When it comes to the best Hawaiian island to visit, you have choices.
Hawaiian Airlines serves as your premier pathway to the enchanting Hawaiian Islands, offering nonstop flights from 16 major US cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, and Las Vegas, as well as over 120 connecting flights between islands. Your vacation begins the moment you step onboard with island-inspired beverages and cuisine, advanced seat selection, and optimized arrival times.
With Hawaiian Airlines, you can experience direct flights from the West Coast to four of the state’s best, and most popular, islands: Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii Island.
You’ll also be granted the opportunity to discover responsible travel with the guiding principle of “Travel Pono” as you explore the three islands.
Keep reading to learn more on how you can immerse yourself in Hawaii’s ecosystems and culture through unforgettable adventures across the Aloha State.
A responsible guide to the islands
Oahu
Embarking on a journey to Oahu’s idyllic island is seamless thanks to Hawaiian Airlines’ direct flights from Los Angeles, San Diego, Seattle, and more straight to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL).
Explore the adventurous side of Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital, with a complete guide and paddle a canoe or surf the famous waves of Waikiki Beach to watch surfers tackle colossal waves providing a captivating glimpse into the island’s charm.
Travel Pono on Oahu
🥣 Satisfy your sweet tooth at Da Cove Health Bar with one of the best acai bowls on the island.
🍸 Sip creative cocktails and lounge around a swanky speakeasy at Bar Leather Apron.
🌺 Get hands-on with Polynesian traditions from lei-making to spear-throwing, at the Polynesian Cultural Center.
🏝️ Take a guided walking tour around Coconut Island by the Marine Biology Institute.
One of the best ways to enjoy Oahu sustainably is by immersing yourself in its beauty through hiking scenic trails and snorkeling in marine reserves. Explore local culture at Luaus and historical sites like Pearl Harbor. Additionally, contributing to conservation efforts through beach clean-ups and responsible tour choices ensures a positive impact on the island and its communities.
Maui
Known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and unforgettable sunsets, Maui is a top contender for the best Hawaiian island to visit—especially those venturing to Hawaii for the first time. Hawaiian Airlines’ guide to Maui is an essential companion for an unforgettable trip. Nonstop flights are available from major airports to Kahului Airport (OGG), including Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Norman Y. Mineta San Jose (SJC), Long Beach (LGB), San Diego (SAN), Seattle-Tacoma (SEA), Portland (PDX), McCarran (LAS), and Sacramento (SMF).
Travel Pono on Maui
🏨 Enjoy a comfortable stay at Castle Kamaole in Kihei, South Maui.
🍧 Indulge in fresh poke and shaved ice at Tobi’s for a delicious lunch.
🚁 Soar above the island on a breathtaking helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters.
🖼️ Explore the family-owned Sabado Art Gallery for unique souvenirs to take home.
Give back and empower Maui’s community
While exploring Maui, consider extending a helping hand to the local community. Now more than ever, Maui businesses need tourists’ support. Get involved with volunteer opportunities like assisting at the Maui Food Bank. Your contribution will make a meaningful impact on the island’s well-being.
Kauai
Often referred to as Hawaii’s Garden Isle for its green landscapes and tropical foliage, Kauai is another top choice for those looking to find the best Hawaiian island to visit.
It’s a wonder to explore with hidden waterfalls and secret beaches to be discovered. Hawaiian Airlines offers nonstop flights from Los Angeles (LAX), Oakland (OAK), and Sacramento (SMF) to Lihue Airport (LIH).
Travel Pono on Kauai
🍳Grab a traditional Hawaiian lunch from Hanalei Taro and Juice Company.
🏞️ Hike the stunning Kalalau Trail to Hanakapiai Beach.
🥃 Experience the exquisite flavors of award-winning spirits at Koloa Rum.
💦 Take a thrill-seeking ride through the backcountry by Mountain Tubing.
While 70% of the island is inaccessible by foot, Kauai is still a haven for hikers and sightseers. When hiking, it’s crucial to stay on designated trails to prevent damage to fragile ecosystems and to remember to pick up any trash and avoid disturbing wildlife or native plants along the way.
Check out Hawaiian Airlines’ complete Kauai guide on more sustainable activities and how you can support local businesses on this stunning island!
Hawaii Island
Hawaii Island is the largest of all the islands, and is a top choice for the best Hawaiian island to visit for its diverse landscapes, cowboy culture, rivers to kayak down, waterfront resorts, and plenty of eco-adventures. It offers something for every kind of traveler. Additionally, the frequent activity at Kilauea Volcano since 1983 has solidified Hawaii Volcanoes National Park as a major attraction.
With convenient nonstop flights to the island from Los Angeles (LAX) and 1-stop connection flights from 16 US destinations, including San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), San Diego (SAN), and more, exploring the allure of this magical island is within easy reach.
Travel Pono on Hawaii Island
☕️ Enjoy your first morning sip of coffee and a tour of the farm at Kona Joe Coffee.
🌋 Take a short trek to the iconic Akaka Falls and glimpse the remnants from Kilauea Iki’s 1959 eruption.
🤿 Snorkel with the Manta Rays with Big Island Divers.
🌅 Catch the sunset for dinner in Kona at Lava Lava Beach Club.
When exploring Hawaii Island, visitors can support sustainability by backing local businesses featured in Hawaiian Airlines’ Hawaii Island guide and respecting ecological guidelines on land and in the waters. Hawaii is committed to renewable energy, targeting 100% by 2045. By embracing Travel Pono, you can revel in the island’s charm while safeguarding its beauty for future generations.
Hawaiian Airlines is committed to sustainability, with fuel-efficient aircrafts and efforts to minimize single-use plastics onboard. Booking a flight with Hawaiian Airlines ensures an unforgettable journey while championing responsible travel initiatives. Take advantage of flight deals that promote sustainable practices, reducing your carbon footprint as you journey to the islands. By doing so, you play a significant role in preserving Hawaii’s natural beauty and vibrant culture.
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