{"id":10906,"date":"2022-03-31T15:32:49","date_gmt":"2022-03-31T21:32:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.virginexperiencegifts.com\/blog\/?p=10906"},"modified":"2022-04-13T16:16:21","modified_gmt":"2022-04-13T22:16:21","slug":"which-hawaiian-island-should-you-visit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/blog\/which-hawaiian-island-should-you-visit","title":{"rendered":"Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We think it\u2019s safe to say that the Hawaiian Islands are on just about everyone\u2019s travel bucket lists. And if they aren\u2019t, then they definitely should be! Enjoy turquoise waters, friendly people, delectable food, and volcanoes bursting with lava. All of this and more is at your fingertips \u2013 and if you live in the US, you don\u2019t even need a passport! But which island should you choose?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Despite their small size, the Hawaiian Islands are home to a plethora of landscapes and activities. This diversity can make it difficult to decide which one of these islands you should spend your time on. To help you answer this age-old question once and for all, we\u2019ve rounded up a list of each island\u2019s most unique and unforgettable experiences.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>THE BIG ISLAND<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best for: Adventure seekers, coffee drinkers<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, is Hawaii\u2019s largest and youngest island\u2013and it\u2019s still growing! From glowing lava flows and black sand beaches to rainforests and lush valleys, the Big Island is an adventurer\u2019s playground. If this sounds like you, then check out these top experiences to make the most of your time on the Big Island.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GET YOUR CAFFEINE FIX<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, you\u2019re an adventure seeker. Naturally, a relaxed visit to a coffee farm might not be what you had in mind but hear us out. Your grand Hawaiian adventure is going to require some energy. And what better way to fuel your trip than with a nice cup of 100% Kona coffee? The cloudy climate and volcanic soil make Kona an ideal location for farming coffee and there are literally hundreds of coffee farms that call the hills of Kona home. These farms are a must-see for coffee lovers and are a great place to supercharge your epic Hawaiian journey. If you\u2019re lucky enough to be in Kona during the month of November, don\u2019t miss the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/big-island\/nighttime-snorkeling-with-manta-rays\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GO SNORKELING\u2026WITH MANTA RAYS<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Snorkeling with manta rays? Seriously? Seriously. Attracted to the microplankton-rich waters, these gentle giants can be found almost nightly just off the coast of Kona. Get a front row seat to nature\u2019s bizarre nocturnal ballet as these magnificent animals feed and glide effortlessly through the water. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/big-island\/nighttime-snorkeling-with-manta-rays\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Snorkeling at night with these magnificent creatures<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is an experience that is unique to the Big Island. If you\u2019re truly an adventure seeker, this is one activity that should be at the top of your list!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">VISIT AN ERUPTING VOLCANO<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let\u2019s be honest, you can\u2019t travel to the Big Island and not visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Here, you can watch fire and water collide and experience two of the world\u2019s most active volcanoes: K\u012blauea and Mauna Loa. View the park\u2019s otherworldly landscapes <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/big-island\/ultimate-volcano-hike\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">on foot with a guided hike<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or get a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/big-island\/volcano-helicopter-tour-big-island\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">birds eye view<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from the safety of a helicopter. For a truly special and breathtaking view of Hawaii\u2019s volcanoes, consider a night hike. Keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant glow of flowing lava! Since this is a dynamic landscape and viewpoints can change, be sure to check in with a ranger before going out.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GO ON A PETROGLYPH HUNT<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take a step back in time and view thousands of lava rock etchings created centuries ago by Native Hawaiians. With sites all over the island, some of the best petroglyph fields can be uncovered in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, and Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve. Discover carvings of human forms, canoes, turtles and more. Try to decipher the meaning behind the symbols and enjoy a day out in the Hawaiian sunshine!\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/big-island\/captain-cook-snorkeling-expedition\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GO ON AN UNDERWATER SAFARI<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10910\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.virgingifts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/hawaii_turtle.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"214\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While you\u2019re in Hawaii, you have to take advantage of its crystal-clear, turquoise waters. What better way to explore them than by visiting one of the world\u2019s best snorkeling destinations? Grab your masks and fins and embark <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/big-island\/captain-cook-snorkeling-expedition\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">on an adventure to Kealakekua Bay<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a 315-acre marine sanctuary near the Captain Cook Monument. You will be absolutely amazed by all of the marine life teeming below you. Follow up your underwater safari with something truly adventurous: a close up look at Hualali, Hawaii\u2019s 3rd youngest volcano. Explore the volcano\u2019s neighboring sea caves and lava tubes and be on the lookout for dolphins, whales, and sea turtles!