Big Island vs Kauai: Which Hawaiian Paradise Should You Choose?

Hawaii is one of the most famous states in the USA, proving that if there is a haven on the ear, it is here. This island is filled with diverse cultures and traditions. Once you visit Hawaii, you will see the astonishing beaches and many hidden gems and landmarks so appealing that you want to spend more years here. For the foodie, it is the perfect place to visit as they will get the most fantastic and mouth-watering cuisine in the world. In Hawaii, multiple islands can be visited with your loved ones, and you will have the most beautiful time. The Big Island and Kauai are the two most famous islands of Hawaii. If you are confused about the best place, go through the article that will help you select the island. 

Big Island vs Kauai: Quick Comparison

Mark Twain once stated that Hawaii is the loveliest fleet of islands anchored in any ocean. The Big Island and Kauai are stunning sites, and you can spend quality time with your family. However, if you are confused about which island you should visit, it depends on your choice. The island has its specialty, which makes it the best place to visit. If you are still looking for differences between Big Island and Kauai, then go through the passage below.

Size of Big Island and Kauai Island

• Big Island: It is one of the largest islands in Hawaii, measuring over 4000 square miles and twice the size of the other islands. It is known as the Big Island because it has approximately 190,000 inhabitants. A tour of this island can be done via highways 19 and 11, 222 miles long. 
• Kauai: is the fourth-largest island of Hawaii and one of the oldest, having been discovered at least 5.1 million years ago. It has more than 50 beaches and is also home to two national parks, including Waimea Canyon National Park and Na Pali Coast State Park. 

Population of Kauai Island and Big Island

• Big Island: The population of Big Island is approximately 200,629. Its two major population centers are Hilo on the east coast and Kona on the west coast. The population density of Big Island is 49.8 people per square mile.
• Kauai: One of the 21st largest islands in the United States, Kauai has a population of 73,298. According to the survey, the residents are 21 percent white, 20 percent Asian, and 15 percent black. 

Average Rainfall on Big Island and Kauai Island

• Big Island: The average annual rainfall on this island is 300 inches. On Hilo, it is 142 inches, and June is the driest month. Downtown Kona receives 27 inches of rain per year. November to March are the rainy seasons. 
• Kauai: is one of the wettest places, with an average annual rainfall of 460 inches. On the outer parts of Kauai, the average yearly rainfall is 40 to 60 inches. Westside is one of the driest regions, receiving 5 inches of rain per year.

Major Attractions of Kauai Island and Big Island

Big Island

This island has many top attractions, and it is the youngest in Hawaii. It is made of five major volcanoes. Some major attractions that you can visit are provided below.

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: UNESCO declared this park a World Heritage Site, where you can see the volcanic activity. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Hawaii. 
• Akaka Falls: One of the most famous waterfalls, 442 feet long and surrounded by a tropical jungle. You need to walk through the paved paths, about half a mile long, to enter a giant botanical garden with massive banyan trees and tropical flowers that cannot be seen anywhere else. 

Kauai Island

This island, also known as Garden Isle, offers endless tourist attractions. While exploring this island, you will collect the best memories of your life. However, some significant places to visit on Kauai are given below.

• Poipu Beach Park: When you enter the beach, you will find the sleeping monk seals that are so common in Poipu Beach Park. On this beach, there are many resorts where you can relax and lay out for hours. Under the sun, you will enjoy the walk between the palm trees. 
• Hanalei Bay has three different beaches: Wai Oli Beach Park. Hanalei Beach Park and Black Pot Beach. Hanalei Bay is also the perfect place for shopping, as you will find many beautiful handicrafts, clothes, and much more. Before swinging, it is mandatory to check the weather conditions. 

Best Activities on Big Island and Kauai Island

Big Island

Before planning a trip to the Big Island, gathering information about the place and the activities that can be done there is mandatory. You will have a chance to do various activities on this island. If you get confused about deciding on activities, then read the article below.

