The Hawaii islands is an archipelago that spans 2,000 miles to the southwest of the contiguous United States, consisting of 137 volcanic islands.
The seven largest Hawaii islands are
Niʻihau, Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, Maui, and Hawaiʻi,
the latter also known as the Big Island.
Island | Hawaii Island Nickname | Area | Island Population (2020) | Island Color | Island Flower |
O’ahu | The Gathering Place | 597.7 sq miles44 miles by 30 miles | 953,207 | Yellow | Ilima |
Hawai’i | The Big Island | 4,028.0 sq miles93 miles by 76 miles | 186,738 | Red | Lehua |
Maui | The Valley Isle | 727.2 sq miles48 miles by 26 miles | 144,444 | Pink | Loke Lani |
Kaua’i | The Garden Isle | 552.3 sq miles33 miles by 25 miles | 66,921 | Purple | Mokihana |
Moloka’i | The Friendly Isle | 260.0 sq miles38 miles by 10 miles | 7,345 | Green | Kukui |
Lana’i | The Pineapple Isle | 140.5 sq miles18 miles by 13 miles | 3,135 | Yellow | Kauna’oa |
Ni’ihau | The Forbidden Isle | 69.5 sq miles18 miles by 6 miles | 170 | White | Pup |
The Hawaii islands offer an unparalleled range of experiences, from volcanic adventures and lush rainforests to world-famous beaches and rich cultural traditions. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, each of the seven main Hawaii islands brings something unique to the journey. Here’s a closer look at the distinct character of each island.
The largest and most geologically diverse of the Hawaii islands, the Big Island is a land of contrast. Home to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, visitors can witness active lava flows, walk through lava tubes, and explore Mauna Kea’s snow-capped summit. The island’s varied climates—ranging from lush rainforests to arid deserts—make it ideal for outdoor adventure. Kona’s coffee farms and Hilo’s waterfalls offer additional dimensions to this dynamic destination.
Highlights: Volcano tours, black sand beaches, manta ray night dives, coffee plantation visits.
Often called “The Valley Isle,” Maui is known for its luxurious resorts, famous beaches, and the scenic drive along the Road to Hana. Visitors to Maui enjoy whale watching during winter months, sunrise experiences at Haleakalā National Park, and the laid-back charm of towns like Lahaina and Paia. Among the Hawaii islands, Maui strikes a perfect balance between natural beauty and accessible amenities.
Highlights: Snorkeling at Molokini Crater, waterfalls along the Road to Hana, Upcountry farms, world-class golf courses.
Oahu, known as “The Gathering Place,” is the most populated and cosmopolitan of the Hawaii islands. Honolulu, the state capital, offers a vibrant mix of urban energy, historic sites like Pearl Harbor, and legendary surf spots on the North Shore. Waikiki’s famous beachfront combines city conveniences with stunning oceanfront scenery, making Oahu an ideal destination for first-time visitors to Hawaii.
Highlights: Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor Memorials, Diamond Head hike, North Shore surf culture.
Known as “The Garden Isle,” Kauai is the oldest and most lush of the Hawaii islands. It is defined by its dramatic landscapes, including the soaring cliffs of Nā Pali Coast and the colorful depths of Waimea Canyon. Kauai is the place to immerse yourself in unspoiled nature, quiet beaches, and a more relaxed pace of life.
Highlights: Nā Pali Coast boat tours, Waimea Canyon hikes, Hanalei Bay beaches, Wailua River kayaking.
Molokai, often referred to as “The Friendly Isle,” maintains the most authentic and traditional Hawaiian lifestyle among the Hawaii islands. With no major resorts or crowded tourist attractions, Molokai invites visitors to slow down and experience true island culture. Highlights include the historic Kalaupapa National Historical Park and Papohaku Beach, one of Hawaii’s largest white sand beaches.
Highlights: Cultural tours, Kalaupapa Peninsula, hiking Kamakou Preserve, exploring Halawa Valley.
Lanai, the smallest publicly accessible island, offers an exclusive, off-the-beaten-path experience. Known as “The Pineapple Isle” due to its plantation history, Lanai today features luxury resorts, rugged landscapes, and secluded beaches. Among the Hawaii islands, Lanai stands out for its quiet exclusivity and natural wonders like the lunar landscapes of Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods).
Highlights: Four Seasons luxury resorts, Jeep explorations of Keahiakawelo, snorkeling at Hulopoe Bay.
Often called “The Forbidden Island,” Niihau remains privately owned and is largely closed to the public, preserving the traditional Hawaiian way of life. While access to Niihau is limited, some authorized tours and helicopter excursions offer visitors rare glimpses of the island’s unspoiled beaches and cultural practices. Niihau is the most mysterious and least commercialized of all the Hawaii islands.
Highlights: Private helicopter tours, pristine beaches, traditional Hawaiian culture preservation.
Each of the Hawaii islands provides a different glimpse into the natural beauty, cultural depth, and adventure opportunities that make Hawaii a world-renowned destination. Whether you seek the volcanic power of the Big Island, the surf culture of Oahu, or the lush serenity of Kauai, the Hawaii islands offer an experience that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
I Heart Princeville recognizes the Hawaiian language and the use of the ‘okina and the kahakō. We have tried to use the correct Hawaiian language in as many places as possible but in some cases it was not used to improve the search functionality and help with online readability.
Information provided as a service to residents and visitors. No advertising is permitted or no revenue sharing is accepted. The site has been compiled and created by Stefan Swanepoel. Swanepoel is a Princeville resident and author of over 50 books and reports.
