20 of the most beautiful places to visit in hawaii

19 of the best places to visit in Hawaii

Mar 5, 2024 • 13 min read

Narrow down your Hawaii hit list with these top places to visit © Fly View Productions / Getty Images

No matter what you're looking for in a vacation – adventure, relaxation, romance, cultural experiences, food – Hawaii has it all.

Every island has its own kind of vibe, from the laid-back serenity of Kauaʻi to the bustling beach towns of Maui. There are so many unique experiences , too, like hiking to an active volcano on Hawaiʻi Island and watching monster surf crash on Oʻahu's North Shore.

With so many options, here's a shortcut to the best experiences you can have in the Aloha State.

1. Waikiki, Oʻahu

Waikiki on Oʻahu's sunny south shore is the state's most famous resort town. Over the years, the neighborhood has evolved to be less kitschy and more authentic. Hotels offer lei-making classes in their open-air lobbies, and traditional hula is showcased on the tiki torch-lit hula mound on Kuhio Beach . Take surfing lessons from modern-day beach boys or indulge in afternoon tea at the historic Moana Surfrider . Some of the island's best restaurants are located in Waikiki, too.

Planning tip : The Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort has been putting on a fireworks show every Friday night since 1988 (bar the pandemic years). Bring a picnic dinner and find a spot on the beach to watch the skies light up. The show starts at 7:45pm during the winter and 8pm in the summer.

Explore more of O'ahu with this ultimate long weekend itinerary

2. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Hawaiʻi Island

The 323,431-acre Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Hawaiʻi Island is a place unlike anywhere else in Hawaii (or the US). This is one of the few places in the world where you can drive up to safely view an active volcano. Kilauea , an active shield volcano, had been, up until 2018, continuously erupting and altering the landscape since 1983. It's currently not active , but that can change any day. The national park – one of five on the Big Island – stretches from sea level to the summit of the 13,679ft Mauna Loa , one of the largest volcanoes in the world. Trek along one of dozens of hiking routes in the park and see old lava flows and tubes, steam vents, and native trees and birds.

Detour : Stop at Volcano Village, a rustic town in the middle of a lush rainforest filled with native hapuʻu fern and 'ōhiʻa trees just outside the park. You can find quaint vacation rentals here, a handful of restaurants, a farmers market on Sundays, a small winery that sells locally produced wine, an orchid farm and the Volcano Art Center , a working arts studio and gallery.

Save our complete first-timer's guide to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

3. The Island of Molokaʻi

Undeveloped and often overlooked, Molokaʻi offers some of the most unique experiences of any of the Hawaiian Islands. Spanning 38 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest point, this island – the fifth largest in Hawaii – is home to the world's tallest sea cliffs, the longest waterfall in the Islands and one of the state's largest white-sand beaches, Papohaku Beach . 

There are no big resorts or traffic lights here; instead, you'll find the windswept Moʻomomi Dunes, the 2744-acre Kamakou Preserve with its unique montane bog, and the secluded Kalaupapa Peninsula, once an isolated community of patients with Hansen's disease. Stop at Kanemitsu Bakery in Kaunakakai for freshly made Molokaʻi sweet bread right out of the oven.

4. Hana, Maui

The 53-mile Hana Highway – also known as the Road to Hana – is as scenic as it is winding. The road twists across 59 mostly one-lane bridges, along plunging cliffs, past waterfalls and around 620 turns to the unspoiled town of Hana on Maui's northeast coast. The drive itself – which can take several hours – is part of the journey. Once in Hana, enjoy hala tree-lined Hamoa Beach , sunbathe at Waiʻānapanapa State Park's black-sand beach, or hike to the 400ft Waimoku Falls in the Kīpahulu end of Haleakalā National Park . 

Planning tip : If you're planning to visit Waiʻānapanapa State Park,  you'll have to book reservations , which can be made up to 30 days in advance. It costs $5 per person and $10 for parking per non-commercial vehicle.

5. Nāpali Coast, Kauaʻi

The towering green cliffs of the fabled Nāpali Coast rise 2000ft from the ocean and stretch 15 miles along Kauaʻi's rugged northern coastline. You can experience these verdant valleys and razor-edged cliffs aboard a catamaran, on a kayak, from a helicopter or along the 11-mile Kalalau Trail.

Planning tip : To get to Keʻe Beach , the start of the Kalalau Trail, you'll need to make advance reservations to enter Hāʻena State Park. It costs $5 for out-of-state visitors to enter the park, $10 for each car.

6. North Shore, Oʻahu

In winter – from November to February – some of the world's best surfers (and thousands of spectators) flock to Oʻahu's North Shore and its 7 miles of famous breaks, from Banzai Pipeline to Sunset Beach . Once in a while, the waves are big enough (consistently larger than 40ft, measured from the front of the wave) at Waimea Bay to hold the prestigious, invite-only Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitation. Summer brings calmer ocean conditions, great for swimming and snorkeling. The colorful beach town of Haleʻiwa features cute boutiques, eateries and the famous Matsumoto Shave Ice shop.

Detour : To get a bird's-eye view of this famous coastline, take the 2-mile ʻEhukai Pillbox hike. The trail climbs the side of the northern Koʻolau Mountains to WWII bunkers that offer panoramic views of the entire North Shore coastline.

7. Haleakalā National Park, Maui

Catching the sunrise at the top of Haleakalā, a dormant volcano that rises to 10,023ft above sea level, is one of the most popular activities on Maui. Reservations are required for sunrise – and the fee doesn't include entrance into the national park – and can be hard to get. Consider viewing the sunset instead and staying for the night sky. The park also has numerous hiking trails through otherworldly landscapes and the chance to see the endangered ʻāhinahina (silversword) and nēnē (Hawaiian goose), the state bird.

Planning tip : The park offers pristine dark skies – with minimal light pollution – perfect for stargazing. Temperatures can drop quickly at the summit, so dress warmly and bring layers. You'll also want to bring your own snacks, as there are no food or drinks available in the park.

8. Hanalei, Kauaʻi

On Kauaʻi's quiet north shore is the sleepy town of Hanalei , marked by emerald green mountains, kalo loʻi (flooded taro fields) and some of the island's best beaches, including the breathtaking Hanalei Bay with its historic pier. Browse art galleries and boutiques, eat fresh poke from Hanalei Poke and plant-based taro doughnuts from Holey Grail, and walk around a farmers market.

Detour : About 2 miles west of Hanalei Bay is Lumahaʻi Beach , made famous by the 1958 classic film South Pacific . This is where Mitzi Gaynor spent her time "washing that man right out of her hair."

9. Maunakea, Hawaiʻi Island

Maunakea , or "white mountain," is, at 13,802ft above sea level, the world's tallest mountain when measured from its base. (More than half, or 19,698ft, of Maunakea lies underwater, making it 33,500ft from base to summit.) It's considered one of the most sacred of all Hawaiʻi volcanoes and is known by Native Hawaiians as a region of the gods. It's also a hub of astronomical observation with more than a dozen massive telescopes from around the world. You can book guided stargazing tours with outfitters like Hawaiʻi Forest & Trail .

Detour : In April,  Hilo , which is about 30 minutes west of Maunakea, hosts the annual Merrie Monarch Festival , a competitive hula festival featuring some of the state's best dancers and performers. You have to book tickets in advance to attend the event, but the craft show, which is a huge draw, is open to the public.

10. Pearl Harbor, Oʻahu

Known for the 1941 attack on the USS Arizona , which launched the US into WWII, Pearl Harbor draws millions of visitors each year to the memorial erected in honor of the 1102 men who are still entombed in the metal hull of the battleship. You can catch a boat to the USS Arizona Memorial , tour the aircraft hangars of the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum , and stand on the decks of the "Mighty Mo" battleship where Imperial Japan formally surrendered in 1945. Pearl Harbor was once known as Wai Momi, or pearl waters, because of its abundant oyster beds.

11. Upcountry Maui, Maui

On the slopes of Haleakalā are the quaint towns of Kula and Makawao, collectively known as Upcountry Maui. Up here, the air is crispier, and the vibe is slower. Pick fresh strawberries in season at Kula Country Farms , wander around the fragrant Aliʻi Kula Lavender Farm , or feed goats at Surfing Goat Dairy. This area is famous for its paniolo , or Hawaiian cowboys.

Detour : Not many visitors know that grapes are grown here. Open since 1974, MauiWine produces wines made from estate-grown grapes, pineapples and raspberries. Visit its tasting room at the picturesque ʻUlupalakua Ranch.

12. Waimea Canyon, Kauaʻi

Called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon, with its buttes, crags and earthen colors, stretches 10 miles long, is 1 mile wide and is more than 3600ft deep. Stop at the Waimea Canyon Lookout for sweeping views of the canyon and the 800ft Waipoʻo Falls . But you can also experience the canyon via numerous hiking trails, on horseback and from a helicopter. Any way you see it, it's breathtaking.

Detour : The best trails are located within the 4345-acre Kōkeʻe State Park . The cost is $5 per person (nonresident) and $10 per car. From the park, you can stop at the Kalalau Lookout at 4120ft above the Nāpali Coast, with commanding views of the lush, amphitheater-headed Kalalau Valley. Camping is available, and the restaurant is worth a stop (but note: it only serves breakfast and lunch.)

13. South Kona, Hawaiʻi Island

Head south from Kailua-Kona, and you'll be in coffee country. This area – Kaʻawaloa (Captain Cook), Hōnaunau, Kāʻu – is known for its high-quality coffee grown exclusively in this high elevation and volcanic soils on the slopes of Hualālai Volcano. There are hundreds of farms here, and many offer guided tours and free tastings. Hōlualoa is a small artsy town with cute shops. Kealakekua Bay in the region of Captain Cook provides some of the island's best snorkeling. And Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is a sacred place of refuge that you wander on a half-mile walking tour.

Detour : In Keauhou, you can dive at night with the gentle manta rays that swim along this coastline. Seeing these graceful giants glide and twirl in the water with you is an experience you won't likely forget.

14. ʻIolani Palace, Oʻahu

Built in 1882 under King David Kalākaua, ʻIolani Palace in Downtown Honolulu is the only royal residence in the US. It took three years to complete at a cost of $343,595, with Hawaiʻi's first electric light system, flush toilets and intra-house telephones. The last two monarchs of the Hawaiian Kingdom – King Kalākaua and his sister and successor, Queen Liliʻuokalani – resided here until the overthrow of the kingdom in 1893. You can tour this American Florentine-style palace and see its throne rooms, dining rooms and the private living quarters of the royal family.

Detour : Walk to nearby Chinatown and browse the markets or eat at one of the many restaurants – ranging from Korean takeout to poke bowls to restaurants run by James Beard Award-winners and nominees – in this neighborhood.

15. Molokini, Maui

Three miles off shore from Wailea on Maui is Molokini Crater, known for its deep, crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. This crescent-shaped islet is a marine preserve, home to more than 250 species of tropical fish. The only way to get to this popular snorkeling and diving site is by boat.

Planning tip : While the boat ride out to Molokini is typically smooth, the journey back can be tumultuous. If you're prone to seasickness, either sit in the center of the boat where it's more stable or take some motion-sickness remedies.

16. Kailua, Oʻahu

A quick 15-minute drive from Honolulu, Kailua seems like a world away. The beach town is built around Kailua Beach , a powdery-white stretch of sand that runs 2.5 miles long. People fish, surf, kayak, swim and paddle canoes in these waters. Nearby Lanikai Beach , with its unobstructed views of the Mokulua Islands, is another popular stop for beach lovers. It's smaller and more secluded than Kailua Beach, but often more crowded because of its reputation for calm waters and gorgeous vistas. The town itself boasts popular restaurants, boutiques, local breweries and a great locally-owned independent bookshop called Bookends.

Planning tip : Consider exploring Kailua town by bike. You can rent one from The Bike Shop . (There's no city-run bike-sharing on this side of the island.) The shop has a range of cruisers, mountain bikes and road bikes for rent, complete with helmets and bike locks. Electra cruises – the most popular bikes – start at $18 for up to four hours. You can book online and pick it up at the shop.

17. Old Lahaina Lūʻau, Maui

Open in 1986, the locally owned Old Lahaina Lūʻau on Maui has been a favorite lūʻau for decades, showcasing traditional hula , music and food. It's located right on the ocean off Front Street in Lahaina with great sunset views. Tickets include live entertainment, an open bar, historical storytelling and chanting, and an all-you-can-eat buffet with Hawaiian staples like lau lau, kālua pig, poi and poke .

18. Hanauma Bay, Oʻahu

This protected nature preserve in East Honolulu is one of the best spots to snorkel on Oʻahu . About 400 species of fish inhabit this bay, along with honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) and the occasional endangered Hawaiian monk seal. There are restrictions for access to this popular bay: online reservations are required , and it costs $25 per person for non-Hawaii residents 13 years and older. Parking is another US$3 per car. The bay is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Planning tip : You can rent snorkel gear at the bay, so you don't have to lug your own. While you can walk down the steep road to the beach, you can also opt to take the free tram (we recommend that on the way back to your car).

Least known of all the Hawaiian Islands – and the smallest inhabited island – Lanaʻi is an ideal escape. Stay in luxurious resorts with world-class amenities fronting the beautiful and secluded Hulopoʻe Beach , a designated marine preserve filled with colorful fish and sometimes spinner dolphins. Or explore the rest of the island – the wild and windswept 8-mile Shipwreck Beach (complete with an actual shipwreck), the ancient fishing village of Kaunolū , or visit the strange landscape of Keahikawelo (Garden of the Gods).

