Ultimately, it depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a comfortable and versatile vehicle that can just take you around the roads of the island, an SUV may be the best choice. If you're an experienced off-road driver looking for a more challenging adventure, a 4WD may be the way to go.
Do I need AWD in Hawaii?
There is plenty to do on the island that does not require a 4×4. Unless you have specific plans to go to the top of Mauna Kea (and since you will already be on a guided tour of Waipio), you likely will not need a 4×4.
Can you drive on the beach without 4 wheel drive?
Although you can take your car right onto hard-packed sand, having a 4WD capable vehicle will only make things easier. 4WD makes it easier for you to drive on sections of the beach that aren't wet or packed down since you have power to all four wheels instead of just two.
Do you need a 4 wheel drive for Kauai?
Is AWD really required?
It depends. If you live somewhere where there is a lot of snow, mud, or other precipitation, then yes, you should get an AWD vehicle. However, if you have a FWD vehicle with the proper tires and mainly do city and highway driving, then you'll most likely be just fine.
Can a 2WD truck go on the beach?
For soft flat sand, you'll probably need to let out air (each vehicle and tire combination is different). As far as dune rolling, you CAN make it with 2wd though you will need to be really careful and even then you MUST be able to enlist the help of other people when you get stuck.
Can a 2WD truck drive on the beach?
The best sand vehicles are 2WD. Anywhere that you're gonna get stuck, 4 and 2 wheel drive will both get stuck. The 4WD will dig four holes, the 2WD will only dig two holes. Other than that, the the 4WD just has extra weight.
Is Waimea Canyon a hard hike?
The Black Pipe Trail is a pretty strenuous hike in places but experienced trekkers with good hiking shoes can get to two waterfalls and back in about two hours. The return trip is hardest, as it is uphill most of the way with a few surprisingly muddy sections depending on the rains.