If you’ve decided not to fly to Tybee Island this year, and instead are going to make your first trip to Hawaii, you’re likely wondering which island you should visit as a first-timer. While you can’t go wrong with any island you choose to visit, there’s no way you can visit them all during a single trip. So, how do you decide which one to start with? The truth is, the island you choose is very much dependent on your preferences. Here are some considerations to make your decision easier.
Tourism or Seclusion?
What is the purpose of your trip to Hawaii? Do you want to visit tourist attractions or do you want to just relax on an uncrowded beach? Before you schedule your flight to Hawaii, you need to answer these questions. If you’re looking to do the tourist thing, plan to visit one of the six islands that have been developed for tourism. These islands are Hawaii (The Big Island), Oahu, Maui, Lania, Kauai, and Molokai.
While you can find less crowded beaches on all six of these islands, if you really want seclusion and don’t want to be near any tourists at all, choose one of the two islands that have not been developed for tourism. These islands are Kahoolawe and Niihau. Kahoolawe is just off the coast of Maui and Niihau is the furthest island to the northeast, past Kauai.
Direct Flight or Multiple Flights?
From the mainland U.S., there are many direct flights to Oahu and Maui because they are the most popular islands. Families with children, especially small children, often prefer to fly directly to their final destination rather than have to deal with a connecting flight to another island.
The flight time from California to Oahu is approximately five hours and 40 minutes long, and obviously from other states, a direct flight is even longer. Sometimes, that flight is long enough (or too long) and you don’t want to jump on another plane before you can actually start your vacation. In that case, choose one of the more popular islands to hit the beach as soon as possible.
Adventure or Relaxation?
Certainly, no matter which Hawaiian island you go to, you’re going to find both adventure and relaxation, but some islands are more geared toward one or the other. For example, Oahu, The Big Island, and Kauai are perfect for exploration. There are plenty of historical sites, national parks, beaches, hikes, plantations, and more to satisfy the explorer in everyone. You’ll also be close to all the amenities you’ve come to expect in a modern world.
For a slower pace, consider Lanai or Maui. You’ll not only have beaches right outside your door, but you can also enjoy scenic drives, whale watching, visiting a cat sanctuary, horseback riding, and other more sedate activities.
Conclusion
No matter which island you choose for your first visit to Hawaii, you’ll definitely want to come back. Just be sure to consider your preferences before you book your flight to make sure it really is the vacation of your dreams.