body mapping sessions, helping to incorporate appropriate massage therapies into guests' programs. Forest baths and yin yoga (among many offers) can be combined from a weekly activities calendar; However, the hotel will be happy to organize a day at the beach for you at our sister Four Seasons resort. Consider chef Nobu Matsuhisa's menus, which use products from the hotel's hydroponic farm, and Hales' idyllic private spa treatments, complete with hot tubs and infrared saunas. It's easy to see that Sensei Lanai is considered one of the best spas in the world, not just Hawaii.
Best Golf Resort in Hawaii: The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalúa
Who will love:Couples and families who like to play together
Equipe All Star:Two championship golf courses; The Ritz-Carlton Club Experience; Spa; Banyan Tree Restaurant; Spa; Pool terrace with cabanas
What you shouldn't miss:The Wonderful Journey of Awa Nui at The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua Spa with Hawaiian Herbs and a Traditional Hawaiian Lomilomi Massage
Location:Kapalua, Maui
Golf greats like "The Big Fijian" Vijay Singh have played on the Plantation Course at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, which made Golf Digest's 2022 list of "Best Golf Resorts in Hawaii". While the Arnold Palmer-designed Bay Course is famous for its oceanfront 17th hole and the Kapalua Golf Academy has won awards for its private lessons, there's plenty to offer non-golfers at this stunning resort. Located adjacent to the Honokahua Preservation Site, Cultural Advisor Clifford Nae'ole is a great resource for learning more about the sacred Native Hawaiian ceremonial site, and the property is home to one of the largest conservation areas in Hawaii. Rooms, suites and residences feature contemporary island-style decor, while the new premium room category, The Fire Lanai Collection, features shaded terraces, hammocks and fire pits. Private cabanas flank the stunning pool deck, and six bays and beaches are just a short walk or drive away. For dining and drinks, highlights include The Banyan Tree restaurant and sunset cocktail bar, The Alaloa Lounge.
Best Couples Resort in Hawaii: Hotel Wailea, Relais, and Chateaux
Wailea Hotel, relays and castles
Who will love:Honeymooners and Childless Couples
Equipe All Star:bungalow-style suites; swimming pool and terrace; wellness study; free shuttle service to the beach and nearby shops; rental of electric bikes and classic cars; Guest courses and experiences
What you shouldn't miss:Sundowners at the Birdcage Bar, a private treehouse dinner, and a Hawaiian sunrise experience
Location:Wailea, Maui
From the lei and champagne toast upon check-in to the panoramic views of the ocean and tropical gardens, Hawaii's first and only Relais & Châteaux property is always perfect. Set on 15 acres of lush gardens, this adults-only gem of a hotel offers a private retreat atmosphere, making it hugely popular with couples looking for romance and exclusivity. Fossil coral stone and sustainably managed Ohia wood were used in the 72 ocean and garden view suites, which feature cozy outdoor spaces and kitchenettes. There's a daily social hour on the pool deck and an array of free classes, including pokemaking, aerial silk yoga, and sound bath ceremonies. At The Restaurant, Executive Chef Bryan McMahon uses only local produce on his menus, while private dining at The Treehouse promises a magical night to remember. Rent one of the resort's three 1957 Porsche 356 Speedster replicas to explore the island, or sign up for fun activities including a surf safari, Hawaiian culture and canoeing with turtles. To explore, simply hop in your complimentary limousine and head to nearby Wailea Beach (home to the hotel's beach club), local golf courses and Wailea Shops.
