I have been fortunate enough through the years to have gone to Oahu twice and Maui once. Here are my thoughts on the differences between these two popular Islands. Hopefully it can help you with your decision making process!
Oahu
Weather
The weather in Hawaii is pretty darn close to perfect no matter which Island you choose. It ranges from about mid 70's to mid 80's year round. Winter may bring a few more clouds and raindrops but the temps are mild. The first time we went to Oahu it was mid-August. Weather was great (other than the full day of rain and flooding that we had from a close call with the first hurricane in Hawaii in 50 years!...figures!) The second time we went was the first week of January. Big waves were on the North Shore and were absolutely amazing. Weather was mid 70's and there were a few clouds and raindrops but mostly it was just perfect! I actually preferred the winter visit more...you just don't get to see 20 foot waves every day!
Hotels
There are all kinds of hotels and resorts in Oahu. Most tourists head toward Waikiki Beach and stay there. You will find high rise resorts, regular hotels, big hotels...small hotels...you name it...it's there. There are other resort areas that are less highly populated in other parts of the Island but the vast majority of visitors congregate in the Waikiki area. The beach is long and is very accessible. The weather is nice and waves are small enough to handle...unlike the North Shore waves. If you are a Disney fan, Disney has recently added a new Resort the Aulani which is in Kapolei.
Attractions
There are many attractions on Oahu:
1. Pearl Harbor is perhaps the most well known. It is definitely a "must see" if you are on this Island. It is educational, emotional and beautiful at the same time.
2. Diamond Head is another favorite area. You can take a hike up to the top or just look at it from the bottom...either way it is a beautiful sight.
3. Polynesian Cultural Center - This is a fun day trip for the entire family. You can learn about the culture and history of the polynesian people and enjoy a luau and spectacular nighttime entertainment. It is run by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints so there is no alcohol served.
4. Dole Planation - What says Hawaii more than pineapples? Head to the Dole Plantation if you want to see how they grow and are harvested. They have a terrific gift shop and you can even buy Dole Whip there!
5. USS Missouri - visit this real battleship to get an idea of what it's like for our Navy at sea. It's near Pearl Harbor and another place to stop if you are out and about.
Restaurants
There is no shortage of restaurants in Oahu. You name it...they have it! There are local favorites like Duke's on the beach in Waikiki and there are chains like the Hard Rock Cafe. There are luaus at various places on the Island. The luau's provide transportation from many hotels so make sure you check that out when book one. You will not be disappointed with your dining options in Oahu!
Shopping
There is also no shortage of shopping in Oahu! There are shopping malls like the Ala Moana Shopping Center which is huge and offers high end as well as regular stores. There are really high end shops on the main street in Waikiki....you can literally spend at least an evening, if not more, just strolling down the street and heading into some of the shops. There are touristy shops in Waikiki also....here you can buy any touristy souvenir you can imagine....from bamboo wind chimes to t-shirts to ukeleles. Oahu is definitely a shoppers delight!
Maui
Weather
The weather in Maui is virtually identical to the weather on Oahu. The islands are not far from each other so they both enjoy the same beautiful weather year round. We were in Maui at the end of November/beginning of December and temperatures were still in the mid to upper seventies. There were a few overcast days but no real rainy weather to speak of. it makes the perfect place to visit no matter what time of year you are planning to go!
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| Grand Wailea Resort and Spa |
Hotels
There are two main areas of hotel concentration in Maui. The Wailea area and the Lahaina area. From what we were able to see, these areas are quite different, If you are looking for high rise hotels....book your room in Lahaina. If you are looking for a sprawling resort with beautiful gardens....book in Wailea. The rest of the Island offers a few hotels but certainly not the variety or quantity that Oahu offers. (See my previous blog on the Grand Wailea http://travelswithmel.blogspot.com/2013/02/maui-day-2-grande-wailea-little-slice.html
Hotels on Maui are quite a bit more expensive than those on Oahu so be prepared for the price difference. The supply is lower on Maui so you will pay!
Attractions
There are more limited "attractions" on Maui. The attractions that do exist are more of a nature variety. They also involve some travel time.
1. The Road to Hana: Plan a whole day to head to Hana from any of the more populated areas of the Island. It is a long and winding road that leads to the small city of Hana. It's not about the destination....it's about the journey. As long as you keep that in mind you will enjoy your day. This trip is not for everyone...it's full of one lane bridges and big bends and it requires you to give up an entire day at the beach. However...the payoff is big for those of you who enjoy nature. If you would like to read more about the Road to Hana please visit my previous blog http://travelswithmel.blogspot.com/2013/03/maui-day-4-road-to-hana-its-about.html
2. Haleakala Crater: This is a "must see" when you visit Maui. If you do no other day trip....make sure that you take time to visit the crater at sunrise. It is unreal and possibly the most beautiful sunrise that I have ever witnessed. Please visit my previous blog for more information http://travelswithmel.blogspot.com/2013/02/maui-day-3-part-1-sunrise-at-haleakala.html
3. The beach in Paia: This is a great spot to stop and watch the surfers. It's beautiful and entertaining at the same time. Definitely a worthwhile stop to put on you list!
Restaurants
The restaurants on Maui are not nearly as diverse or in as great of quantity as on Oahu. There are restaurants...there are chains and local restaurants...there just aren't as many of them as you will find on Oahu. Lahaina offers the most variety so if you are looking for a nice restaurant or some nightlife you will probably want to check out that area.
Shopping
Again, shopping is an area that Oahu wins hands down. Maui has shopping but not nearly the amount that Oahu offers. There are some high end shops in the Shops at Wailea and also in the Lahaina area. There is a shopping mall near the airport but it's not nearly as nice as anything in Oahu. You can shop....so don't worry about not being able to get your shopping fix....it's just a different experience.
Oahu vs. Maui.......My Thoughts
I have been to Oahu twice. Both times that I was there I enjoyed my time but was ready to head back to the mainland. I have been to Maui once and I didn't want to leave.....in fact the valet had to console me as I was leaving the resort LOL!
If you are looking for action, nightlife, hustle and bustle, and the draw of the big city. Oahu is the place for you. If you are looking for relaxing, beautiful, tropical and what most people think of when they think Hawaii....Maui is your spot. That being said, I think everyone should visit Oahu at least once. It's a great Island and has so much to offer. Once you have done that....head to Maui for a real Hawaiian adventure!
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