Voting rules: Choose the island you think is the most beautiful!
By Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 14, 2024 06:18
Choosing a Hawaiian island to visit can often feel overwhelming due to the unique charm and beauty each one offers. By compiling a list of the most beautiful islands, based on public opinion, potential visitors can make more informed decisions. This ranking helps highlight the features that might cater specifically to the interests of different travelers.Each vote cast is a reflection of personal experiences and preferences, adding depth to the collective insight this list provides. Whether you're planning a trip or just curious about which island tops the list, your participation can shape this ongoing survey. Engage in the process and see how your favorite stacks up against the rest.
What Is the Most Beautiful Hawaiian Island?
1
57
votes
Kauai
Known as the "Garden Isle," Kauai is home to stunning natural beauty, including the Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon. It also has a laid-back vibe and is less developed than some of the other islands.
Kauai is an enchanting Hawaiian island known for its breathtaking natural beauty. It is the oldest and northernmost of the main Hawaiian Islands, often referred to as the 'Garden Isle' due to its lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs.
- Location: Located in the central Pacific Ocean, approximately 105 miles (170 km) northwest of Oahu
- Size: Kauai spans an area of 562.3 square miles (1,456.4 square kilometers)
- Population: As of 2021, Kauai has an estimated population of around 71,000 residents
- Climate: Kauai enjoys a tropical rainforest climate with warm temperatures year-round
- Na Pali Coast: The Na Pali Coast is a famous natural landmark on Kauai's northwestern shore, known for its towering sea cliffs and stunning hiking trails
2
28
votes
Maui
With its combination of beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and towering volcanoes, Maui offers something for everyone. It's also home to the famous Road to Hana, a scenic drive that takes you through some of the island's most beautiful landscapes.
Maui is considered one of the most beautiful Hawaiian islands, known for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. It offers a diverse range of attractions and activities, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure. The island boasts breathtaking beaches, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes. Visitors can engage in various water sports such as surfing, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, or explore the island's hiking trails to witness its incredible scenery. Maui is home to numerous cultural sites, like the historic town of Lahaina and the sacred Iao Valley State Park. It also hosts the annual Maui Film Festival and the esteemed Maui Arts and Cultural Center. The island's culinary scene is exceptional, showcasing a fusion of indigenous Hawaiian flavors and international influences. Maui is undoubtedly a paradise for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, culture lovers, and those seeking an unforgettable Hawaiian experience.
- Location: Central Pacific Ocean
- Size: 1,883 square kilometers
- Highest Point: Haleakala at 3,055 meters
- Population: ca. 144,444 inhabitants
- Major Towns: Kahului, Lahaina, Kihei
3
24
votes
Oahu
The most populous of the Hawaiian islands, Oahu is home to the state's capital city of Honolulu and the world-famous Waikiki Beach. It also has a rich history, with landmarks like Pearl Harbor and the Iolani Palace.
Oahu is a stunningly beautiful island in the Hawaiian archipelago, known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. It offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, modern amenities, and traditional Hawaiian charm.
- Location: Oahu is located in the central region of the Hawaiian archipelago.
- Size: Oahu spans approximately 596.7 square miles (1,545.4 square kilometers).
- Population: It is home to over 953,200 people, making it the most densely populated island in Hawaii.
- Geography: The island features diverse landscapes, including volcanoes, lush rainforests, majestic mountains, pristine beaches, and picturesque valleys.
- Hiking Trails: Oahu boasts numerous scenic hiking trails, such as the renowned Diamond Head Trail and Manoa Falls Trail.
4
16
votes
Hawaii Island
Also known as the "Big Island," Hawaii Island is home to some of the state's most dramatic landscapes, including the active Kilauea volcano and the stunning Waipio Valley. It also has a rich cultural history, with sites like the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park.
The Hawaii Island, also known as the Big Island, is the largest and most diverse island in the Hawaiian archipelago. It is renowned for its stunning landscapes, active volcanoes, rich cultural heritage, and beautiful beaches.
- Size: The island spans an area of approximately 4,028 square miles (10,432 square kilometers).
- Volcanoes: It is home to two of the world's most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, offering unique geological wonders and breathtaking lava flows.
- Ecological Diversity: The island boasts diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, desert-like areas, lush valleys, and snow-capped mountains.
- Beaches: Hawaii Island is blessed with numerous picturesque beaches, such as Hapuna Beach and Waialea Bay, which are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
- Mauna Kea: The island's highest peak, Mauna Kea, stands at 13,796 feet (4,205 meters) above sea level and is famous for its observatories and stargazing opportunities.
5
21
votes
Molokai
Known for its unspoiled beauty and laid-back vibe, Molokai is a great choice for those looking to escape the crowds. It's also home to some of the state's most stunning natural wonders, including the Kalaupapa Peninsula and the Halawa Valley.
Molokai is a breathtakingly beautiful Hawaiian island known for its untouched natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is the fifth largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, located in the central Pacific Ocean. The island is characterized by its dramatic sea cliffs, lush green valleys, and secluded sandy beaches. Molokai offers a tranquil and laid-back atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
- Size: 260 square miles
- Highest Point: Kamakou, 4,961 feet
- Population: Approximately 7,500 residents
- Largest Town: Kaunakakai
- Beaches: Papohaku Beach, Kumimi Beach, Halawa Beach
6
11
votes
Lanai
With its rugged terrain and stunning beaches, Lanai is a great choice for those seeking adventure. It's also home to the stunning Manele Bay and the Lanai Cat Sanctuary, which is home to hundreds of cats.
