Thinking about sun and sands, ocean and rain, summer vibes and winter chills? Hawaii has all these to offer you!
With so many tropical places now easily accessible, Hawaii is not so much on the trending places list of many travelers. But, having stayed in Hawaii for years and traveled to different parts of the world, I can safely say that Hawaii is a haven for those looking for peace in their lives.
From beaches to museums, trekking trails to a helicopter ride, you’ll find every possible thing here to explore the island of Hawaii.
If you are looking for a place to visit, I strongly suggest you visit Hawaii. And, if you’ve already made your plan to visit Hawaii, we’re sharing with you a list of activities and places that will help you discover a different part of Hawaii more deeply.
What’s So Special About Hawaii?
Hawaii is known as “The Gathering Place,” as you’ll find people from all cultures and races here, enjoying their wonderful life. It is also a place where many people from around the world come here to spend their time with their loved ones.
You won’t find any other state in the United States that offers a single destination, where you’ll witness the union of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm-hearted hospitality.
Each island here, has its own treasure, from lively city life and these fabulous, world-famous beaches of Oahu, to the lovely lush landscapes and scenic drives of Maui.
The islands have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, powder-soft sand and crystal-clear water for surfing, snorkeling, or simply lying around. They cover various types of landscapes-from volcanic craters and tropical rainforests to quiet valleys and thundering waterfalls: a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Beyond its landscapes, Hawaii also encompasses a rich cultural heritage-fusing native Hawaiian traditions with the influence of Asia, Polynesia, and the mainland.
It is here that its music, dance, food, and festivals celebrate such a culinary mixture. Local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, fruits, and tropical flavor, is, of course, a treat to the senses.
What sets Hawaii really apart is the Aloha spirit, that sense of warmth, respect, and hospitality. The local people make visitors feel welcome; it’s not just somewhere to visit but somewhere to experience, on a different level altogether.
Hawaii’s beauty and spirit are really a unique treasure that lingers long after you leave!
Best Things To Do In Hawaii
Hawaii, indeed is a euphoric island destination with paradise like scenery, diverse culture, and limitless scope for adventure. You may want to nap away the hours on perfect beaches, wander through green jungles, or plunge headlong into the heritage of Hawaii- whatever you like, you just might find it here. Here are top 15 of the best activities in Hawaii we would like to recommend and you would love to do:
#1 – Snorkeling
If you’re looking for some water adventures, snorkeling is hands-down the best thing to do in Hawaii! The stunning Hawaiian islands have lots of opportunities to offer you if you’re planning a trip to Hawaii.
You just have to book a snorkel tour, and in no time you’ll be all ready to explore the underwater marine life. As you advance on this adventure, you’ll learn a lot about the underwater wonders from the professional guide while being safe and getting great expert advice and guidance.
Just imagine yourself swimming alongside Hawaiian green sea turtles in their natural habitat, spotting colorful tropical fish, and marveling at vibrant coral reefs.
If you time it right, you might even catch Spinner Dolphins playfully leaping across the waves. And if you’re lucky enough to visit during the winter, you can witness majestic North Pacific Humpback Whales during their migration.
No matter which island you’re on, there are tons of snorkel tours and ocean activity companies ready to make your adventure unforgettable.
Best Places to Snorkel in Hawaii
- Molokini Crater in Maui’s south shore to witness 250+ fish species.
- Turtle Town to swim with the majestic Hawaiian green sea turtles.
- Coral Gardens to see a wide variety of coral species and tropical fishes.
- Honolua Bay, where you’ll see many tropical fishes and might even spot dolphins.
- Shark’s Cove, where you’ll witness octopuses and many unique local fishes.
#2 – Exploring Beaches
Hawaii is all about beaches and is best known for it. If you’re in Hawaii, beach hopping is a must for me, and if you’re coming here, it’s one of the things you should definitely do.
I mean, who doesn’t dream about soaking up Hawaiian sunshine and coming back home with that golden tan and blissed-out vacation vibe?