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">EXPLORE THE ISLAND ON FOOT<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes the best adventures happen when you leave the main road and travel into the backcountry. The Big Island is riddled with unique hiking trails spanning from easy, short walks to multi-day backpacking excursions. Discover the green sands of Papakolea Beach, walk into a lava tube in Kaumana Caves State Park, or make the trek out to Waimanu Valley, one of the most beautiful and difficult hikes on the Big Island. If you do explore Hawaii\u2019s backcountry, please practice Leave No Trace, and don\u2019t go unprepared. Bring plenty of water, food, sturdy boots, and tell someone where you are going.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adventure and caffeine not really your thing? Continue reading for more island insights.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>MAUI<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best for: Whale watchers, water lovers<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hawaii\u2019s second-largest island, Maui, is a dreamy destination for anyone that loves water. Home to a plethora of classic aquatic activities such as snorkeling, surfing, and paddleboarding, Maui is also a phenomenal place to view epic waterfalls. Sprinkle in the annual migration of humpback whales and you have the perfect package for anyone looking to explore the waters of Hawaii. Discover the magic of Maui and make the most of your vacation with these incredible experiences.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">BECOME A BEACHCOMBER<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Since Maui is famous for its beaches, this seems like a fitting place to start. With over 30 miles of beautiful, sandy beaches ranging in color from white, gold, black, and even red, Maui is truly a beach bum\u2019s paradise. Grab your sunhat and a Mai Tai and spend the day just relaxing in the sun or go for a stroll on the sand. Enjoy a leisurely walk and take in the iconic island views or comb the beach for unique shells and colorful sea glass!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/maui\/whale-watching-tour-2-maui\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CRUISE WITH WHALES<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Picture this: you\u2019re out on Maui\u2019s crystal-clear waters when suddenly a spout of air and mist erupts from the sea. It\u2019s followed by the emergence of a beautiful humpback whale. The whale slowly dives back below the surface, rewarding you with a glimpse of its magnificent tail. Only moments later, the massive whale launches its whole body out of the sea, a behavior known as \u2018breaching\u2019. Every winter, thousands of humpback whales migrate from Alaska to the warm waters of Hawaii to mate and raise their young. Some of the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/maui\/whale-watching-tour-2-maui\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">world\u2019s best whale watching<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can be done along Maui\u2019s coast and if you\u2019re traveling between December and May, you absolutely cannot miss this opportunity!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LEARN A NEW WATER SPORT<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10912 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.virgingifts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/hawaii_windsurf.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"214\"><\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">T<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here\u2019s no better place to play in the water than along the pristine coasts of Maui. Catch a wave and try your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/maui\/surfing-lesson-maui\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hand at surfing<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a sport that has deeply intertwined itself in Hawaii\u2019s history and culture. Combine the surge of the ocean with the power of the wind and dive into the thrilling sports of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/maui\/kiteboarding-lesson-maui\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">kiteboarding<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/maui\/private-windsurfing-lesson-maui\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">windsurfing<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If you\u2019re seeking a sport that is a little less adrenalizing, consider a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/maui\/kalama-beach-park-sup-lesson\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">crash course in SUP<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (stand up paddleboarding) and gently glide your way through Maui\u2019s cerulean waters. You\u2019ll be surprised at just how easy it is to balance on a paddleboard. As always, be sure to keep your eyes open for marine life such as fish, turtles, dolphins, and more!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GO FOR A SCENIC DRIVE<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes there\u2019s no better way to view a place\u2019s epic landscapes than by going on a scenic drive. One of Maui\u2019s most famous drives is the Hana Highway, a 52-mile drive that passes by towering waterfalls, lush rainforests, and epic beach views. You may think that 52 miles sounds like a piece of cake. However, this highway should not be taken lightly. With countless hairpin turns, one-way bridges, and blind curves, this is one road that you\u2019ll never forget. So, pack your patience, take your time, and get ready for some truly breathtaking views that only the Road to Hana can offer.