Planning tip : If you want to venture outside the resorts of Lanaʻi City, you'll need to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle. There's no public transportation or ride-sharing on the island.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated March 2024

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Apr 18, 2024 • 11 min read

Home to two major volcanoes, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is an incredible landscape to experience. Here's everything you need to know before you go.

Mar 28, 2024 • 19 min read

Feb 15, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 2, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 27, 2024 • 15 min read

Dec 27, 2023 • 8 min read

Nov 17, 2023 • 10 min read

Nov 16, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 11, 2023 • 9 min read

20 of Hawaii’s Most Beautiful Places

01/26/2020 by Kristin Addis 4 Comments

The Aloha State is known for lush mountains, dotted with hidden waterfalls and framed by gorgeous beaches in almost every color from green, to red, black, and white.

What visitors might find surprising is the diversity. The Big Island has 8 of the world’s microclimates while Lanai is a dry, Mediterranean subtropical climate, and Kauai is in large part tropical, but actually has 7 microclimates too including a dry side! The surf conditions are world class in some areas, while the snorkeling, sometimes even with whales, is unbeatable in others. Struggling to pick where to go? Look no further than these 20 most beautiful places in Hawaii:

Table of Contents

20. Big Island’s Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and while Hawaii Volcanoes National Park looks like the surface of the moon, it is probably one of the coolest places on planet Earth! The park is home to two active volcanoes, one of which is the most active volcano in the world. It spans more than 300,000 acres and offers 150 miles of hiking trails through several different landscapes and ecosystems. The starry night skies there are unbelievable, too!

Read more about the Big Island’s best things to do here.

19. Molokai’s Halawa Valley

Molokai’s lush, green Halawa Valley is one of the oldest known settlements in the Hawaiian Islands. On the east end of the island, the valley is home to Mooula Falls, a two-tiered, 250-foot waterfall which can be seen for miles. The valley itself can only be reached on foot with the help of a guide, which is worth booking, but the incredible view pictured above can be seen from a turnout at mile marker 26 of Kamehameha V Highway.

18. Maui’s Seven Sacred Pools

On the east side of Maui , the Pools of ‘Ohe’o, or “Seven Sacred Pools,” as they’re more colloquially referred to as, are a series of small waterfalls and plunge pools fed by a stream running through the rainforest. Not only are the pools popular for swimming and cliff-jumping, but also the scenery is magical! The site is part of Haleakala National Park and the Road to Hana, which you’ll see later in the list.

17. Big Island’s Rainbow Falls

Also called Waianuenue Falls, Rainbow Falls earned its nickname thanks to the rainbows that appear in the mist around 10am each day. The 80-foot falls is part of Wailuku River State Park, about 2 miles outside of downtown Hilo. There, you can also see the nearby Boiling Pots, cute little springs which bubble like they’re boiling.

16. Molokai’s Papohaku Beach

On Molokai’s west side, great waves and no one around make Papohaku one of the best beaches in Hawaii. It is one of the largest white sand beaches in all of the Hawaiian Islands, too, and has been nicknamed “Three Mile Beach” as a result. Not only is the beach itself gorgeous, but also a sunrise or sunset here would be even more stunning.

Keep in mind, the water here is seriously rough, and it’s not advisable to go in the water.

15. Oahu’s Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, on the southeast coast of Oahu, is known for its picture-perfect combination of teal waters and warm yellow sand. The beautiful beach is protected by the curve of the bay as the island’s cliffs — the remains of a dormant volcano — jut out in both directions. The shallow waters are perfect for snorkeling, and although the beach often sees some crowds, it makes for a stunning real-life postcard.

14. Oahu’s Ko’olau Mountains

The Ko’olau Mountains are the dormant remaining fragment of Oahu’s eastern shield volcano, most of which was washed into the ocean hundreds of thousands of years ago by a massive landslide. The landslide plus millennia of wind and rain erosion have given the mountains their steep, distinct look; at more than 3,000 feet in elevation, dozens of waterfalls run down the sides.

Some of the best hikes on the island can be found up in these mountains, and the views from the top are awe-inspiring.

13. Big Island’s Akaka Falls

Akaka Falls is the most famous of the Big Island’s waterfalls, and with good reason: it’s 442 feet tall! On the northeast coast of the island, it’s also the most easily accessible waterfall. The falls sits at the end of a half-mile hike through lush trees and flowers; getting there also takes you right past the smaller, 100-foot Kahuna Falls.

12. Big Island’s Pepeekeo Scenic Drive

This gorgeous route is one of the best drives on the Big Island. Unfortunately, you’ll have to turn around at the road block created by the 2018 lava flow, but that’s just another cool reason to go check it out! You’ll also see magical tree tunnels like this one, fancy beach houses, and little bridges and waterfalls.

11. Big Island’s Kehena Black Sand Beach

Kehena Black Sand Beach, in the Big Island’s eastern Puna district, is one interesting place. The contrast between the thick green fringe of trees, the deep black sand, and the vibrant blue ocean is such a unique sight; meanwhile, this is also the most volcanically active region of the island, which means that you could find yourself with a lava problem on your hands at any given moment!

Regardless of the volcanic potential, though, this beach has an eclectic spirit, visible through its drum circles and nude beach-goers.

10. Kauai’s Hanalei Bay

Two miles of beach and a bright blue bay bookended by lush green mountains make Kauai’s Hanalei Bay a gorgeous spot. In the summer, the bay is calm and ideal for sailing and paddle-boarding, while winter brings great waves for surfing. At its center, the town of Hanalei has even been named  Vogue’s “Hippest Town in Kauai “! This is certainly a North Shore gem.

9. Lanai’s Polihua Beach

Few things are more beautiful than a pristine beach all to yourself! This 1.5-mile-long beach is nearly empty at any given time; it’s just you, the sea, the sand, and the other islands off in the distance. Nearby is the Garden of the Gods, a rock garden full of cool towers and formations which has some equally cool legends to go with it, as well as Sweetheart Rock. Check out more amazing things to do in Lanai here .

8. Kauai’s Wailua Falls

This two-stream, 173-foot (others claim anywhere from 80 to 200 feet depending on perspective) waterfall can be found at the south end of the Wailua River in eastern Kauai. Interestingly, this is the location of the opening scene of the old TV show, “Fantasy Island.” The falls can be seen from the road, and if you arrive at the right time in the morning, you might even catch a rainbow!

7. Kauai’s Waimea Canyon

Southwest Kauai’s Waimea Canyon has earned the nickname, “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” It’s 14 miles long, a mile wide, and over 3,600 feet deep, but perhaps even more impressive is its array of colors. Cruise Waimea Canyon Drive for a couple of incredible lookout spots, or follow one of the many hikes to admire all the different shades of reds, browns, and greens. (Either way, admission is free!)

6. Lanai’s Kaunolu

Kaunolu, on the southern tip of Lanai , was once a fishing village frequented by King Kamehameha I; today, it is one of the island’s most sacred places. The village, home to the remains of Halulu Heiau and other artifacts, was named a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1962 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966. The area has spectacular views and would make for the perfect, quiet spot to watch a sunset.

5. Maui’s Haleakala

Many consider Haleakala to be one of the most spiritual places on Earth, and even home to the heart chakra! The dormant volcano crater in southeast Maui stands at more than 10,000 feet tall and offers incredible natural scenery. “Haleakala” actually means, “house of the sun,” which has become the nickname of the crater as it coincides with the incredible sunrises there. (Sunsets and starry night skies are equally as impressive!)

4. Molokai’s Kalaupapa

Picturesque Kalaupapa on the island’s northern tip was once a colony for those chronically ill, mostly with leprosy, but they were compassionately treated by a man called Father Damien who arrived in 1873. Today, the stunning peninsula can only be accessed by mule ride, which follows a 1,700-foot descent from the cliffs to sea level. Whether or not you take the ride down, the views of Kalaupapa’s bright blue waters and vibrant green landscape are incredible!

3. Maui’s Road to Hana

Maui’s Road to Hana isn’t exactly one spot; it’s a bunch! However, driving this winding road (all 600 turns of it) makes for a special experience because of the sheer beauty around every corner. From waterfalls and tall bamboo to coastal lookouts and rainforest, the Road to Hana is without a doubt one of the most breathtaking journeys in all of the Hawaiian Islands.

2. Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast State Park

The Nā Pali Coast on Kauai’s northwestern coastline is known for its 4,000-foot-tall, multi-colored cliffs. One way to explore this unbeatable scenery is to follow the Kalalau Trail, a rugged, 11-mile hike dating back to the 1800s, which travels through five valleys and ends at the pristine Kalalau Beach.

Or, kayak along the coastline and explore the sea caves and beaches scattered along it. Regardless, this is one of the most beautiful locations in the Hawaiian Islands.

1. Big Island’s Pololu Valley

Take in one of the most impressive views on the island at the Pololu Valley Lookout. It’s easy to get to, right off the highway, but you’d think you’d traveled to a secret spot because the scenery is so spectacular! If you’re up for it, follow the trail down to the beach below and then back up again for sunset, about a half-hour each way. This is a view you won’t soon forget!

While this list is far from exhaustive and is, of course, full of personal opinions, as someone who has had the pleasure of exploring all of Hawaii’s Islands, these are the spots that took my breath away. Happy travels in the Aloha State!

PLEASE: When traveling in Hawaii, swear off plastic. Take refillable water bottles and shopping bags, and don’t buy items that come in single use plastic bottles, like soft drinks, fruit, etc. Hawaii no longer recycles plastic or paper! Please help keep the islands clean.

Which Island of Hawaii is the Best to Visit?

About kristin addis.

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 subscribe to our newsletter

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

David Smith says

01/27/2020 at 11:07 pm

I would love to travel to all of these places!!

11/01/2020 at 10:36 am

They are so cool

Christina Harrelson says

07/01/2021 at 1:12 pm

Great scenery photos!!!!

Anonymous says

09/03/2021 at 10:32 pm

Choosing the Right Island for Your Trip

All-Inclusive Resorts

Family-Friendly Hotels

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Surfing in Hawaii

Scenic Road Trips

Annual Events and Festivals

Food to Try

Best Hawaii Breweries

Chocolate Tours in Hawaii

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Getting Around the Islands

Airports in Hawaii

One-Week Itinerary

Top Destinations

Most Beautiful places

17 of the Most Beautiful Places in Hawaii

Rugged volcanic coastline, warm tropical temperatures, rare wildlife, staggering sea cliffs, breathtaking beaches: There simply is no end to the picturesque places that the Hawaiian Islands have to offer. Explore the magic of Hawaii with this guide to some of the most beautiful places in the state.

Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauai

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

While much smaller than the Grand Canyon on the mainland, Waimea Canyon is still one of the most impressive sights on the Hawaiian islands. A far cry from the beachy ambiance that Kauai is usually known for, Waimea has earned its reputation as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” with a gorge of 10 miles across and depth of 3,600 feet. Waimea is Hawaiian for "reddish water,” an homage to the canyon's iconic red soil. The state park itself is full of hiking trails and a number of lookouts that showcase the beauty of the canyon.

Hanauma Bay, Oahu

Kaori Tanabe / Getty Images

With its sparkling blue waters and abundance of tropical ocean life, there’s a reason why Hanauma Bay is hands-down the most popular snorkeling spot in the entire state of Hawaii. Visitors will have to arrive early in order to get a parking spot, as the lot is known to fill up fast, and all newcomers are required to watch an informational film about reef safety before even entering the water. For those who don’t want to get wet, pull over to the lookout to catch an incredible view and some great photo opportunities overlooking the pristine bay.

Nā Pali Coast, Kauai

Everett Atlas / Getty Images 

Find Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the northwestern side of Kauai spanning just over 6,000 acres of trails, valleys, and towering coastal cliffs. The rugged Kalalau Trail kicks off near Ke’e Beach (great for snorkeling) and ventures 11 steep miles past isolated beaches and hidden valley waterfalls. Some say that the Nā Pali Coast is best viewed from a helicopter, but a boat tour from the ocean side will also give visitors access to sea caves and the ability to get up close and personal with the massive sea cliffs that epitomize the Na Pali Coast.

Papakōlea Beach, Hawaii Island

Damien VERRIER / Getty Images 

Carved by nature into a 49,000 years old cinder cone at the base of Mauna Loa volcano in the Kaʻū district of Hawaii Island, Papakōlea Beach is believed to be only one of four green sand beaches on earth. Access to the beach requires a bit of a hike, but that only means you’ll most likely have the area to yourself or share it with a smaller crowd than the more accessible Hawaiian beaches.

Lanikai Beach, Oahu

 Douglas Peebles / Getty Images

Lanikai Beach boasts exactly the kind of soft sand and clear water that Hawaii is famous for. The Nā Mokulua islets, just under a mile by kayak, are visible in the distance from the shore and the water is usually perfectly conditioned for ocean sports such as bodyboarding, kitesurfing, and stand up paddleboarding. Just a short walk from the beach, find the popular Lanikai Pillbox Hike with sweeping views of the beautiful beach below.

Pipiwai Trail, Maui

 7Michael / Getty Images

Located on the south side of the Kipahulu region of Haleakalā National Park, the 4-mile Pipiwai Trail is a great way to cap off the Road to Hana on Maui. The well-maintained trail takes hikers past an Instagram-worthy bamboo forest and banyan trees, ending with picturesque views of 400-foot Waimoku Falls. If you don’t have the time for the entire hike, stop at the 185-foot-tall Makahiku Falls after about half a mile for a taste of the trail.

