Where to base yourself

Which region to explore in Hawaii

Every region scored for accessibility, value, local feel, and more. Honest trade-offs on each — no superlatives without substance.

AllBudgetLocal feelNightlifeFamiliesWalkabilityMost central

Top pick

Oʻahu

Honolulu, Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, and the world's most famous surf — Hawaii's most urban and accessible island.

Oahu Hawaii — a tropical Hawaiian beach at sunset with palm trees silhouetted against the Pacific Ocean

Oʻahu

Top pick

Honolulu, Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, and the world's most famous surf — Hawaii's most urban and accessible island.

7/10

Walk

4/10

Price

5/10

Local

10/10

Central

Maui Hawaii — dramatic green sea cliffs and turquoise Pacific waters of the Valley Isle from above

Maui

Good

The Valley Isle — the most complete Hawaii experience: whale watching, Road to Hana, Haleakalā crater, and the best resorts in the state.

5/10

Walk

2/10

Price

4/10

Local

9/10

Central

Kauai Hawaii — the dramatic fluted sea cliffs of the Na Pali Coast rising from the turquoise Pacific on the Garden Isle

Kauaʻi

Good

The Garden Isle — the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, Hanalei Bay, and the most untouched landscape in Hawaii.

4/10

Walk

4/10

Price

8/10

Local

6/10

Central

Big Island Hawaii — lava flows from Kīlauea volcano meeting the Pacific Ocean at night, glowing red against the dark coastline

Hawaiʻi Island (Big Island)

Good

The youngest and largest island — active volcanoes, lava meeting the ocean, black sand beaches, and Mauna Kea stargazing.

3/10

Walk

5/10

Price

7/10

Local

7/10

Central

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