Since my stay here, I have made it a point to visit as many beaches as I can. Some beaches that are my personal favorites are Kailua Beach or Hanauma Bay on Oahu. These two beaches are great for easy swimming, snorkeling, and building sandcastles.
Waikiki Beach is a great option if you want to mingle with many people. Waikiki Beach is a hotspot for many on the island. Many events are held here in the evening which you can join if you’re up for some excitement. This is also a great spot for people to see the Friday Fireworks show.
If you’re looking for a more adventurous vibe, hit the Ka’anapali beaches on Maui for stand-up paddleboarding and some rock jumping. And if you’ve ever wanted to swim with dolphins or manta rays, Big Island’s Kona beaches are where it’s at.
One of my favorite things was just cruising around and discovering beaches along the way. Every spot had its own unique charm, and the journey itself was full of stunning views.
#3 – Cultural Experience
Hawaii is also known for its cultural experiences. How much ever you try to know about its culture from the locals, there are some things that you’ll definitely miss out on.
Since Hawaii came into being, it has gone through profound changes, from its early days to colonization and beyond. But whatever changes it has undergone, the people of Hawaii have still rooted themselves in their original culture and traditions.
To experience the native Hawaiian culture and Polynesian traditions deeply try attending events that bring you face to face with the unique traditions of Hawaii.
When planning a trip to Hawaii, dive into Hawaii’s culture with respect and curiosity. Watching hula performances, enjoying a traditional luau, and even indulging in a Lomi Lomi massage will give you a deeper connection to the island’s roots. It’s a beautiful way to learn about traditions that should always be cherished.
Here are some highlights from my visit:
Oahu: The Polynesian Cultural Center is a must-see, offering engaging shows, presentations, and hands-on activities about Hawaiian culture.
Kauai: The Grove Farm Museum and Waioli Mission House in Hanalei were fantastic for diving into the island’s history. I also recommend looking up Kauai’s annual festivals—they’re a great way to immerse yourself in the community.
Big Island: I was lucky to catch the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival, an annual celebration of Hawaiian dance and culture. I also explored Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, where I learned about the lives of early Hawaiians.
Maui: I spent an unforgettable evening at the Feast at Lele—a mix of delicious food, a luau, and a cultural show that was both fun and educational.
Hawaiian culture is alive and vibrant, and I left feeling more connected and inspired than ever. It’s an experience I’ll always treasure!
#4 – Sightseeing
Hawaii is packed with endless sightseeing adventures—you’ll never run out of things to explore!
From the moment you arrive, you’ll be completely swept away by the breathtaking beauty of the islands. Think of dramatic mountain ranges, sparkling turquoise, and deep azure oceans, lush tropical valleys, and jaw-dropping natural wonders everywhere you look.
Since Hawaii is made up of 5 major islands, each one has its own magic and a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
Sightseeing in Hawaii is not just about going to the famous places that well well-discovered by many, but, it’s about discovering new places and hidden gems that tell the story of Hawaii and make it an adventure for you too!
Some places I would like to recommend are:
Oahu: This is one of the first islands people love to spend their time. Some places that are best for sightseeing. Some historic sites you can visit are Diamond Head Crater, Pearl Harbor, and the USS Arizona Memorial where you’ll come to know about the incidents of the Second World War that took place. There are museums too to learn about the cultural history of the island such as Iolani Palace and Bishop Museum.
Maui: Don’t miss the iconic Road to Hana along Maui’s North Shore. On the Hana highway, you’ll see some of Hawaii’s untouched beauty, swim in waterfalls, visit a black sand beach, and experience the Seven Sacred Pools of Oheo Gulch. Try the food along the way that’s truly unbeatable!
Big Island: Check out Hilo Town, Kona, Akaka Falls, and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Also, learn about the island’s incredible active volcanoes like Hualalai, Mauna Loa, Kilauea, and Kama’ehuakanaloa.
Kauai: This island is pure magic. With the stunning Na Pali Coastline, Hanalei, Poipu, Waimea Valley, and Kokee State Park, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.
