What are the Best Tourist Destinations in Hawaii?

Hawaii is an incredible paradise of sun, sand, and surf, offering an array of stunning landscapes along with a variety of exciting activities perfect for enjoying your vacation in paradise. With so much to do and explore it can be tough to decide where you should visit. So if you’re wondering what to do in Hawaii, read on! Here are the best tourist destinations in Hawaii that are a must-visit on your vacation.

1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of Hawaii’s most popular tourist attractions. It is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, which makes it a truly unique experience. The park is over 300,000 acres and offers an array of activities such as hiking, birdwatching, camping, horseback riding and more. While the volcanoes are an amazing sight to experience, other attractions include the Thurston Lava Tube, which is a cave created by molten lava; the Jagger Museum, which provides insight into the history of the park; and the Kilauea Iki Trail, which is a 4-mile round-trip hike through a lush rainforest up to a crater lake.

2. Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in Hawaii, and for good reason! It’s a great place to enjoy the sun and surf of the Pacific Ocean. Waikiki Beach is also home to a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. At night, Waikiki comes alive with its many bars and clubs, making it a great place for some nightlife. Also, there are plenty of things to do on Waikiki, such as parasailing and SUP surfing in the summer or just having a relaxing day at the beach.

3. Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the most popular attractions in Hawaii, offering visitors an immersive experience into Polynesian culture. The center is divided into different “islands” that each feature a different Polynesian culture such as Samoa, Tonga and Tahiti. There are interactive exhibits and performances throughout the day that provide insight into the lifestyles of each island. There’s also plenty of entertainment such as luau dinner shows, canoe rides, and even a Hawaiian-style spa.

4. Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is one of the most popular snorkeling spots in Hawaii and boasts an abundance of colorful marine life that can be viewed just below the surface. It’s a great place to learn how to snorkel and observe some of the sea creatures living there, such as green sea turtles, parrotfish and more. There are also plenty of activities that you can do onshore including sunbathing and cycling around the loop road connecting various beach access points.

5. Road to Hana

The Road to Hana is an iconic destination in Hawaii that offers travelers breathtaking views around every bend and turn of its winding road. It’s a great way to explore the island and experience its stunning landscape firsthand. Along the way, there are plenty of attractions such as waterfalls, beaches, and parks that can be explored. There’s also an abundance of local food stands with delicious flavor combinations that can’t be found anywhere else.

These are just a few of the many incredible destinations in Hawaii that you should visit on your next trip there. Visiting these places will give you a unique glimpse into Hawaii’s culture and lifestyle and truly give you an unforgettable experience. To find out more about what attractions Hawaii has to offer visit GoHawaii.com.

Insider’s Guide to the Best Tourist Attractions in Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu is the capital city of Hawaii, located on the southern shore of Oahu island. With its stunning beaches, beautiful parks, cultural experiences, and mouthwatering cuisine, this city offers a paradisiacal retreat. Here is an insider’s guide to help tourists explore Honolulu and its surrounding areas to the fullest.

Attractions

Honolulu has a plethora of attractions for tourists that cater to different interests. One must-see attraction in Honolulu is the famous Pearl Harbor National Monument, which includes the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri Memorial. Another attraction is the Honolulu Zoo, home to several exotic animals such as tigers, lemurs, and elephants. Honolulu also has a fantastic aquarium, the Waikiki Aquarium, featuring over 500 species of aquatic animals, including the Hawaiian green sea turtle. Nature lovers can explore the Diamond Head State Monument, the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, and the lush Manoa Falls hiking trails. Those interested in art can visit the Honolulu Museum of Art or the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States.

Cuisine

The food in Honolulu is a fusion of Asian, Pacific, and American cuisine. The city has several dining spots that offer delicious seafood, poke bowls, and other local delicacies. One of the best-rated restaurants is Alan Wong’s Restaurant, serving contemporary Hawaii Regional Cuisine. Another well-known spot is Duke’s Waikiki, which offers oceanfront views along with a mix of American and Hawaiian cuisine. If you’re in search of traditional Hawaiian dishes, visit Helena’s Hawaiian Food, where you can try the popular Kalua Pig, a traditional Hawaiian roasted pork dish.

Culture

Honolulu has a rich cultural history that dates back to the ancient Hawaiian civilization. Tourists can experience the rich tradition and culture of Hawaii through its music, dance, and festivals. The Polynesian Cultural Center is a hub of Hawaiian cultural heritage, featuring cultural performances, traditional crafts, and traditional village settings. The Kawaiahao Church is another cultural landmark and holds a lot of Hawaiian history. Tourists must attend the annual Aloha Festivals, which showcase Hawaiian music, dance, and art.

History

Honolulu has undergone several transformations throughout its history. One of the best places to experience the city’s history is the Bishop Museum, which houses Hawaii’s largest collection of cultural and natural history artifacts. Tourists can also visit the Iolani Palace, which was the residence of Hawaiian monarchs until 1893. The palace has a lot of historical significance and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Off-the-beaten-path Recommendations

For tourists looking for less crowded attractions, there are several off-the-beaten-path recommendations in Honolulu. The Lanikai Beach is one such location; it is located on Oahu’s windward coast and has crystal clear water, making it perfect for snorkeling. The Tantalus lookout is another popular spot that offers breathtaking views of the city of Honolulu. Another recommendation is the Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, which showcases Islamic art and culture in a stunning Oahu estate.

Honolulu is a paradise for tourists who want to explore the rich cultural history and natural beauty of Hawaii. With its attractions, cuisine, and cultural experiences, Honolulu promises to be a memorable destination for anyone who visits.