A Guide to the Best Things to Do in Hawaii

Hawaii has long been a popular destination for travelers looking for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking natural beauty. From its iconic beaches and lush tropical forests to its vibrant culture, Hawaii has something to offer everyone. With its many islands each providing a unique landscape and experiences, it is no wonder that Hawaii is a favorite destination for visitors from all over the world.

Hawaii is the most remote island chain in the United States, located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. It is made up of eight main islands and several smaller islands, with a total population of just over 1.4 million people. Hawaii has been inhabited for thousands of years and has a rich culture and deep history that are evident in its music, cuisine, and customs.

The Hawaiian Islands are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with white sand, clear blue waters, and abundant marine life. The islands are filled with lush tropical rainforests, countless waterfalls, and towering volcanoes, making them a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors can explore Hawaii’s stunning natural beauty by taking a hike, kayaking in its many rivers, or going on a snorkeling or whale watching tour.

Hawaii is also home to a culture that is both vibrant and unique. Music and hula dance performances are held regularly in many locations around the islands, while local markets offer a variety of handmade items and souvenirs. Visitors can learn about Hawaii’s history and culture at museums and cultural sites throughout the islands.

With so much to do and see, it can be difficult to decide which activities to do during your visit to Hawaii. To help you plan the perfect Hawaiian vacation, here is our guide to the best things to do in Hawaii.

Hike Through Volcanoes National Park

One of the best ways to explore Hawaii’s stunning natural beauty is to take a hike through Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to five active volcanoes – Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea, Kilauea, Hualalai, and Haleakala – as well as a variety of other volcanic features. The park offers numerous trails ranging from easy hikes suitable for all ages to strenuous hikes that require advanced planning.

The most popular trail in the park is the Kilauea Iki Trail, which takes hikers through a lush rainforest and across a still-active crater. Along the way, you can see steam vents and other evidence of past eruptions. At the end of the trail is a stunning view of the crater lake below. Other popular trails in the park include the Halemaumau Trail, where you can see an active lava flow from close up; the Thurston Lava Tube Trail, which takes you through an underground lava tube; and the Chain of Craters Road, where you can drive past several craters.

Visit Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor is one of the most important historical sites in Hawaii, as it was the location of the surprise attack by Japanese forces during World War II. Today, Pearl Harbor is home to three major attractions: the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri Memorial, and the Battleship Missouri Memorial.

The USS Arizona Memorial pays tribute to those who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The memorial consists of a white marble monument that spans over the sunken battleship USS Arizona with an observation platform above it. Visitors can pay their respects to those who died during the attack by walking across the memorial’s white marble bridge.

The USS Missouri Memorial honors those who served aboard this famous battleship during World War II. The memorial includes an indoor museum with interactive displays about the USS Missouri’s history as well as an outdoor observation platform with views of the battleship’s deck and gun turrets.

The Battleship Missouri Memorial offers visitors a chance to explore one of America’s most famous battleships. The tour includes a self-guided audio tour of the ship’s decks and cabins as well as a stop at the ship’s main gun turret.

Explore Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is one of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches, located on the southeastern shore of Oahu. The bay is surrounded by lush green hills and is home to an abundance of marine life, including coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles.

The beach at Hanauma Bay is perfect for snorkeling or simply relaxing on its soft white sand. There are several rental shops at Hanauma Bay that offer snorkel gear and wetsuits for those who want to explore its coral reefs.

Hanauma Bay is also home to a unique educational program called “Touch Tank” that allows visitors to get up close and personal with some of its sea creatures. Visitors can touch or feed starfish and other creatures in shallow water pools that are part of the program.

Take a Helicopter Tour

If you want to see Hawaii from a different perspective, then taking a helicopter tour is an excellent option. Helicopter tours take you above Hawaii’s stunning scenery, from its lush rainforest-covered mountains to its stunning beaches and coastline. On these tours you will get an up close look at some of Hawaii’s most famous landmarks such as Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach.

There are several companies that offer helicopter tours in Hawaii, with different tours ranging from short 15-minute flights to full day excursions that include stops at multiple locations. No matter which tour you choose, you are sure to get some incredible aerial views of Hawaii’s stunning natural beauty.

Take a Whale Watching Tour

Hawaii is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching due to its abundant marine life and crystal clear waters. During whale watching season (typically from December through April) you can see humpback whales migrating through Hawaiian waters from their summer feeding grounds in Alaska.

There are several companies that offer whale watching tours in Hawaii, with some offering both day tours and overnight trips. These tours typically start with a brief safety briefing before heading out into open waters where you can watch these majestic animals swim and dive beneath the surface.

Visit Big Island’s Kona Coast

The Big Island’s Kona Coast is one of Hawaii’s most beautiful areas, with its stunning black sand beaches and crystal clear waters. This area offers some excellent activities for visitors including snorkeling or kayaking along its coastline or visiting its many historic sites such as Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park or Hulihee Palace.

The Kona Coast is also home to some excellent restaurants offering local specialties such as poke bowls or fresh seafood dishes. There are also many shops along the Kona Coast selling handmade souvenirs and jewelry made by local artisans.

Go Surfing at Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is one of Hawaii’s most iconic beaches due to its perfect waves for surfing and its beautiful white sand beaches. The beach is lined with palm trees providing plenty of shade while you enjoy your time in the sun.

There are several surfing schools in Waikiki Beach offering lessons for all skill levels from beginner to advanced. Whether you are just starting out or are an experienced surfer looking for some big waves, Waikiki Beach has something for everyone.

Enjoy Luaus

Luau’s are an essential part of Hawaiian culture, offering visitors an opportunity to experience local music, dance performances, and traditional Hawaiian cuisine such as Kalua pig or poi (a starchy paste made from taro root). Luaus take place both indoors (in hotels or restaurants) or outdoors (in parks or on beaches).

No visit to Hawaii is complete without attending at least one luau! Whether it’s your first time or your tenth time visiting Hawaii, you won’t regret attending a luau where you can experience authentic Hawaiian culture and enjoy delicious traditional food with your friends and family.

Tours

Explore Oahu’s North Shore on a 4×4 Adventure Tour

Exploring Oahu’s North Shore by 4×4 vehicle is an exciting way to discover some of Hawaii’s most stunning landscapes while learning about its history and culture from knowledgeable guides. During this tour you’ll get off-road in 4×4 vehicles and make stops at several popular locations such as Waimea Bay Beach Park and Banzai Pipeline – one of the world’s best surfing spots – as well as lesser-known attractions such as Haleiwa Town’s historic buildings. You’ll also have plenty of time to take photos along the way! This tour also includes lunch at Waiahole Poi Factory – a local favorite – as well as snacks and drinks throughout the tour so you’ll never go hungry! Book an Explore Oahu’s North Shore on a 4×4 Adventure Tour now for an unforgettable experience!

Maui Snorkeling Adventure Cruise

Experience Maui’s undersea world like never before on this snorkeling adventure cruise! During this tour you’ll get off-shore on a boat and explore Maui’s beautiful coral reefs while learning about its marine life from knowledgeable guides. You’ll also have plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling in some of Maui’s best spots such as Molokini Crater and Turtle Town – home to hundreds of green sea turtles! This tour also includes lunch onboard so you won’t have to worry about getting hungry! Book a Maui Snorkeling Adventure Cruise now for an unforgettable experience!