Maui or Oahu?
 

My girlfriend and I are planning on spending a week in Hawaii this summer (July or August) and I am trying to decide over Maui or Oahu. I've been to Hawaii several times, most recently to Kaui(Sp?) and Oahu, but last went to Maui when I was 4. I'd like to see Maui again but since my g/f has never been to Hawaii, maybe that isn't necessary.

I've heard that Maui splits the difference between Kuai and Oahu but what about the beaches. I think there are more beaches in Ohau than Maui and perhaps Oahu has comparable waterfalls/hiking trails. Also, we want a secluded vacation that has the Hawaii "feel" but don't want a place that shuts down after 8PM. That being said, shopping/museums/clubbing till dawn are not on the itenerary.

Thoughts/feelings/concerns?

I prefer Oahu to any of the other islands, because there is much more to do and see on Oahu. Arizona Memorial, Diamond Head, Polynesian Cultural Center just to name a few.

The scenery on Maui, Kauai or the Big Island is better than Oahu. But Oahu has nice scenery and many of the best beaches in the state.

Well, I guess you should know what your girlfriend likes to do. I would pick Oahu always for the first time visitor, especially youg people. Personally, all the "touristy stuff" that people turn their noses up at, is just what the first timer wants to see I think. Plus you can get away from all the Honolulu hustle and bustle very easily. What first timer would NOT want to walk on Waikiki beach or see Diamond Head, ya think?

Maui has a ton of wonderful, easily accessible beaches, as does Oahu. I wouldn't leave the decision up to that point. Maui seems to have a lot more waterfall opportunities; the east coast/Hana area is all jungly and lush, constant swim-in-a-waterfall opportunities.

It's not hard to find places in Maui that are open after 8pm...the Lahaina/Kaanapali area has tons of stuff to do after dark (it's no Waikiki, but there is certainly stuff to do). That said, you won't get a "secluded feel" in those areas. You need to get out of the big tourist areas to feel secluded in Hawaii, Hana on Maui for example. But you could spend all day exploring quiet peaceful places all over both islands and then return in the evening for a nice dinner and soak in the ambience, especially in Waikiki.

Good luck!

love
roxy

I love both the Waikiki area on Oahu, and the Lahaina area on Maui. I think Maui might be "more Hawaiian" looking to someone for a first trip.

Personally I'm crazy about Honolulu, but often hear people complaining that "it's a city" (well duh) so not their stereotype ideal of island life.

We just returned from Maui and Oahu.
Absolutly loved Maui (can't wait to go back), absolutly despised Oahu, except for the North Shore and Pearl Harbor.
Waikiki, to me, was just another big city--Maui was paradise.

I'd agree that Maui is a happy medium between Oahu and Kauai. That being said, I'd go to Kauai. Kauai has all the greenery of Hawaii, more waterfalls and definitely less people which means better access to uncrowded beaches. My wife and I were the only ones at a couple beaches while we were there...Hideaways was the BEST!!!

Been to Oahu, Kauai and Maui and Maui seems to have the best balance and best collection of beaches.

Ken

Have you considered 4 days on one island and 3 on the other? Do Oahu first see the sites then relax on Maui and enjoy the pure beauty of it!

You can get a nice combination by staying on the windward coast of Oahu. Kailua & Lanikai beaches are some of the most beautiful anywhere. And it's only a 30 minute drive into Waikiki on the scenic Pali Hwy so you can drive right into town when you want the nightlife and shopping.

IMHO, you need at least 10 days if you're splitting time between islands. There's just no way you're gf could get a feel of what any island is like if there's only a few days spent on it.

You've seen the others recently, and haven't seen Maui since you were 4 - which doesn't count in my bood - go to Maui. Case closed.

If it's your friend's first time, go to Oahu. I don't know if you'll be looking to meet some young men there as well, but Maui seems to be mostly couples (both young and old) and families.

Maui is the best. I cant wait to get back.

Oahu really has it all, IMO. I would definitely choose Oahu over Maui.

we have been to both islands. Won't be going back to oahu any time soon. We are planning out 3rd trip to Maui next spring. That speaks volumes. I think you would be very disappointed going to Oahu...way too commercialized. If you are going there, you might as well go to any other state side big city. Maui has lots to do, but with less of a "rushed" atmosphere.