Which Hawaiian island has the prettiest beaches?

Oahu. Oahu, also known as “The Gathering Place,” is home to some of the most iconic beaches in Hawaii, including world-famous Waikiki Beach, Lanikai Beach, and Sunset Beach. Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the world and is known for its stunning views of Diamond Head, a volcanic cone.



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The 21 Best Beaches in Hawaii
  • Poipu Beach: Kauai. (Getty Images) ...
  • Big Beach (Makena Beach): Maui. (Getty Images) ...
  • Hanauma Bay: Oahu. (Getty Images) ...
  • Hulopoe Beach: Lanai. (Getty Images) ...
  • Polihale Beach: Kauai. (Getty Images) ...
  • Kahalu'u Beach: Big Island. (Getty Images) ...
  • Ko Olina Beach: Oahu. (Getty Images) ...
  • Pa'iloa Beach: Maui.


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Molokini is a small crescent-shaped island is situated about three miles from Maui's southwest coast. Molokini is said to have some of the clearest water in all of Hawaii with visibility depths of up to 200 feet.

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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.

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Kauai is the winner It 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. Kauai tends to not be as popular as islands like Maui and Oahu so you can fully enjoy what the island offers.

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But, there are important differences between Maui and Oahu vacations. If you're looking for a typical Hawaiian tourist vacation, Oahu offers Waikiki Beach, historical memorials and modern culture. Meanwhile, travelers should head to Maui to enjoy outdoorsy adventures, from snorkeling to hiking volcanic peaks.

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These are the 12 most spectacular beaches in Hawaii that you cannot miss.
  • Kapalua Bay – Maui.
  • Wailea Beach – Maui.
  • Big Island.
  • Hapuna Beach – Big Island.
  • Kauai Island.
  • Poipu Beach Park – Kauai.
  • Ke'e – Kauai.
  • Hanalei – Kauai.


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Oahu vs Maui: Beaches and Snorkeling Beauty-wise, I'd have to say Oahu has slightly better beaches, especially in the summer. You'll find stunning beaches all over the island — Waimea Bay (summer), Waikiki Beach, and Lanikai Beach, just to name a few.

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Molokai is known for its limited resorts and attractions, which adds to its charm as the least touristy island in Hawaii. Unlike other islands that are filled with high-rise hotels and commercialized attractions, Molokai offers a more rustic and untouched experience.

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Oahu's windward coast – specifically the 10-mile stretch from the Marine Corps Base Kaneohe to Makapu'u Beach Park – is home to the bluest water in Hawaii, sure to make your next beach day unforgettable.

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Waikiki has achieved legendary status and is one of the most recognizable beaches in the world. Hawaii's tourism pretty much started here, and the popular beach resort continues to attract visitors to enjoy its combination of picture-postcard beauty, fun water sports, and big city convenience.

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Kauai is the winner It 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. Kauai tends to not be as popular as islands like Maui and Oahu so you can fully enjoy what the island offers.

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Maui is the second-largest of the Hawaiian islands. It is home to many natural splendors including outstanding beaches, volcanoes, and waterfalls. It also has to some of the most luxurious accommodations from boutique hotels to all-inclusive resorts.

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If you're a fan of powder-soft white sand and crystal-clear blue water, the Caribbean may have more options. If you're interested in less conventional beaches, Hawaii has them in pink, green, red and even black sands.

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17 of the Most Beautiful Places in Hawaii
  • 01 of 17. Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauai. ...
  • 02 of 17. Hanauma Bay, Oahu. ...
  • 03 of 17. Na Pali Coast, Kauai. ...
  • 04 of 17. Papakolea Beach, Hawaii Island. ...
  • 05 of 17. Lanikai Beach, Oahu. ...
  • 06 of 17. Pipiwai Trail, Maui. ...
  • 07 of 17. Molokini Crater, Maui. ...
  • 08 of 17. Punalu'u Beach, Hawaii Island.


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1. The Maldives. The Maldives, located in the Indian Ocean, have around 1,190 islands and sandbanks. A lagoon with crystal clear water encircles all the islands, which are protected by a reef structure that is home to an array of underwater life.

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For an idyllic and outdoorsy island escape, choose Maui. If you want to sprinkle in city life, Honolulu's the way to go. After spending seven years in the U.S. Air Force as an Arabic linguist, Carissa is now a freelance writer using points and miles to fund a four-year (and counting!) adventure.

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Welcome to Maui, the second-largest Hawaiian island and a paradise known for its stunning natural beauty and rich culture. Maui is a multi-million dollar tourist attraction that has been voted “best island in the world” by Condé Nast Traveler readers.

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The Kona side is the best area to stay on Big Island as it will have the driest, sunniest weather and by far the best beaches. In fact, nearly the entire eastern coastline has no sandy beaches at all! Rather than sand, you will find only an extended lava rock shelf that drops right into the ocean.

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Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit, with a total cost of $3,015. A Ko Olina Resort lagoon on Oahu. Maui is the most expensive island to visit, coming in over $2,000 more expensive, with a total cost of $5,142. The Grand Wailea in Maui, a luxury resort.

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