Many people incorrectly assume all Hawaiian Islands are similar, yet each has its own special qualities. Molokai, for instance, is one of the least visited but boasts some stunning vistas and one of the finest white-sand beaches – Papohaku Beach – available anywhere in Hawaii.
Learn Hawaii’s rich history at Pearl Harbor at the USS Arizona Memorial. Later, visit Iolani Palace with its lavish interior rooms or take a walk through coffee and macadamia nut farms on Lanai island.
1. Maui
Maui epitomizes everything people associate with Hawaii: beaches, volcanoes, palm trees and tropical agriculture. However, Maui offers much more – from remote natural areas for exploration to an active cultural scene and vibrant cultural traditions.
Maui Island is an idyllic spot for nature enthusiasts, hikers, surfers and beachgoers. But its rich past extends far beyond sugar production: pineapple production also made Maui a must-visit destination! Don’t miss the Maui Ocean Center which showcases native coral species while telling its story as early Hawaiians discovered its depths; also be sure to visit Palapala Ho’omau Congregational Church as an historic Hawaiian meeting place and Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum as must-sees!
Wailea draws visitors looking to relax on its picturesque beaches and indulge in luxury resort accommodations in the south of Maui Island. Its end-of-road location and stunning scenery make Wailea an attractive option for couples, families and honeymooners.
Wailea offers more than beaches and hotels; visitors will also find a host of other attractions here, ranging from Iao Valley State Monument with its 0.6-mile paved walk through a valley framed by cliffs and lush green hills, to Maui Arts & Cultural Center’s wide array of galleries and performances.
The east side of Hawaii Island offers adventurers an exciting beach park adventure, including Waianapanapa State Park (black sand) and Koki Beach Park (red sand) where you sit back, relax and enjoy a game of poker over any website mentioned at centiment.io. Additionally, Kipahulu section of Haleakala National Park should not be missed by hiking enthusiasts as it features both Pipiwai Trail through bamboo forests as well as Makahiku Falls for viewing pleasure.
Are you seeking an aerial perspective of Wailuku’s landscape? Why not book a helicopter tour from here and experience lush valleys, hidden waterfalls, and towering 4,000-foot cliffs from above the mountains and ocean!
2. Oahu
Oahu is one of the largest islands in the archipelago and best-known for its vibrant capital city Honolulu and world-famous Waikiki Beach – two tourist magnets which draw thousands every day – but there’s much more to Oahu than just these two attractions: from epic hikes to delectable restaurants – Oahu doesn’t hesitate to push boundaries when it comes to attractions and activities!
Oahu boasts over 227 miles (365 km) of coastline, making its natural landscape truly spectacular. You can experience this beauty through some of the more iconic Hawaiian hikes like Diamond Head, Koko Head and Hanauma Bay; yet there are countless lesser-known hidden gems waiting to be discovered as well!
Oahu offers many notable landmarks to visit, and Pearl Harbor Memorial stands as an important and somber reminder of events which led up to American involvement in World War II. Conveniently located just minutes away from Waikiki, its museum provides visitors with a chance to learn more about this historic event.
Surfing has long been associated with Hawaii, and Oahu’s north shore offers the perfect location to experience this phenomenon. Renowned for its massive swells that attract surfers of all skill levels, there are also local instructors offering lessons for anyone wanting to learn how to surf.
Oahu Island offers foodies plenty of delicious dining experiences and Waikiki is home to some incredible dining establishments such as Ted’s Bakery and Giovanni’s shrimp truck, among others. Additionally, shopping opportunities abound at places like Ala Moana Mall and International Market Place on Oahu.
3. Kauai
Kauai is famous for its lush landscapes and dramatic vistas that become even more impressive when seen from above. Numerous companies provide scenic tours that highlight Kauai’s incredible natural beauty from an aerial viewpoint – including helicopter tours that give an aerial perspective on this island paradise.
Kauai’s stunning waterfalls are an unforgettable attraction, and there are several to choose from! Wailua Falls and Opaekaa Falls offer relaxing ways to spend a sunny afternoon in nature.