• ATV Tours: For many people, traveling is like exploring new places and unlocking adventure. If you are on the Big Island, then you must do an ATV tour. It is a fun activity, and you will explore beautiful places such as wild forests and cliffs. It will take at least 2 hours to complete this activity. 
•  Camping: camping is one of the best activities. Under the stars, you will enjoy nature. There are many campgrounds, and you can select the place for camping according to the climate. Camping is a unique experience.

Kauai Island

There is no doubt that Kauai is full of wonderful places and amazing activities. If you are having difficulty selecting the activity during your vacation, do not worry. We have mentioned some of the activities that you can do after arriving at Kauai in the read below.

• Take a Na Pali Boat Tour: If you want to explore the ocean's blue water and jungle foliage and take water rides, the Na Pali Boat Tour is the perfect activity. Some boat tours offer meals, and you can customize the voyage to your liking.
• Horse Riding: One of the best activities for kids is horse riding. It is an excellent experience, and you will cross beaches, valleys, and coastal ridges as you traverse Kauai's shores with the horse. 

Natural Beauty and Landscape of Big Island and Kauai Island

Big Island and Kauai are both the most beautiful islands of Hawaii. There are incredible waterfalls. Historic walled. Rugged cliffs and much more to see. Once you visit these islands, you will collect the special memories of the trip. The untouched beauty and embrace of nature of the islands will provide peace of mind, and you will get a break from the hectic schedule. The travelers will get an opportunity to explore everything that the Big Island and Kauai Island offer. 

Big Island

This island has a varied landscape and a wide variety of natural beauty. It is also the home of the world's most active volcano and the tallest sea mountain. This exquisite island offers pristine beaches, a lush rainforest, an active volcano, and snow-capped mountains. There is something for everyone on this island. Big Island is divided into seven distinct vacation areas, each offering different experiences and focuses for the perfect holiday. 

• Puna: The easter tip of the big island that stretches from the sea to the 4,000-foot summit of Kilauea volcano. On the coast, you will see the black sand beaches and a spring warmed by the volcano's steam. There is an unusual lava tree mold. 
• Kau: It is almost untouched by civilization, except around the small communities of Naalehu and Pahala. This is one of the most famous black sand beaches in Hawaii and a place to spot protected Honu or Hawaiian green sea turtles. It is believed that the Polynesians landed in Hawaii.

Kauai Island

The fourth-largest island in Hawaii, Kauai offers gorgeous landscapes ranging from ocean vistas to impressive canyons. It is a magical location for everyone, including young adults, couples, and families. Whether you are searching for a Kauai snorkeling adventure or hiking trails, the natural attractions of this island will provide all of these. 

• Limahulu Garden and Preserve: If you are fond of seeing Hawaiian birds, then you are at the right place. You will see the birds and plants that would not be seen anywhere else. While visiting Limahulu Garden, you can either take a guided tour or opt for a self-guided tour. This natural attraction is located on the north shore at 5-8294 Kuhio Highway. This garden is open from 8:30 AM to 4 PM on Tuesday and Saturday. 
• Na Pali Coast State Park: One of the most suitable natural attractions on Kauai, also known as the Fantasy Island Coast. If you ever watch the movie, Jurassic Park, then this place will remind you of that film. From the park, you will also see the waterfalls and streams and the other historic walled terraces.

Activities and Attractions on Kauai Island and Big Island

Once you have gone through the comparison and landscape details of the mentioned islands, the next thing you may be wondering is, "What activities and attractions are famous in Big Island and Kauai?" Both these islands offer a wide variety of adventurous sports, exciting activities, and renowned tourist spots that provide you with a remarkable tour and visiting experience. Refer to the sections below to discover the most notable places and activities that you can experience on these islands and make your journey memorable and astounding.

Big Island

This is the youngest island of Hawaii. It is incredibly diverse and offers more climate and landscape variety than any other Hawaiian island. Big Island provides many activities can do with your family and friends. Some of the major adventures of the island are mentioned below.