Molokini Crater, Maui

 Ron Dahlquist / Getty Images

You’d be hard-pressed to find a list of best snorkeling spots on Maui that didn’t include the iconic Molokini Crater. Hundreds of different fish species can be found surrounding this crescent-shaped crater and the positioning of the partially-submerged crater helps shield the area from rough waves and currents. Considering this is one of the world’s most famous snorkeling locations, there are plenty of tour companies that offer day tours to the crater including snorkel equipment, lunch, and drinks.

Punalu'u Beach, Hawaii Island

 MNStudio / Getty Images

Located just 20 minutes from Volcanoes National Park, black sand Punalu'u Beach was created from small fragments of black lava rocks feeding into the sea. This is one of the most popular black sand beaches in Hawaii, and the combination of coconut trees lining the shore with the jet-black sand provides amazing photo opportunities. Another thing that makes Punalu'u so special is the Hawaiian green sea turtles who love to sunbathe on the warm sand and feed near the shore. A trip to Volcanoes National Park paired with a visit to Punalu'u Beach is a fantastic way to spend a day on Hawaii Island.

Akaka Falls, Hawaii Island

 Matt Anderson Photography / Getty Images

Akaka Falls State Park is about 11 miles north of Hilo and one of the top sites to visit on a Hawaii Island vacation . The park itself is 65 acres of rainforest with a paved footpath that leads past Kahuna Falls, wild orchids, bamboo, and Hawaiian ferns. Completing the hike will take about 30 minutes, including time for photos, and the trailhead is super easy to find from the parking lot. The biggest highlight from the short loop trail, however, comes from the 442-foot Akaka Falls. Because this site is located close to Hilo, it is a great addition to a road trip along the Hamakua coast.

Wai'anapanapa State Park, Maui

 Westend61 / Getty Images

A popular stop along the majestic Road to Hana on Maui, Wai'anapanapa State Park is home to a striking black sand beach, exotic tidepools, campsites, and hiking trails. While the entire Road to Hana is nothing short of spectacular, this 122-acre state park is one of the drive’s most exciting highlights thanks to the backdrop of lush green jungle with rugged volcanic rock coastline.

Haleakalā, Maui

 FrozenShutter / Getty Images

Visible from virtually every part of the island of Maui, towering Haleakalā Crater (which translates to “house of the sun” in Hawaiian) rises over 10,000 feet above sea level. The dormant volcano is the highlight of Haleakalā National Park, which covers more than 33,000 acres of the island. While most visitors come to the summit of Haleakalā to enjoy the sunrise over the crater, there are many other activities to enjoy such as hiking, camping, and bike riding down the steep road from the park entrance. Keep in mind that the temperatures on the summit area are about 32 degrees F cooler than at the beach.

Cliffs of Molokai, Molokai

 YinYang / Getty Images

Few sights are as awe-inspiring as the first few glimpses of Molokai’s sea cliffs, some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world. Towering above the ocean—as high as 3,900 feet in some spots—a view of the sea cliffs as your plane makes its final descent into Molokai is the perfect introduction to the natural and historic island. A visit to infamous Kalaupapa National Historical Park will provide one of the best views of the cliffs, or if a trip to the park isn’t doable (access is only permitted through invitation or tour), take a drive and explore the area around the Kalaupapa Lookout and nearby Kaule o Nanahoa or “Phallic Rock.”

Mauna Kea, Hawaii Island

 Michael Orso / Getty Images

Arguably one of the most unique highlights of Hawaii Island, a drive up Mauna Kea offers visitors the chance to go from sea level to 14,000 feet in about two hours. The mountain is actually a dormant volcano and is home to some of the most impressive views in Hawaii, as well as native flora and fauna. The high elevation makes for incredible stargazing (which is probably why the summit houses a famous observatory), and the visitors center sets up telescopes open to the public on select nights.

Puu Pehe, Lanai

 Stuart Westmorland / Getty Images

This unique rock formation rises about 80 feet out of the sea off the southern coastline between Manele and Hulopoe Bay on the island of Lanai , and has become one of the most iconic landmarks on the island. The rock’s nickname, “Sweetheart Rock,” comes from a story from Hawaiian folklore about two lovers and is located just a short hike away from Hulopoe Beach near the Four Seasons Resort Lanai. The hike only takes about 15 to 20 minutes and will take you past coastal tide pools and scenic lookouts over the bay.

Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii Island

In a nutshell, Volcanoes National Park is one of the undeniable treasures of Hawaii’s national park program, not to mention the most visited place on Hawaii Island. Two of the most active volcanoes on earth—Kīlauea and Mauna Loa—reside inside of this park. One can easily spend several days wandering around this special place full of historic sites that highlight ancient Hawaii and the island’s volcanic landscape.

Mokuleia Beach, Oahu

Fans of the TV show "Lost" will definitely recognize this massive, isolated beach on the north shore of Oahu that is also the trailhead to Kaena Point. Due to its distance from town (about one hour drive from Honolulu) and large size, Mokuleia Beach is often uncrowded. While swimming here isn’t always possible because of the unpredictable currents, this beach is an amazing location to take photos, lounge, and sunbathe.

Waipiʻo Valley, Hawaii Island

 Png-Studio / Getty Images

There’s a reason why the Waipiʻo Valley became the permanent residence of early Hawaiian royalty, including King Kamehameha when he was a child. Located on the Hamakua Coast. The majestic valley is as dramatic as it is beautiful, one mile across and 5 miles deep with surrounding cliffs that rise over 2,000 feet high. The famous Hiilawe Falls, the tallest waterfall in Hawaii at over 1,200 feet, is located in the back of Waipiʻo. The valley was once home to thousands of native Hawaiians but is now home to less than 100 residents who continue to reside and thrive within the valley. Travelers can experience the valley via guided tour, hike, or from the Waipiʻo Overlook at the end of the Hamakua Heritage Corridor drive.

The Best Road Trips to Take in Hawaii

The Top 10 Reasons to Visit Hawaii

The 20 Best Things to Do in Hawaii

Maui's Top 10 Parks

Which Hawaiian Island Should I Visit?

Hawaii Guide: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to Maui: The Complete Guide

Akaka Falls State Park: The Complete Guide

Where to Stay on Maui

15 Best Islands in the US

Best Hawaii All-Inclusive Hotels

Best Ways to Spend 6 Exciting Days on Maui

The 12 Best Beaches in Maui

Honeymoon in Hawaii

Your Trip to Hawaii Island: The Complete Guide

The Best 15 Hikes in Hawaii

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

The 18 Best Places To Visit In Hawaii

• Destinations
• Hawaii (The Big Island)
• United States

Swaying palm trees, glorious sunsets, golden beaches, lush landscapes, and year-round tropical temperatures all await on a getaway to Hawaii. With such lovely surroundings, it’s not hard to simply kick back and relax on a getaway to this remote and beautiful location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. 

That said, the Hawaiian Islands are also filled with a spectacular array of activities to enjoy. Whether you’re the type to pack in as much as you can on vacation, or balance a little sightseeing with beach time, Hawaii offers a variety of things to do , ranging from snorkeling trips and helicopter tours to opportunities to learn about local culture and history.

We’ve rounded up some of the best places to visit in Hawaii, arranged by island, below. But first, as you’re planning your trip, consider participating in a small service project while you’re there — a simple way to give back to a special place that has served as a popular vacation destination for decades (with all of the impact on the local environment that tourism can bring). Visitors can clean up beaches, plant native trees, and even restore a historic battleship. Check out a number of offerings here — some volunteering projects affiliated with the new Malama Hawaii program can even net you free hotel rooms or other special discounts at certain resorts. 

Oahu: Places to Visit

Oahu is home to Hawaii’s capital city of Honolulu, where you’ll also find bustling Waikiki Beach, plenty of shopping options, and some incredible restaurants with local seafood on the menu. Further afield, the North Shore is known for its huge waves for surfers. With significant historic sights, opportunities to learn about the local culture, and natural wonders, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Oahu . 

Hike Diamond Head Crater 

This volcanic crater just east of Waikiki Beach is part of Diamond Head State Monument . Its main hiking trail is well marked and includes concrete walkways and steep steps — locals like to conquer the summit for an outdoor workout. The distance is .8 miles each way. From the top you’ll enjoy a spectacular view of Honolulu, surrounding mountains, and the vast blue ocean. 

Pay Your Respects At Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor National Memorial commemorates the attack on the American military on December 7, 1941, marking the United States’ entry into World War II. The USS Arizona Memorial serves as the final resting place for the more than 1,100 military service people who were aboard that ship at the start of the attack (in total, more than 2,400 soldiers, sailors and service people died that day). Pearl Harbor is a somber visit, but one well worth your time to not only honor fallen military, but also learn about a key moment in U.S. history through several multimedia exhibits. 

Snorkel At Hanauma Bay

The coral reefs found in tranquil Hanauma Bay are the habitat for many different colorful fish. This is a protected spot with gentle water that’s ideal for even first-time snorkelers; you can rent snorkel gear on site. A reservation system is currently in place, allowing for a limited number of guests each day in order to help protect this sensitive environment. Don’t forget to pack your reef-safe sunscreen !

Tour Iolani Palace

King Kalakaua built Iolani Palace in 1882, and the grand estate served as a royal residence until the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown in 1893. You can learn all about the history of this sacred spot — an ancient place of worship — through a number of different tours, either self-led or guided by a docent. 

Learn At The Polynesian Cultural Center

Oahu’s Polynesian Cultural Center is a great way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of not only Hawaii, but other areas of Polynesia, such as Tahiti, Fiji, and Samoa. When you step into the different villages, you’ll learn — through interactive demonstrations — about the people who have called these areas home for centuries. There’s also an opportunity to enjoy an extravagant luau, complete with traditional food, song, and dance.

Maui: Places to Visit 

Maui has not only magnificent beaches along its coast, but also opportunities to cool off when you journey into the mountainous area. Superb snorkeling and scenic drives are just a few of the memory-making things to do in Maui , also known as the “Valley Isle.”

Visit Haleakala National Park

This remarkable and sacred spot is a must-see on Maui. And the best time to experience the beauty of Haleakala , a dormant volcano, is from its summit in the early morning, when the sun breaks through the clouds and rises above peaks to the east. You’ll need reservations to enter the park between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m. (yep, it’s an early wake-up call!). If you don’t want to rent a car and do it alone, plenty of tour operators offer excursions with transportation — and often breakfast — to witness this spectacle.

Head Into The High Country

In addition to exploring Haleakala National Monument, there are some remarkable things to do in Maui away from the beaches. Consider touring the Ali’i Kula Lavender farm, visiting Maui Wine to sample pineapple and other fruity varieties, or visiting the art galleries of Makawao of “upcountry” Maui.

Drive The Road To Hana

With one-lane bridges, switchbacks, and hairpin turns, the Road to Hana — a 52-mile stretch of pavement hugging the coast from Kahului to Hana — is not for the faint of heart. In fact, the tourism folks at the Hawaii Tourism Authority recommend making this excursion with professional guides on an organized tour. With someone else behind the wheel, you can more safely admire the gorgeous passing scenery! Neat stops along the way include cascading waterfalls, a stand of rainbow eucalyptus trees, and fresh food stands.

Go Whale Watching

Prime time for whale watching in Maui is the winter and early spring, when the majestic humpback whales migrate to the area from the northern Pacific. Book a whale-watching boat tour to learn from onboard naturalists, or try to spot them frolicking in distant waves from the shores of Kaanapali, Makena, and Wailea beaches.

Snorkel Around Molokini

Off the coast of Makena Beach, on the southwest side of Maui, is Molokini Crater . The crystal-clear waters around this crescent-shaped landmark are a great place to experience snorkeling in Maui, with the abundant number of colorful fish here. Several companies offer snorkeling tours to the region; typically a catamaran trip also includes a stop at Turtle Town, where you can spot green sea turtles hanging out in the coral reef.

Kauai: Places to Visit

Active travelers love Kauai with all of its options for hiking, snorkeling, ziplining, river kayaking, and even tubing through interior waterways. Lush with green valleys and dubbed the “Garden Isle,” Kauai is Hawaii’s oldest island — the first to be formed by a volcanic eruption millions of years ago.

Experience The Napali Coast

On Kauai’s North Shore, the Napali Coast is a jaw-dropping display of cliffs rising from the ocean. Group this rugged landscape with cascading waterfalls and pristine beaches, and you’ve got some spectacular scenery that’s best viewed from air (via helicopter) or sea (via boat or kayak). Otherwise, to access it by land, you’ll need to make reservations to hike along the Kalalau Trail , which is 22 miles round trip, but you could bite off a small chunk just 2 miles to Hanakapi’ai Beach if you’re game for something shorter. 

Go Mountain Tubing

In cold-weather climates, mountain tubing is sailing down a snowy hill in a blown-up inner tube. In tropical Kauai it’s floating along a former sugar-cane plantation irrigation ditch — one of the most unique water adventures in Hawaii. This is a mellow ride, where you simply need to kick back in the tube and let the natural flow of the water carry you along through the narrow canals and tunnels.

Give Surfing A Try

You’ll find plenty of surf schools on Kauai, whether you’re staying on the South Shore of Poipu or up north in Hanalei Bay. If you’re brand new to the sport, you’ll get a lesson on land first to practice hopping up on the board. Then you’ll get into the water with an instructor, who will likely hold on to your board and give you a nudge when the perfect wave comes along to ride into shore.

Fly Through The Air While Ziplining

Soar over a rainforest canopy and deep valleys on an exciting zipline tour. Several outfitters on the island offer such experiences, and it’s an adrenaline-charged way to get a bird’s eye view of Kauai’s pretty scenery — perhaps while facing some fear of heights at the same time!

