Are you dreaming of moving to Hawaii? If so, you’re not alone — the Hawaiian Islands have become a popular destination for those looking to experience island living.
But with eight main islands, it can be hard to decide which one best suits your needs.
Fortunately, we’ve done some research and have determined the best Hawaiian Island to live on, so you won’t have to figure out how many Hawaiian islands you can choose from.
Check out some of the best islands to live in Hawaii.
20 Best Hawaiian Island to Live On
1. Maui
First, Maui has an incredible natural environment that’s perfect for outdoor activities and island life. From snorkeling and surfing in crystal clear waters to exploring lush forests filled with vibrant wildlife, there’s something for everyone here.
Plus, the island is also home to incredible mountain views and some of the best beaches in the world.
Also, you’ll have the Valley Isle resort, which is home to many of the best restaurants, resorts, and events in Hawaii. Plus, with its vibrant art scene and cultural activities, Valley Isle provides all this for you.
Second, Maui has a vibrant local culture that you can experience year-round. From shopping at various markets to indulging in delicious cuisine from around the world, there’s something for everyone here.
Plus, the island is home to numerous festivals throughout the year, offering an up-close look at the best of Hawaiian music and culture.
Finally, Maui offers a wide range of activities for families with children. With several family-friendly resorts, outdoor attractions like zoos and aquariums, plus numerous cultural offerings like museums and art galleries, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.
Also, you can venture out to West Maui Mountains where you can explore the beautiful views.
And compared to the other islands, Maui has many sacred locations which are only accessible with permission.
With its amazing natural landscape, vibrant culture, and family-friendly activities, Maui is one of the ideal Hawaiian islands to live on and is one of the major islands in the island chain.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to settle down or an exciting adventure in paradise.
2. Oahu
The second best island to live on is Oahu, one of the major islands and is a popular island as well. This island offers a unique mix of urban city life and tranquil beaches out of all the islands.
You can spend your days exploring Honolulu’s vibrant streets, filled with great restaurants, shopping malls, and entertainment venues.
The warm, sunny weather also makes it perfect for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and more.
For those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to one of Oahu’s many serene beaches or take in some incredible views from atop Diamond Head State Monument.
Plus, there are plenty of fun attractions available throughout the island that is sure to entertain everyone in the family.
From historic sites like Pearl Harbor to kid-friendly attractions such as Sea Life Park and the Honolulu Zoo, there’s something for everyone in Oahu.
3. Kauai
Last but not least, Kauai is an incredibly beautiful island best known for its stunning natural scenery and provides you an awesome island life-style.
The tropical climate and lush landscape make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, swimming, surfing, and more.
Plus there are a variety of cultural attractions such as the Waimea Canyon State Park and the historic Kauai Museum.
Kauai’s laidback atmosphere makes it perfect for those seeking a tranquil place to settle down.
Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life or just relax on some of Hawaii’s best beaches, this island has something to offer everyone.
Plus, with numerous resorts and vacation rentals available throughout the island, you’ll be sure to find your perfect piece of paradise on Kauai.
With its stunning natural beauty and laidback atmosphere, Kauai is definitely one of the best island to live on.
Whether you’re looking for a getaway or a place to call home, this island is sure to be an incredible choice.
4. Lanai
Fourth on the list is Lanai, one of the small Hawaiian islands known for its stunning natural beauty and secluded atmosphere. ANd is home to one of the world’s largest pineapple plantation.
With no stoplights or traffic signals, this island offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Plus, it’s home to some of Hawaii’s best beaches and spectacular views of Hulopoe Bay Marine Preserve.
For those looking for a tranquil place to settle down, Lanai is a perfect choice.
The island also has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy such as horseback riding, hiking, snorkeling, and more.
Plus there are several cultural sites to explore including shipwrecks off Manele Bay and Kaunolu Village historic site.
5. Molokai
Finally, Molokai is the fifth best Hawaiian islands to live on. You’ll be able to access Maui and Lanai which is one of the neighboring islands in the area of the other islands.
This small and beautiful island offers a peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural scenery, making it perfect for those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Molokai’s beaches are some of the best in Hawaii, with white sand stretches perfect for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and more.
Plus there are several cultural sites to explore such as Kalaupapa National Historical Park and Halawa Valley.
Molokai is a great place to settle down if you’re looking for a quiet place away from it all. With its secluded atmosphere, warm climate, and amazing beaches, this island is sure to offer the perfect escape.
Overall, there are many best Hawaiian islands to live on depending on what you’re looking for in an ideal home.
6. Kahoolawe
Kahoolawe is the sixth-best island to live on. Located off the coast of Maui, this small island offers a peaceful and secluded atmosphere, making it perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Kahoolawe is best known for its stunning natural beauty, with plenty of beaches perfect for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and more.
Plus there are plenty of cultural sites to explore such as Puu Moiwi Heiau State Historical Park and Kalokona Village.
Kahoolawe is a great place to call home if you’re looking for a tranquil island escape. With its beautiful beaches and laidback atmosphere, this island offers an ideal getaway from the stresses of everyday life.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or take in some incredible views, Kahoolawe is sure to be an incredible choice.