Best Family Resort in Hawaii: Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts collection
Who will love:Wealthy families (and couples) eager to learn about Hawaiian culture
Equipe All Star:three swimming pools; five gastronomic concepts; Auberge Spa; wellness center and tennis club; slime shop; golf course; beach access
What you shouldn't miss:MY Menu tasting at CanoeHouse and Twilight at Kalāhuipua'a, a live music and storytelling event led by resident historian Uncle Danny
Location:Kohala Coast, Big Island
Located on the Big Island's sunny Kona-Kohala coast, Mauna Lani, which means "mountain to the sky," has been a popular getaway since 1983. After being purchased by Auberge Resorts, it reopened in 2020 after a $200 million renovation. With this renovation came extensive new facilities for guests of all ages, but the Holoholo Kids Crew in particular proved to be a huge hit with families. Activities range from art classes to outdoor adventures like net fishing, and all are geared toward kids ages 5-12. Surrounded by lava fields and home to ancient Kalāhuipua'a fish ponds, the Living Culture team conducts workshops and tours (guided hikes through the Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Reserve, theProtect HonutThe turtle rescue program and necklace making classes are a great way to learn about Hawaii's history, people, customs and wildlife. A soulful family retreat, the guest rooms, suites, residences and properties are decorated in elegant neutral tones. The Keikei children's pool has a sandy bottom, but there's also direct access to a safe swimming beach, a rarity on this stretch of coast. Five separate dining concepts include the Surf Shack social hangout for all-day dining and sunset hangouts, and family-friendly interpretations of Japanese cuisine at the CanoeHouse restaurant.
Best Group Resort in Hawaii: Fairmont Kea Lani
Fairmont Kea Lani
Who will love:Multi-generational families and friends traveling together
Equipe All Star:Three pools and waterslide; six restaurants and four bars; spa willow; academy; Children's Club; cultural activities
What you shouldn't miss:A walking tour with resident artist Dale Zarrera and private dinner on Hoku Lanai
Location:Wailea-Makena, Maui
Whether you're traveling for the annual family gathering or simply meeting friends for a well-deserved vacation, the Fairmont Kea Lani is a great choice with spacious one- and two-bedroom suites with sofa beds that sleep up to six guests. Also ideal for groups and multiple couples are the two- and three-bedroom villas, which have kitchens, dining areas, and private patios with plunge pools and grills, and are steps away from the sheltered white sands of Polo Beach. The staff will be happy to arrange anything for the group, from cultural activities like ukulele and hula lessons to snorkeling and boat trips.
Pamper yourself and stay active at Willow Stream Spa, which offers locally inspired treatments, yoga and Pilates classes, and a weekly wellness walk. Poolside loungers sell out quickly here, so consider booking a cabana -- couples love the quiet adults-only pool, and families love the lagoon-style pools connected by a waterslide. Multiple restaurants means plenty of dining options: At flagship Kō, the menu focuses on family island recipes with multicultural influences, while Nick's Fishmarket Maui specializes in local seafood. A torchlit Hoku Lanai dinner on the oceanfront Pacific Terrace is magical for guests celebrating a special occasion.
Best Hawaiian Adventure Resort: Turtle Bay Resort
turtle bay resort
Who will love:Travelers who want to surf and spend time in the water
Equipe All Star:Sunset pool bar and Alaia restaurant; surf house boutique; Nalu Spa; academy; seven beaches; four swimming pools; two golf courses
What you shouldn't miss:A Jamie O'Brien Surf Experience and Scenic Flight from Hotel Helipad
Location:North Shore, Oahu
After a stunning $250 million transformation last year, Turtle Bay has become the only luxury resort on Oahu's North Shore. Located on a palm-fringed 1,300-acre peninsula near the "Seven Mile Miracle" (a stretch of famous surf breaks that includes Waimea Bay and the Banzai Pipeline between Haleiwa Beach Park and Sunset), the secluded location allows guests a more tranquil stay. from the island. Floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views and large-scale artwork by Hawaiian artists give the lobby a wow factor, while reimagined interiors feature bohemian beach flair. Rooms and suites also offer views of the coast and sea, but the luxurious 42 Beach Bungalows have access to a shared pool. A private session at the Jamie O'Brien Surf Experience, founded by a local pro, is a must, as is planning a sunset horseback ride or a tour of the resort's Kuilima Farm (which grows produce used by surfers). Guests can also hike or bike the 12+ kilometers of trails that surround the property or play a game of pickleball. Eight dining options include the signature restaurant, Alaia, and the weekly Paniolo dinner, which pays homage to Hawaiian cowboy heritage with storytelling and hula lessons, among other cultural activities.