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/maui\/maui-circle-island-helicopter-tour\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">EXPERIENCE MAUI\u2019S WATERFALLS<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10908\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.virgingifts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/hawaii_heli.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"214\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re a fan of waterfalls, then <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/maui\/maui-circle-island-helicopter-tour\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this scenic helicopter tour<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> around Maui should be on the top of your list. Shortly after takeoff, you will be treated to epic views of West Maui, one of the wettest places on Earth. See Maui\u2019s tallest waterfall and the Wall of Tears. You won\u2019t believe your eyes as you watch water from 17 waterfalls plummet down the lush green walls of the West Maui Mountains. Go off the beaten track and catch a glimpse of some of Maui\u2019s hidden treasures such as the Seven Pools, an incredible network of waterfalls and pools that empty into the ocean. You\u2019ll also be rewarded with new perspectives of some of Maui\u2019s most iconic destinations such as the Haleakala volcano, the rainforests of Hana, and Ho\u2019okipa Beach.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/maui\/kayak-snorkel-and-waterfalls-tour-maui\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">EXPLORE THE WATERS OF MAUI TO THE FULLEST<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you can\u2019t decide between kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring Maui\u2019s waterfalls, why not do all three? With <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/maui\/kayak-snorkel-and-waterfalls-tour-maui\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this incredible tour around Maui<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you don\u2019t have to settle on just one activity. Begin your day by kayaking around Maui\u2019s rugged coastline and get ready for breathtaking island views. Take a dip and spend some time snorkeling with rainbow-colored fish and possibly sea turtles! From there, your Maui adventure will head inland where you will embark on a short hike to two waterfalls and dreamy pools. Jump in and enjoy a Maui-style shower as you swim beneath the cascading water.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Searching for an island with a little more seclusion? Keep reading, Lanai and Molokai might be just what you\u2019re looking for!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>LANAI<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best for: beach-sleepers, privacy seekers<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Little Lanai is the smallest inhabited Hawaiian island that is open to tourists. This charming island only has two hotels and no stoplights making it an ideal spot for privacy seekers. What Lanai lacks in size, it definitely makes up for in personality! Spend your days napping on a secluded beach, play a round of golf, or explore hidden gems along the island\u2019s rugged back roads. Whatever you choose, here\u2019s a couple of our favorite Lanai adventures.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">EXPLORE HULOPOE BEACH<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located on the southern end of Lanai, Hulopoe Beach has something for everyone: a beautiful beach, snorkeling, and plenty of space to enjoy a picnic lunch. Bring a good book and spend the day relaxing on the beach or stroll down the coast to a nearby lava shelf where you can explore several tide pools. You can also take a short hike along the coast for a view of Puu Pehe, an iconic rock formation that is home to many seabirds.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">VISIT ANOTHER PLANET<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ok, so you can\u2019t actually visit another planet, but to be fair, the unique desert landscape of Lanai\u2019s Garden of the Gods will make you feel like you\u2019ve left planet Earth. To get to this bizarre place, you\u2019ll definitely need a 4-wheel-drive vehicle as the trip uses Lanai\u2019s rugged back roads. Take things slow and steady\u2013you won\u2019t be sorry! Upon arriving, you\u2019ll be rewarded with expansive views and interesting rock formations.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">UNCOVER A SLICE OF HISTORY<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit Lanai\u2019s Shipwreck Beach for, you guessed it, stunning views of a real-life shipwreck! Take in eerie views of an old, rusted out WWII US Navy concrete fuel tanker. Built in the 1940s, this old ship is sure to provide a ghostly backdrop for your day at the beach. Although the waters nearby may seem inviting, this area is prone to shipwrecks for good reason. Powerful swells and currents make it a dangerous place to be out in the water.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>MOLOKAI<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best for: Minimalists, culture vultures<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Molokai is often considered the least visited of all the Hawaiian Islands, but it is also arguably the most authentic as well. The residents of Molokai have worked hard to stay true to their Hawaiian roots and have resisted large-scale tourism. You won\u2019t find giant resorts or commercialized restaurants on Molokai. Instead, you\u2019ll find people with a deep connection to their land and traditions. Here\u2019s our top recommendations for how to spend your time on this cultural and captivating island.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">VISIT THE MOLOKAI FARMERS MARKET<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located in the central town of Kaunakakai, Molokai\u2019s Saturday farmers markets are an incredible opportunity to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables while supporting the locals. Beyond produce, you can also shop beautiful handmade goods and island-grown flowers. While indulging in your tropical treats, strike up a conversation with Molokai\u2019s residents and uncover the culture and lifestyle that they have upheld for generations. After wandering the market, be sure to stop at the famous Kanemitsu\u2019s Bakery for a fresh loaf of onion-and-cheese bread.