Hawaii in August
 

I am trying to plan a trip to Hawaii in August. I have nine nights. Which islands should I visit which have the most culture and relaxation?

We just returned from Maui and Oahu.
Maui was wonderful and would definatly be my choice. We stayed in the Kapalua area, and I'd stay there again.
Oahu did not impress me at all. Just a regular big city. We were very glad we went to Pearl Harbor and the North Shore. The North Shore was very beautiful. I still don't think I'd do Oahu again. Maui is my favorite.

ttt

Oahu and Maui.

Oahu has much more to do. It is not "just a big city" if you get away from Waikiki and Honolulu.

People will think I am crazy but I did 3 islands in 8 nights - Oahu, Maui and Kauai. Kauai was definitely the most relaxing (stayed at the Marriott in Lihue) but I didn't find it particularly cultural. The Na Pali coast is stunning, as is the mist and rainbows of the Kilalau valley (spelling?). I would look into the Princeville Hotel for total relaxation - the views are amazing.

I loved Oahu as well. I spent just an afternoon in Waikiki, and the remainer of the 3 days touring the island. There is a ton to see that Hawaii lovers overlook - Hanauma Bay, the Dole Plantation, Pearl Harbor, the North shore etc. I stayed ar the JW Ihilani which I found to be a great location. It is 20 minutes from Waikiki, so it is out of the way. It had a lovely lagoon of its own and a nice spa.

Maui is also quite nice but I would choose the Big Island and Kauai for my next trip.