How Many Hawaiian Islands Are There? A Visitor’s Guide to the Main 4 You Can Explore

Think Hawaii’s just one big island? Think again–there are over a hundred, but only a handful you’ll actually want to pack your bikinis and boardshorts for…

So, How Many Hawaiian Islands Are There?

When planning a trip to Hawaii, one of the first questions is: How many Hawaiian islands are there? It's a simple question with a surprisingly layered answer. Officially, there are 137 islands in the Hawaiian archipelago, stretching over 1,500 miles across the central Pacific. But for most travelers, there are four main Hawaiian islands to visit: Maui, Oahu, Kauai, and Hawaii Island (The Big Island). Each one has its own personality, vibes, and must-do activities.

Whether you're planning your first Hawaii getaway or a returning visitor hoping to explore beyond what you've already seen, understanding the differences between the Hawaiian islands is key to making the most of your time in paradise. Carefully curated for you, this blog is your go-to Hawaii island travel guide, offering insider insight into the four major islands, what makes each unique, and how to plan your visit accordingly.

As a family-owned, locally operated vacation rental company based right here on Maui, Maui Resort Rentals is proud to share not just beautiful accommodations, but also our deep knowledge of the islands we call home. Our rentals are located in zoned resort areas like Kaʻanapali and Wailea, ranging from studio suites to beachfront estates—each professionally managed with a personal touch. Our award-winning team is made up entirely of local Hawaii residents, from ownership to housekeeping, and we're passionate about delivering exceptional customer service infused with a genuine aloha spirit.

In this post, we'll take you through the main Hawaiian islands for tourists, provide an overview of their history and geography, and give you an honest, local insight into what makes each one special. Whether you're wondering which Hawaiian island to visit for the best beaches, cultural sites, natural wonders, or family fun, we've got you covered.

Hawaii 101: History, Geology & Cultural Roots

Before diving into the details of each island, it helps to understand what makes the Hawaiian Islands so special in the first place. From their volcanic beginnings to their rich cultural heritage, the story of Hawaii is as diverse as its landscapes.

Geologically, the Hawaiian Islands were formed by a volcanic hotspot beneath the Pacific tectonic plate. As the plate drifted slowly northwest over millions of years, it gave rise to a chain of volcanic islands, some now eroded into atolls or submerged beneath the sea. This is why the Big Island of Hawaʻi, located at the southeastern end of the chain, is the youngest and still growing, while the older islands like Kauai are more eroded and lush.

Culturally, Hawaii's story begins with Polynesian voyagers who sailed across the Pacific using only the stars, ocean currents, and wind patterns to navigate. These early settlers brought their language, customs, agriculture, and deep spiritual connection to the land. This foundation helped to establish the rich culture that still thrives today. Over centuries, the islands developed into distinct chiefdoms, eventually unified in 1810 under King Kamehameha I, forming the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi.

Western contact began in 1778 with the arrival of Captain James Cook, bringing in a period of intense change. In the following decades, missionaries, traders, whalers, and plantation owners arrived, bringing Western religion, education, and economic systems. In 1893, the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown by a group of American and European businessmen (with U.S. backing), and Hawaii was formally annexed by the United States in 1898. Hawaii became the 50th U.S. state in 1959.

Today, Hawaii is known for its hospitality, but it's also where native Hawaiian culture is being revived and honored. Visitors are encouraged to learn about and respect local customs, language (ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi), and traditions.

While there are eight main Hawaiian islands—Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and Hawaii (The Big Island)—only six are accessible to visitors. Kaho’olawe is uninhabited and off-limits due to its former military testing site history, and Niʻihau is privately owned with very limited access. Most travelers focus on the four main islands: Maui, Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island, each offering a unique blend of history, views, and experiences.

Whether you're looking for cultural immersion, adventure, or relaxation, understanding the differences between Hawaii's islands will help you plan the perfect vacation. Next, we'll begin our island-by-island guide, starting with our gorgeous Valley Isle, Maui.

Maui: The Valley Isle (Plus Molokai & Lanai)

Often considered the best Hawaiian island for first-time visitors, Maui offers the perfect mix of jaw-dropping natural beauty, luxurious resorts, small-town charm, and adventure. Maui is also known as "The Valley Isle" for its wide, verdant valley stretching between its volcanic mountains, Haleakala in the east, and the West Maui Mountains. Maui is a favorite among visitors looking for variety, accessibility, and a certain laid-back sophistication that's pretty hard to put into words.

A Geologic and Cultural Tapestry

The fusion of two volcanoes formed Maui and its varied landscapes. From the red sands of Iao Valley to the black-sand beaches of Hana, you can see the direct result of its volcanic history. Haleakala National Park is a must-visit, offering the chance to see sunrise from above the clouds or hike across a Martian-like volcanic crater. Culturally, Maui has deep roots in Hawaiian history and mythology. Haleakala, for example, is said to be the home of the demigod Maui, who lassoed the sun to slow its journey across the sky.