Big Island (Island of Hawaii): Places to Visit

Officially known as the island of Hawaii, it’s more often referred to as the Big Island, due to its size (yes, it’s the biggest of the bunch). This unique place boasts a stunner of a national park as well as active volcanoes and black-sand beaches. The west side of the island of Hawaii also has a perfect climate for growing world-famous Kona coffee.

View A Volcano From Above On A Helicopter Tour

When Kilauea, one of the Big Island’s active volcanoes, is erupting , it’s an especially awesome time to book a helicopter tour of the island to see the glowing red molten lava flow into the ocean to create billowing acid mist called “laze.” But even when Kilauea is in a quiet phase, a helicopter tour of the island of Hawaii provides really cool views of lush mountains, black-sand beaches, and tall waterfalls. 

Traipse Around Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The active Kilauea volcano is located inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, so a visit here will allow you to see steam rising from its multiple vents. Visit at night during an ongoing eruption and you may witness a fiery “lava lake” — bring a flashlight to maneuver safely. At this magnificent national park you can also walk through the giant Thurston Lava Tube , which is a tunnel that was cut into the earth by boiling, flowing lava about 500 years ago. 

Visit A Kona Coffee Farm

The climate in the Kailua-Kona area of Hawaii, on the island’s west side, is ideal for growing coffee beans. Learn how the beans are farmed and roasted at one of the local coffee farms . Tours (often free) may include a sample, but at the least you can purchase the authentic Kona coffee directly from the people who produce it — a perfect souvenir that supports a local business.

Stargaze At Mauna Kea

Early Hawaiians named the giant dormant volcano “Mauna Kea,” which means “white mountain,” as snow regularly dusts its 14,000-foot summit. Visitors can drive (or take a tour) to the visitor center at 9,200 feet to cool off at the high elevation on hot days. Tours also run to the visitor center or the summit for stargazing and planet viewing — Manua Kea’s remote location allows for an especially sparkling sky on clear evenings. 

For more things to do in Hawaii:

• 9 Amazing Hawaii Vacation Rentals Perfect For A Winter Escape
• How To Experience The Only Lava Tree Forest In The World
• Don’t Sleep On Hilo, Hawaii: 12 Reasons To Make It Part Of Your Big Island Visit

In her editorial career spanning more than 30 years, Kara Williams has served as a magazine editor, newspaper reporter, corporate copy editor, and proofreader. Currently, as a freelance writer, Kara focuses on all things travel, from sublime spas and upscale hotels to RV camping and outdoor adventures. National parks, romantic escapes, and tropical destinations are other favorite travel topics she covers. Kara has won Lowell Thomas, SATW Western Chapter, and NATJA awards for her work. An empty nester, she makes her home in the Colorado mountains with her husband and writes about her travels at her blog, Life Here & There . Learn more about Kara on her portfolio website .

15 of the Most Beautiful Places in Hawaii to Add to Your Bucket List

The ultimate hawaii bucket list.

•   share
• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter

TRAVEL GUIDE: 15 Most Beautiful Places in Hawaii

Table of Contents

I t’s no secret that Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places in the world. This state in the Pacific Ocean is just the ultimate dream destination with its phenomenal art, culture, history, nature, and food. There’s just a perfect tourist spot in Hawaii for all kinds of travelers, and we want to share some of the most breathtaking ones. Read more to know our top 15 most beautiful places in Hawaii, in no particular order.

Napali Coast State Wilderness Park

Location: Kapa’a, Hawaii

This stunning coastline spans 17 miles along Kauai’s North Shore, a postcard-perfect beauty of a shoreline where cliffs and ridges meet the deep blue water. This view is best seen by air via aerial tours, which will give you a view that a land or boat ride won’t be able to do. Activities you can do here include kayaking or raft tours.

Apart from this exact attraction, you’ll also find hidden sea caves and secluded beaches, which will make your trip to Napali Coast more interesting.

Rainbow Falls

Location: Hilo town, Hawaii

Are you an early morning adventurer? Seeing Rainbow Falls is just one of the best things you can do when you travel to Hawaii. Located within Hilo town, you can enjoy a short hike to see the 80-foot falls flowing from a lava cave into the river.

Be sure to visit when it’s sunny, so you can catch a glimpse of the rainbow that peeks into the falls, surrounded by lush greeneries. Viewing platforms are available to see the falls where you can take a nice photo.

Lanikai Beach

Location: Kailua, Hawaii

Lanikai, which means “heavenly ocean,” is the best spot for those looking for beautiful Hawaiian beaches. Its crystal blue waters and fine white sand is just what you imagine when you think of having a serene beach vacation. Sunrise in Lanikai Beach is to die for, and other activities you can enjoy here are kayaking and, of course, swimming.

This destination has a laid-back vibe, perfect for a quiet and peaceful vacay away from the busy cities. If you’re into hiking, go for the Lanikai Pillbox Hike in the morning to see a charming view of the Lanikai Beach, Kailua Town, and the Ko’olau Coast.

Mount Kilauea, Volcanoes National Park

Location: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Known as the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Hawaii, the Kilauea Volcano is a must-see for those who love volcano tours. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a destination for all those who love science and adventure! Here, you may even be able to see the lava glow in the halema’uma’u crater.

A variety of hiking points are available within the park where you can see different natural spots such as rainforest, old lava tubes, caves, and more! Both adults and kids will surely enjoy this park as there are also activities intended for kids.

Seven Sacred Pools

Location: Maui, Hawaii

Also known as the Pools of Oheo, this tourist destination is best recognized for its lush bamboo forests and freshwater sceneries. This tranquil jungle, which translates to “something special,” lives up to its name for its natural beauty. There’s a majestic collection of waterfalls, bamboo-laden paths, trails, and more, perfect for those who want to seek the beauty of nature. It’s the best place to hike, camp, and explore for those into nature trekking. It’s an ideal place to explore Hawaii’s natural spots.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Location: Hanauma Bay Road, Honolulu, Hawaii

Only a 30-minute drive from Honolulu , Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a gem that has always been a favorite among locals and foreign tourists alike. This wine glass-shaped bay is famed for its diverse marine life, best explored by snorkeling. And when you do, you get a chance to meet 400 species of fish, green sea turtles, and other marine creatures you’ll surely love seeing.

Since it’s a Nature Preserve, marine life is most prioritized here, and tourists are educated about the importance of reef etiquette when visiting.

Pearl Harbor

Location: 1 Arizona Memorial PI, Honolulu, Hawaii

Probably one of the most familiar sites in Hawaii is Pearl Harbor due to its significance in history. It is where people come to honor the lives lost during the 1941 attack. You can join various Pearl Harbor tours to learn more about this historic site, such as visiting the WWII museum exhibit, Polynesian Cultural Center on the North Shore, Dole Plantation, Pacific Aviation Museum, Pearl Harbor Museums, and Memorials, and many more. You can get a complete experience while learning and enjoying your scheduled visit!

Byodo-In Temple

Location: 47-200 Kahekili Highway, Kaneohe, Hawaii

The peace and quiet of Byodo-in Temple is a beautiful place of worship where everyone from all kinds of religions can meditate or pray. It’s actually a replica of Japan’s more than 900-year-old Byodo-In Temple in Uji, and it was established to commemorate 100 years of Hawaii had its first Japanese immigrants.

Byodo-In Temple is located at the foot of the Ko’olau Mountains, is as peaceful as it can be, and is an ideal reflecting ground. For those seeking the quiet in Hawaii, this simple place is the spot for you.

Location: Hilo, Hawaii

If stargazing is your thing, Hawaii’s got an ideal place for you. The Big Island is where you can enjoy watching the stars at night in a dreamy setting. Drive to the Mauna Kea summit and visit telescopes during the daytime, and watch a scenic view of Hawaii’s best sunsets.

When going here, please respect the place as it is known to be where the goddess of snow, Poli’ahu, lives. A precaution, though, make sure you’re in good health when driving to the summit, as there might be risks when traveling to a higher altitude!

Waipi’o Valley

Location: Waipio Valley Road, Honokaa, Hawaii

This picturesque valley called Waipi’o (curved water) is one of the must-visits in Hawaii, located on the Big Island. It’s known for the challenging hikes, perfect for the pros who want extreme adventure. There’s also a beach along the valley floor, and it’s not your ordinary kind of beach as you’ll find black sand.

There’s plenty of organized tours you can try going to the valley (including horseback riding!) so expect lots of fun as you traverse through this tropical spot.

Wailua Falls

Location: Big Island, Hawaii

If you know Fantasy Island, then this place will be familiar to you. This is considered one of Hawaii’s most beautiful waterfalls, and rightfully so because this twin waterfall pours down dramatically onto the Wailua River, which is truly a sight to behold.

It’s also a great sight to see as it’s very accessible without a need for hiking. If you’re lucky, you might be able to spot a rainbow too!

Makena Beach State Park

There’s a lot to explore in Maui , and one of them is Big Beach in Makena Beach State Park. Though undeveloped, this beach boasts of its beautiful nature view while you spend a day fishing, snorkeling, and just swimming in these wide blue waters.

The long stretch of this sandy beach is best for those who are looking for a place to just indulge and relax. Aside from the Big Beach, there’s also a Little Beach that you can explore here too.

Molokai Sea Cliffs

Location: Molokai, Hawaii

Yet another stunning attraction to see in Hawaii is the sea cliffs of Molokai, recognized as the world’s highest cliffs. These mesmerizing cliffs were created by forces of wind, waves, and rain, and seeing it in person is just something you wouldn’t want to miss when in Hawaii. To have a better view of paradise, we suggest going on available private helicopter tours.

Explore the sea cliffs in bird’s eye view and see the beauty surrounding it: the lush rainforest, majestic waterfalls, and crystal blue waters. If you’ve got money to spend, take this once-in-a-lifetime trip to see the grand Molokai sea cliffs.

Kona Coffee Farms

Location: Kona, Hawaii

Coffee lovers shouldn’t miss what Hawaii has to offer when it comes to the art and love of coffee. Book a Kona Coffee Tour that’ll take you on an incredible journey of all things coffee on the Big Island! Get to see how the locals grow their coffee, try free coffee tasting, see coffee berries, and of course, buy coffee on this scenic road.

There are different farms near Kona, but we highly recommend visiting Kona Coffee Living History Farm, which is known to be the only living history coffee farm in the country. Learn the history of how they make their coffee and enjoy a fun tour as you try local food and see amazing views on Hawaii Island!

Waikiki Neighborhood

Location: Honolulu, Hawaii

This one-stop destination is for travelers who want to see Hawaii’s urban vibes. Waikiki is an iconic destination in Hawaii as it caters to all kinds of tourists, be it couples, families, solo travelers, or a circle of friends. The Waikiki neighborhood offers many attractions such as the Honolulu Zoo, Kapiolani Park, Moana Surfrider, and lots of restaurants and high-end designer shops that you can enjoy while getting a magnificent view of the island!

Formerly a surfer-favorite destination, Waikiki has evolved into a multicultural community where all locals and tourists will love spending time.

Note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, be sure to check these tourist spots’ official websites to see their current operating hours, guidelines, and restrictions. Have a safe trip!

How about you? What’s on your bucket list when you visit Hawaii someday? Share it with us in the comment section below!

Want more updates about new package tours and other unique tourist attractions in Hawaii?

Follow  #TeamOutofTown,  on  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  Instagram , Bloglovin, and  Pinterest  for more travel ideas.

• Hawaii — Coming Back To An Old Favorite
• True Travel Tales: Haunted Hawaii
• Holidaying In Hawaii: An Island Assortment

Written by Team Out of Town

What do you think.

12 Exciting Things to Do along the Han River in Seoul

Department of Tourism Launches Halal Food Tourism

© 2024 by Team Out of Town

With social network:

Or with username:.

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

Forgot password?

Enter your account data and we will send you a link to reset your password.

Your password reset link appears to be invalid or expired.

Privacy policy.

To use social login you have to agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. Privacy Policy

Add to Collection

Public collection title

Private collection title

No Collections

Here you'll find all collections you've created before.

33 Best Places in Hawaii to Visit for 2024

The best places in Hawaii to visit — from the summit of the Haleakala crater in Maui to Tunnels Beach in Kauai and the turquoise waters of Hanauma Bay in Oahu — will have you wanting to return again and again to this magical group of islands, just like we do!

Hawaii’s beauty is breathtaking…and marvelously diverse.

Golden sand beaches fringed with swaying palms. Black sand beaches with glistening pebbles. Turquoise waters with colorful tropical fish and lots of other marine life.

Verdant green valleys with water dripping from lush vegetation. Weeping waterfalls. Mars-like volcanic craters.

You’ll find all these — and more — in Hawaii.

Whether you are a nature lover, a landscape photographer, a beach bum, or adventure seeker, Hawaii is your dream destination.

But it’s also the perfect place to just escape a harsh winter back home, or go with your family on a fun vacation.

In this article, we’ve rounded up our best places to visit in Hawaii. No matter if you are planning to visit just one of the four large islands — Oahu , Maui , Kauai , or the Big Island — or you plan to enjoy an island hopping vacation, you’ll find some places here to add to your itinerary.

Ready? Let’s discover the most beautiful places to visit in Hawaii!

Hey, by the way! Visiting Hawaii? While you finalize your packing , don’t forget to book your tours and activities, way in advance, to avoid disappointments! Start here , and pick the islands you plan to visit. Or go directly to the best Oahu tours , the best things to do in Maui , and the best Kauai helicopter tours !

Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. For more details, refer to our disclosure .

1. Waikiki, Oahu

Sun, surf and fun in Hawaii? You’re probably thinking of Waikiki Beach!

World-famous for its stunning beaches, beautiful turquoise waters, and fun-filled activities, Waikiki Beach is one of my favorite places in Hawaii to go to!

Small wonder Waikiki was a popular retreat for Hawaiian royalty!

Not just one beach, but really a multitude of smaller adjoining beaches, Waikiki Beach extends along a narrow, 2-mile long stretch from the Duke Kahanamoku Beach in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort to the Queen’s Beach and Sans Souci Beach at the eastern-end.

For the adventure tourist and thrill seeker, Waikiki Beach offers many forms of adrenaline rushes: extreme parasailing, underwater submarine scooter rides, and scuba diving.

If you want more laid back water activities, you can try canoeing, standup paddleboarding and learning to surf .

Nature lover yearning to discover Hawaii’s underwater seascape and tropical fish? Most parts of Waikiki Beach have rich coral reefs with excellent snorkeling conditions.

For those seeking Hawaii’s three iconic marine life: Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), spinner dolphins and humpback whales (winter season), you have so many options from Waikiki.

Really not inclined to get wet? How about a stroll along the beach to take in the action, admire spectacular beachside sunsets or sip a mai-tai from a beachfront bar lounge?

On our first vacation to Hawaii, Waikiki was our main destination! We just wanted to chill, and these were the three best experiences for us:

• Sunset cocktail cruise on a catamaran on Friday night where we enjoyed a spectacular ocean sunset, beautiful views of Waikiki and Honolulu nighttime skyline, and an amazing fireworks display from the Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort.

>> Check pricing and availability on this 5-star rated, popular Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise now!

• Romantic dinner at La Mer, a beautiful beachfront fine-dining restaurant in the Halekulani resort (you need to make reservations really early for this).
• Window shopping along Kalakaua Avenue and the Royal Hawaiian Center mall, where you will even find traditional Hawaiian entertainment in the Royal Grove on select evenings.

Waikiki has something to offer you, no matter what your interests, and Waikiki is one my favorite top 10 places in Hawaii to visit!

>> Visiting Waikiki? Check our tips and the best things to do in Waikiki !

2. Hana, Maui

Hana is a charming little town on Maui’s windward side.

But it’s the journey to get to Hana, rather than the destination itself, that is one of the top things to do in Maui.

The famous Road to Hana twists and turns its way through 64 miles of some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Hawaii.

Think waterfalls with pretty plunge pools, tropical vegetation in infinite shades of green, turquoise waters edged with pristine coves, and, if you are lucky, rainbows in the mist.

There are many wonderful stops on the Road to Hana you do not want to miss, from viewpoints and waterfalls to beaches and banana bread stands.

The Road to Hana is remote, it’s totally unlike the west shore, and driving it is an all-day adventure. If you like to take things a little slower, you can even stay in Hana overnight and make it a two-day trip.

Driving the Hana Highway is exhilarating, but it does require careful planning.

One of its nicknames is “The Divorce Highway” and its more than 600 hairpin curves and 59 narrow one-lane bridges can be harrowing.

Be sure to start early and manage your time, only stopping at a few chosen places en route.

If you’re like us and want to just sit back and enjoy the scenery, consider a guided tour.

>> Check price and availability on this highly-rated Road to Hana guided tour now!

3. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island

Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the top things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park contains the summits of Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two of the most active volcanoes on the planet. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With Kilauea’s frequent eruptions, you have a good likelihood of seeing lava flow on your visit to the park!

Hiking enthusiasts will find a variety to trails in the park, from easy to challenging. Kilauea Iki is a popular choice for exploring a solidified lava lake.

You can also walk through Nahuku, a centuries-old lava tube! The tube is illuminated during the day.

Do the scenic Crater Rim Drive, and the Chain of Craters Road, which extends all the way to the coast. Both drives offer overlooks and sights along the way.

Another scenic auto tour in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the drive up to the lookout area on Mauna Loa, more than 6,600 feet above sea level. The views are expansive!

Stay at Volcano House, a lodge within the national park. The park also offers campgrounds.

Volcano Village, just outside the national park in the midst of lush rainforest, also makes for an excellent base.

If you just have a day to explore the park, join a small-group guided tour!

>> Check price and availability on this super popular one-day tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park!

4. Na Pali Coast, Kauai

One of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, Kauai’s Na Pali Coast should definitely be on your Hawaii bucket list!

Na Pali translates to “Many Cliffs,” referring to the rugged cliffs that rise above the coast here. Their emerald color, with red streaks, offers the perfect contrast to the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean.

The coast is lined with pristine beaches and coves, and many waterfalls tumble down to the bottom, to create that perfect tropical picture postcard.

The Na Pali coast stretches for just 17 miles along the northwest shore of Kauai.

It’s remote, and the landscape here remains much the same as it did centuries ago when ancient Hawaiians lived in the narrow valleys between the cliffs, growing taro and other food crops and catching fish.

There is no auto road into the valley, so most people visit by air or by boat.

Take a helicopter tour to soar over the Na Pali Coast for incredible photo ops. From the air, you can take in features of the coast that lie inland, like the Manawaiopuna Falls.

Catamaran tours offer views of the towering cliffs from water level. More adventurous visitors can opt for raft tours that take you closer, to explore sea caves and get under the waterfalls.

The Kalalau Trail offers access to the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, one of Kauai’s best state parks , but it’s strenuous and only for the most experienced hikers.

>> Check price and availability for a Kauai helicopter tour now!

5. Haleakala National Park, Maui

The Haleakala Crater is the most prominent landmark in Maui, and Haleakala National Park , named after the crater, is without a doubt one of the best places to visit in Hawaii.

The park is made up of two distinct districts, with no connecting road, such that you have to visit each district individually.

Access the Summit District via the winding road to the top, where you can hike the epic Sliding Sands Trail to the floor of the massive crater.

A Haleakala sunrise is on the bucket list of many visitors to Maui. So popular is the experience that you now require a parking reservation for the Summit District between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m.

If you don’t have a reservation, or you prefer not to drive up the crater, join a guided tour .

Sunset and stargazing at the summit are also popular, and you don’t need to wake up early!

To access the Kipahulu District, you can drive the Road to Hana a few miles beyond the town of Hana, or you can drive up from the bottom of the island.

The Pipiwai Trail is the top attraction in the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park.

Sights along this popular hike include a massive banyan tree, a lush bamboo forest, and the 400-foot Waimoku Falls .

Given all that it offers, Haleakala National Park is a must on any Maui itinerary!

>> Book these 5-star rated, highly popular, Maui Tours now!

6. Pearl Harbor, Oahu

One of the most visited places in Hawaii, Pearl Harbor should definitely be on your Oahu itinerary if you are a history buff, a WWII buff, or, like many Americans, you simply want to pay your respects.

When Japan attacked Pearl Harbor without warning on the morning of December 7, 1941, the event triggered US entry into World War II.

The loss of life that occurred that day was the most devastating in Hawaii’s history.

Although Pearl Harbor is still an active military base, there are four sites of interest you can visit here.

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial, run by the National Park Service, is home to the USS Arizona Memorial.

The USS Arizona was bombed and sank in the December 1941 attack, and 1,177 personnel were killed. Today a memorial stands over the spot where the battleship lies in the ocean.

Each year, several thousand visitors arrive at the USS Arizona Memorial by boat to offer their respects. Make an advance reservation to participate in the USS Arizona Memorial Program.

At the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, you can view exhibits in the two galleries, and take in the film that depicts the attack on Pearl Harbor.

If you also want to visit the USS  Oklahoma  and USS  Utah  Memorials on Ford Island, also part of the park, you can reserve a spot on a bus tour.

The other major site of interest in Pearl Harbor is the Battleship Missouri Memorial, not managed by the park. The deck of this battleship was where WWII ended, when the Japanese surrendered. There is a fee to visit.

You can also visit the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, both in Pearl Harbor. These sites are managed independently, and each museum has an entrance fee.

Prefer the structure of a guided tour? This very popular tour includes the USS Arizona Memorial and includes transport from Honolulu and back for a hassle-free half-day visit.

>> Check price and availability for this epic Pearl Harbor tour now!

Or consider this highly-rated tour that includes both “book ends” of World War II: the USS Arizona and the USS Missouri . The tour lasts 7 hours and includes transport from Honolulu and back.

>> Check price and availability for this highly-rated Pearl Harbor tour now!

Pearl Harbor is easily on any list of the top 10 places to visit in Hawaii!

7. Molokai Island

Hawaii’s second smallest populated island, Molokai is less than 40 miles long and only about 10 miles at its widest. It lies between Maui and Oahu.

It’s also not as developed as the larger islands, everyone knows everyone, and tourism isn’t big business here, making a visit to Molokai a unique experience.

Papohaku Beach, on the west side of the island, offers a 3-mile stretch of golden sand. It’s a great spot for sunset!

Halawa Valley, on the lush east side of Molokai, features lots of waterfalls and is spectacularly scenic. The drive to get here, from Kaunakakai is super scenic as well. Halawa Valley Beach Park is stunning.

The north coast of the island features inaccessible towering cliffs, much like the Na Pali Coast of Kauai, but the Kalaupapa National Historic Park is a must visit. The trail is currently closed but you can fly in.

The Kalaupapa Peninsula is where leprosy patients were banished during an outbreak in the mid-1800s.

There is one small hotel on the island, and you can spend a night or two here while you visit the major attractions on Molokai, and eat some of the famous Kanemitsu Bakery hot bread.

Or opt for a more immersive experience and stay longer. You’ll find some vacation rentals and some work-stay opportunities at local farms. Farm tours and stays are a great way to experience Molokai.

>> Book these 5 star rated, highly popular, Kauai Tours now!

8. North Shore, Oahu

Experienced surfer looking for thrills? You’re probably in Hawaii to ride the towering waves on Ehukai Beach on the North Shore of Oahu , more popularly known as the Banzai Pipeline !

While the pace is definitely slower and the crowds much less than what you might find in Waikiki, the North Shore of Oahu is remarkable for the some of the exciting activities it offers, found nowhere else on Oahu!

In winter, the waves on the Banzai Pipeline on the North Shore of Oahu are at their most majestic, and experienced or professional surfers head there for international competitions and just the plain joy and thrill of riding enormous 40+ feet waves.

Not a professional surfer? No problem, just watching surfers gracefully navigate the massive waves from the safety of the beach is almost as much fun!

Surfing not your cup of tea? How about swimming with sharks or cage diving with sharks ?

The majority of shark diving tours leave from Haleiwa Harbor on Oahu’s North Shore, and head to the open ocean waters, where you can find larger sharks, pelagic sharks (deep ocean sharks).

If the thought of being in the water with a shark gives you the shivers, no problem. Try cage diving with sharks!

We took this cage diving with sharks tour and our kids loved it! We were lowered into the water (with breathing tubes) in a steel, polyglass cage, from which we could safely watch the sharks, some of which were at an arm’s length.

Our kids rated this their best experience in Hawaii on that vacation!

If you are a vacationing family with smaller kids, you’ll love Waimea Valley . Waimea Valley Falls is a beautiful 40-foot waterfall with a natural swimming pool at its base, with lifeguards, life vests and changing rooms.

The setting for the falls is Waimea Valley Botanical Garden , a gorgeous garden with many sections of trees and plants from different regions of the world, and well-paved paths. You will also find some archeological sites with ancient Hawaiian structures!

You can top this off with the Toa Luau , one of the best luaus on Oahu.

>> Check pricing and availability on this highly popular, 5-star rated tour  Toa Luau at Waimea Valley  that includes the admission fee!

>> Intrigued and want to visit? Read our tips on the best things to do on the North Shore of Oahu to plan!

9. Waimea Canyon, Kauai

Driving up the west shore of Kauai to gawk at the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” is one of the best things to do in Kauai!

One of Hawaii’s most renowned landmarks, Waimea Canyon is impressive, at ten miles long, one mile wide, and over 3,500 feet deep.

With its hues of red and rust rock and green vegetation, the canyon makes for a fantastic photo op. You may even be able to see the 800-foot Waipoo Falls in the distance!

Drive up Highway 550 to Waimea Canyon State Park to view the canyon from a series of lookouts. Or join a guided tour if you prefer not to drive.

The main lookout is at mile marker 10, and it offers expansive views of the gorge. The Puʻu Hinahina Lookout, at mile marker 13.5, offers another perspective, and you can see the Waimea River as it flows through the canyon.

Most visitors combine a visit Waimea Canyon State Park with Koke’e State Park , just north. Koke’e State park offers views of the dramatic Na Pali Coast.

While admiring Waimea Canyon from the lookouts should definitely be on your Kauai itinerary, adventurous visitors can also opt for a helicopter tour of Kauai that offers breathtaking views into Waimea Canyon.

10. Molokini Crater, Maui

For the longest time, snorkeling at the world-famous Molokini Crater languished on my Hawaii bucket list!

I was under the misguided impression that, given depths of 20-50 feet near the crater, I would have to be a good swimmer to snorkel there.

Boy, was I wrong! Apparently, with the flotation devices and vests now available on most Molokini Crater tours, snorkeling is a breeze even for non-swimmers, you just can’t sink!

Molokini Crater is THE BEST snorkeling site in Maui, if not all of the Hawaiian islands!

The remnants of an ancient volcanic eruption, Molokini Crater is a crescent-shaped island with the two arms yielding a sheltered, protected crater basin with ideal snorkeling conditions.

