The Hawaiian Islands are famous for their golden beaches—and even shorelines with black, green and red sand. Every year, we ask our readers to vote on their favorite beaches—no easy task—and the results vary. Here are the best beaches from around the Islands that HAWAIʻI Magazine readers love the most in 2026. 1. Kāʻanapali Beach, Maui Kāʻanapali Beach jumped from […]
Yes, you can find delicious banana bread across the Islands, but Maui is known for producing some of the best. Usually made with apple bananas that grow abundantly around the island, these buttery, moist loaves just melt in your mouth. Some businesses incorporate other fruits and fillings, such as mango and pineapple, or chocolate chips, coconut and macadamia nuts. READ MORE: 15
Scattered across the Islands are one-of-a-kind neighborhoods, from historic plantation districts to idyllic surf hubs and oceanfront streets. Filled with history and charm, you can explore these local towns, that are each home to a variety of top-notch restaurants, trendy boutiques and hidden gems. These are the best towns in Hawaiʻi, according to HAWAIʻI Magazine’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards. 1. Lahaina, Maui Lahaina will always be loved. Known
The wait is over! HAWAIʻI Magazine’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards is out and on newsstands. (Get your copy here.) From the best beaches and hiking trails to romantic resorts and top poke spots, our list celebrates the best of the best in Hawaiʻi. Over the next few weeks, you’ll get a snapshot of the winners, as we share stories about them—including the best islands
Two scoops white rice, a scoop mac salad and a generous portion of a protein like teriyaki beef, chicken katsu or grilled fish—and you have the quintessential plate lunch in Hawaiʻi. The plate lunch—or mixed plate—is a symbol of the Islands’ plantation era when workers from different backgrounds shared home-cooked meals, resulting in a blend
Family-friendly and foodie approved, these immersive farm tours highlight commodities being grown and produced on Maui. From juicy pineapple and decadent chocolate to fragrant lavender and tangy goat cheese, you’ll ignite your senses as you peek behind the scenes of the island’s agricultural industry. These farm tours invite visitors to slow down and engage with
Whether you’re a visitor on holiday or a local looking forward to a staycation, these luxury resorts on Oʻahu are known for their sumptuous atmosphere, top-tier service and memorable experiences. Here are the best luxury resorts on Oʻahu that topped our 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. 1. The Kahala Hotel & Resort The Kahala Hotel &
Witnessing the magnificent Nāpali Coast is an unforgettable experience and often a bucket-list experience for travelers. And there are only three ways to see the towering cliffs on Kauaʻi: By hiking along the beautiful but strenuous Kalalau trail, by flying in a helicopter, or by voyaging on a boat. For those choosing to take a
Hawaiʻi Island attracts adventurous travelers and outdoor enthusiasts with its incredibly diverse terrain. Across the island, you’ll find a range of trails that put its unique beauty on display. From walking through a volcanic crater to making the journey to a green-colored beach, these are the best hiking trails on the Big Island that you’ll
No trip to Hawaiʻi—especially for first-time visitors—is complete without attending an authentic lūʻau. These immersive gatherings share Hawaiian and often Polynesian history, culture, cuisine and dance to offer a glimpse into local traditions and storytelling. From beachfront settings and mesmerizing performances to flavorful dishes like kālua pork and lau lau, bottomless mai tais, and warm
Hawaiʻi Island is home to an incredible variety of local farms and producers, providing chefs with the opportunity to prepare creative dishes with the freshest ingredients available. Across the island, you’ll find restaurants committed to working and supporting local farms, ranchers and fishermen. The results are beautiful dishes highlighting the one-of-a-kind flavors of Hawaiʻi. Here
Maui has long held a reputation for being home to some of the world’s best beaches. From expansive, sun-soaked shorelines to sheltered coves with abundant marine life, Maui offers something for every type of beachgoer. Whether you’re looking to swim, snorkel, sunbathe or simply soak in the views, the Valley Isle delivers—and our readers seem
