Written by: Alissa Grisler

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Though it can be easy to assume the six most visited Hawaiian Islands offer similar experiences, they are more diverse than you can imagine. From Waimea Canyon to Waikiki Beach, Hawaii’s wealth of natural beauty (think: cerulean waters, verdant vegetation and stunning white sand beaches) is just waiting to be explored. To help you decide which Hawaiian Island is ideal for your next vacation, U.S. News took into account sights, expert opinion and reader input to determine the best Hawaiian Islands to visit. Vote for your favorite island below to have a say in next year's list.

#1 Maui

Though it's perhaps most famous for the fabulous coastlines of Ka'anapali Beach and Wailea Beach, Maui is a great option for first-timers who are looking for variety in their vacation. Away from the sand, you can drive the Road to Hana, enjoy a bird's-eye view during a helicopter tour, see one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes at Haleakala National Park and get up close to marine wildlife while snorkeling in Honolua Bay or around Molokini. Then, for an experience you won’t forget, relax on the volcanic coastline of Wai'anapanapa State Park, where jet-black sands meet vibrant sapphire waters.

#2 Hawaii - The Big Island

Hawaii Island’s bevy of one-of-a-kind attractions and family-friendly activities makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a jam-packed itinerary. Not only does the Big Island offer white and black sand beaches, including the famous Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, it is also home to lush jungles and two active volcanoes at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. History buffs will love visiting Waipi'o Valley (where Hawaiian rulers, such as Kamehameha I, once lived) and Kealakekua Bay (where British explorer James Cook first arrived in 1778). Or, head to Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park to see petroglyphs, ancient Hawaiian fishponds and green sea turtles.

#3 Kaua'i

With a more easygoing environment than other islands like Oahu and the Big Island, the Garden Isle lets its natural beauty speak for itself and is perfect for a couples getaway. The main attractions here are Koke'e State Park and Waimea Canyon, otherwise known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." But you also won’t want to miss Kaua'i’s breathtaking Wailua Falls or dreamy Poipu Beach. And if hiking is what you’re after, it doesn’t get more scenic than the Kalalau Trail along the Napali Coast. Just remember to pack galoshes and a rain jacket – Kaua'i is one of the rainiest Hawaiian islands.

#4 Honolulu - Oahu

Dubbed the Gathering Place, Oahu is home to plenty of famous sites, making it perfect for first-time visitors to the Hawaiian Islands. On the South Shore, you'll find Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay, Pearl Harbor National Memorial and Le'ahi (Diamond Head) State Monument, all in the capital city of Honolulu. Meanwhile, the North Shore is home to a more laid-back vibe and secluded resorts, as well as the famous waves at Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, which host major surfing competitions every year. After exploring along the coast, head inland to the tranquil Byodo-In Temple, a replica of a Buddhist temple in Uji, Japan.

#5 Lanai

For a secluded, nature-centric escape, set your sights on Lanai. Centrally located between other Hawaiian Islands like Maui and Moloka'i, this remote hideaway makes a great home base for inter-island travel. Travelers can take a four-wheel-drive vehicle to spots like Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach) and Kaunolu Village, a prehistoric fishing village that was once frequented by King Kamehameha I, or spend their days sunbathing on Polihua Beach. In winter, head to Hulopo'e Bay for terrific whale-watching opportunities. Then, make your way to Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods), an enchanting rock garden that was once part of a native dryland forest, for a breathtaking sunset.

#6 Molokai

One of Hawaii’s least-developed islands, Moloka'i was made for travelers who don’t mind going off the beaten path. With lush rainforests, beautiful beaches and the tallest sea cliffs in the world, Moloka'i is a great place to reconnect with nature, whether you’re staying overnight at one of Moloka'i’s quiet oceanfront cottages or visiting on a day trip from one of the other Hawaiian Islands. Top activities here include soaking up some sun on secluded Papohaku Beach, exploring Kalaupapa National Historical Park on a scenic mule ride or joining a guided cultural hike through Halawa Valley.