The water is crystal clear and calm, and underwater visibility is upto 150 feet, so snorkeling from the surface, you can see a lot!

And by a lot, I mean 250+ species of colorful tropical fish , picturesque coral reefs, and deeper sea marine animals like Hawaiian green sea turtles, octopus, eels, dolphins, and much more!

For the adrenaline seekers and adventure tourists, Molokini Crater’s outer wall, with thrilling depths of over 300 feet, offers exciting underwater seascapes to explore, with scuba or SNUBA.

Given Molokini Crater will be likely be one of the highlights of your Hawaiian vacation, check out our detailed tips on how to plan a visit to Molokini Crater .

The crater is roughly 3 miles off the shore of the south coast of Maui, so you will have to take a boat tour to get there. Many tours combine Molokini Crater with Turtle Town snorkeling, where you can see many Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Here are some popular, 5-star rated Molokini Crater tours:

And if you are a bird lover, you are in luck: Molokini Crater is a protected Hawaii State Seabird Sanctuary, and you can see wedge-tailed shearwaters , Bulwer’s Petrels, yellow-billed Tropicbirds , great frigate birds , brown boobies and others.

Definitely one of the top places to visit in Hawaii!

11. Kailua (+ East Side), Oahu

Tired of Waikiki Beach, and searching for more peaceful, less crowded beaches? The East Side of Oahu (also called the windward side of Oahu , since it faces the powerful trade winds) has stunning beaches, and is much less crowded.

Lanikai Beach is the most famous of the East Shore beaches, but the adjacent Kailua Beach in spectacular Kailua Bay is equally beautiful with much better facilities for families with kids (restrooms, showers, and lifeguards).

We used our first trip to Kailua Beach Park to learn standup paddleboarding – a far better conducive environment for learning than crowded Waikiki Beach!

One of the more popular activities on these beaches is to kayak out to the Mokes (Mokulua Islets Seabird Sanctuary) or the Flat Island (Popoia Island), and enjoy stunning island views from the water.

>> Check pricing and availability on this 5-star rated, popular Kayaking Tour of Kailua Bay with Lunch !

With its lush, green vegetation and fabulous scenery, the majority of the best hiking trails on Oahu are on the windward east side of the island.

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike and the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Hike are two of the most popular and relatively easy hikes, with spectacular views!

If you’re looking for something challenging in terms of exercise or hiking skill, try the grueling climb with Koko Head Hike or the difficult Mt Olomana Three Peaks Hike .

Beat the crowds and the heat by hiking these trails for the sunrise or sunset, all of these hikes feature on our best sunrise hikes and best sunset hikes on Oahu!

Apart from snorkeling at the world-famous Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, three other best things to do on the windward side of Oahu are:

Enjoy water activities at the Kaneohe Sandbar

Kaneohe Sandbar in the spectacular Kaneohe Bay is the largest saltwater sandbar in the world, a natural formation that appears and disappears with the tides.

While an interesting natural phenomenon, Kaneohe Sandbar is also a fabulous place in the middle of the ocean to enjoy snorkeling, water volleyball, jet skiing and even picnics!

>> Check pricing and availability on this 5-star rated, popular Kaneohe Sandbar Snorkeling Tour / Afternoon !

Visit Kualoa Ranch

A place where many scenes from popular movies like the Jurassic Park series were shot, Kualoa Ranch is a stunning ranch where you can enjoy many adventure activities.

Find Peace at the Byodo-In Temple

The Byodo-In Temple in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park , a beautiful replica of a Japanese Buddhist temple, is the perfect spot for some quiet downtime and meditation.

12. Lanai Island

The smallest populated Hawaiian island, Lanai is the place to go if you are looking for that luxurious Hawaiian vacation that feels like you’ve escaped to your very own private island paradise.

The island is mostly owned by Oracle billionaire Larry Ellison, and is home to three resorts, along with some vacation rentals.

The Four Seasons Resort Lanai features the most expensive accommodations in all of Hawaii!

Lanai City is the largest “town” on the island, but it’s tiny: just a few businesses. Roads on the island are rocky and rugged, and a four-wheel drive is the way to go if you plan to explore on your own.

On Lanai, explore the wrecks of old vessels at Shipwreck Beach, take in sunset at the Garden of the Gods, and enjoy the beautiful views on the Munro Trail (you can drive, bike, or hike this 13-mile trail).

For quality beach time on Lanai, you can’t beat Hulopoe Bay. You can swim and sunbathe here, or snorkel in the calm pools on the east side of the bay. Keep your eyes open for spinner dolphins! Swimming isn’t safe here in the winter though.

You’ll find other beaches on Lanai for sunbathing and strolling, but swimming isn’t safe at most of them.

You can fly into Lanai from one of the larger islands, or you can take the ferry from Maui. The ferry is also a great option if you want to visit Lanai just for the day.

>> Book these 5-star rated, highly popular, Kauai tours now!

13. Hanauma Bay, Oahu

Searching for the perfect snorkeling place on Oahu? Hanauma Bay Natural Preserve , a marine sanctuary on the southeast side of Oahu, is one of the best in all of Hawaii.

A beautiful, horseshoe-shaped bay on an ancient, sunken volcanic crater basin, Hanauma Bay is protected by the crater walls and a peripheral coral reef, providing an excellent, sheltered location for snorkeling, even for beginners and families with small kids.

Families with kids will love the facilities provided at Hanauma Bay: visitor center, education center, snack bar, gift shop, showers, restrooms lockers, lifeguards and a picnic area!

The waters within the bay are calm and crystal clear, with excellent underwater visibility!

The inner reef, closer to the shore, has shallow waters and is perfect for beginners and smaller kids.

The outer reef, further off shore, is more appropriate for experienced snorkelers, and has a much richer marine life for exploration!

Irrespective of where you snorkel, expect to see hundreds of species of tropical fish like tangs, parrotfish, butterflyfish, and triggerfish, and even an occasional Hawaiian green sea turtle.

One of the intriguing side effects of the Covid-19 lockdown was the impact of human withdrawal on nature everywhere, and Hanauma Bay was no exception!

With the absence of tourists, marine life in Hanauma Bay flourished, water clarity improved, and endangered fish population grew.

To continue the conservation efforts, Hanauma Bay now is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and on other days, the hours are now restricted to 6:45 am – 4:00 pm.

Hanauma Bay has also instituted a reservation system limiting visitors to 1400 guests / day, admission fee of $25/adult and first time visitors are required to view a mandatory 9-minute video on marine life preservation.

Nowadays, I find it much more convenient to take a shuttle or a tour to Hanauma Bay.

>> Check pricing and availability of this highly popular, well-rated  Hanauma Bay Snorkeling  tour!

14. Honokalani Black Sand Beach, Maui

The black sand beach at Wai’anapanapa State Park along the Road to Hana is a must-visit when you are in Maui.

Officially Honokalani Beach or Pa’ilua Beach, Maui’s black sand beach is dramatically beautiful, with a backdrop of black lava cliffs and lush tropical plants and trees.

While the beach is great for relaxing and for photography, it’s not great for swimming or wading, because of possible dangerous currents that could sweep you out to sea.

The beach is pebbly, so wear water shoes to protect your feet as you explore. Letting the black sand dribble through your fingers is awesome!

There’s also a sea cave to explore, on the right side of the beach as you face the ocean.

Above the beach, there are lookout areas from where you can view beautiful Pa’iloa Bay, and walking trails that lead to the left and right if you have the time to hike.

There’s a blowhole a short walk from the viewing area that can be explosive when active!

Wai’anapanapa State Park within which the black sand beach is located, requires parking and entry reservations for non-residents.

Don’t want to drive? Consider a guided Road to Hana tour that includes a stop at the black sand beach!

>> Check price and availability for the Road to Hana tour (with the black sand beach) now!

15. Mauna Kea, Big Island

At 13,803 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea towers over the Big Island. It’s the highest point in Hawaii!

From base to peak, Mauna Kea is actually the tallest mountain on the planet. But because a larger part of Mauna Kea is below the ocean floor, Mount Everest gets the title.

Mauna Kea translates to “White Mountain” because of the snow that caps its peak for a part of the year. The summit of the volcano is sacred to Hawaiians: it’s the home of Poli‘ahu, the goddess of snow.

Going up to the top of Mauna Kea is one of the best things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii.

If you are up for the challenge, you can hike to the top of Mauna Kea. Drive up to the visitor center at 9,200 feet, where you can take in the spectacular views before making the trek up.

Or you can arrive in a 4WD, or on a guided sunset and stargazing tour .

Because of its elevation, there is little to no light pollution at the top of Mauna Kea, so it makes for sensational stargazing. That’s why you see so many observatories here!

Sunset at the top is awesome as well. From your perch at the top of Hawaii, you’ll see the sun sink into a sea of clouds below.

>> Check price and availability on this Mauna Kea sunset and stargazing tour now!

16. Lanikai Beach, Oahu

If you’re vacationing in Hawaii, there definitely is no dearth of gorgeous beaches.

But Lanikai Beach on the east side of Oahu is spectacular, even among Hawaiian beaches. Lanikai means “heavenly sea” in Hawaiian, and that about sums it up!

Lanikai Beach is small and secluded, much less crowded than Waikiki Beach or the other touristy beaches, but equally beautiful with fine golden sand and crystal clear ocean water.

And you still have all the popular water activities: swimming, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking and paddle boarding!

Lanikai Beach is on the windward side of Oahu , and that means its windy – perfect for kitesurfing and parasailing!

Off the shore are two quant, little islands called Mokulua Islands or, more commonly, Mokes.

These islands are part of the Hawaii State Seabird Sanctuary, you can see seabirds like wedge-tailed shearwaters , red-footed boobies, brown noddies and white terns.

Kayaking or standup paddle boarding to the Mokes is a very popular activity from Lanikai Beach (or neighboring Kailua Beach)!

>> Check pricing and availability on this 5-star rated, popular Kailua Twin Islands Guided Kayak Tour, Oahu to the Mokes now!

See if you can get in early to watch the sunrise from Lanikai Beach or stay back late to watch the sunset, both are colorful and spectacular.

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike , one of the best easy hikes on Oahu , is close by, you can walk it to the trailhead from the beach parking!

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike offers fabulous views of Lanikai Beach and Kailua Bay.

Beat the crowds and the heat (there is no shade on the hike) by hiking for the sunrise or sunset. Lanikai Pillbox Hike is featured on our best Oahu sunrise hikes and our best Oahu sunset hikes .

>> Book an exciting, 5-star rated, highly popular, Oahu tour now!

17. Hanalei Bay, Kauai

Hanalei Bay is not only the largest bay along Kauai’s north shore, it is also drop-dead gorgeous.

The sandy beach stretches for about two miles, with a backdrop of mountains and lush tropical vegetation. One of the best things to do in Hanalei is just stroll the beach!

In the middle of the bay, Hanalei Town makes for a charming browse, with its many small shops and galleries, as well as food trucks and fine eateries.

Nearby Princeville is a resort area, and the perfect place to base as you explore the many Hanalei Bay activities, from paddling to surfing.

Hanalei River empties into the bay, and you can join a guided kayaking excursion that traverses the river before you paddle in the open bay!

While sections of the beach are good Kauai swimming beaches in the summer (there are lifeguards on duty), the surf is too rough in the winter. However, winter is a great time to see expert surfers ride the waves here.

The Hanalei Pier is a tranquil spot for sunrise photography. It’s a pleasant place to visit for sunset as well.

18. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Big Island

One of the most well known black sand beaches in Hawaii , Punalu’u Beach is located on the southeastern Kaʻū coast of the Big Island, between the towns of Pahala and Naalehu.

The beach is very picturesque, with the jet black sand, palms fringing the back, and the turquoise ocean in front.

The geology of the area is quite unique, with underground fresh water springs that mingles with the sea water in the bay.

Look for honu, Hawaiian green sea turtles, and, if you are very lucky, honu’ea, hawksbill turtles: they can sometimes be seen resting on the sand. Remember to watch from a safe distance, for the safety of these endangered creatures.

You may occasionally see a Hawaiian monk seal on the beach.

At the south end of the beach is an elevated covered area that offers an overlook to the beach if you’d like to snap some photos before going down to the beach itself.

The surf is rough here most of the time, so it’s not a swimming or snorkeling beach as such, but visit to admire the scenery and stroll on the magical black sand.

The beach offers a parking lot, restrooms, showers, and picnic pavilions, if you plan to enjoy a picnic meal here.

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is about 67 miles from Kailua-Kona, about 1 hour and 40 minutes by car and makes a great stop en route to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

>> Book these 5-star rated, highly popular, Maui Tours now!

19. Poipu Beach, Kauai

Located on Kauai’s sunnier south shore, Poipu Beach is a gorgeous golden sand beach that’s routinely listed among the top beaches in the USA.

Fringed with palms, the sandy beach features turquoise waters and picturesque lava rocks at either side.

Without a doubt, Poipu Beach is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii!

Made up of a couple of crescent shaped bays, Poipu Beach has a shallow portion that is protected by a reef of lava rocks, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling.

In fact, Poipu Beach is one of the most popular swimming beaches in Kauai . It’s lifeguarded, and the eastern portion is a popular playing spot for families with kids.

Beginning bodyboarders enjoy the western side of Poipu Beach, where the waves are more powerful.

Wildlife watchers will be excited to know that endangered Hawaiian monk seals can often be found resting on the beach here.

View seals, turtles, and other wildlife from a safe distance.

Poipu Beach Park offers amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, if you plan to spend a few hours enjoying the beauty of Poipu Beach.