Top Things to Do on Maui

No Hawaii island travel guide is complete without a list of must-see spots. On Maui, these include:

• Snorkeling at Molokini Crater
• Whale watching (especially from December through April)
• Exploring Paia Town and the North Shore (shopping, eating, surfing, and beach-hopping)
• Driving the Road to Hana
• Relaxing on world-class beaches in Ka’anapali and Wailea

Maui offers something for everyone, from adventurous hikes and waterfalls to relaxing spa days and oceanfront dining. For those wondering which Hawaiian island to visit, Maui is a balanced choice for couples, families, and solo travelers.

Where to Stay on Maui

At Maui Resort Rentals, we offer professionally managed vacation rentals in resort-zoned areas like Kaanapali and Wailea, two of the island's most sought-after destinations. Whether you're seeking a romantic studio or a beachfront estate for the whole family, our local team is here to help you feel at home in paradise.

Day Trips to Molokai & Lanai

Maui also serves as a hub for exploring neighboring islands. Lanai, just a short ferry ride away, is known for its luxury resorts, secluded beaches, and otherworldly landscapes like Keahiakawelo (the Garden of the Gods). It's ideal for a peaceful day trip or an overnight escape.

Molokai, accessible by a small plane (a puddle jumper), offers a dramatically different experience and a window into traditional Hawaiian life, with no large resorts or traffic lights. Visitors can explore the Kalaupapa National Historical Park, once a leprosy settlement, or marvel at the world's tallest sea cliffs.

These two outer islands of Maui offer contrasting experiences that deepen your understanding of Hawaii's diversity. Both are less visited, but incredibly rewarding for travelers seeking authenticity and the quieter beauty of Hawaii.

Hawaii Island: The Big Island

While Maui is popular for exploration and wellness, the Big Island of Hawaii is all about extremes from snow-capped peaks to molten lava flows, and from lush rainforests to barren black lava fields. As the youngest and largest of the Hawaiian islands, it offers some of the world's most awe-inspiring and diverse landscapes.

A Living Island Still Being Formed

Geologically, the Big Island is still growing, thanks to its active volcanoes, Mauna Loa, one of the world's largest, and Kilauea, one of its most active. The island is so expansive that all other main Hawaiian islands for tourists could fit within it, with room to spare. That's how "Big" it is. Its constantly changing topography makes it a must-see for geology nerds and adventurous travelers.

Top Things to Do on the Big Island

The island's size and diversity mean there's no shortage of things to explore:

• Visit Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park and witness steam vents, lava tubes, and (if active) glowing lava.
• Tour a Kona coffee farm and learn why this region's beans are world-renowned.
• Snorkel or dive with manta rays off the Kona Coast.
• Explore Hilo's waterfalls and lush botanical gardens.
• Relax on beaches like Punaluʻu (black sand) and Papakōlea (green sand).

Where to Stay on the Big Island

Most visitors base themselves on either the Kona (west) side, known for sunshine, snorkeling, and beach resorts, or the Hilo (east) side, which offers a greener, more local feel with easy access to the volcano and waterfalls. Travelers with more time often split their stay to experience both.

Is the Big Island Right for You?

If you're the kind of traveler who loves dramatic natural wonders, star-gazing from Mauna Kea, or exploring the less-touristy side of Hawaii, the Big Island might be your match. It's also a great complement to a stay on Maui, especially for visitors interested in learning more about Hawaii's natural history and geology. If you want a bird's eye view, helicopter tours from Maui to the Big Island are popular and available daily.

Oahu: The Gathering Place

As the Hawaiian chain's most populated and most visited island, Oahu is where natural beauty meets city life. Known as "The Gathering Place," it's home to Honolulu, the state capital, and Waikiki, the iconic beachfront hotspot that many first-time visitors picture when they think of Hawaii. But beyond the city lights, Oahu also offers stunning scenery, world-class surf, and deep cultural heritage.

Where Urban Energy Meets Island Charm

Oahu's central place in Hawaiian history (and society) makes it a cultural and political hub. It's where King Kamehameha III established the capital in the 19th century, and today, it's the site of some of Hawaii's most significant historical landmarks, including ʻIolani Palace (the only royal palace in the U.S.) and Pearl Harbor.

From the leeward plains to the windward cliffs of the Koʻolau Mountain Range, the island packs a surprising amount of geographical diversity into a modest footprint.

Top Things to Do on Oahu

Oahu is perfect for travelers who want to combine adventure, culture, and nightlife in one trip. Must-see attractions include:

• Touring Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
• Surfing or watching big waves on the North Shore (especially in winter)
• Hiking up Diamond Head Crater for amazing views
• Visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center for an immersive cultural experience
• Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, one of the best marine preserves in Hawaii
• Shopping at Ala Moana Center in Honolulu

Where to Stay on Oahu

Most visitors stay in or near Waikiki, where accommodations range from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Waikiki also provides easy access to shopping, nightlife, and beach activities. Those looking for a quieter escape might consider Ko Olina on the west side or Kailua and Lanikai on the windward coast, which are ideal for families and those who would like to holiday away from the crowds.

Is Oahu Right for You?

