Hawaii, a dream destination for many, presents a delightful dilemma for first-time visitors: Which Island To Travel To In Hawaii? While images of Waikiki Beach often dominate the Hawaiian postcard, limiting your island exploration to this iconic spot means missing out on the diverse experiences each island offers. Having spent a month immersed in Oahu, with only a fraction of that time in the bustling tourist hub of Waikiki, we gained a unique perspective on this island and its place within the Hawaiian archipelago.
Waikiki lives up to its reputation. It’s a beautiful stretch of beach and bay, steeped in surfing history, and lined with the familiar sights of high-rise hotels and luxury boutiques. The atmosphere is reminiscent of South Florida, yet infused with a distinct Hawaiian charm. However, venturing beyond Waikiki reveals a different side of Oahu, one that’s more representative of the island’s true character. From our base in Ewa Beach, west of Pearl Harbor, we enjoyed panoramic views of Honolulu, a sprawling city nestled against a stunning backdrop of Diamond Head, verdant mountains, and residential neighborhoods cascading into the valleys.
Oahu is home to the majority of Hawaii’s population – a million out of 1.3 million permanent residents reside here. Even with its popularity as a tourist destination, Oahu maintains a higher ratio of locals to tourists compared to the other islands. Notably, outside of Waikiki, Oahu stands out as the only island where we encountered beaches where non-white individuals outnumbered white visitors, reflecting its diverse local population. Unlike some of the other islands that feel primarily geared towards tourism, Oahu boasts a genuine middle class and a more balanced economy. The pervasive Asian cultural influence, evident throughout Hawaii, is particularly pronounced on Oahu, adding another layer to its unique identity. Surfing culture, as expected from the birthplace of modern surfing, is deeply ingrained in the island’s spirit. Finally, Oahu’s long-standing military presence has significantly shaped its identity, evident in the historic pillboxes scattered across the landscape, numerous military bases, and the poignant Pearl Harbor.
Exploring Oahu’s Diverse Regions
The southern coast of Oahu is largely defined by Honolulu, its suburbs, and Pearl Harbor, along with the adjacent military installations. Tucked away on the southwestern coast, amidst industrial areas, lies Ko’olina, a meticulously planned resort community. This area features man-made lagoons offering calm, protected waters and a collection of upscale resorts. Further west from Ko’olina, a string of beautiful, often deserted beaches awaits. These hidden gems, however, are sometimes overshadowed by the presence of homeless encampments in the area. While this side of the island boasts excellent surfing spots and secluded beaches, the towns in this region often exhibit signs of economic hardship.
When considering which island to travel to in Hawaii, Oahu presents a multifaceted experience. It offers the iconic Waikiki, but also a much deeper immersion into local Hawaiian life and culture beyond the typical tourist hotspots. For travelers seeking a blend of city life, cultural experiences, and access to beautiful beaches, Oahu provides a compelling option. However, for those prioritizing pristine, less populated beaches and a slower pace, other Hawaiian islands like Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island might be more aligned with their ideal Hawaiian vacation. The best island to travel to in Hawaii truly depends on your personal preferences and what you seek from your island getaway.