Check out our in-depth guide to the best things to do in Poipu !

20. Diamond Head State Monument, Oahu

The Diamond Head Crater is one of the most famous landmarks in Oahu, and doing the Diamond Head hike is on the wish-list of many visitors to the island.

One of the relatively easy hikes on Oahu, the Diamond Head trail takes you from the floor of the crater and up along its interior wall to the top for amazing views.

You’ll drive through a tunnel in the crater to park inside the crater and head to the trailhead. It’s a very cool feeling to be inside a volcanic crater!

The trail makes its way to the summit of Diamond Head along a series of switchbacks. It’s an exposed trail, best done early or late in the day. There are stairs to navigate as well.

In fact, the Diamond Head trail is one of the best sunrise hikes in Oahu if you are up for an early wake-up call on vacation and you visit when sunrise occurs later: Diamond Head State Monument, which houses the trail, opens at 6 a.m.

No matter when you go, the views from the top are sensational on a clear day. In fact, you’ve probably seen those iconic shots of the Waikiki coastline snapped from the Diamond Head summit online.

Views extend from Koko Head in southeastern Oahu all the way to Wai‘anae, on Oahu’s west coast.

Like in many other places in Hawaii, there are military installations at the top of Daimond Head as well.

21. Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park, Big Island

If you enjoy local history, the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park on the Big Island is a must visit. As a bonus, it is a very scenic spot as well!

The Puʻuhonua was a place of refuge. A person that had broken the kapu or sacred laws in ancient Hawaii could only escape death, which was the usual punishment for breaking the kapu, by fleeing to a place of refuge.

In times of war, the Puʻuhonua also protected families of the warriors and other civilians, as well as defeated warriors that sought refuge.

There were several places of refuge in Hawaii, but Pu’uhonua o Honaunau is the best known and best preserved.

Here an L-shaped wall, known as the Great Wall, stretches along two sides of the site, with the ocean bounding the other two sides. Inside, there are many sacred sites, including the Hale o Keawe and other heiaus.

On a visit to the site, managed by the National Park Service, you can stroll the grounds to view the sites, and admire the ki’i (carved statues).

If you enjoy hiking, walk the trail to Kiʻilae village and back (two miles round trip). The walk takes you along the scenic coastal cliffs and you’ll see many sacred sites along the way. This trail is a part of the 175-mile Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail.

There’s a picnic area where you can relax after you are done exploring!

The Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park is about 23.5 miles from Kailua-Kona, on the west coast of the Big Island.

22. Tunnels Beach, Kauai

Want to visit an extremely picturesque beach in Kauai?

Tunnels Beach , also known as Makua Beach, arguably the prettiest beach along Kauai’s scenic north shore.

Located toward the western end of the island’s north shore, Tunnels Beach featured as a filming location for the movie South Pacific .

The golden sand crescent beach is backed by green mountains and lush tropical vegetation. The waters are a beautiful turquoise, making it the perfect picture postcard.

Tunnels Beach used to be a bucket-list snorkeling destination, but now the best area, the large inner reef known as the Makua Lagoon, is closed off, to protect the fish nursery here.

When surf conditions are calm, you can swim here, or snorkel outside of the closed-off area. Note that the beach is susceptible to strong currents.

Tunnels Beach is known as a surf spot in the winter, when the waves are big.

Even if you do not venture into the water, Tunnels Beach is worth visiting for its spectacular beauty. Stroll the beach and snap lots of photos, or spread a towel and relax!

There are no facilities at Tunnels Beach, but you’ll find restrooms and showers (and more parking) at adjoining Haena Beach Park . You can walk along the sand between Tunnels Beach and Haena Beach.

23. Iao Valley State Monument, Maui

Located in Central Maui, Iao Valley State Monument is a tranquil park that’s a must-visit for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

The most striking feature in the park is the 1,200-foot-tall Iao Needle, a natural lava rock formation that rises steeply into the sky.

Surrounded by lush green peaks, the green needle makes for a stunning photo op.

A short paved trail with steps leads to a viewing area, from where you can look upon the needle. The trail is one of the most popular family-friendly hikes in Maui .

The park also includes an ethnobotanical area, where you’ll find Hawaiian crop plants and fruit trees like taro and banana.

The Iao Stream flows through the area.

The lush Iao Valley is not only scenic, it is also historically significant to Hawaiians. It was here that in 1790, the Battle of Kepaniwai was fought.

In the historic clash, the forces of King Kamehameha I, who wanted to unite the islands, defeated Maui’s army.

Good to know: Entry and parking reservations are now required for visitors to Iao Valley State Monument that are not residents of Hawaii. Make reservations here .

24. Polynesian Cultural Center, Oahu

Want to learn about the spirit and beauty of Polynesia, and the indigenous people of Hawaii, New Zealand, Easter Island, Samoa, Tonga and the other Pacific islands? No better place than the Polynesian Cultural Center!

The Polynesian Cultural Center on the North Shore of Oahu is a theme-park-like center with six villages: Hawaii, Aotearoa – New Zealand, Samoa, Fiji, Tahiti and Tonga, that give you a glimpse of how the people from these islands live, and the threads connecting how they dress, cook, dance and play!

Throughout the afternoon, these villages present music, dance and interactive shows that pull you into the daily life of a native.

Don’t miss the agile bare-feet Samoan warrior scaling a 40-foot coconut tree, the Maori Haka war dance (Aotearoa New Zealand), the pounding of the Fijian derua (bamboo stick) and the amazing Tongan drummers!

Kids will love the interactive nature of these villages including a Fijian tattoo (temporary), Hawaiian hula lessons, dancing Tongan-style sitting down and Tahitian pole fishing and spear throwing!

With so much time spent in the waters, it is only fitting that one of the highlights is the water show, Huki: A canoe celebration , on the beautiful lagoon.

Dancers and singers perform on double-hulled canoes, a magnificent musical show that must not be missed!

The Ali’i luau, Polynesian Cultural Center’s offering of the traditional Hawaiian feast, is a buffet extravaganza centered around a delicious kalua pig (slow roasted in an imu , an earthen oven).

The buffet gives you an opportunity to sample much more of the native Hawaiian cuisine compared to a typical, table-served meal.

Make sure you stay for Ha: Breath of life , an incredible, action-packed performance with 100+ talented artists in stunning costumes and with blazing fireknives, narrating the story of a young native who grows into a warrior leader!

A fitting finale to an incredible visit!

25. Kilauea Point Lighthouse, Kauai

If you enjoy birding, the Kilauea Point Wildlife Refuge on the northeastern shore of Kauai is one of the best places in Hawaii to visit!

Here you can try to spot the red-footed booby , the great frigatebird , the Laysan albatross , the white-tailed tropicbird, the wedge-tailed shearwater , and other Hawaiian seabirds , for whom the refuge is a nesting spot.

The Kilauea Point Wildlife Refuge is also home to the Daniel K. Inouye Kīlauea Point Lighthouse, a popular photo spot in Kauai.

The lighthouse, which dates back to 1913, is on the National Register of Historic Places. It used to house the largest hand-blown clamshell lens in the world, until it was replaced by an automatic beacon in the 1970s.

It is 52 feet tall and perched 180 feet above the ocean at the northernmost point of Kauai…and in fact the northernmost point of the main Hawaiian islands.

You need a reservation to visit Kilauea Point Wildlife Refuge, and there is an entrance fee.

Even if you do not visit the refuge, plan to drive to the overlook at the end of Kilauea Road for stunning views of the ocean and the lighthouse.

26. Kealakekua Bay, Big Island

Located just a few miles south of Kailua-Kona, Kealakekua Bay was settled over 1,000 years ago!

It is a place of great historical importance. The Kealakekua Bay State Historic Park contains archaeological sites as well as heiaus (sacred temples).

The bay is also the place where Captain Cook, the first known European to arrive in Hawaii, landed.

Captain Cook and his crew were treated with honor and returned to sea after many weeks, only to return shortly when they suffered some damage in a storm.

This time things went sour and Cook was killed in an altercation with the Hawaiians after trying to abduct their chief. There’s a monument to Captain Cook that can be visited by hiking or via a boat snorkeling tour or kayaking.

Kealakekua Bay is home to an offshore coral reef, and is one of the top snorkeling spots in all of Hawaii . A pod of spinner dolphins also calls the bay home.

Stop by the pebbly Napoʻopoʻo Beach Park, where you can snorkel when conditions are safe. Here you will also find the Hikiau Heiau, dedicated to the Hawaiian god Lono.

A dinner cruise of Kealakekua Bay is a wonderful way to visit! The tour includes insightful commentary into the history of the bay, and the sunset is spectacular.

>> Check price and availability for this Kealakekua Bay dinner cruise now!

27. Iolani Palace, Oahu

Want to visit the only royal palace in the United States?

In downtown Honolulu , you’ll find Iolani Palace, once the residence of Hawaiian royalty. It’s a must-visit for visitors that enjoy local history and culture!

Completed in 1882, Iolani Palace became the residence of King Kalakaua and later his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani.

It was sumptuously furnished, and used for state receptions and other glittering events.

The queen’s attempts to strengthen the monarchy in Hawaii caused conflict, and eventually the monarchy was overthrown and the queen was imprisoned in the palace.

The structure then served as the headquarters for the provisional government and later the state capitol. Many of the furnishings in the palace were sold.

Today the palace has been meticulously restored and is a National Historic Landmark open for public tours.

The palace offers a variety of guided tours and you can also do a self-guided audio tour. A docent-led tour of the interior is a great option to learn as you explore.

28. Wailua River State Park, Kauai

Enjoy river kayaking? Put Kauai’s Wailua River State Park on your itinerary!

One of the most popular state parks in Kauai , the Wailua River State Park is a must-visit on the east shore of the island.

The park contains two easily-accessed Kauai waterfalls : Wailua Falls and Opaekaa Falls . Both falls can be seen from viewing areas by the parking lot, so no hiking required!

Wailua Falls featured in the opening credits of the TV show Fantasy Island . Consisting of two side-by-side falls, Wailua Falls are an impressive sight when in full flow.

You get a more distant view of Opaekaa Falls from the viewpoint, but it’s worth the stop!

Wailua River is the only river in Hawaii where you can cruise in a boat. The boat cruise offered by the park takes you to a very lush and green fern grotto and back.

If you’d rather embark on a more active exploration, the Wailua River is also a great river to explore via kayak or canoe. You can rent kayaks at the park.

Or, for a fun adventure, consider the Wailua River kayaking plus hiking to Secret Falls tour!

This very popular Kauai excursion involves paddling up the Wailua River and then hiking into the rainforest to Uluwehi Falls, otherwise known as Secret Falls.

If you like, you can swim under the falls before you head back to the starting point.

>> Check price and availability on this Wailua River Valley kayaking and hiking tour now!

29. Akaka Falls State Park, Big Island

One of the most popular places to visit on the Big Island, Akaka Falls State Park is home to the beautiful namesake waterfall that’s also easy to access.

The park is located along the Hilo Coast, in the northeastern part of the island.

Akaka Falls plunges an astounding 442 feet into a gorge. Surrounded by lush vegetation, the waterfall makes for a great photo.

The Akaka Fall Loop Trail is just 0.4 mile long, and winds its way through a variety of tropical plants and flowers to an overlook for the falls.

Along the way, there’s also a view of Kahuna Falls, which has a drop of about 100 feet.

Plus, you can enjoy a variety of plants and flowers along the trail, from bamboo to ferns and orchids.

Although the trail is easy, and paved, there are several steps. You can do the entire loop or take a direct path to Akaka Falls and back.

Akaka Falls State Park has entry and parking fees for visitors that are not residents of Hawaii: $5.00 entrance per person and $10.00 parking per vehicle.

30. Koko Head Trail, Oahu

Stairmaster not working in your hotel? Why not try hiking the Koko Head Trail , a natural stairmaster with a 1000+ steep steps, but with a payoff you don’t expect in your gym: stunning 360 degree views of the island of Oahu and the Pacific Ocean!

Reminiscent of the Incline in Manitou Springs (Colorado), the Koko Head Trail is a difficult hike along the remnants of the Koko Crater Tramway tracks to the top of the Koko Head Crater (1207 feet above sea level).

Koko Head Hike is relatively short (1.6 miles round trip, 1 – 2 hours average), but challenging because of the steep climb, with an elevation gain of about 900 feet.

The trailhead marked Koko Crater Tramway is located in the Koko Head District Park, about a 25 minute drive east of Waikiki. The large parking lot near the baseball field is free, and restrooms are nearby.

The Koko Head Hike is one of the best Oahu hikes , and is very popular. It starts off with a steady incline of steps that rapidly becomes steep up the side of the crater.

There is a short section in the middle where the tracks become aerial, ground drops below to 10-15 feet. If you prefer, there is a bypass that detours this section.

At the top, you can expect stunning views of the east Honolulu shoreline, Hanauma Bay, Sandy Beach, Makapu’u Lighthouse, and even parts of Molokai on a clear day.

Hike the Koko Head Trail early morning for the sunrise or late evening for the sunset , both of which are amazing! You will also beat the crowds and the heat (no shade on the trail)!

If climbing an extinct volcano crater was on your Hawaii vacation bucket list, the Koko Head Hike is an exhilarating way to cross it off!

31. Hāʻena State Park, Kauai

Haena State Park is without a doubt one of the must-visit places in Hawaii.

The jewel of Kauai’s north shore, the park is home to lovely Ke’e Beach and is also the starting point for the famous Kalalau Trail .

Ke’e Beach is a sandy beach with a protective reef that allows for swimming in the summer. Sunsets here are stunning.