Lana’i: Make sure to visit Puu Pehe, Keahiakawelo, and Munro Trail for a look at the island’s secluded, peaceful beauty. And on Moloka’i, you can explore Kalaupapa by horseback, Halawa Valley, and the island’s historic fishponds.
#5 – Whale Watching
Want a completely out-of-the-world experience? Then book a whale-watching tour to your bucket list. The Hawaiian waters are the perfect location to see the giant whales swimming in the vast Pacific Ocean.
Every winter, thousands of North Pacific Humpback Whales embark on an epic 3,000-mile journey from Alaska to Hawaii. Hawaii’s waters are calm, which attracts these beasts to swim here and give birth and care for their calves—a sight that’s as heartwarming as it is awe-inspiring.
It’s truly one of the most memorable Pacific Island adventures. Witnessing North Pacific Humpback Whales in their annual migration is like sitting in the front row at nature’s wonder show.
The peak months for whale season are from mid-fall until April, and the high season is during January, February, and March. So, plan your visit and catch this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
#6 – Helicopter Tour
Trust me, Hawaii is best seen when you fly above the island and see its beauty. This is why, Hawaii has many helicopter tours to offer you and I would highly recommend you add this to your list.
There are many reputed tour companies across the islands, that will help you get the best aerial view and experience of Hawaii through their guided tours.
Just imagine yourself soaring over hidden valleys, waterfalls, and breathtaking coastlines—at this time, you’ll be exploring Hawaii like never before!
If you ask me, Big Island’s helicopter tours were one of the best tours I’ve ever experienced. You’ll get an exceptional view of the active volcanoes here, watch the red lava flowing, and see the steam vents in action. And not to forget, the beautiful beaches and the green landscape you’ll get to witness during the ride.
There are other islands too, which will give you a completely different view of Hawaii. These are:
Maui: Witness the blue sky, secluded beaches, volcano craters, rugged coastlines, and the green lush valleys.
Kauai: On this tour, you’ll get to fly over the beautiful Napali Coastline, see the hidden waterfalls, and witness the island’s incredible topography from above. It’s an experience that will make you fall even more in love with Hawaii.
Oahu: Finally, the heart of Oahu! Here you’ll fly above the famous Waikiki Beach, beautiful waterfalls, green forests, popular spots like the Diamond Head Crater, Dole Plantation, and much more.
These tours are perfect a perfect way to celebrate your special day, or just engage in an epic vacation adventure. They offer one of the most unique ways to sightsee Hawaii and see the islands from an entirely different angle!
#7 – Surfing
Surfing has such a deep-rooted history in Hawaii. The initial written account goes way back to 1779 when Lieutenant James King described the native Hawaiians making motions of riding waves at Kealakekua Bay.
At that period, he’e nalu (Hawaiian words for surfing) was not solely surf but an aspect of spiritual practice through which Hawaiians related to their gods.
In ancient times, only Hawaiian royalty could surf; thus it was called the “Sport of Kings.” Today, surfing has become an international event, but Hawaii is the ultimate destination to surf.
Even now when I visit the surfing spots, I can easily understand why Hawaii has become a dream destination for many surfers.
Some best spots you can try out for surfing are:
Oahu: The North Shore of Oahu is a hotspot for professional surfers to surf their hearts out on spots like Banzai Pipeline, Waimea Bay, and Makaha Beach. If you’re a beginner, South Oahu has more laid-back spots like Waikiki Beach, Ala Moana Bowls, and Castles.
Maui: Maui too has popular surfing spots, the East and West Shores are a paradise for surfers. Don’t forget to visit Ho’okipa Beach Park, Jaws, and Honolua Bay for some excitement.
So, whether you’re out there riding the waves or just soaking in the energy, surfing in Hawaii is something special.
#8 – Hiking
Would you like to get on a Hawaiian expedition on foot? If yes, then a hiking tour will give you the best experience on your Hawaiian vacation.
