So, you know you want to visit Hawaii; now it’s time to decide which island may be best for your first trip to this tropical paradise.
When you go on a Hawaiian vacation, you’re sure to have a great time and see lots of outstanding sights, no matter which island you visit.
But, let’s face it – each traveler has a unique motivation for visiting Hawaii, and there are certain experiences that best suit one’s sense of adventure and travel needs more than others.
Let’s start off with these questions:
1. What do you want to see when you visit Hawaii?
Jot down everything that you want to do in Hawaii, and then refer to our summary of each island that we’ve listed at the end of this newsletter to match up your perfect Hawaiian vacation with the island that you think will best meet your needs.
It’s up to you to first decide what activities and attractions appeal to you, and then pair those desires with the island that offers you most of what you want.
2. How much do you want to spend on your Hawaiian
vacation, frugal or splurge?
If you have a certain budget you’re adhering to, you’ll want to choose an island that will allow you to experience everything you want for a price that stays within your spending allowance.
Some of our newsletters address ways you can enjoy a complete Hawaiian experience for cheap, but you are the only one who knows exactly what you want to see and how you can make it all happen.
3. What kind of atmosphere are you looking for?
You’ll need to decide what kind of energy you want to have around you each day of your Hawaiian vacation, and what attractions and activities will bring you the most joy and satisfaction.
Although a little bit of research will uncover nuances on all the islands that vary from this and are worth learning more about. Here’s a summary of what you can expect of the most popular Hawaiian Islands.
* Oahu
Oahu is the island to visit if you want to explore a huge variety of cultures, races, social structures and attractions.
You’ll find a unique mix of East meets West and an even more interesting blend of Old Hawaii and 21st-Century Hawaii.
On Oahu, there are modern conveniences, such as public transportation and contemporary hotels, merged with beautiful beaches and other Earthly treasures, such as volcanoes.
You’ll be able to eat all kinds of food and enjoy activities at many price points.
* Maui
Maui is known for its gorgeous beaches and treasures, such as whale-watching opportunities and great snorkeling coves.
You’ll also be able to hike to places only imagined and view cascading waterfalls with practically no effort at all.
Enjoy lazy afternoons in botanical gardens, and then hit the city at night for gourmet restaurants or a luau on the beach. Maui marries tranquility with excitement in the most brilliant way.
* The Big Island
When you want to get up-close-and-personal with wildlife, spend lots of time hiking, go camping or witness breathtaking volcanoes, lava rivers and icy pools, visit The Big Island.
Here, you’ll be encouraged to become part of island life in Hawaii, joining locals in their ancient customs and learning about all the sacred ways of the Hawaiian people.
* Kauai
Want to escape it all when you visit Hawaii? Kauai might be the island for you, especially when you travel to the island’s North Shore, where many people come to check out from the technologies that tend to take over life most everywhere else in the world.
On Kauai you’ll find lush canyons, steep cliffs, rugged terrain and bountiful flora, and you’ll wonder how any place in the United States can be so pristine and so perfect.
* Molokai
Vacationing on Molokai will feel like you’re actually living in Hawaii, with a deep sense of appreciation for Hawaii as the locals see it.
On Molokai, land preservation and conservation of cultural heritage are valued over tourism at any cost.
Molokai features plenty of naturally enticing rain forests, sprawling state parks and hidden beaches.
You’ll most likely find yourself spending quality time in authentic Hawaiian cottages and bungalows, quaint bed-and-breakfasts or luxurious resorts.
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