Resort with the Best Views in Hawaii: 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
1 Bahía de Hanalei Hotel
Who will love:Eco-conscious travelers and design lovers who appreciate quiet luxury
Equipe All Star:two swimming pools; Spa; Lobby; academy; seven gastronomic concepts; invite-only programs and events; children's show; Good Things retail store; Audi e-tron domestic car
What you shouldn't miss:Intuitive herbal healing ritual with indigenous botanicals and a noni comfrey serum from Kauai Farmacy herbal medicine farm
Location:Princeville, Kauai
The beauty of Kauai's North Shore is on display at the newest outpost of luxury hotel brand 1 Hotels. Where the St. Regis Princeville Resort sits on the cliffs of Hanalei Bay, this designer retreat exudes a sense of seclusion that will restore the soul, whether it's a multi-day wellness trip to the Bamford Wellness Spa or a break to surf, shore fish or paddle boards. on the Wailua River. Eco-sustainable, reclaimed and locally grown materials have been used throughout the property; Its 252 nature-inspired rooms and suites are dressed in textures and neutral tones that whisper "quiet luxury".
Overlooking Hanalei Bay and the stunning mountain peaks of Hihimanu, Nāmolokama and Māmalahoa, the adults-only pool is a peaceful place to relax or spend days before exploring the majestic Nāpali Coast, Waimea Canyon or taking a stroll to the nearby Explore Puu Poa beach. Buy handicrafts from Kauai at the Good Things store and shop at the exclusive 1 Kitchen restaurant, which takes local products to a new level by offering vegetables and microvegetables from the garden of the chef’s garden, as well as products from Kauai and the neighboring islands that are used.
About Keri Bridgwater, Your Hawaii Travel Guide
As a travel reporter, my work has taken me around the world, staying at boutique resorts and Grand Dame hotels, from Iceland and Greece to Dubai and Fiji. Closer to California, he included adventures such as skiing in Yosemite National Park, driving a Range Rover through Napa, riding among wild horses in Arizona and flying a USAF training plane over Huntington Beach. I first visited Oahu in 2005, on my way home from a year in New Zealand, spending Christmas with a friend and her family at their home in Haleiwa, before surfing Maui and exploring Haleakalā National Park. Since then, I've had a soft spot for Hawaii and have returned there several times over the years, although the Big Island and Lāna'i are still on my bucket list. Read more about my work atlinings,internal hook,SFGATE,Maria Clara,travel + free time, yoga diary,and more.
FAQs
What is the number 1 vacation spot in Hawaii? ›
Oahu is the most visited of all the Hawaiian islands, at nearly 4.7 million visitors annually. Oahu is primarily defined by the state capital of Honolulu, as well as Pearl Harbor and the famous beach known as Waikiki. These areas attract tourists by the thousands daily.
Is Maui or Kauai better? ›Stunning coastlines, towering mountains, and lush jungles abound on both islands. However, the main difference between the two islands comes down to the variety in the landscapes, which Maui wins by a narrow margin. Maui: All in all, the scenery on Maui is more accessible than what's found on Kauai.
What is the least touristy island in Hawaii? ›Molokai. Molokai is the least visited island of Hawaii. With about 65,000 visitors, the island attracts only a fraction of all the tourists that visit the island group each year. The island is more rural and doesn't have resorts.
Is Oahu or Maui better? ›If you're looking to hole up at your hotel for the entire vacation, pick Maui and its sprawling oceanfront resorts. But if you're looking for adventure, to really experience the Hawaiian Islands and make the most of your well-earned vacation, Oʻahu should be your choice.
Which Hawaiian island should I spend the most time on? ›For most travelers visiting Hawaii for the first time, the Big Island of Hawaii should be the winner because it offers the most diverse experiences. But before you book a flight here, make sure this is really the best island for you. Here's our guide to Hawaii travel for beginners.
