Hawaii is home to many beautiful islands, but is Big Island better than Oahu? Before you make the trip, you need to know a few things:
- Big Island is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands and has some of the most active volcanoes in the world.
- It’s home to Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes.
- The Mauna Loa Observatory monitors atmospheric conditions on the island and offers educational programs for students who want to learn more about geology and astronomy (and how they relate).
- If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Hawaii’s natural wonders, try taking an underwater scooter tour around these beautiful waters!
- You’ll find plenty of opportunities for adventure here—from hiking through lava tubes or exploring waterfalls with your friends (or family!).
Honolulu
The city of Honolulu on Hawaii’s Big Island is the state capital and is the largest city in the state. It covers an area that extends from the southeast end of the island to the north. Officially, it is known as the City and County of Honolulu, but is more commonly known as Honolulu. Its population is approximately 400,000, making it one of the largest cities in the country.
While the island has plenty of natural beauty, Honolulu embraces its role as the capital and caters to visitors from all over the world. Visitors can enjoy the world’s largest outdoor shopping mall, Ala Moana, and the lively Kalakaua Avenue. Visitors can sample authentic Asian food and global cuisines in Honolulu and other parts of the island. The city has many traditional markets as well, offering a wide range of foods, as well as authentic Hawaiian food.
Waikiki Beach
When vacationing in Hawaii, you must experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Waikiki Beach. This long stretch of sand stretches across the Big Island’s west coast between Kapi’olani Park and the Hilton Hawaiian Village, and is the perfect destination for water sports enthusiasts. The climate in this area is tropical, and there are numerous events geared toward the entire family. There are many 5-star resorts and restaurants located in this area, as well as activities for all ages.
Visitors to Hawaii should also consider visiting Volcanoes National Park, an expansive national state park that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, visitors can see the bubbling lava from different vantage points and hike through the lava tubes. For a more up-close view of the volcanoes, you can take a tour in a helicopter. Or, if you want to experience a traditional Hawaiian way of life, you can visit Lanai and explore the lush landscapes of the island’s north shore.
Kona
There are many reasons to visit Hawaii’s Big Island. The island is the youngest of the Hawaiian islands and has a population of about 186,000 people. It is also the most diverse in terms of geography, and is also home to two major population centers. Hilo, home to about a third of the island’s population, is the oldest city on the island. Kona, the capital of the Big Island, is the hub of the island’s tourism and recreational activities.
Oahu has a dense population and is often crowded. It also boasts Hawaii’s only international airport, which can be convenient if you have young children. However, if you are looking for quieter, more relaxed scenery and unspoiled nature, the Big Island may be a better choice. For those looking for a quieter, more relaxed vacation, the Big Island offers a more relaxed vibe and plenty of opportunities for active recreation.
Nightlife on Oahu
Nightlife on Oahu is as energizing and enticing as the island itself. This island boasts a diverse nightlife scene that combines music, dance, and habitat. You can enjoy quiet evenings at local bars or savor the energy of high-end clubs. You can balance the costs of your nights out by spending the same evenings at several other places during happy hours.
The first Friday of every month sees the infamous First Friday Party, when the whole city shuts down for a massive block party. This free event draws thousands of local residents, and is one of the most popular nightclubs on Oahu. Its fun atmosphere and attractive crowds make it a must-see party. After this, you can enjoy live music at Kapiolani Park Bandstand and Ala Moana Mall.
Volcanoes on Big Island
The Big Island is the largest island of the Hawaiian archipelago with a total area of 10,433 square kilometers and a population of around 175,000 people. Volcanoes on the Big Island are an amazing way to see the island’s unique geology. Visitors can experience historic lava flows, volcanic caves, active vents, and orange lava lakes. The island’s volcanic activity is largely driven by an active hot spot on the Pacific Ocean plate. As this hot spot moves, new volcanoes are formed while older ones become extinct. The process results in massive mountains formed in a short amount of time.
When visiting the Big Island, be sure to visit the famous Kilauea volcano. You can ride a bicycle through its lava fields and see steaming caterpillars up close. While you’re riding, make sure to stop at the Thurston Lava Tube and the Jaggar Museum to view volcanic activity. While you’re at it, don’t forget to eat a lunch or snack on the way to the summit.
Cost of a trip to Hawaii’s Big Island
The cost of a trip to Hawaii’s Big island depends on whether you want to visit the islands’ many attractions or simply relax on the beach. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, and the average cost of each one ranges from $25 to $100 per person. You may also choose to take a guided tour, which can range in price from $50 to $100 per person, depending on the type of tour and the content of the itinerary. The cost of visiting state and national parks can be as low as $35 per person.
If you’re traveling by car, consider renting a car to see the islands. Renting a car will save you money, but renting a bike is a cheaper alternative. There are several options for renting a vehicle in Hawaii, including Hele-On buses. These buses are fairly reliable, but they don’t cover the entire island. The only downside to these buses is that they are notorious for running late. Although the price of a one-way ticket on a public bus can be as low as $2.75, day passes cost as little as $4.50. It’s also worth noting that most passengers pay when they get on the bus. Make sure you have exact change with you, as you’re likely to lose track of the ticket if you forget it.