Island hopping is the best way to experience everything Hawai’i has to offer from diverse landscapes to exciting adventures. Each island has its own character and unique experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. This complete guide will help you navigate to each island and create an unforgettable tropical getaway.
Hawaiian Island Hopping Transportation Options
Inter-Island Flights
The most common way to travel between islands is by plane with most flights taking 30-45 minutes to reach a new island. These airlines offer regular flights:
Island Hopping by Boat
If you want a different perspective, you can also travel by boat between islands:
- Take the ferry between Maui and Lanai
- Take the Maui Princess and Molokai Princess to travel between Maui and Molokai
Island-by-Island Highlights
O’ahu
Many visitors arrive in Hawai’i at the Honolulu Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HLN). O’ahu is the most populated island and is a great place to visit because there are so many things to do, places to see, restaurants to try, and beautiful beaches to scope out.
- Explore vibrant Honolulu and world-famous Waikīkī Beach
- Visit historic Pearl Harbor
- Venture to the North Shore for a legendary surf break
- Hike Diamond Head for panoramic island views
Kaua’i
Thrill seekers love Kaua’i for its adventurous nature and stunning scenery. Kaua’i, also known as the Garden Isle, is perfect for those trying to escape the big cities or crowds.
- Take a charter boat along the Napali Coast with Capt Andy’s
- Tube down the irrigation canals of an old sugar mill with Kaua’i Backcountry Adventures
- Go ATVing with Kipu Ranch.
- Explore Waimea Canyon, often called “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific”
Maui
Maui is the perfect balance of nature and modern development. There are plenty of iconic spots for snorkeling and hiking, but you can also treat yourself to luxury experiences at high end resorts and fantastic shops.
- Experience Haleakalā’s sunrise or sunset
- Explore charming Pā’ia town with stops at Mama’s Fish House, Belle Surf Cafe & Lounge, and boutique shops
- Journey along the Road to Hana and stop by Black Sand Beach (reservations required), Maui Garden of Eden, Twin Falls, and Keanae Peninsula
- Hike the scenic Waihee Ridge Trail
- Visit unique attractions like Aliʻi Kula Lavender Farm and Surfing Goat Dairy
Lānaʻi
Head to Lānaʻi for a more tranquil and exclusive feeling. As the smallest publicly accessible inhabited island, Lānaʻi creates an immediate sense of escape from the moment you arrive.
- Rent a 4×4 to explore Pineapple Isle and the Garden of Gods
- Visit the Lānaʻi Cat Sanctuary
- See the dramatic Kahekili’s Leap and romantic Sweetheart Rock
- Enjoy luxury dining at the Four Seasons Resort
- Explore Shipwreck Beach
Molokaʻi
Molokaʻi proudly carries the nickname “The Friendly Isle,” but locals sometimes refer to it as “The Most Hawaiian Island” as a testament to its commitment to preserving traditional Hawaiian culture and lifestyle.
- Join a Molokaʻi Plumeria Tour
- Relax at one of the longest beaches, Pāpōhaku Beach Park
- Hike with the Halawa Valley cultural tours
- Explore Hawaiian history at the Molokaʻi Museum and Cultural Center
The Big Island
You’re in for a treat once you’ve made your way down to The Big Island of Hawai’i . Families, couples, and solo adventure seekers alike all love The Big Island for its diversity. This island has tons of character, culture, and activities to suit anyone’s taste.
- Witness active volcanoes at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
- Explore the black sand beaches created by lava flow
- Embark on scenic waterfall hikes
- Stargaze from Mauna Kea
Make a Big Island or O’ahu Vacation Rental Your Last Stop
Start and end your trip on a good note when you treat yourself to a luxury stay in one of our vacation rentals. Make yourself at home in our Hualalai Resort Haliipua Villa 104 rental on The Big Island. After your journey island hopping through Hawai’i , a relaxing stay is exactly what you need.
This beautiful rental offers luxurious mahogany finishes, island-inspired ceiling finishes, a built-in lanai kitchen/ barbeque, and soothing lava rock garden showers. Hurry, and book your stay now! The views from this vacation rental will be well-worth the journey!