Which Hawaiian island is most walkable? ›Getting around Oahu
Oahu is the easiest island to get around. There are several car rental companies at the Honolulu Airport if you'd like to drive the island. If you're looking to save a few dollars on transportation, the Oahu bus system can get you within walking distance of almost anywhere on the island.
Hawaii Celebrities: Oahu Edition
Oahu is a favorite spot for many global travelers, and a number of celebrities have visited the island in recent years. President Barack Obama makes regular visits to the island he grew up on.
Perhaps more than any of the other islands, Kauai is known for its natural beauty and its dramatic, beautiful sites. These include Waimea Canyon, the Coconut Coast and much more. You'll find gorgeous mountains and waterfalls, white sand beaches, sugarcane fields, and beachside cliffs such as those on the Na Pali coast.
Is Kauai the prettiest Hawaiian island? ›Kauai is the winner
It has a variety of views and terrain to see. Rocky coastlines, beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and mountains and valleys. There is so much to see and do. Kauai tends to not be as popular as islands like Maui and Oahu so you can fully enjoy what the island offers.
July is in the middle of the peak summer season on the island, so it's not the best month to visit Kauai if you're hoping for peace and quiet, especially on the southern coast. However, the warm and usually dry weather is perfect for popular activities like diving, hiking and visiting attractions along the beachfront.
What's the funnest island in Hawaii? ›
Oahu is the most popular island for first-timers as it's home to famous sights like Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, and Waikiki Beach. I'd recommend Maui equally, however, with its golden beaches and upscale resorts. Maui is probably what you're dreaming of when you think about Hawaii.
What is the most affordable Hawaiian island to visit? ›Due to the abundance of hotels, activities, tours, and attractions, Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit. Between the competitive prices and myriad of things to do, those looking for a budget vacation to Hawaii will find that Oahu is exactly what they've been searching for.
Why are 2 Hawaiian Islands forbidden to visitors? ›The island first earned its “forbidden” status in the 1930s, when the Robinsons completely cut off visits to Niihau to protect inhabitants from new diseases, including measles and, later, polio.
What is the most popular area to stay in Hawaii? ›The famous Waikiki Beach is also on the outskirts of Honolulu, and Waikiki is by far the most popular neighborhood.
Which side of Hawaii has better beaches? ›In the resort areas on the west side of the island the evenings are typically in the mid 70s to low 80s. It is very rare for the temperature to ever drop below 70 on the coast. The most popular area to stay is the Kohala Coast. This area is home to the nicest resorts, the most beautiful weather and the best beaches.
What side of Hawaii has the best beaches? ›As we mentioned, the best beaches are found along the Kohala and Kona Coasts on the west side of the island. You will also find the best weather along the west side of Hawaii, meaning warmer and sunnier days than on the Hilo side of the island.
How many days do I need in Hawaii? ›While many vacations are five to seven days long, we recommend staying for at least 10 days to enjoy your Hawaiian vacation. The time change is difficult to adjust to at first and takes about 3 days to get fully acclimated. So, allowing a couple days to get over the jet lag is important.
What is the best Hawaiian island to visit and why? ›Hawaii's Big Island
It's our favorite, too- and for good reason. The Big Island is by far the most diverse of all the Hawaiian Islands, and it's BIG. In fact, it's the size of all the other islands COMBINED! From barren grasslands to lush jungle, and from lava fields to snow-capped mountains - it's all here.
The best time to visit Hawaii is between March and September. This is when the islands see the highest temperatures and the lowest amount of rain. It's the perfect time to enjoy the beach or the water.
What month is the most expensive for Hawaii? ›Between mid-March and early-April 2023. This can also be one of the highest-priced times of year to visit Hawaii.
What is the least traveled month to Hawaii? ›
Hawaii ON/Off peak periods
To avoid crowds, try planning your trip for after July as the number of visitors drops off down to September and October, which are the quietest months for tourists.
Generally, the best time to visit Hawaii for the most ideal overall weather, lowest statewide rates, and the fewest visitors on-island is April and May during the spring and September and October during the fall. Some refer to these times as Hawaii's 'off-season period' or 'shoulder months.
