Let’s Dream of Hawaiian Island Hopping

Hawaii, our nation’s 50th state, is actually comprised of six islands, each with its own distinct personality. While it’s easy to just pick one island and enjoy your stay, many travelers try to island hop to enjoy the different attributes of several isles. Here’s a quick look at just a few of the things that make each island special:

Kauai

Often called the Garden Island, Kauai is perhaps the least commercially developed island, with lush green canyons and black sand beaches. There are beautiful hiking trails along the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon and plenty of serene beaches. However, it can be rainy depending on the season.

Oahu

Oahu is home to Honolulu and Waikiki Beach, which is perhaps one of the most famous — and beautiful — beaches in the world. While the buzzy beach city is filled with high-rise resorts, restaurants and shopping, the isle’s North Shore is all about surfing with its famed Banzai pipeline. In addition to the coastline, Oahu is home to the Pearl Harbor Memorial, a poignant landmark commemorating the World War II battle.

Molokai

The least visited of the Hawaiian Islands, Molokai is still remote and rural. Once the site of a leper colony, the rugged isle is a place for adventurers who want to hike, kayak and see how the locals live.

Lanai

This small island is home to two luxe Four Seasons Resorts, one on the beach and one in the rolling greenery of upcountry. The sleepy isle boasts great snorkeling, world-class golf and friendly locals.

Maui

Luxury resorts, beautiful golf courses and pristine beaches with calm waters that are great for snorkeling attract visitors to this gorgeous destination. The winding Road to Hana on the east side of island is a must. And the seaport village of Lahaina is a hub of restaurants, shops, art galleries and nightlife.

Big Island of Hawaii

The largest of the Hawaiian Islands, the Big Island features a diverse landscape, rich with Hawaiian history. Visitors can see two active volcanos, go ziplining in a rainforest, snorkel beautiful beaches, visit a coffee plantation (and sample Kona coffee) and take in the stark lava fields along the Kona Coast.