Having lived in Hawaii for two years during Covid, I can confidently say that the islands are a magical place to be and see. From volcanoes to rainforests, sandy beaches to snowy mountains, lava fields to waterfalls, the variety of landscapes to explore seem endless.

The “Aloha Spirit” extends from island to island bringing love, affection, peace, compassion and mercy to all who visit. The exchange in this greeting symbolizes the giving and receiving of positive energy from person to person and you will continue to carry this energy with you long after the vacation has ended.  

There are eight major islands that make up the state of Hawaii (137 volcanic islands total) 

• Hawai’i Island ~ “The Big Island” – Home to some of the world’s most active volcanoes including Mauna Loa and Kilauea, the latter of which has been erupting as recently as last week. Take a night swim with the manta rays and chase waterfalls as you circle around the island from Kona to Hilo and back again. 

• Maui ~ “The Valley Isle” – The top whale watching destination for those ready to take in the majesty of the Humpback whale as they breach and “wave” with their tailfins as they swim by. Drive the Road to Hana and experience the beauty of black, green and red sand beaches. 

• O’ahu ~ “The Gathering Place” – Also known as the “NYC of the Pacific” is a bustling urban island which gets the most visitors of all the Hawaiian Islands. Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, and the North Shore are well known visitor’s attractions that are a must see. 

• Kaua’i ~ “The Garden Isle” – Calling all nature lovers!  When you think of Hawai’i, Kaua’i is the picture that you see. Dense, tropical greenery, mountains, canyons, waterfalls and vast beaches call to the visitor wanting rest and relaxation on the Napali Coast. Kaua’i is also home to the Manawaiopuna Falls, a 400ft high waterfall featured in Jurassic Park. 

• Moloka’i ~ “The Friendly Isle” – If you are looking for an island that is not “touristy” this is where you need to plan to stay. Step back in time and live like a local on an island with not a single traffic light!  Check out Papakaku Beach Park, one of the largest white sand beaches in Hawaii while you are there. 

• Lana’i ~ “The Pineapple Isle” – Need some romance? Lana’i is one of the best spots for a romantic getaway or honeymoon. With only 30 miles of paved roads and 3 hotels, you will feel like you have this unspoiled tropical paradise all to yourselves.  

• Ni’ihau ~ “The Forbidden Isle” – Surrounded by myths, legends and history, this island is by invitation only.  Promised by the King over 100yrs ago, Ni’ihau has been protected from being spoiled by modern conveniences and tourism. 

• Kaho’olawe ~ “The Target Isle” – The 8th largest island is off limits to visitors except for volunteer work. 

Now that you have an overview of the Islands, give me a call at 806-445-2845 for more detailed information about planning your Hawaiian vacation. And of course, don’t forget to take in a luau along with some Hawaiian cuisine on the island of your choice. This is an absolute must for anyone visiting the Hawaii Islands. Aloha! 

Photo Credit:  @KeelyBoyingtonRatliff

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