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GO MULE-BACK RIDING<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Embark on a unique trek across Molokai\u2019s sheer sea cliffs on the back of your very own mule! Take in spectacular views of the coast before entering one of Hawaii\u2019s most remote settlements. Step into Kalaupapa National Historical Park and learn about this park\u2019s tragic past. Once a prison for individuals with leprosy, the park now stands as a refuge for its remaining, now healed, residents and is dedicated to eradicating the fear surrounding this disease.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GET LOST<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trust us when we say that we don\u2019t ACTUALLY want you to get lost. However, when you explore the secluded forests of the Kamakou Preserve, you\u2019ll feel like you are thousands of miles away from civilization. Stroll along a small boardwalk and discover over 250 rare Hawaiian plants. Many of these plants are found nowhere else in the world! Listen to native birds sing above you and enjoy one of Hawaii\u2019s most pristine and untouched rainforests.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Looking for an island with more amenities but still want a cultural experience? The Island of Oahu might be a perfect choice for you!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>OAHU<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best for: City lovers, foodies<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oahu is the third largest Hawaiian Island and is fittingly nicknamed \u201cThe Gathering Place\u201d. The majority of Hawaii\u2019s population resides on Oahu, resulting in the most wonderful cultural melting pot. Explore bustling cities and shop until you drop or discover a mellow surf town. Whatever you decide, Oahu is certainly a wonderful mix of the modern and historical. There\u2019s no limit to the activities on Oahu, but here\u2019s our list of must-sees.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IMMERSE YOURSELF IN POLYNESIAN CULTURE<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Experience not one but SIX incredible cultures at the world-renowned Polynesian Cultural Center! Learn how to hula with the Hawaiians, taste authentic Tahitian coconut bread, play Tongan shuffleboard, and more. Feeling hungry? Celebrate life and culture with a traditional luau. Indulge in traditional cuisines including Imu Pua\u2019a Pork, Ahi Shoyu Poke, Huli Chicken, and many others. End your day with an incredible show dedicated to the story of Mana and Lani. Complete with fire sticks, special effects, and surround sound, this ancient story of love, family, death, and triumph should not be missed!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/oahu\/historic-pearl-harbor-tour-oahu\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GO BACK IN TIME<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It could be argued that your time in Oahu is not complete without a visit to Pearl Harbor. In 1941, this US naval base was the scene of one of the most pivotal moments in American history. Now preserved as a National Memorial, you can explore the sites of that tragic day <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/oahu\/historic-pearl-harbor-tour-oahu\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">with a guided tour<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Step back in time as you walk through the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, the USS <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arizona<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Memorial, the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">USS <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Missouri, <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and more. Your tour will conclude at the National Memorial Cemetery at Punchbowl Crater, the final resting place for over 38,000 men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SHOP WAIKIKI<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beach views, streets lined with palm trees, and tons of shops. What could be better? Whether you\u2019re shopping for Hawaiian souvenirs, mementos, or luxury items, Waikiki has you covered! Step into the beautiful, open-air International Market Place and browse familiar brands, discover something new, enjoy international cuisine, and marvel at massive banyan trees. For a unique and fun shopping experience, consider visiting Waikiki\u2019s Pearl Factory. Here, you can choose your own oyster, reveal your very own pearl, and have it set into a beautiful piece of jewelry. Every time you wear it, you will remember Oahu!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/oahu\/nighttime-stand-up-paddleboard-yoga-class\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LIGHT UP THE NIGHT<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10909\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.virgingifts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/hawaii_suplight.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"214\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oahu is home to one of the world\u2019s most unique and adventurous yoga classes. Let us give you a few hints: It takes place at night, is out on the water, and involves multi-colored lights. Give up? It\u2019s a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/oahu\/nighttime-stand-up-paddleboard-yoga-class\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nighttime Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga Class<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, of course! Do something out of your comfort zone and paddle out into the Hawaiian night aboard a paddleboard lit underneath by a neon-colored light. You\u2019ll be astonished at how easy it is to balance on a paddleboard, even whilst doing yoga! Move into child\u2019s pose and let your fingers dip into the water. Take a deep breath and soak up the views of twinkling city lights. This magical excursion should be at the top of your list!