Which Hawaiian island has the most things to do? ›Oahu is truly a hot spot for Hawaii activities, tours, shopping, surfing, nightlife, and dining. The island is the most developed of the major islands, and it'll feel like it - it's busy here, and unlike some areas of Hawaii, there's more hustle and bustle around the clock.
Which Hawaiian island is best without a car? ›Generally speaking, the best Hawaiian island to visit without a car is Oahu. This is because the bus system goes throughout much of the island and it's convenient enough to take the Oahu bus to different places, and there's also a bus from the Honolulu airport.
Which Hawaiian island has the most beautiful hikes? ›Oahu is the best island for hiking due to the sheer volume of trails available. Don't worry, Oahu also has quality over quantity. After hiking on all the islands, Oahu has provided the best jungle strolls, jaw-dropping views, and hair-raising ridge-line hikes compared to any other Hawaiian island.
Who owns most of the island of Kauai? ›Who owns Kauai? After the State of Hawaii, who owns over 155,000 acres on Kauai, the Robinson Family is the second-largest landowner at over 55,000 acres (excluding their Niihau acres), and then Grove Farm is the third-largest landowner at over 30,000 acres.
Is Kauai too crowded? ›Kauai is much more laid-back and rural than The Big Island. You won't find the huge crowds, so you can really get away from it all and enjoy your days in Hawaii. The locals are incredibly welcoming and can point you toward the best hidden spots, so you'll get a unique experience.
How many days in Kauai is good? ›If you are only going to Kauai to see a few sights or do a few activities and then you're heading to another island for a longer time, then 3 days could be enough. Otherwise, you'll want at least 7-10 days to fully explore Kauai and have some down time.
Do people like Maui or Kauai better? ›However, if you want to chill on beautiful beaches all day and have a relaxed (but also exciting) Hawaii vacation – with some nightlife to top it all off – Maui might just edge out the island of Kauai. Many people who've vacationed on all the main islands prefer Maui and think it's the best Hawaiian island.
What side is best to stay in Kauai? ›The east side is by far the most accessible spot on Kauai. Whether you choose to stay at the Waipouli Beach Resort or any other rental on the Coconut Coast, you'll be right in the center of the action and can easily get to the other sides of the island.
What is the least touristy part of Kauai? ›
The West Side of the island, the leeward coast of Kauai, is drier and the mountains in the center of the island block the rest of Kauai from the rain. This is one of the least visited parts of the island, excluding the sights along Highway 550 (like Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park).
What is the rainiest month in Kauai? ›Kauai as a whole does get more rainfall in the winter months than the summer: The wettest months, usually November and December, get an average of 4.7 or more inches of rain, while both June and August average under two inches.
What is the cheapest time to go to Kauai? ›Late Summer months into Fall Season
Fall starts on August 17 and ends around December 10: With the exception of Thanksgiving week, this is definitely Kauai's low season and a great time to find the best prices!
You can get around Kauai without a car, as there are bus services on the island and taxis are also available. However, public transport isn't particularly frequent and is quite limited in the areas that you can visit, so if you're looking for total freedom when getting around Kauai then a rental car is recommended.
What is the most relaxing island in Hawaii? ›Kauai is the best Hawaiian island for travelers who like hiking, relaxing, and a quieter vibe.
Can I island hop in Hawaii? ›If you're looking to island-hop in Hawaii, you have a few options. Depending on what islands you're traveling between, you can get there by airplane or ferry. You can also book an inter-island cruise or a guided tour to island hop for a day.
What is the cheapest week to go to Hawaii? ›April thru June and mid-August thru mid-September are Hawaii's "low seasons," and airfares are lower then. No matter what time of year you travel, you may be able to score better deals if you travel midweek.
Why is Big Island so cheap? ›The cost of living is the lowest on Big Island – around 25 % lower than the Hawaiian average. Big Island is relatively affordable due to its large size, lack of infrastructure, and the risks posed by volcanic activity.
