The Top Islands in Hawaii

It turns out you can have all of it, and at one time– at least when you hang around at one of the finest islands in Hawaii. Visitors can raise volcanoes and through jungles, surf and snorkel, or simply lounge beachside while whale-watching at the lots of five-star resorts.

Every year for our World’s Finest Awards study, Travel + Leisure asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe– to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, health spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural destinations and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value.

T+L readers are fervent in their love of Hawaii, and when it comes to finding “the one,” each island has its outspoken champs. Kauai (No. 2), known informally as the Garden Island for its tropical rain forests, is praised for its slow-paced life, uncrowded beaches, and top-notch restaurants. No. 4 Oahu, on the other hand, offers up the excitement of Honolulu and world-class surfing. Composed one T+L reader, “Finest family vacation ever!”

On the Big Island (No. 3), visitors can wander through barren lava fields one day and stand below waterfalls in the rain forest the next, while No. 5 Lanai– the website of Melinda and Bill Gates’ wedding in 1994 and Hawaii’s smallest populated island– boasts 2 4 Seasons resorts, rugged routes, secluded beaches, and not a single traffic signal or shopping mall.

Whatever your best vacation entails– culture, luxury, or getting-back-to-nature– you’ll find it amongst the Hawaiian islands. Found out which island is No. 1? Keep reading to learn if you’re right.

5. Lanai

Score: 78.93

4. Oahu

Rating: 84.72

3. Big Island

Score: 85.93

2. Kauai

Score: 87.25

1. Maui

Score: 88.32

Maui continues to shine in the leading area for the eighth year running. It likewise makes it onto this year’s list of the top 15 islands worldwide, thanks in part to its natural beauty, with state parks, a dormant volcano, lavish rain forests, and more than 30 miles of spectacular beaches. The 4 Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, which declares some of the island’s finest shoreline, provides facilities and activities for households, while Hotel Wailea, a 72-suite residential or commercial property on 15 acres, is reserved for grownups. “Environment, people, and lovely landscapes make us wish to return As Soon As Possible,” wrote one reader. Another summed up, “” Maui has something for everyone.”