The Best Hawaiian Islands for Every Type of Traveler

Sunrise at Hanauma Bay on Oahu, Hawaii

Whether you are a family looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventurous couple looking for an exciting escape, or a solo traveler looking for an unforgettable experience, a Hawaiian vacation has everything you need for the perfect holiday.

The archipelago comprises 137 individual islands and atolls in the Pacific Ocean, each with its own distinct vibes and offerings for every type of vacationer—from hardcore adventure enthusiasts to relaxation and luxury seekers, and everyone in between.

Here are the best Hawaiian islands for every traveler.

Families - Oahu

Oahu is an idyllic destination for families looking for fun in the sun adventures in an absolutely gorgeous island setting.

Check out Waikiki Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Hawaii and a perfect place for families, with soft sand, calm waters, and beautiful scenery to enjoy with your entire family. Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center for an immersive learning experience about the rich history and culture of the region through music, dance, and local cuisine.

Spend the day hiking the popular Diamond Head Summit Trail, with spectacular views of the incredible landscape and sparkling coast. Visit Honolulu Zoo for an up-close look at more than 900 animal species, including elephants, tigers, and monkeys. Explore the sprawling countryside with an epic ATV tour or horseback riding trek around popular Kualoa Ranch, a 4,000-acre private nature reserve and cattle ranch renowned for its stunning panoramic vistas.

There’s also plenty of fun and exciting venues and attractions for parents and adults to enjoy while the kids are occupied—with bustling nightlife and an ample selection of bars, clubs, and restaurants.

With some much to do and see in Oahu, the entire family is sure to have an amazing time!

Couples - Lanai

If you’re looking for a quiet, intimate island getaway with your significant other, look no further than Lanai.

This hidden gem offers a secluded escape from the noise and crowds of many of the other islands, with a romantic collection of beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and great activities and attractions for couples to enjoy together.

Spend the day at Hulopoe Beach, one of its most beautiful, featuring soft sands and crystal-clear waters—a great spot for couples to relax and soak up the sun.

Pay a visit to Sweetheart Rock, also known as Puu Pehe, an 80-foot-tall rock formation on the island’s southern coast with stunning ocean views and plenty of spots for romantic hikes and picnics.

Enjoy relaxing couples massages and beauty treatments at Lanai’s popular spas and resorts, such as Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort.

Set off on a romantic sunset sailing along the coast to take in the beautiful scenery while sipping champagne and enjoying a gourmet dinner. Share a horseback riding adventure through the island's rugged terrain, taking couples through a series of scenic landscapes.

Adult Groups - Maui

With its vibrant nightlife, world-class dining, and stunning beaches, Maui is the best Hawaiian island for groups of adults looking for a little fun and excitement.

Maui has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of options for those looking to enjoy the island after dark—with plenty of bars, restaurants, clubs, and lounges to grab drinks and socialize with friends. Popular options include Fleetwood's on Front Street, a rooftop bar and restaurant with live music, and Monkeypod Kitchen, a casual spot with craft cocktails and an extensive beer selection.

Explore the island’s natural beauty on your own terms with a scenic road trip through the Road to Hana and Haleakala Highway—with breathtaking views of the island’s gorgeous and dynamic natural wonders.

Enjoy a stay at one of Maui’s award-winning resorts, such as the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, for phenomenal cuisine, spacious accommodations, and premium amenities including a full-service spa and access to two championship golf courses.

Check out Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, an open-air beach resort that promises a more glamorous experience for guests to unwind and enjoy top amenities, including a vast selection of suites and villas with private lanais, plenty of fun activities and guided tours, and an adults-only infinity pool.

Whether you’re looking to explore the island’s rich culture, bask in its lovely surroundings, or indulge in some of its luxurious offerings and world-class amenities with your friends, Maui has something for all.

Solo Travel - Hawaii (The Big Island)

All in all, traveling solo gives you the opportunity to experience your vacation on your own terms and at your own pace, and Hawaii (often referred to as the “Big Island”) is the perfect spot for solo travelers.

Tour on foot with an exciting hike and stunning views of breathtaking landscapes ranging from active volcanoes and lush forests to gorgeous, white-sand beaches. Visit the Waipio Valley Lookout, a scenic overlook offering a sweeping panoramic of the towering cliffside and Waipio Valley below. Climb to the top of Mauna Kea Summit, a favorite spot for stargazing, and take in the spectacular glory of the clear night sky glittering with stars. Don’t forget your telescope!

Go snorkeling for an unforgettable look at the vibrant coral reefs and colorful sea life just off the coast. Join a manta ray night dive and swim alongside these majestic creatures!

Hit the town to dance or mingle at one of the island’s popular bars and clubs, such as Kona Brewing Company, a favorite among locals and travelers for its great food, beer and atmosphere, and Lava Lava Beach Club, a beachfront bar and restaurant great for drinks and live music.

With its incredibly wide range of attractions and outdoor activities, absolutely beautiful scenery, and an especially welcoming vibe that invites guests to explore and immerse themselves in the local culture, no matter what sort of island vacation you’re after, you’re sure to find plenty to enjoy in Hawaii.

Nature Lovers & Adventure Seekers - Kauai

With lush jungles, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful waterfalls, Kauai is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Widely known as the “Garden Isle,” it boasts not only a wealth of stunning natural beauty and diverse scenery, but also plenty of opportunities for guests to explore its glorious landscapes however they choose.

Hike popular Kalalau Trail on Na Pali Coast for a rugged and scenic trek perfect for experienced hikers, or check out Hanakapiai Falls Trail for a less strenuous hike with a awe-inspiring view of 300-foot-high Hanakapiai Falls.

Adventure seekers will find much to explore, with plenty of hidden waterfalls, caves, and secret beaches scattered around the island. Visitors can go kayaking along the Wailua River, or paddle Na Pali Coast to explore sea caves and waterfalls. Lucky visitors can even do some whale watching, as groups of these majestic creatures migrate seasonally, and can usually be viewed between November and March.

Kauai's dive sites include drift diving and excursions to underwater lava formations. The island's waters are home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and much more.

Kauai has several zipline tours with breathtaking views of the island's natural beauty. And if you’re looking to take it all from yet another angle, a helicopter tour is a must!

Plan Your Perfect Hawaiian Vacation With InteleTravel

If you’re ready to start planning your Hawaiian getaway, the best way to ensure you get the optimal value and experience with the least amount of stress is to work with InteleTravel.

Our team of experienced advisors will arrange and customize your ideal itinerary to your precise preferences, book the various aspects of your trip, and even provide help and support throughout your journey.

No matter what type of traveler you are, or sort of trip you’re taking, Hawaii has an island perfect for you! With its stunning beaches, breathtaking beauty, and gorgeous climate, Hawaii is a tropical paradise just waiting to be explored.

So what are you waiting for?

Contact InteleTravel today to embark on your dream Hawaiian vacation!

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