• Big Island Luaus: If you visit the Big Island and do not attend the Luaus, your vacation will be incomplete. It is a Hawaiian Celebration that combines food, music, and dance. To be part of this celebration, you need to make the bookings at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance. 
• Waikoloa Marriott Sunset Luau: You can see the beautiful sunset while enjoying the buffet on the island. Some artists also show their performance. Enjoy the classic Polynesian entertainment featuring live music and traditional dances of the South Pacific. 

Kauai Island

From ocean rafting, sea kayaking, sailing catamaran, sunset cruises, and helicopter tours, there are many more adventures to do in Kauai. After visiting Kauai, you will fall in love with this island. If you have the least information about the adventure that can be done, then read the article below.

• Helicopter Tour: You can cover the beauty of this island by doing the helicopter tour. You will see breathtaking and unforgettable views from the sky. You can make the booking for this activity for at least 4 to 7 days before. 
• Koloa Zipline: It is the longest zipline, and while doing this activity, you can choose your harness, handlebar pulleys, sunset ziplining, ground school, and aerobatics. In this tour, you will also see the Waita zipline, one of the most famous ziplines. 

Culture Experience of Big Island and Kauai Island

If you want to take your trip to the next level, the best way would be to learn about the culture and other essential components of the island you are visiting. This helps you to know their people more and make the most out of your journey. The best way to know about a place's culture is through three ways: (i) Festivals, (ii) Tradition, and (iii) Cuisine. The pointers below discuss all these factors of the Big Islands and Kauai, helping you to know more about both places and making it easier to choose which one suits you best.

Big Island Culture

You cannot miss the beauty of the Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival. The people of the island celebrate the blooming of cherry blossoms and showcase Japanese culture. You will be also served delicious foods including sushi, tempura, mochi, and more.

Kauai Island Culture

One of the most famous festivals held for 10 days is Koloa Plantation Day. The town focuses on the history of the area as a former sugar plantation. This festival is celebrated on the last Saturday of Koloa Plantation Days each year.

Best Beaches on Kauai Island and Big Island

Visiting an island without exploring the beaches of that island is an incomplete experience and kills most of the fun could have uncovered. Therefore, when planning a trip to an island, including the beaches in your tour is crucial. Refer to the sections below to learn about the most famous beaches in Big Island and Kauai.

Top Beaches on the Big Island

Some of the best beaches on the Big Island are Ahalanui Hot Ponds, Carlsmith Beach Park, Hapuna White Sand Beach, Honaunau Beach, and HonI's Beach. These beaches offer you tremendous views of the sun, clear and serene waves, beautiful weather, and amazing water sports.

Must-visit Beaches on Kauai Island

Kauai offers you a vast variety of beaches, such as Hanalei Beach, Tunnels Beach, Poipu Beach Park, Anini Beach, and Kalapaki Beach. The mentioned beaches provide an amazing place for photography and are perfect for couples, families, friends, or group visits.

Climate and Weather of Big Island and Kauai Island

No matter how well you plan your trip in terms of budget and tourist spots, if you do not select the right month, all the planning is a complete waste. Why? Some months have unbearable temperatures and weather conditions. On the other hand, some offer a very pleasing and beautiful scenery and climate. The pointers below discuss the weather conditions of Big Island and Kauai, such as the average temperature, month-specific climate, etc. This will help you to decide which island would be the most suitable.

Big Island Weather

The average temperature of Big Island is from 23°C to 29°C. The weather is a humid tropical climate, with heavy rains from October to April and drier conditions from May to September.

Kauai Island Weather

The average temperature of Kauai Island is from 15°C to 25°C. Its weather features with warm, muddy, windy, and clear climate. January is the coldest month and August is the hottest month.

Conclusion: Which island is right for you?

The above sections discuss all the valuable facts about the Big Island and Kauai that will help you make an appropriate decision regarding which island would be best for you. Both the islands have their pros and cons, If you’re still uncertain about which Hawaiian island suits your travel style, take a look at our article Best Island to Visit in Hawaii: Which is Perfect for You? to help you decide. The comparison between both the islands is made on varied basis, such as weather, culture, and much more, to provide a complete comparison and allow you to choose the one that suits you the most. Deciding between Big Island and Kauai becomes much easier once you go through these details.