Trying to decide between a Maui hike and a walking tour of Honolulu on Oahu? Obviously, we’d recommend visiting both places if you have the opportunity, but we understand it’s not always that easy. Here’s a quick rundown of the differences between Maui and Oahu, two of the most popular destination islands in Hawaii:
Scenery: Oahu has a diverse range of scenic views, from dramatic cliffs to warm, sandy beaches – plus, of course, the iconic Diamond Head volcanic crater. Maui, meanwhile, has a much more lush landscape, with gorgeous rainforests and cascading waterfalls, earning its nickname “Valley Isle.” Of the two islands, Maui is much more well-known for its natural beauty. However, that doesn’t mean that Oahu doesn’t have plenty of jaw-dropping scenery of its own.
Activities: Again, Oahu has more diversity, ranging from scenic hikes to cultural sites like the Lolani Palace and Pearl Harbor. Honolulu also features plenty of amazing restaurants and boutiques, giving you a chance to experience contemporary Hawaiian culture as well as the gorgeous scenery the state is famous for. Because Maui doesn’t have any cities like Honolulu, you’ll be limited to mostly outdoor or marine activities there. However, the hiking and snorkeling on Maui are unparalleled, so fans of outdoor activities will probably prefer that island.
Crowds: While both islands are popular with tourists, Oahu will usually be more crowded because there’s so much more to do. Maui has a much more relaxed vibe, although you might find some crowds in the more popular towns like Lahaina. As a general rule, visitors hoping to immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture should visit Oahu, while those who want to get away and explore nature by themselves should head to Maui.
To make the most of your trip to Oahu, check out our Self-Guided Honolulu Walking Tour, or you can sign up for Action+ and gain access to over 100 tours for a single yearly price.
