The 7 inhabited islands (and over 100 smaller uninhabited islets, atolls, and coral reefs that count as “islands”) that we collectively know as Hawaii, provide some of the most beautiful sites in the world. Visitors to this paradise of islands will also find a fascinating history and culture, delicious regional cuisine, and a wide variety of outdoor activities – kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and of course surfing.
And each island is different from the next! While Oahu may be the first place that visitors think of when planning a vacation to Hawaii, many folks find that one (or more) of the other islands may be the perfect Hawaiian vacation destination – especially for those looking for a quieter, more “nature-centered” visit.
Let’s take a tour of the “rest” of the Hawaiian islands.
The Big Island (also called Hawaii Island) is known for its volcanoes, especially it’s two huge (and active) volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Or for something slightly less exciting, travelers can visit Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano that last erupted approximately 4000 years ago. At 13,796 feet above sea level and over 33,000 feet from the bottom of the ocean floor, Mauna Kea is the tallest sea mountain in the world – and a spot where skiers can even find good conditions a few months each year. Hawaii’s Big Island is a place where lush rainforest meets volcanic deserts, and where snow-capped mountains mix with black sand beaches.
Many visitors to Hawaii want to relax in Maui with its beautiful landscape, and beautiful resort options on its west coast in the resort areas of Lahaina, Kaanapali and Kapalua. Golfers especially will enjoy the championship golf courses. Those looking for the arts will love visiting Kahului for its cultural offerings. And for anyone who wants to truly enjoy the beauty that is Maui, they’ll want to explore the Road to Hana, a scenic drive located on the northeast coastline of the island that’s often called one of the most beautiful roads in the world. Visitors also are enchanted by the gorgeous sunrises at Haleakala National Park, home to Maui’s highest peak.
Or consider the island of Kauai, sometimes called the ‘Garden Isle’ because of its beautiful vegetation, emerald valleys, mountains, rainforest and waterfalls. From the plunging cliffs of the Napali Coast to the deep trench of Waimea Canyon, those visiting Kauai who are looking to explore will find the perfect getaway with kayaking, snorkeling, hiking and, of course, its lovely beaches.
Visitors to Hawaii who want to truly “get away” from it all will find that the island of Lanai is a perfect place to do just that, with luxurious resorts that provide the ideal place for visitors to indulge. And if you truly want to experience peace and quiet in paradise, then plan to visit the island of Molokai, where no building is taller than a coconut tree, and where there aren’t even any traffic lights.
Hawaii may be paradise, but it’s also a vacation destination of incredible and beautiful contrasts with a wide variety of things to see and do beyond “just” a beach. Whether you choose to spend your entire vacation in one of the many wonderful resorts the islands offer, or you decide to “island hop” and visit several different islands, if you haven’t yet visited Hawaii, it definitely needs to be on your travel bucket list!
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