Each island in Hawaii offers a unique blend of hiking trails, from quick and easy walks to epic multi-day adventures.
I have listed the places where you can head for a great hiking adventure:
Maui: When you’re in Maui, you can start your day by heading to Haleakala National Park, where you can hike the otherworldly landscapes of the Haleakala Crater. If you want a greener view while walking, go to Hana and hike through the enchanting bamboo forest to a stunning waterfall.
Big Island: For a unique hiking experience, the Big Island has over 250 miles of trails. These trails let you witness the volcanic landscapes, lava tubes, and black sand beaches. When you’re here, don’t forget to visit the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Here, you can explore active volcanic terrain and feel the pulse of the island’s fiery core. There are several coastal trails as well of which I best like the Pololu Valley provides a mix of lush forests and dramatic ocean views.
Oahu: If you love hiking, you’re sure to love Oahu’s hiking trails. It’s truly a hiker’s paradise where you’ll climb the iconic Stairway to Heaven (Haiku Stairs) which is known for its heart-pumping climb and breathtaking views. Want an easier option? Check out the Diamond Head Summit Trail. This trail will treat you with panoramic views of Waikiki or the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail.
Kaua’i: Another great spot where you can enjoy hiking is Kaua’i. This island is also known as the ultimate hiker’s paradise. Here, you’ll be blown away with trails like the legendary Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast where you’ll see jaw-dropping views of rugged cliffs and turquoise waters. Want the adventure to be a bit easier and shorter, head to the westside for the Kukui Trail, which descends into Waimea Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”
With so many incredible options, it’s time to lace up your boots, pack some water and snacks, and get ready to create unforgettable memories on Hawaii’s trails. Adventure is calling—go answer it!
#9 – Submarine Tours On The Big Island and Oahu
Submarine tours are a great way to explore the most unexplored part of Hawaii—the underwater life of the Pacific Ocean.
On a submarine tour, you’ll be taken deep inside the bottom of the ocean where you can discover some of the most unique things about Hawaii. The underwater is not just about the beautiful coral reefs, tropical fishes, or the vast marine life, but it’s more than that.
I took one of the submarine tours on the Big Island, and the experience that I received is beyond words. I went with the least expectation thinking that I’d witness the usual underwater life. But man, I was wrong!
Starting the tour, I saw the usual fishes and other water creatures, but as we dived deeper, I saw the ruins of ships from shipwrecks, island treasures, and other treasures that were scattered all around the depts of water.
If you don’t have the time to travel all the way to the Big Island, book a submarine tour on Oahu. The tour gives you a similar experience where you’ll see sunken ships, years-old coral reef formations, unique fishes, and other marine life.
This activity is one of the best experiences you can invest in. Trust me, this is an experience that you’ll remember and cherish for a lifetime!
#10 – Water Sports
Looking for some fun stuff to indulge in? Try out some water sports to make your day even more fun and exciting!
As Hawaii residents, we can actually vouch for the water sports here and I can say that they are the best in Hawaii. Water activities in Hawaii are not just limited to snorkeling and surfing, there’s much more you can even think of.
The top five water sports that I personally enjoy and that are safe for everyone are:
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP): SUP is something you’ve just got to try if you are in Hawaii as it is quickly gaining popularity as a great ocean adventure everywhere in the world! The best part about this fun water sport is that it is very beginner-friendly. Also, while doing this activity you’ll have a full-body workout that doesn’t even feel like exercise because you’re having so much fun!
Parasailing: Parasailing over the clear waters of Hawaii was an unforgettable experience for me! The scenery was breathtaking; mountains kissed with green shadows, beaches tinged with gold, and nary a land mass in sight into eternity. That wind-in-the-face feeling and the thrill of flight felt almost magical. This is an adventure to be experienced in Hawaii, for sure!
Kayaking: Kayaking in Hawaii is truly a calming feeling you’ll experience. You’ll be gliding on the turquoise water while paddling through colorful marine life and unexplored hidden coves. With the steady rhythm of the paddle, you can take in the views of the majestic cliffs which are indeed breathtaking.
