2026 Readers’ Choice Awards: All Islands
Our take
The 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards spotlight the enduring allure of Hawaii's islands, showcasing not just their natural beauty but also the cultural richness that continues to draw travelers from around the world. With Maui earning the title of Best Island, it's no surprise given its stunning beaches and vibrant local culture. However, Kauaʻi's strong showing, particularly with Hanalei recognized as one of the best towns, highlights the island's unique charm and the authentic experiences it offers. These distinctions are not just accolades; they reflect the changing preferences of travelers who seek deeper connections with the places they visit. For those interested in exploring the nuances of these islands, the articles such as 2026 Readers Choice Awards: Maui and 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards: Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi provide a comprehensive look into what makes each destination special.
As we dive deeper into the results, we see that the recognition of specific locations like Lahaina and Hanalei serves to amplify the voices of local communities. These towns are not just picturesque backdrops for vacations; they are vibrant centers of culture and history. Lahaina, with its storied past and dynamic art scene, and Hanalei, known for its lush landscapes and rich traditions, embody that blend of adventure and authenticity that modern travelers crave. The awards affirm a growing trend among tourists who are increasingly prioritizing experiences that resonate with their values, seeking out destinations that celebrate local culture and community connections.
The recognition of beaches like Kāʻanapali and Hanalei Bay underscores another vital aspect of Hawaii's appeal: its natural beauty. Beaches have long been a primary draw for visitors, but the focus now extends beyond mere aesthetics. Travelers seek immersive experiences, whether that’s through kayaking along Hanalei’s stunning coastline or enjoying a sunset at Kāʻanapali. This evolution in mindset encourages sustainable tourism, where visitors are more conscious of their impact and more eager to engage with the natural environment respectfully. The broader implication here is clear: as destinations like Kauaʻi and Maui gain acclaim, they must navigate the balance between welcoming visitors and preserving the integrity of their landscapes and cultures.
Looking ahead, it will be fascinating to observe how these awards influence the tourism landscape in Hawaii. Will we see an increase in sustainable travel initiatives aimed at preserving the charm of these award-winning locations? How will local businesses adapt to an influx of visitors seeking authentic experiences? As travelers continue to prioritize meaningful connections over mere sightseeing, the challenge will be for destinations to maintain their unique identities while accommodating growing interest. The ongoing dialogue around tourism in Hawaii serves as a reminder that every award is not just a celebration but a call to action for preservation, community engagement, and stewardship of the islands' rich heritage.
Best Island
- Maui
- Kauaʻi
- Oʻahu
- Hawaiʻi Island
- Molokaʻi
Best City/Town
- Lahaina, Maui
- Honolulu, Oʻahu
- Hanalei, Kauaʻi
- Kailua-Kona, Hawaiʻi Island
- Hilo, Hawaiʻi Island
Best Beach
- Kāʻanapali Beach, Maui
- Waikīkī Beach, Oʻahu
- Lanikai Beach, Oʻahu
- Hanalei Bay, Kauaʻi
- Poʻipū Beach, Kauaʻi
All Islands Hotel and Resorts
Photo: Getty Images/Steve Heap
Best Hotel
- Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikīkī Beach Resort
- The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay
- Waimea Plantation Cottages
- Grand Hyatt Kauaʻi
- Hyatt Regency Waikīkī Beach Resort & Spa
- Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection
- The Kahala Hotel & Resort
- Halekūlani
- Fairmont Kea Lani
- Fairmont Orchid
All Islands Airlines
Best Airline
- Hawaiian Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
All Islands Activities
Photo: Getty Images/Rebecca Emery
Best Activities/Attractions
- Maui Ocean Center
- Sea Life Park Hawaiʻi
- Roberts Hawaiʻi Tours
- Manta Ray Advocates
- Wai Kai
Best Historic Landmark
- Pacific Historic Parks (USS Arizona Memorial, Pearl Harbor), Oʻahu
- Kealakekua Bay Historical Park, Hawaiʻi Island
- ʻIolani Palace, Oʻahu
- Huliheʻe Palace, Hawaiʻi Island
- Bishop Museum, Oʻahu
Best National Park
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Hawaiʻi Island
- Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Oʻahu
- Haleakalā National Park, Maui
- Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Molokaʻi
- Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, Hawaiʻi Island
Best State Park
- Diamond Head State Monument, Oʻahu
- Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kauaʻi
- Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauaʻi
- ʻAkaka Falls State Park, Hawaiʻi Island
- Hāʻena State Park, Kauaʻi
All Islands Food and Drink
Photo: Sarah Burchard
Best New Restaurant
- Koast, Maui
- Mura Izakaya, Kauaʻi
- The Walua Social Club, Hawaiʻi Island
- Tonkatsu Kuro, Oʻahu
- Faria, Oʻahu
Best Restaurant
- Mama’s Fish House, Maui
- Duke’s, Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi
- Monkeypod Kitchen, Oʻahu, Maui
- Merriman’s Hawaiʻi, Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi Island
- The Pig and The Lady, Oʻahu
Best Bar or Lounge
- Duke’s, Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi
- Monkeypod Kitchen, Oʻahu, Maui
- Lava Lava Beach Club, Kauaʻi
- Tikehau Lounge, Maui
- House Without a Key, Oʻahu
Best Mai Tai
- Monkeypod Kitchen, Oʻahu, Maui
- Duke’s, Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi
- Mai Tai Bar, Oʻahu
- Mama’s Fish House, Maui
- Tahiti Nui, Kauaʻi
Best Local Beer
- Kona Brewing Co.
- Maui Brewing Co.
- Kauaʻi Island Brewing
- Waikīkī Brewing Co.
- Big Island Brewhaus
Best Local Spirit or Wine
- Kōloa Rum
- Ocean Vodka
- MauiWine
- Kō Hana Rum
- Waikulu Distillery
Best Local Non-Alcoholic Beverage
- Hawaiian Sun
- Kauaʻi Juice Co.
- Hawaiian Soda Co.
- Lanikai Juice
- Hobbs Tea
Best Malasada
- Leonard’s Bakery, Oʻahu
- Kauaʻi Bakery, Kauaʻi
- Punaluʻu Bake Shop, Hawaiʻi Island
- T. Komoda Store & Bakery, Maui
- Pipeline Bake Shop & Creamery, Oʻahu
Best Loco Moco
- Zippy’s, Oʻahu, Maui, Hawaiʻi Island
- Rainbow Drive-In, Oʻahu
- Koko Head Café, Oʻahu
- Hawaiian Style Café, Hawaiʻi Island
- Café 100, Hawaiʻi Island
Best Coffee Grower
- Kauaʻi Coffee, Kauaʻi
- Big Island Coffee Roasters, Hawaiʻi Island
- Hula Daddy Kona Coffee, Hawaiʻi Island
- Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation, Hawaiʻi Island
- Greenwell Farms, Hawaiʻi Island
All Islands Shopping
Best Aloha Wear
- Hilo Hattie
- Lahaʻole Designs
- Kāhala
- Reyn Spooner
- Manaola
- Lexbreezy
- Manuhealiʻi
- Kealopiko
- Sig Zane Designs
- Fighting Eel
Best Jewelry
- Maui Divers Jewelry
- Na Hoku
- Honolulu Jewelry Co.
- Paradise Collection
- Denny Wong Designs
Best Swimwear
- Tommy Bahama
- Pualani Hawai‘i
- Pakaloha Bikinis
- Reyn Spooner
- Acacia Swimwear
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