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/oahu\/doors-off-helicopter-thrill-ride-oahu\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GET A BIRD\u2019S EYE VIEW<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, you\u2019ve already explored Oahu on foot. Well, what about from the air? Get a one-of-a-kind view of some of Oahu\u2019s most iconic destinations from the safety of a helicopter. Did we mention that the helicopter has no doors? Mix sightseeing with adrenaline on this incredible <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/oahu\/doors-off-helicopter-thrill-ride-oahu\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doors Off Helicopter Thrill Ride<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">! See Honolulu Harbor, Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Jurassic Park <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Valley, and more on this heart-pumping aerial adventure. If you\u2019re lucky, you may even get a bird\u2019s eye view of spinner dolphins, manta rays, humpback whales, and more!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/oahu\/waikiki-sunset-cruise\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">PARTY OUT AT SEA<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Channel your inner party animal and take to the sea for the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\/oahu\/waikiki-sunset-cruise\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> ultimate BYOB sunset cruise!<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Hop aboard a luxury powerboat and watch as the sun begins to sink below the horizon. Once the sun goes down, it\u2019s party time! Decked out with twinkle lights, make your way to the dance floor and show off your moves. This cruise is BYOB but snacks are complimentary. For a truly Hawaiian experience, we recommend bringing ingredients for a traditional Mai Tai!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you prefer to explore canyons rather than cities? Would you rather go hiking instead of shopping? Well then, you\u2019re in for a treat on the Island of Kauai!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>KAUAI<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best for: Hikers, nature-lovers<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The \u201cGarden Island\u201d, also known as Kauai, is the oldest island in the Hawaiian chain. Its surface is riddled with lush valleys, impressive mountains, jagged cliffs, and incredible waterfalls! With so many different landscapes to explore, Kauai is hands-down the best option for all of the hikers and nature-lovers out there. Lace up your hiking boots and browse some of our favorite spots in Kauai.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HIKE WAIMEA CANYON\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nicknamed the \u201cGrand Canyon of the Pacific\u201d, Waimea Canyon is one of the most impressive landscapes in all of Hawaii. Red soils contrast with bright green plants and can be viewed by multiple drive-up lookouts, vantage points, and of course, hikes! Trek to the bottom of the canyon on the Kukui and Waimea Canyon trails or check out Waipoo Falls using the Canyon Trail. While hiking, don\u2019t forget to stop and smell the roses, or should we say hibiscus? Hundreds of native plants grow in and around Waimea Canyon. Consider purchasing a plant ID guide prior to hiking and see how many you can identify!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GO BIRD WATCHING<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you can imagine, the beautiful Island of Kauai is home to some of the world\u2019s most gorgeous and unique species of birds. So grab your binoculars and get ready to explore Kauai in a way that you may not have ever considered. Search the trees for the impressive crimson Hawaiian honeycreeper with its odd, curved bill. Listen for the chirps of the myna bird, then wander the coast and keep your eyes peeled for great frigatebirds, black-footed albatross, and more! Some of the best places to go birding on Kauai include Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge, and Kokee State Park.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CHASE WATERFALLS<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To view two of Kauai\u2019s most stunning waterfalls, head to the island\u2019s eastern side. Easily accessible, the stunning Wailua Falls was featured in the opening credits of the television series <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fantasy Island. <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019ll feel like you\u2019re living in a fantasy world as you watch water plummet 173 feet into a crystal-clear pool. If you go when the light is just right, you may even be treated to an incredible rainbow! Nearby, Opaekaa Falls features a 40-foot-wide waterfall that cascades gracefully over volcanic basalt. Can\u2019t get enough of these natural wonders? Consider taking a helicopter tour of the island and get an up-close look at falls that are off the beaten path.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Still aren\u2019t sure which island is calling your name? Discover more island fun <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/hawaii\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">by clicking here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If you\u2019ve made your decision, we hope you have an absolutely magical time in Hawaii. Aloha!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>We think it\u2019s safe to say that the Hawaiian Islands are on just about everyone\u2019s travel bucket lists. And if they aren\u2019t, then they definitely should be! Enjoy turquoise waters, friendly people, delectable food, and volcanoes bursting with lava. All of this and more is at your fingertips \u2013 and if you live in the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":24,"featured_media":10911,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[308,65,236],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-10906","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-features","category-inspiration","category-things-to-do"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit? - Virgin Gifts Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit? 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