Lanai is a stunning island located in the central Pacific Ocean and is part of the Hawaiian archipelago. With its breathtaking natural beauty and serene atmosphere, Lanai is often referred to as the 'Pineapple Island' due to its past as a major pineapple plantation. Today, it is regarded as one of the most beautiful and exclusive destinations in Hawaii.
- Location: Lanai is situated in the central Pacific Ocean, west of Maui and Molokai.
- Size: Lanai spans approximately 140 square miles (364 square kilometers).
- Population: As of 2020, the estimated population of Lanai is around 3,100 people.
- Climate: Lanai enjoys a tropical climate with mild temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges from 70°F (21°C) to 85°F (29°C).
- Beaches: Lanai boasts several stunning beaches, including Hulopoe Beach, Polihua Beach, and Shipwreck Beach.
7
8
votes
Niihau
Known as the "Forbidden Island," Niihau is a privately owned island that's off-limits to tourists. However, its unspoiled beauty and traditional way of life make it a fascinating destination for those who are able to visit.
Niihau is a privately owned island located in the Hawaiian archipelago. It is often referred to as the 'Forbidden Island' due to its limited access to the public. The island has preserved its native Hawaiian culture, language, and traditions, making it a unique and enchanting destination for those fortunate enough to visit.
- Location: Niihau is located around 17 miles southwest of Kauai, the fourth-largest Hawaiian island.
- Size: The island spans approximately 69 square miles, making it the seventh-largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago.
- Population: As of the 2010 census, Niihau had a population of only 170 people, most of whom are native Hawaiian residents.
- Language: The primary language spoken on Niihau is Hawaiian, and it is considered the last remaining place in Hawaii where Hawaiian is the main language spoken in daily life.
- Access: Access to Niihau is extremely limited, with only a small number of organized tours granted permission each year. It is primarily accessible to its residents or family members and invited guests.
8
13
votes
Kahoolawe
Another island that's off-limits to tourists, Kahoolawe was used as a target range by the US military for many years. However, efforts are underway to restore the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Kahoolawe is a beautiful Hawaiian island located in the Pacific Ocean. It is the smallest of the eight main islands and is known for its pristine beaches, rugged landscapes, and rich cultural history. The island has a vibrant ecosystem with native plants and animals, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Kahoolawe is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, offering incredible snorkeling and diving experiences.Despite its natural beauty, Kahoolawe holds significant historical and cultural value for the Native Hawaiian people. It was historically used as a training ground for ancient Hawaiian warriors and later became a target range for the United States military. The island is now a designated cultural and historic reserve, protected and managed by the Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission.
- Location: Pacific Ocean
- Size: 45 square miles
- Beaches: Numerous pristine beaches
- Terrain: Rugged and diverse landscapes
- Ecosystem: Rich biodiversity with native plants and animals
9
4
votes
Nihoa
Located about 150 miles northwest of Kauai, Nihoa is a remote island that's home to some of the state's most unique wildlife, including the Nihoa finch and the Nihoa millerbird.
Nihoa, also known as Bird Island, is a small, uninhabited island located in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. It is considered one of the most remote and beautiful islands in Hawaii. Nihoa is recognized for its dramatic cliffs, diverse wildlife, and unique ecological features.
- Location: Northwestern Hawaiian Islands
- Size: Approximately 0.23 square kilometers
- Elevation: Maximum elevation of approximately 259 meters
- Geology: Composed of volcanic rock and coral limestone
- Flora: Supports a variety of plant species, including endemic and endangered plants
10
7
votes
NOAA·Public domain
French Frigate Shoals
While not technically an island, French Frigate Shoals is a stunning atoll that's home to some of the state's most pristine coral reefs and marine life. It's a popular destination for snorkelers and divers.
French Frigate Shoals is a remote atoll located in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. It is considered one of the most beautiful and untouched places in Hawaii. The atoll consists of a crescent-shaped reef surrounding a shallow lagoon, with several small islets scattered around. The crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and abundant marine life all contribute to the remarkable beauty of this island paradise.
- Location: Northwestern Hawaiian Islands
- Type: Atoll
- Shape: Crescent-shaped reef
- Features: Shallow lagoon, small islets
- Water Color: Turquoise
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Discussion
Ranking factors for beautiful island
Diversity of ecosystems
The variety of tropical rainforests, alpine regions, and coastal ecosystems on each island should be taken into account.
Wildlife
The presence of unique and diverse flora and fauna, including endemic and endangered species, should be considered.
Beaches
The quality, variety, and accessibility of the beaches on each island should be evaluated, taking into account factors such as sand quality, water clarity, and safety.
Hiking trails
The availability and quality of hiking trails, as well as the variety of scenery encountered on these trails, should be considered.
Marine life
The abundance and diversity of marine life around each island should be taken into account, including coral reefs, fish species, and the presence of marine mammals such as dolphins and whales.
Climate
The overall climate of each island, including the frequency and amount of rainfall, and the number of sunny days, should be considered.
Cultural attractions
The presence and quality of cultural attractions on each island, such as historic sites, ancient temples, and cultural festivals, should be evaluated.
Level of development
The degree of commercial development, particularly in relation to the preservation of natural beauty and local culture, should be taken into account. This may include the presence of large resorts and the impact of tourism on the islands.