7. Big Island of Hawaii
Seventh on the list is the Big Island of Hawaii or Hawaii Island which is one of the biggest compared to the other island and makes up a third of the island’s population.
Home to some of the best beaches in the United States, this island offers a stunning natural landscape and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, and also has a breathtaking tropical rainforest.
From the dormant volcanoes in the National Park to the world-class beaches, there’s something for everyone on the Big Island. However out of all the Hawaiian islands, Big Island has an active volcano which is the Kilauea volcano.
The island has plenty of cultural sites such as Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park and Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park that are sure to captivate visitors from all around the world.
The Big Island is also known for its laidback atmosphere, making it perfect for those looking for a tranquil place to settle down.
With its beautiful scenery and numerous activities available, this island is definitely one of the best places to live on.
8. Niihau
Niihau – the so-called “Forbidden Island”. This small island, located 17 miles off the coast of Kauai, is rarely visited by outsiders and is best known for its seclusion and stunning natural scenery.
Niihau has several beaches perfect for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and more.
Plus it has plenty of cultural sites such as Pu’u Ka Pele National Historic Site and Na Pali Coast State Park that offer incredible views of the area’s rugged coastline.
If you’re looking for a peaceful place away from it all then Niihau could be your ideal home.
With its pristine beaches, warm climate, and secluded atmosphere, this Hawaiian island offers a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Overall, Niihau is definitely one of the best Hawaiian islands to live on if you’re searching for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
9. Kapolei, Oahu
Kapolei, Oahu is located just outside of Honolulu on the southern shore of Oahu, this modern planned community offers a great combination of urban amenities and natural beauty.
Kapolei has some beautiful beaches perfect for swimming and surfing as well as numerous cultural sites such as the Makaha Beach Park and Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. Plus there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Kapolei is also an excellent choice if you’re looking for convenience, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues located nearby. With its unique mix of urban living and natural beauty, this Hawaiian island is sure to be an ideal place to call home.
10. Waimea, Big Island of Hawaii
Last on the list is Waimea, the Big Island of Hawaii. This small town located in northern Hawaii offers a unique combination of rural living and modern amenities.
Waimea has some stunning beaches perfect for swimming and fishing as well as plenty of cultural sites such as Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park and Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park.
Plus it’s close to several outdoor activities including hiking, biking, ATV tours, zip-lining, and more.
If you’re looking for an ideal mix of outdoor recreation and urban convenience then Waimea, the Big Island, could be the best Hawaiian island to live on. With its beautiful scenery and numerous attractions available nearby, this town offers the best of both worlds.
11. Hana, Maui
Hana, Maui is a charming town located along the eastern coast of Maui offers a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere perfect for those seeking a tranquil getaway.
Hana has some truly stunning beaches such as Hamoa Beach, which are great for swimming and surfing.
Plus it’s close to plenty of hiking trails that lead through lush rainforests and along majestic waterfalls.
There are also several cultural sites nearby such as Kaumahina State Wayside Park and Pua’a Kaa State Wayside Park that offer breathtaking views of the area’s rugged coastline.
If you’re looking for an ideal mix of relaxation and adventure then Hana could be your ideal place to call home. With its tranquil atmosphere, stunning natural scenery, and numerous activities available nearby, this Hawaiian island is sure to be a great choice for anyone seeking the best of both worlds.
12. Laie, Oahu
Laie, Oahu is the twelfth on the list. Located just north of Honolulu, Laie offers a unique combination of laidback culture and modern amenities.
This small town has some beautiful beaches perfect for swimming and surfing as well as plenty of cultural sites such as the Ka’ena Point State Park and Laie Hawaii Temple. Plus it’s close to several outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and more.
Laie is also an excellent choice if you’re looking for convenience, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues located nearby. With its unique mix of urban living and natural beauty, this Hawaiian island is sure to be an ideal place to call home.
13. Kailua-Kona, Big Island of Hawaii
Kailua-Kona, the Big Island of Hawaii, is the thirteenth list. This vibrant town located on the western coast of the Big Island offers a unique combination of urban convenience and natural beauty.
Kailua-Kona has some stunning beaches perfect for swimming and surfing as well as numerous cultural sites such as Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park and Hulihe’e Palace. Plus it’s close to several outdoor activities including snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and more.
If you’re looking for an ideal mix of modern amenities and outdoor recreation then Kailua-Kona could be your best bet.
With its beautiful scenery, numerous attractions available nearby, and vibrant atmosphere, this Hawaiian island is sure to be an excellent choice for anyone seeking the best of both worlds.
14. Kapaa, Kauai
Kapaa, Kauai is the fourteenth best Hawaiian island to live on. This quaint town located on the east coast of Kauai offers a unique combination of rural living and modern amenities.
Kapaa has some stunning beaches perfect for swimming and surfing as well as plenty of cultural sites such as Wailua River State Park and Opaekaa Falls State Wayside Park.
Plus it’s close to several outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, ATV tours, zip-lining, and more.
Kapaa is also an excellent choice if you’re looking for convenience, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues located nearby. With its unique mix of rural living and modern amenities, this Hawaiian island is sure to be an ideal place to call home.
