The 5 Best Towns in Hawaiʻi in 2025
Here’s a ranked list of the best towns to visit in Hawaiʻi, according to our 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards.
From paniolo (cowboy) and historic plantation districts to oceanfront streets, Hawaiʻi is dotted with one-of-a-kind neighborhoods. Filled with history and charm, you can explore vibrant towns across the Islands that are home to quirky cafés, fabulous boutiques, trendy restaurants and hidden gems, too.
These are the best towns in Hawaiʻi that you’ll want to add to your Island itinerary, according to HAWAIʻI Magazine’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards.
1. Lahaina, Maui
Restaurants like Māla Ocean Tavern and other local businesses in Lahaina are reopening as the community continues to heal and rebuild.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino
Lahaina will always be loved. Located on Maui’s west side, the seaside town was a popular visitor destination, known for its oceanfront restaurants and historic sites. In August 2023, wildfires ravaged West Maui, destroying approximately 80% of Lahaina, resulting in the loss of lives, historical sites, businesses and homes.
Some areas of Lahaina remain closed to the public, but restaurants, businesses and activities in Lahaina are open and welcoming visitors. As the community heals and rebuilds, it’s imperative for travelers to visit with respect for the people and places that have been lost. There are plenty of opportunities to support local businesses and also learn about the historical and cultural significance of the area.
Restaurants including Māla Ocean Tavern, Coco Deck Kitchen + Bar and Sale Pepe have reopened as well as the Old Lahaina Lūʻau.
2. Honolulu, Oʻahu
Honolulu is a top destination for most first-time visitors thanks its iconic beaches.
Photo: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA)/Vincent Lim
The state’s capital city, Honolulu, is the urban hub of Oʻahu. The city is a top destination for most first-time visitors thanks to its eclectic mix of mom-and-pop restaurants, unique art museums, diverse hiking trails and iconic beaches. Sprawling from Makapuʻu Point to Pearl Harbor, you can hike to the summit of Lēʻahi, snorkel at Hanauma Bay, surf in Waikīkī, visit Ala Moana Center—the world’s largest open-air shopping center—and explore historic Chinatown.
3. Hanalei, Kauaʻi
Hanalei is famous for its majestic mountains, laid-back vibe and stunning beaches.
Photo: Getty Images/DOUGBERRY
Located on the north shore of Kauaʻi, Hanalei is famous for its majestic mountains, laid-back vibe and stunning beaches. Mākua Beach (aka Tunnels Beach) is famous for its incredible snorkeling, the secluded Kēʻē Beach boasts epic views of the Nāpali Coast and Hanalei Bay is the jewel of the area with its historic pier and emerald mountains as a backdrop. As you venture into the hub of Hanalei, you can indulge in a variety of local treats, from heavenly doughnuts and refreshing shave ice to dangerously good mai tais.
4. Kailua-Kona, Hawaiʻi Island
Aliʻi Drive in Historic Kailua Village is lined with oceanfront restaurants, local boutiques and interesting cultural sites.
Photo: Getty Images/Billy McDonald
On the western side of Hawaiʻi Island, Kailua-Kona is a visitor favorite thanks to its sunny skies, black-sand beaches, luxury resorts and award-winning coffee farms. Aliʻi Drive in Historic Kailua Village is lined with oceanfront restaurants, local boutiques and interesting cultural sites like the Mokuʻaikaua Chuch and Huliheʻe Palace. Kailua-Kona is also famous for hosting the Ironman World Championship every year. The Kailua Pier is the starting and finishing point for the famous sports event. Adventurous travelers can also snorkel with manta rays in Kailua-Kona.
5. Haleʻiwa, Oʻahu
With its colorful plantation-style buildings and easy-going vibe, Haleʻiwa is a favorite among locals and visitors.
Photo: Getty Images/Mia von Steinkirch
Nestled on Oʻahu’s North Shore, Haleʻiwa is a quintessential beach town. With its colorful plantation-style buildings and easy-going vibe, the town is a favorite among locals and visitors. Here, you can indulge in a sweet treat from the iconic Matsumoto Shave Ice and stop at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck for a plate of its famous garlic shrimp. Afterwards, you can hit the beach.
See all of the winners of our 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards in our latest issue, which you can buy here. Better yet, subscribe and get HAWAIʻI Magazine delivered to right to your mailbox.