Which Hawaiian island has the least crowded beaches? ›Waimea Beach, Kauai
With just one primary lodging option, Kauai's dry, sunny west side is by far the island's least crowded coast accessible by road. Waimea Beach has fine brown-black sand that is great for beachcombing and leisurely strolls, and it offers views of the island of Niihau across the channel.
Niihau, also known as the Forbidden Isle, is a beautiful small island in Hawaii spread across 180 sq km. The island is off-limits to outsiders and only the Robinson family, their relatives, invited guests, government officials and US Navy personnel are allowed here.
What Hawaiian island is no one allowed on? ›
No one is allowed to visit Hawaii's Forbidden Isle—the 70-square-mile island, which on a clear day can be spied from Kauai's west coast—unless they are invited by Niihau owners the Robinson family, or by one of its 70 full-time Native Hawaiian residents.
What Hawaiian island does not allow tourists? ›Once owned by Royalty, Niihau was purchased from King Kamehameha in 1864 and up to 1987, visits to the island were typically restricted to the owners and their guests, or government officials, which is how it gained its moniker; “The Forbidden Island”.
Which island to visit for first time in Hawaii? ›If it's your first trip to Hawaii
Chances are, the Big Island of Hawaii has everything you're looking for. But depending on what you want to do, one of the other islands accessible from the mainland — Maui, Oahu or Kauai — could be a better fit.
Spring and Autumn are the “low” or “off” season in Hawaii. April through mid-June, and September through mid-December see the fewest tourists. This can result in a wider variety of options for you when it comes to hotels, transportation, and attractions.
What month is best to stay in Hawaii? ›The best time to visit Hawaii is between March and September. This is when the islands see the highest temperatures and the lowest amount of rain. It's the perfect time to enjoy the beach or the water.
How many nights in Hawaii is enough? ›While many vacations are five to seven days long, we recommend staying for at least 10 days to enjoy your Hawaiian vacation. The time change is difficult to adjust to at first and takes about 3 days to get fully acclimated.
What is the most expensive island to stay in Hawaii? ›Luxury Stays in Lanaʻi, The Most Exclusive Island in Hawaiʻi.
How long should your first trip to Hawaii be? ›If you wish to discover the island as a whole, we recommend that you stay at least 5 days so that you have time to enjoy its various attractions and go on a few hikes. If you prefer to make only a quick stop to get an idea of life in Honolulu and do only the essentials, 3 days may be enough.
How many days do you need at each Hawaii island? ›But each island is diverse and filled with far more than a week's worth of things to see. The best way to experience Hawaii is to devote at least five days to each island. If you want to tack on a quick trip to another island in a short amount of time, Oahu is your best bet, as it's the main hub for the islands.
Which Hawaii island has the best beaches? ›With 227 miles of shoreline, Oahu is the best Hawaiian Island for beaches. Oahu has the best beaches in Hawaii due to Oahu's many protected bays, reefs surrounding the island, gold-sand beaches, and calm waters year-round.
Which Hawaiian island is least expensive to visit? ›
Due to the abundance of hotels, activities, tours, and attractions, Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit. Between the competitive prices and myriad of things to do, those looking for a budget vacation to Hawaii will find that Oahu is exactly what they've been searching for.
What is the best time to vacation in Hawaii? ›The Fewest Crowds in Hawaii
To avoid the crowds, these months are the best time to visit Hawaii. September and October are the least crowded as visitor counts drop to the islands after Labor Day. 2019 monthly visitor data to Hawaii. 2019 had no travel restrictions so the data reflects expected 2023 visitor trends.
If you have 9 to 14 days, we recommend planning to visit up to two islands. If you want more, consider planning a day-trip island hop. If you have 15 to 20 days, we recommend planning to visit up to three islands, which would result in roughly five to seven days per your three chosen islands.
How many days in Hawaii is enough? ›How many days are enough in Hawaii? While you might never want to leave Hawaii, usually people plan to stay 7-10 days during their vacation to Hawaii. That gives enough time to get over jet lag, participate in a few scheduled activities, explore the Hawaiian island a bit, and have time to relax and unwind.