Jet Skiing: Jet skiing was a thrilling experience for me. As I rode the jet, I felt as if I was racing across the clear blue ocean and leaping over the waves. The tropical scenery was very beautiful. This is an experience to really experience the beauty of Hawaii.
Windsurfing: Windsurfing was a great deal for the Hawaiian natives back in the 1980s. While now, you don’t see much of it, if you know the right spots to do it, you’ll definitely enjoy doing the activity. This sport is seriously a thrill, a workout, and a connection to Hawaii’s ocean spirit all in one!
#11 – Friday Night Fireworks & Sunset Dinner Cruise & Show On Oahu
Whether you are looking for a private catamaran ride or a luxurious dinner cruise, a lively sail with music and cocktails, there is a perfect sunset cruise waiting for you and your crew.
While you can find many sunset cruises all over the island, this cruise tour on Oahu will give you the best experience to remember for anyone.
On this sunset cruise tour on Oahu, you’ll get to experience a magical sunset along with the best-served Hawaiian dishes. As you sip on your cocktail, watch the sun set down and disappear into the Pacific Ocean.
From passing the historical sites like the Diamond Head, the City of Honolulu, and Waikiki and watching live entertainment right on the cruise, you’ll experience almost everything on a single ride. If you are lucky enough to book this tour on a Friday, you’ll also get a chance to experience the beautiful fireworks in the sky.
It’s more than a boat ride; it’s an experience for a lifetime. This cruise ride is great for couples, families, or even just having that moment of Zen time to yourself. A sunset cruise in Hawaii is surely one of those memories to treasure long after you have returned to shore.
#12 – Doing Local Farm Tours
While the many Hawaii tours bring you close to nature through adventurous activities, why not experience the same with some relaxation?
A farm tour is the best way to connect with nature while also knowing about the plantations from the locals. Hawaii has local farms that are much more than just places for crops to grow. They are full of culture, history, and unique experiences. Some even host outdoor movie nights! You never know what you might find.
If you’re in Oahu, do visit the Kualoa Ranch (after which you can head to see the location where the Jurassic Park movie was shot), Dole Pineapple Plantation, Waialua Estate Coffee Farm, and the Macadamia Nut Farm Outlet.
When in Kaui visit Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, Surfing Goat Dairy, and Maui Dragon Fruit Farm where you’ll learn about lavender cultivation, how to grow dragon fruit, and even sample it and connect with goats while milking and preparing various dairy products.
While there are many more farms that’ll let you experience the authenticity of the crops and give you more knowledge, the ones mentioned above are the ones that I would highly recommend you visit at least once. Whether it’s coffee, chocolate, fruits, or flowers, Hawaii’s farms showcase the diversity and richness of the islands.
#13 – Visiting Farmers Markets
During my time in Hawaii, I embraced the local culture by visiting the vibrant farmers’ markets on each island.
The lush islands of Hawaii boast beautiful weekly farmers’ markets, where on each market day you will find local farmers at stalls, offering a bounty of fresh produce, tropical fruits, seafood, free-range meats, and much more. Perhaps a little taste of the new organic honey, coffee, and exotic spices will not harm you!
These markets keep Hawaii’s sustainable scene buzzing while offering an assortment of snacks, baked goods, juices, tropical flowers, and local arts and crafts.
My two favorites during my time were the Kailua Farmers Market in Oahu with fresh squeezed lemonade, and artisan local meals & the Upcountry Farmers Marking on Maui with more incredible exotic fruits, locally made products, and of course homemade treats.
If you want to experience the real deal, visiting these markets is a must-do. It is a fun way to experiment, while still supporting the sustainable community.
#14 – Try Local Foods
In Hawaii, the best experience is enjoyed when enjoying their wide variety of local delicious food, especially their local meals.
Whether it’s plate lunches or fresh seafood, there are constantly new flavors to enjoy. My personal fav is definitely poke (freshly caught fish seasoned and often served on a bed of rice or seaweed).