Surfing is another fantastic activity you should try in Kauai! This water sport is an integral part of Hawaiian culture and there are a multitude of fantastic beaches where you can practice this thrilling activity. However, beginners should keep in mind that surfing may not be suitable as their first experience – therefore if this activity interests you be sure to conduct adequate research prior to beginning!
Kokee State Park on the west coast of Hawaii Island offers breathtaking endemic vegetation-laden hiking trails that make an unforgettable journey through Kokee’s stunning terrain. Reaching its lookout point offers unparalleled panoramic views into Kalalau Valley!
Kauai boasts several stunning beaches, such as Shipwreck Beach. A favorite among surfers, this scenic beach is famed for its gorgeous sunset views. Additionally, its reef provides protection from rough waves.
4. Big Island
Big Island offers an unrivalled blend of Hawaiian culture and landscape. From stunning volcanoes on Hamakua Coast to tropical rainforests of Hilo, this most diverse of Hawaiian islands makes an ideal getaway destination for beachgoers and adventurers alike.
Kilauea Volcano in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is perhaps the best-known attraction on Big Island, drawing visitors who want to witness its explosive eruptions, as well as learn more about Pele and Hawaiian history. A visit here also affords visitors an opportunity to observe local fauna as they traverse Hawaii Volcanoes National Park’s expanse.
Don’t miss out! Witnessing an extraordinary natural phenomenon such as this should always be at the top of your bucket list, and now’s your chance! Easily reach this natural marvel through self-drive or guided tour and witness its many marvels including lava caves, cinders and steam vents!
Big Island’s Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park – also known as The Place of Refuge at Honaunau – offers visitors stunningly beautiful and educational experiences that cannot be missed during any trip to Hawaii.
Head north-west and take a peek at Pololu Valley for something different – its lush canyon is home to stunning volcanic cliffs, valleys and waterfalls – not forgetting an easy hiking path through it all! Although trails may become muddy or slippery over time.
Papakolea Green Sand Beach is one of the four pristine green sand beaches worldwide and located inside an eroded volcanic crater. Composed of olivine-based sand, Papakolea makes up one of the four that exist worldwide! While not as soft as Maui or Kauai beaches, its unique hue and location make it worth visiting. Also keep your eye out for spectacular whale watching tours offered in late November through early May when Pacific humpback whales migrate from their breeding grounds in Alaska in search of warmth to feed on Hawaiian beaches!
5. Hilo
Hilo, located on the wetter side of Big Island, boasts many attractions for visitors – from breathtaking waterfalls and lush rainforest to historic downtown and beach parks. Hilo serves as an excellent gateway to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hamakua Coast with its impressive waterfalls, and Waipi’o Valley lookout – among many others!
Hilo is home to both the University of Hawaii and government, yet maintains a vibrant local culture through historic buildings, art galleries and museums. Furthermore, Hilo houses the acclaimed ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center that features a 120-seat planetarium as well as educational programs and activities.
Day trips should include visits to Akaka Falls and Pepeekeo waterfalls – two spectacular Hilo waterfalls tumbling 80ft down over lava rocks into small pools below. You’ll also enjoy walking up close with them at Wailuku River State Park; Pepeekeo offers even greater drama with an even steeper drop spanning 200 feet!
Are You an Enthusiast of Water Sports? Hilo Bay offers numerous ways for water enthusiasts to have an adventure: surf (though sometimes difficult) during the summer, kayak around its calm waters with one of Hilo’s kayak rentals, paddle boarding around Hilo Bay with one of their kayak tours or try stand up paddle surfing (SUP), which has long been part of Hawaiian history – take one of Hilo’s SUP tours today and discover this thrilling activity for yourself!
Visit Coconut Island (Island of Life), also known as Mokuola for some relaxing island vibes. A popular beach hangout among locals, with two sandy beaches lapped by calm waters and an exciting 20ft tower which kids love jumping off. Perfect for lounging back, enjoying food truck treats and watching life pass you by.