What are the top 10 Tourist Attractions in Hawaii?

When people think of Hawaii, their minds usually drift either to incredible beaches and surfing, or the natural beauty of the islands that dot the Pacific Ocean. The 50th American state is truly a piece of paradise and offers a variety of wonderful tourist attractions that are sure to make for unforgettable memories. From luaus to volcanoes, here are the best attractions Hawaii has to offer.

1. Waikiki Beach

On the southern shore of the island of Oahu, Waikiki Beach is among the most famous beaches in all of Hawaii. The beach is packed with a wide variety of activities and entertainment that visitors can enjoy, including surfing, relaxing in the sun, or shopping and dining at some of the world’s top destination spots. Waikiki Beach also sits at the base of one of Hawaii’s most popular hikes – Diamond Head.

2. Kilauea Volcano

Kilauea Volcano on the island of Hawaii is one of the most active volcanoes on Earth. Whether you choose to take a helicopter tour over the volcano, visit the observatory for a firsthand look, or stay up late to count stars from the viewing platform, your visit will be sure to be ever unforgettably rich in natural splendor.

3. Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is located on the Big Island and showcases two of its live volcanoes; Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Its grounds span an area of more than 333,000 acres of lush rainforest and sharp craters that create an otherworldly scenery unlike anything else seen on Earth. Those looking to explore deeper can take a look inside Halemaumau crater or hike the many trails throughout the park.

4. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

One of Hawaii’s most beloved nature preserves, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is just southeast of Honolulu and is renowned for being one of the best places in the state to do some snorkeling. Nearly all of the species inside the bay are native to Hawaii and visitors can look forward to seeing sea turtles, parrotfish, and much more.

5. Waimea Canyon

Also called the “Grand Canyon of Hawaii”, Waimea Canyon is located on the western end of the island of Kaua’i. The views from the canyon are incomparable and exploring its depths provide a better understanding of one of Mother Nature’s grandest creations. For those looking for a longer venture, Waimea Canyon offers a variety of trails that can easily be walked in a single day.

6. Lahaina, Maui

The heart and soul of Maui, Lahaina is an old whaling village with an abundance of personality and color that makes it worth visiting once or twice during any Hawaiian escape. Visitors can enjoy a plethora of activities, ranging from sandy beaches to Snorkeling or simply take a stroll to some of the local galleries and shops.

7. Haleakala National Park

Famed for its sunrises that are said to be some of the best in all of Hawaii, Haleakala National Park is located at over 10,000 feet above sea level and is the perfect place for hikers, campers, and birdwatchers alike. Stunning vistas are scattered throughout the park, making it ideal for taking memorable photographs. A must during any Hawaiian occasion.

8. Honolua Bay

Honolua Bay comes alive during the winter months when large excellent waves break ashore, making it an unbeatable spot for those looking to do some surfing or take in some breathtaking scenery. Honolua Bay is also home to an abundance of coral reefs and what used to be an old pineapple plantation hillside which makes it a historically and environmentally interesting spot as well.

9. Manawaiopuna Falls

Many know Manawaiopuna Falls from its feature in several movies like Jurassic Park but this waterfall remains one of nature’s great gems in spite of its celebrity status. Its 400-foot drop rumbles through Kauai’s verdant greenery that surrounds the falls and creates an unforgettable experience for those looking for some monumental sights and sounds during their visit.

10. Hilo

The city of Hilo is located on the eastern side of Hawaii’s Big Island and offers a mix between bustling streets and natural vistas, as seen alongside Rainbow Falls or Coconut Island – both must-visits during daytime hours in Hilo. You can easily spend multiple days exploring its markets or historical sites like Lyman Museum or Mokupapapa Discovery Center, just a few examples that show why this place is simply majestic yet tranquil in its own kind of way.

When it comes to touristic attractions, Hawaii ranks quite high in the selection – each island alone providing unique natural sights like its many volcanoes or beaches along with historical sites that show why this is such an important part of American history. Each set of attractions brings something new to newcomers or veterans alike and shows why so many people fondly visit these lovely pacific islands with each passing year.