15. Waikoloa Village, Big Island of Hawaii
Waikoloa Village, Big Island of Hawaii (Hawaii Island) is the fifteenth best Hawaiian island to live on.
This charming town located along the western coast of the Big Island offers a unique combination of a small-town atmosphere and modern amenities.
Waikoloa Village has some stunning beaches perfect for swimming and surfing as well
16. Kilauea, Kauai
Kilauea, Kauai is the sixteenth best Hawaiian island to live on. This sleepy town located in the southeast corner of Kauai offers a unique combination of rural living and natural beauty.
Kilauea has some stunning beaches perfect for swimming and surfing as well as numerous cultural sites such as Kīlauea Lighthouse and Halemaumau crater. Plus it’s close to several outdoor activities including hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, and more.
If you’re looking for an ideal mix of relaxation and adventure then Kilauea could be your best bet. With its tranquil atmosphere, stunning scenery, and numerous attractions available nearby, this Hawaiian island is sure to be an excellent choice for anyone seeking a perfect balance between the two.
17. Pahoa, Big Island of Hawaii
Pahoa, the Big Island of Hawaii is the seventeenth-best Hawaiian island to live on. This bustling town located in the east-central region of the Big Island offers a unique combination of urban convenience and natural beauty.
Pahoa has some stunning beaches perfect for swimming and surfing as well as numerous cultural sites such as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Puna Coast State Wayside Park. Plus it’s close to several outdoor activities including hiking, biking, kayaking, ziplining, and more.
If you’re looking for an ideal mix of city life and outdoor recreation then Pahoa could be your best bet. With its vibrant atmosphere, stunning scenery, and numerous attractions available nearby, this island is sure to be an excellent choice for anyone seeking an exciting and well-rounded lifestyle.
18. Waikiki
Waikiki, Oahu is a bustling neighborhood located in Honolulu that offers a unique combination of urban convenience and beachfront beauty with some beautiful Waikiki beach.
Waikiki has some stunning beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing out in the Pacific Ocean, as well as numerous attractions such as Waikiki Aquarium and Honolulu Zoo. Plus it’s close to several outdoor activities including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, and more.
If you’re looking for an ideal mix of city life and Waikiki beach fun then this area could be your best bet.
With its vibrant atmosphere, stunning scenery, and numerous attractions available nearby, this area is sure to be an excellent choice for anyone seeking an exciting and well-rounded lifestyle.
19. Kahului, Maui
Kahului, Maui is the nineteenth best Hawaiian island to live on. This charming city is the economic hub of Maui and offers a unique combination of urban convenience, natural beauty, and cultural attractions.
Kahului has some stunning beaches perfect for swimming and surfing as well as numerous cultural sites such as Maui Nui Botanical Gardens and Iao Valley State Park. Plus it’s close to several outdoor activities including hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, and more.
If you’re looking for an ideal mix of city life and outdoor recreation then Kahului could be your best bet. With its vibrant atmosphere, stunning scenery, and numerous attractions available nearby, this island is sure to be an excellent choice for anyone seeking an exciting and well-rounded lifestyle.
20. Waimalu
Waimalu, Hawaii is the twentieth-best Hawaiian island to live on. This small town located in the Leeward Coast of Oahu offers a unique combination of rural living and natural beauty.
Waimalu has some stunning beaches perfect for swimming and surfing as well as numerous cultural sites such as Haleiwa Beach Park and Waimalu Valley Nature Reserve. Plus it’s close to several outdoor activities including hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, and more.
If you’re looking for an ideal mix of relaxation and adventure then Waimalu could be your best bet.
With its tranquil atmosphere, stunning scenery, and numerous attractions available nearby, this island is sure to be an excellent choice for anyone seeking a perfect balance between the two.
Thoughts and Conclusion
These are just some of the best islands to live on. No matter which island you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a beautiful and relaxing lifestyle with many outdoor activities and exciting attractions.
So if you’re looking for the best place to call home, look no further than Hawaii!
All of these islands offer great opportunities for living an enjoyable and fulfilling lifestyle in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
So make sure to check them all out and see which one best suits your needs. Mahalo
2 thoughts on “20 Best Hawaiian Island to Live On – Travel Guide”
You have outdone yourself on this article Jose and if the pictures included are any indication I might be ready to pack my bags and head on out to Hawaii today if I could book passage.
I have hear of Maui, Oahu and Kauai but the further I read down into the article I was introduced to some lovely sounding destinations that while I was ignorant of them before, they seem to be even more appealing than the places I have heard so much of all my life.
I actually have a friend who relocated to Hawaii about five yrs ago and I’m sure if she would have had your article on the best Hawaiian Island to live on her decision and relocation would have been much smoother. Thank you for the hard work!
My wife and I have stayed at a few different spots on Maui. It was beautiful. We spent a lot of our time snorkeling and just walking on the beach. I did go out deep sea fishing but didn’t catch anything. I would like to go to Kaui as well. Do the smaller island have airports for the big jets or do you have to take small planes from the major airports. Thanks for the overview of the islands and things to do. You have helped us decide on our next vacation destination.
Jim