Of course, I also love to savor the unique flavors of traditional Hawaiian dishes like laulau, kalua pig, and poi—which are a window into its past and also extremely yummy.
The best places you can taste some of the best Hawaiian dishes are:
Kono’s (Oahu) – If you need a good hearty breakfast or lunch, Kono’s is a favorite for delicious pork sandwiches and breakfast burritos, perfect after a morning surf session.
Mama’s Fish House (Maui) – This is situated right on the beach (Kuau Cove), and is a must-visit for fresh seafood lovers. They specialize in locally caught fish and offer a great variety of seafood dishes in a laid-back, island-style atmosphere.
Haleiwa Joe’s (Oahu) – This eatery is located in the scenic town of Haleiwa on the North Shore and serves up fresh seafood with beautiful views of the coastline. Their “prime rib” and seafood specials are definitely worth trying!
Da Kitchen (Kailua-Kona, Big Island) – Da Kitchen is a favorite for locals as it offers large portions of traditional Hawaiian plates like loco moco, kalua pig, and spam musubi at great prices.
Matsumoto Shave Ice (Oahu) – Give a sweet ending to your meal by tasting some of the best shave ice at Matsumoto Shave Ice in Oahu, located in Haleiwa on the North Shore. They’ve been serving up sweet, refreshing treats since 1951, and you can customize your shaved ice with an array of flavors, toppings, and even ice cream at the bottom.
#15 – Shopping
Shopping in Hawaii is so underrated, but I always try to check out the neighborhood shops. From beautiful boutiques to high-end malls, there is sure to be something for every sort of shopper.
I love walking through the outdoor markets, such as the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace, where I can find authentic souvenirs, jewelry made on the premises, and local crafts all at affordable rates.
I also like to shop through upscale shopping malls like the Ala Moana Center as they offer local Hawaiian pieces to designer brand names which together blend fine luxury with great island- fashion.
If you want a relaxing experience, I visit the local shops on Maui found in Lahaina. Artwork, surfing equipment, and even island-inspired clothes sell well here.
The best thing about shopping here is that often, these are local productions. We can find the finest and most unique koa wood things, Hawaiian quilts, and fresh, tropical products. It is a piece of the islands for me, whether it’s a lei made by hand or a jar of the finest local jam.
Final Thoughts
Hawaii offers unlimited unforgettable experiences, from exploring its beautiful beaches to discovering the rich culture and history of the islands. For instance, a helicopter tour provides a view of Hawaii’s beautiful landscape, while cultural activities such as luaus deepen your knowledge of the islands. Regardless of your interests, Hawaii guarantees an experience you will never forget. Ready to book any Hawaii tours? Call us to book one today!
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Hawaii?
While Hawaii is a year-round vacation destination with pleasant weather, there are, however, some months that are best for visiting Hawaii. The peak seasons are from December–March and June–August. On the other hand, shoulder seasons from April–June and September–November offer fewer crowds and better deals.
Are there any family-friendly activities?
Absolutely! Hawaii offers a variety of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages. Families can visit the Honolulu Zoo or the Waikiki Aquarium for an educational and fun experience with wildlife. You can also attend a luau that provides a chance to enjoy traditional Hawaiian food and cultural performances. For marine life enthusiasts, the Maui Ocean Center offers an incredible opportunity to explore the island’s vibrant underwater world. You, with your families, can also relax at beaches like Poipu Beach on Kauai, known for its calm waters, or embark on a submarine tour to see Hawaii’s diverse sea life up close.
What is the best way to get around Hawaii?
Getting around Hawaii depends on which island you’re visiting. Renting a car is highly recommended for most islands, as public transportation options are limited, and many of the best sights are spread out. In Oahu, Honolulu has a good bus system, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available. For those visiting Maui, the Big Island, or Kauai, having your own vehicle allows you to explore remote areas and scenic drives at your own pace. There are also ferries available between certain islands, such as between Maui and Lanai.