Hawaii Vacation: Where to Go and What to Expect in Its Four Biggest Islands

Hawaii is an archipelago consisting of eight main islands, along with smaller volcanic islands. From these main islands, the four largest ones are known as the state's premier tourist destinations.

A vacation in Hawaii may mean spending a short time within the vicinity of a particular island or hopping from one Hawaiian island to another, especially for people staying longer in the state. Regardless of which area of Hawaii to visit, this tropical destination is filled with beautiful beaches, world-class hotels, national parks, and many other attractions.

The Big Island

The Big Island is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands chain along the North Pacific Ocean. Its Hilo side is an ideal destination for exploring the Hamakua Coast's waterfalls and the Kilauea Volcano. Hilo also serves as a major commercial seaport on the island's east side, while Kawaihae is found on the west side. A number of cruise ships usually stop at the Kailua-Kona.

The island's Kona side is a great spot for beach bumming and water sports and recreation activities. The Kona District is also famous for its Kona coffee brand. Two major airports Hilo International Airport and Kona International Airport serve the island.

Maui

Maui is distinct of its incredible natural diversity. It has microclimates that range from rainforest to desert, which allows a wide range of plants and animals to grow in different parts of the island. With its relatively small size, this island offers manageable day trips that tourists with small children can take advantage of. Hana Airport serves Eastern Maui, Kahului Airport serves Central Manui and Kapalua Airport serves western Maui.

The island's main tourist areas are located in West Maui and South Maui. They house the area's main ports of call for cruise ships. Maui is also popular for the Hana Highway, which offers a sightseeing opportunity that curves along the island's east coast mountain ranges, beaches and waterfalls.

Oahu

Oahu hosts the Honolulu International Airport, the main gateway to the State of Hawaii. It provides primary air travel services to and from the U.S. mainland and other worldwide destinations and it serves as the hub for airline services for other Hawaiian Islands. These make Oahu a well-developed and modernized island that caters pretty much for everyone.

The Honolulu and Waikiki are prime tourist hubs that host varying beaches, museums, cultural centers, ranches, theme parks, shops, and other special points of interest. Oahu is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and divided by mountain ranges. It is home to Pearl Harbor, the largest U.S. Navy fleet in the Pacific.

Kauai

Kauai is a perfect spot for family vacations. It offers a variety of family-oriented accommodation spots, recreation areas, activities, and restaurants. It also features unique playgrounds for children. Its Kauai Heritage Center of Hawaiian Culture and the Arts offer classes in Hawaiian language, hula, leti and cordage making and other arts and culture activities for both locals and tourists. Lihue Airport serves as the island's aviation gateway.

Kauai's major tourist destinations include the Alakai Wilderness Area, Moloaa Bay, Limahuli Garden and Preserve, Waimea Canyon, Naaina Kai Botanical Gardens, Na Pali Coast State Park, Poipu Beach State Park, Polihale State Park, Opaekaa Falls and Wailua River.