Oahu is ideal for first-time visitors, families, and anyone who wants a little of everything: beaches, history, shopping, hiking, and nightlife. If you want to experience Hawaii's most famous landmarks in a vibrant setting, Oahu should be on your bucket list.

Kauai: The Garden Isle

If you're searching for untouched beauty and lush, tropical landscapes, look no further than Kauai, famously known as "The Garden Isle." As the oldest of the main Hawaiian islands, Kauai has had the most time to erode into dramatic cliffs, canyons, waterfalls, and verdant rainforests. It's quieter than Maui and Oahu, making it a favorite for travelers looking to slow down and decompress in nature.

Raw Beauty & Deep Roots

Kauaʻi's history predates the unification of the Hawaiian Islands under King Kamehameha. The island resisted unification for the longest time and still has a strong cultural identity. It's also the backdrop for countless Hollywood films, from Jurassic Park to South Pacific, thanks to its spectacular geography, some of the most photogenic in the world.

Geologically, Kauai is believed to be around 5 million years old, and the centuries of erosion have created incredible formations like the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon, often called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific."

Top Things to Do on Kauai

For those researching the best Hawaiian island for nature and hiking, Kauaʻi leads the pack, 100%. Here are a few unforgettable experiences:

• Take a helicopter tour over the Na Pali Coast
• Hike the Kalalau Trail (or part of it) for jaw-dropping coastal views
• Visit Waimea Canyon for hiking, lookout points, and rainbows
• Relax on the stunning beaches of Hanalei Bay and Poipu
• Kayak up the Wailua River to waterfalls and sacred sites

Where to Stay on Kauai

Kauai doesn't have any cities, only charming towns and resort communities. Visitors typically stay in:

• Poipu (South Shore): sunny weather and family-friendly beaches
• Princeville/Hanalei (North Shore): lush landscapes and luxury resorts
• Kapaʻa or Lihue (East Coast): central location with easier access to both shores and the airport

Is Kauaʻi Right for You?

If you're a hiker, photographer, or prefer scenic drives and quiet natural beauty over nightlife and shopping, Kauaʻi is wonderful! It's ideal for honeymooners, return visitors, and those who want to explore at their own pace.

Island Hopping in Hawaii: Why It's Worth the Extra Flight

Once you've taken the time to fly all the way to the middle of the Pacific, why limit yourself to just one island? Island hopping in Hawaii is easier than you might think, and it's one of the best ways to experience the full diversity of the Aloha State.

Each of the main Hawaiian islands for tourists—Maui, Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island each offer a completely different atmosphere, landscape, and cultural feel. Visiting more than one gives you a richer, more complete understanding of the islands' unique personalities. It's the perfect solution for travelers torn between options when researching which Hawaiian island to visit. Why not choose two!

Quick Flights & Big Rewards

The good news: most inter-island flights are quick, easy, and relatively affordable. Flights between the main islands typically range from 20 to 50 minutes, with multiple departures daily on airlines like Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest.

• Maui to Oahu: approximately 35 minutes
• Maui to Kauai: approximately 45 minutes
• Maui to the Big Island (Kona): approximately 40 minutes
• Day trips to Lanai or Molokai are possible by ferry or small plane

While there are no bridges between islands and ferries are limited (mainly between Maui and Lanai), island hopping by air is the norm and surprisingly simple to add to your itinerary.

How to Make It Work

If you're staying with Maui Resort Rentals, you already have the perfect home base for exploring nearby islands. Many guests use their Maui stay as the foundation of their trip and then add a night or two on another island for a quick change of scenery.

Tips for a Smooth Hopping Experience

• Pack light for interisland flights (baggage fees apply)
• Book early during peak seasons (flights fill quickly)
• Leave buffer time between flight arrival and activities
• Consider flying in/out of different islands to avoid backtracking

Discover the Hawaiian Island That's Right for You

With so much beauty, culture, and variety packed into the Hawaiian Islands, it's no wonder travelers often ask: Which Hawaiian island should I visit? The truth is, there's no single answer, and each island has its own soul, rhythm, vibes, and reasons to fall in love.

• Maui offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and a welcoming community.
• Oahu delivers iconic sights, historical landmarks, and the buzz of city life blended with big wave surfing and sandy beaches.
• Kauaʻi is a haven for those who crave peace, nature, and jaw-dropping scenery.
• The Big Island invites you to witness nature in action, like flowing lava, black sand beaches, and snow-capped peaks.

Whether it's your first visit to Hawaii or your fifth, island hopping, or simply choosing the island that best fits your vibe, can make your Hawaiian vacation truly unforgettable.

At Maui Resort Rentals, our team of local experts is passionate about sharing insider travel tips for exploring Hawaii's islands. With a well-curated collection of luxury condos, villas, and estates on Maui, we can promise that your home base is as unforgettable as your adventures.

Ready to plan your perfect Maui vacation?

Visit MauiResortRentals.com to browse our professionally managed properties in Kaanapali and Wailea, or contact our friendly Guest Experience team to get personalized help planning your stay in paradise.

Mahalo, thank you for trusting us to guide you to Hawaii's islands. We can't wait to welcome you with aloha!