Choosing which Hawaiian Island to visit on your vacation can be a lot like a really good problem to have. I mean it doesn’t matter which one you choose, you’re still going to be in paradise. And that’s just the thing… you have your choice of gorgeous, exotic dream lands to choose from but depending on what kind of person you are then you may have an ideal Hawaiian Island that would fit your personality better than the others.
The Eight Hawaiian Islands
- Hawaii-“The Big Island”
- Oahu-Home of Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, and Honolulu
- Maui-Vacation spot of the stars
- Kauai-“The Garden Isle”
- Molokai-Home to some of the highest, most beautiful cliffs in the world
- Lanai-“The Pineapple Island”
- Niihau- Home of Seabird Sanctuaries.
- Kahoolawe-Uninhabited but beautiful.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Hawaiian Island to Visit
Weather: Each of the islands has its very own weather and geographical climate and micro-climate. In some instances a single Island can have vastly different climates on it. The Big Island of Hawaii, for instance, has Mauna Kea which is the tallest point in the entire State. So, you could hike in an arctic tundra during the day (snow caps and all) and still make a warm dinner by the ocean at night.
Jobs and Economy: The islands all have different economies and jobs can difficult or easy to find. Oahu has a booming job market. Maui and Hawaii also have lots of jobs available though not to the extent of Oahu, mostly because of the tourist industry. Niihau has a pretty high rate of unemployment.
Lifestyle: The islands also have a very different lifestyle than most mainland cities and towns. While Oahu is sort of “hustle and bustle” it is only in comparison to the rest of the Hawaiian Islands. Hawaiian people have a relaxed way of life where time is less important than a relaxed point of view.
Cost of Living: Compared to mainland America, Hawaii has one of the most expensive costs of living. The housing industry is expensive. Food is expensive. Gas is expensive. Hawaii is an expensive place to live and visit.
Then there are other things to consider. Oahu and Maui have gorgeous beaches and a tourism industry that will help you see all of the best that Hawaii has to offer. The Big Island is great for hiking and wildlife. Lanai is the most remote of the inhabited islands for those that want to live or visit for serenity and quiet. Molokai is the place for adventure like climbing cliffs and skydiving.
Again, you can’t really go wrong if you’re going to visit or move to Hawaii. It’s just that you have to know which Island is best for you and your needs and desires.
