“How many Hawaiian Islands are there?” is a common question. There are eight Hawaiian Islands, but for the purposes of this post we’re going to focus on the five most-visited islands. They are recognized as some of the most beautiful islands in the world, and are world-renowned for their enchanting beauty, warm spirit of aloha and diverse geography. Come along we we take a closer look at the enchanting Hawaiian Islands…

Centrally located in the Pacific Ocean, Hawaii is approximately 2400 miles from California, and 4100 miles from Japan. Hawaii is one of the most isolated, yet populated places in the world.

How Many Hawaiian Islands Are There?

As previously mentioned, there are eight main Hawaiian islands.

They are:

• Hawai’i
• Maui
• O’ahu
• Kaua’i
• Moloka’i
• Lana’i
• Ni’ihau
• Kaho’olawe

Additionally, there are several smaller atolls and islets.

For the purposes of this article, we are going to explore the five most-visited Hawaiian Islands.

• Hawai’i Island

• Maui

• Oahu

• Kauai

• Molokai

 The Most-Visited Hawaiian Islands

Hawai’i

Also referred to as the Big Island, it earned its moniker as the largest Hawaiian island. Due to its size, there can be a considerable amount of driving between attractions – but it is worth it! Most hotels and resorts are located in Kailua-Kona, Kohala or Waikoloa, although there are some near Hilo.

Hawai’i Island has tremendous historical and cultural significance to Native Hawaiians, and there are many heritage places you can visit, such as:

• Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
• Kealakekua Bay
• Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
• Hulihee Palace
• Mokuaikaua Church
• Lapakahi State Historical Park

Besides historic attractions, Hawai’i Island is overflowing with staggering natural beauty.

• Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
• Waipio Valley & Lookout
• The Waimea paniolo region
• The scenic 4-mile Drive
• Akaka Falls State Park
• Rainbow Falls
• Mauna Kea (stargazing)
• Papakolea Green Sand Beach

Undoubtedly, the highlight of the Big Island of Hawaii is Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. You can easily spend an entire day exploring this natural wonder. Check out this blog post for more detail.

Furthermore, if all the above weren’t enough to experience on the Big Island, we can’t forget two more incredible Hawai’i Island highlights:

• The southernmost point in the United States (no, it’s actually not in Key West)
• The Kona Coffee Corridor

Maui

Maui is the second largest Hawaiian island, and vies with Oahu for the title of most popular. Beloved by couples of all ages, there’s something especially romantic about Maui. Therefore, Maui is the official unofficial wedding and honeymoon capital of Hawaii. We like to describe Maui as a perfect mix of Oahu and Kauai; not too busy, not too sleepy. West Maui is currently rebounding after the devastating wildfire in August 2023. Although Lahaina is not yet open, the gorgeous Kaanapali and Kapalua districts are.

Maui highlights are:

• Hana Highway
• Eclectic Paia Town
• Haleakala
• Upcountry Maui
• Iao Valley
• Molokini Crater

Oahu

What can be said about Oahu? Although only the third-largest island, it is undeniably the heartbeat of Hawaii. For instance, many people assume that Oahu is the largest island since it’s the main Hawaiian island. There is something for everyone on Oahu; from glamorous Waikiki to mellow Haleiwa. This blog post takes a deeper dive into the sights and experiences of Oahu, but a few of the standouts are:

• Pearl Harbor
• Waikiki Beach
• Diamond Head
• Lanikai Beach
• Iolani Palace
• Ko’olau Mountains
• The North Shore
• Pali Lookout
• Chinatown
• Hanauma Bay
• Makapu’u

Kauai

Sleepy Kauai is the fourth-largest and northernmost Hawaiian island. Nicknamed the Garden Isle due to it’s lush landscape, Kauai is a modern day Garden of Eden. Kauai is perfect for adventurers and dreamers alike. Although the lights turn out fairly early in the evenings, there is plenty to keep you busy during the day. If being active in nature is your vacation style – definitely consider going to Kauai! A few Kauai favorites are:

• NaPali Coast
• The Fern Grotto
• Wailua River
• Tunnels Beach
• “Bali Hai” region
• Hanalei
• Poipu
• Waimea Canyon

Molokai

Molokai is indeed off the beaten path, and doesn’t actually see that many visitors. Truth be told, it is probably preferred that way. However, if you are in the mood for adventure and relaxation, or maybe you just want to escape the world for a while, consider Molokai. It’s quiet here, wonderfully so. Here are some of the most popular sights:

• Kalaupapa National Historical Park
• Halawa Valley
• Papohaku Beach Park
• Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove

Summing It Up

There you have it, the five most-visited islands out of the eight Hawaiian islands. Hopefully this post has been helpful as you get to know more about Hawaii. We specialize in all-inclusive Hawaii vacations, so contact us to start planning. There is a perfect Hawaii experience for everyone, and we’re here to work with you to create your dream vacation.