Surfing is just one of many bloodlines that ties the Hawaiian islands together. But the heart of Hawaiian surfing can only reside on one island, and that's the king of sand and surf itself: Oahu. Offering spectacular waves off nearly every shore, Oahu delivers gentle swells, monster waves, and everything in between.
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If you're looking for an epic, big-wave surf trip (and you've got the experience to handle it!), Oahu is probably your best bet. However, you'll find plenty of surf breaks all around Maui to enjoy for all levels of surfers.
Regarding dramatic Hawaiian scenery, Maui and Kauai are both exactly what most travelers imagine. Stunning coastlines, towering mountains, and lush jungles abound on both islands. However, the main difference between the two islands comes down to the variety in the landscapes, which Maui wins by a narrow margin.
If you're ready to trade the hustle and bustle for variety and adventure in your life, Maui probably sounds like the perfect escape. If you're looking for something quieter and family-friendly, with plenty of outdoor activities and natural beauty, Kauai is the ideal island paradise.
Maui has the most beginner surf spots of all the Hawaiian Islands. Tips for beginner surfers: try to surf waves under 3 feet, avoid crowded spots, avoid surfing in stormy conditions, and choose spots that lack dangerous obstacles like reef, rocks and rip tides.
The months between November and February are the best times to see big wave surfing. The massive waves can sometimes swell up to thirty feet or more—dangerous even for experienced surfers—so always heed warning signs.
Generally, the best time to visit Hawaii for the most ideal overall weather, lowest statewide rates, and the fewest visitors on-island is April and May during the spring and September and October during the fall. Some refer to these times as Hawaii's 'off-season period' or 'shoulder months.
Hilo on Hawai'i Island is often referred to as the “tsunami capital of the United States” due to the shape of its bay that magnifies the height of tsunamis, making the town more susceptible to damage.
Kauai is the winnerIt has a variety of views and terrain to see. Rocky coastlines, beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and mountains and valleys. There is so much to see and do.
5 Reasons to Choose Kaua?i over the Big Island:Breathtaking scenery: Kaua?i is known for its stunning natural scenery, including lush greenery, towering waterfalls, and stunning beaches.
For a well-rounded experience, spending at least 5-7 days on Kauai is recommended. This allows enough time to explore the island's diverse attractions and participate in various activities while having some downtime for relaxation. If you're short on time, 4-5 days will allow you to see most of the island.
If it's your first time in Hawaii, your ideal island will depend on your travel style and to-do list. For most travelers visiting Hawaii for the first time, the Big Island of Hawaii should be the winner because it offers the most diverse experiences.
Sometimes called 'The Gathering Place', O'ahu is one of the easiest islands to visit in Hawaii as it contains the majority of Hawaii's population and is where the state capital of Honolulu can be found.