Ke’e Beach is not only beautiful in its own right, it also offers superb views of the Na Pali Coast of Kauai , with its towering cliffs.

There is a lifeguard on duty, and the beach has amenities such as showers and restrooms.

Haena State Park also has a restored taro field you can view. There are historical sites here, some related to the traditional dance form of hula.

If you are an avid hiker and want to hike the grueling Kalalau Trail into the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, the trailhead is right at Ke’e Beach.

The epic trail is 11 miles each way and requires an overnight camping permit.

But you can also hike a part of the trail as a day hike, whether you go just half a mile to the viewpoint that offers great aerial views over Ke’e Beach, or further in.

Note that reservations are required to enter Haena State Park if you are not a resident of Hawaii. We have a detailed guide with the full scoop on how to visit Haena State Park .

32. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden, Oahu

With a spectacularly scenic setting at the base of the Ko’olau Mountains on Oahu’s windward side , the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is one of the best botanical gardens in Oahu .

The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden encompasses 400 acres and contains a large man-made reservoir.

Plant collections from tropical regions around the world, including Hawaii, are arranged in eight geographic gardens. There are thousands of plants to admire!

More active visitors can explore beyond on trails that range from easy to strenuous.

One of the best features of the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is that if you do not have several hours to spare, you can simply drive through the garden and enjoy the views and the lush vegetation.

The drive offers gorgeous views of the cloud-shrouded Koolau Mountains, and if you happen to visit after rains, you may even see waterfalls dribbling down the cliff faces.

The garden offers picnic pavilions and even campgrounds if you want to spend a night in this beautiful part of Oahu.

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is free to visit. In fact, it’s one of the best free things to do in Oahu if you love nature.

33. Maluaka Beach (Turtle Town), Maui

If you are considering a trip to Maui and enjoy snorkeling, you will want to include Maluaka Beach in your itinerary.

Maluaka Beach is one of the best beaches in South Maui for snorkeling from shore. It is located in southwest Maui, south of the resort area of Wailea.

Part of the popular Turtle Town coast of the island, Maluaka Beach is also a great place to look for — you guessed it — honu, or Hawaiian green sea turtles. It’s the reason many snorkeling boat tours stop here.

Maluaka Beach features a long stretch of white sand and usually calm blue waters. Other than swimming and snorkeling, the family-friendly beach is also great for sand play, sunbathing, and beach volleyball.

For the best snorkeling, head to the rocky area at the south end of the beach where a reef harbors lots of colorful fish.

You will usually find Maluaka Beach less crowded than other south Maui beaches. There are restrooms and showers, but no lifeguard on duty at Maluaka Beach.

Map of the Best Places in Hawaii to Visit

Here is a map of the best places in Hawaii to visit described above. Expand the map or click on the number of the place you want to explore. Enjoy!

And that’s a wrap on our round-up of the best destinations in Hawaii. Which of these spectacular places in Hawaii will you pick for your next visit?

Did you find this article informative? Pin it for later!

All information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is subject to our terms and conditions of use . It is not a substitute for information or advice from official agencies or qualified professionals.

SV Travel Media LLC makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information provided here, and readers should use their own discretion and judgement, and seek advice from professionals where needed.

Your use of the information described in, and your participation in activities presented on our website may carry the risk of illness, bodily injury, disability, death, or property damage. You freely assume all risks and dangers that may occur as a result of your access, use, purchase, or participation in any information, activity, product, or service listed on our website.

Like this article? Share it with your friends!

Similar Posts

43 Hawaiian Birds Of Kauai, Maui, Oahu & Big Island To Spot On Hikes

Has this happened to you? You are hiking one of Hawaii’s many beautiful trails and enjoying the amazing scenery and views, and all of a sudden you spot a couple of stunning-looking birds! How frustrating not knowing what these Hawaiian birds are! Are they rare Hawaiian birds? Are they native Hawaiian birds? Are they endangered…

27 Hawaiian Plants, Trees, Flowers To Spot On Hikes (Native Or Common)

Hiking some of the best trails on the Hawaiian islands? Stopped to admire the views of the lush-green, rainforest landscape surrounding you? Ever wonder what all those Hawaiian plants and trees are, towering over you and forming a rainforest canopy, the dense green understory or the pretty flowering trees, along the trail? With over 1,400…

Ultimate Hawaii Packing List: What To Pack For Your Vacation

Wondering what to pack for your vacation to Hawaii? We’ve done this trip so many times, with and without kids, that I created this ultimate Hawaii packing list, a checklist for those planning a first-time Hawaii vacation. This Hawaii packing checklist contains everything: from the Hawaii packing essentials that everyone should carry, to the details…

5 Best Hawaii Blowholes: Halona, Nakalele, Spouting Horn & Keahole Point

Ever watched the Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park? There is something fascinating about a huge gush of water erupting in thunderous fashion to heights of 180 feet (about a 20-story building)! Hawaii has its own version of Yellowstone National Park’s popular geysers: Hawaii blowholes! A blowhole operates somewhat similar to geysers – the ocean…

Hawaiian Fish: Snorkeling Guide To The Best Reef Fish – 2024

Hawaiian Fish: An Introduction to Snorkeling Hawaiian fish that you will see snorkeling are simply stunning! Welcome to the beautiful islands of Hawaii, where crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life create a snorkeler’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner eager to explore the underwater world, Hawaii offers an incredible opportunity to witness…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

15 Best Places To Visit In Hawaii (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for the best places to visit in Hawaii? Check out all of our favorite Hawaiian destinations!

The gorgeous archipelago of tropical islands known as Hawaii is a true gem of the Pacific.

Whether you’re looking to relax on Hawaii’s iconic and stunning beaches, or you want to see unique sights like lava flows or waterfalls, Hawaii has it all.

Each Hawaii island offers something special, and it’s impossible to pick which is the best Hawaiian Island.

From the so-called “Grand Canyon Of The Pacific”, Waimea Canyon on Kauai, to the gorgeous beaches like Lanikai Beach and Maui’s iconic black sand beach, every Hawaiian Island has its own unique features.

Head to the Big Island to see two active volcanoes in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, or visit one of the many unique offshore islands such as the twin Mokulua Islands near Oahu.

No matter which Hawaii island you visit, you are bound to see something incredible! For those who don’t know where to begin, here is a list of the top places to visit in Hawaii!

Find more inspiration with our list of the 25 best things to do in Hawaii !

Table of Contents

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Na pali coast, oahu’s north shore, lanikai beach, downtown honolulu, haleakala national park, waimea canyon state park, pearl harbor national memorial, akaka falls state park, kaanapali beach, kalaupapa national historic park, wai’anapanapa state park, waikiki beach, hapuna beach, hanauma bay nature reserve, 15 best places to visit in hawaii.

From visiting Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial to hiking the Kalalau Trail in Kauai, to lounging on the beautiful beaches or scuba diving, snorkeling, and whale watching, endless fun awaits you at these amazing places to visit in Hawaii. Every one of these locations is worth adding to any Hawaii itinerary !

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a geological wonder on the Big Island of Hawaii, stands as a captivating testament to the Earth’s fiery origins and the dynamic forces that continue to shape our planet.

Encompassing over 300,000 acres of diverse landscapes, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a living laboratory where visitors can witness the breathtaking interplay of molten lava, lush rainforests, and barren lava fields.

At its heart lies the awe-inspiring duo of active volcanoes – Kīlauea and Mauna Loa – which have, over millennia, sculpted the island’s terrain and lent themselves to scientific study, cultural significance, and spiritual reverence.

As visitors venture through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, they traverse a mosaic of ecosystems that range from the summit of Mauna Loa, the world’s largest subaerial volcano, to the iconic Kīlauea Caldera, where the restless lava lake serves as a mesmerizing spectacle.

Along the Crater Rim Drive , the diverse landscape unfolds, revealing ancient petroglyphs, vibrant plant life that blooms amidst the lava beds, and the ethereal Thurston Lava Tube, a subterranean passage formed by flowing molten rock.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is definitely a highlight of the Big Island!

Read More: Check out these other great things to do on the Big Island !

Kauai , the fourth largest of the Hawaiian Islands, is often called “The Garden Isle” and is full of natural wonders. One of those wonders is the Na Pali Coast!

Stretching for approximately 17 miles along the island’s northwest shore, this dramatic coastline is characterized by its towering emerald cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the vibrant azure expanse of the Pacific Ocean.

Accessible only by foot, boat, seaplane and helicopter, the Na Pali Coast remains relatively untouched, preserving its wild and untamed beauty. It has some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world and is a truly fascinating place to visit in Hawaii.

The Kalalau Trail, a challenging yet rewarding trek that winds along the coastline, offers hikers an opportunity to immerse themselves in this breathtaking landscape, revealing hidden beaches, lush valleys, and panoramic vistas that evoke a sense of wonder and reverence for nature’s raw power.

The Na Pali Coast isn’t just a visual spectacle; it’s a testament to the timeless forces of nature that have sculpted this enchanting tableau over millions of years. The sheer cliffs rise dramatically from the shoreline, with their deep green hues contrasting vividly against the deep blue sea.

Beyond its natural marvels, the Na Pali Coast also bears cultural significance, as it holds ancient Hawaiian archaeological sites and legends, reminding visitors of the deep connection between the land and its indigenous people.

Whether gazing upon it from a boat, hiking its challenging trails, or witnessing the coast’s grandeur from above, the Na Pali Coast is a true testament to the sublime beauty that the Hawaiian islands have to offer.

Another one of the best places to visit in Hawaii is Oahu’s North Shore, a legendary stretch of coastline renowned for its surf culture and unspoiled beauty.

Situated on the northern tip of Oahu , this region is a magnet for surf enthusiasts, drawing them in with its iconic winter waves that can reach towering heights.

During the winter months, the North Shore becomes a global hub for professional surf competitions, where world-class athletes ride the challenging swells of breaks like Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay.

Beyond its legendary surf status, the North Shore offers a laid-back ambiance, punctuated by charming surf towns like Haleiwa, where art galleries, boutiques, and local eateries exude a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.

Embracing a rural and rustic charm, Oahu’s North Shore is a haven for those seeking a respite from the fast-paced urban life. The area is characterized by its verdant landscapes, rolling hills, and pristine beaches that stretch for miles.

In addition to its natural beauty, the North Shore encapsulates the spirit of the local Hawaiian culture, evident in its historic sites, ancient heiau (temples), and a genuine sense of community.

Whether it’s watching the sunset paint the sky with hues of orange and pink, indulging in the freshest seafood, or simply immersing oneself in the unhurried rhythm of North Shore life, this region offers a quintessential Hawaiian experience that lingers in the hearts of those who visit.

Lanikai Beach, often referred to as a true tropical paradise, graces the northeastern shores of Oahu, Hawaii, with its unparalleled beauty and tranquil ambiance. It’s often ranked one of the world’s best beaches, and it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Hawaii.

This pristine stretch of coastline is renowned for its powdery white sands, crystalline turquoise waters, and the iconic twin Mokulua offshore islands that punctuate the horizon.

The gentle waves and shallow waters make Lanikai Beach perfect for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling, allowing visitors to bask in the sun-drenched splendor and immerse themselves in the vibrant underwater world just offshore.

Sunrise at Lanikai is a spectacle not to be missed, as the soft rays of dawn cast a warm glow on the Mokulua Islands and bathe the beach in a soft, golden light.

With its delicate balance of untouched nature and understated elegance, Lanikai Beach captivates the hearts of those fortunate enough to step onto its shores, offering an idyllic haven where time slows down and the soul can rejuvenate amidst the beauty of Hawaii’s coastal paradise.

Read next: The Perfect Oahu Itinerary for 3, 5, or 7 Days

If you’re a city lover, you should definitely visit the state’s capital city while visiting Hawaii!

Downtown Honolulu , the vibrant heart of Oahu’s capital city, pulsates with a unique blend of history, commerce, and cultural richness.

Steeped in both Hawaiian heritage and colonial influences, this urban center is a captivating tapestry of old and new. At its core lies the historic Iolani Palace , the only royal palace on American soil, which stands as a testament to Hawaii’s monarchy and the island’s transition to a United States territory.

The neighboring State Capitol building, an architectural marvel designed to resemble a volcano, symbolizes the islands’ distinct identity and historical journey.

Amidst the towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, visitors can discover cultural gems like the Hawaiian Mission Houses, offering insights into the past through restored missionary homes and exhibits that chronicle the social and religious transformations of the islands.

Honolulu is more than a historical repository; it’s a hub of modern activity and commerce. The bustling streets are lined with a vibrant array of shops, restaurants, and markets, offering everything from local crafts to international cuisine.

The Aloha Tower, a maritime beacon and historic landmark, stands as a welcoming sentinel to the harbor, with its observation deck providing panoramic views of the city’s skyline against the backdrop of the Pacific. You can join a traditional luau here for a fun introduction to the culture and arts of Hawaii!

Haleakala National Park, located on the island of Maui, is another one of the best places to visit in Hawaii. The park’s centerpiece is the massive Haleakala Crater, a dormant volcano that stretches over 10,000 feet above sea level.

The name “Haleakala” translates to “House of the Sun” in Hawaiian, and the park lives up to its name with its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets that paint the skies with an ethereal palette of colors.

Visitors often gather atop the summit in the early hours to witness the sunrise, an experience that feels almost otherworldly as the first rays of light break over the horizon and illuminate the surreal landscape below.

Haleakala National Park also encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, from the stark volcanic terrain of the summit to the lush rainforests that cloak its slopes.

Hiking trails wind through this rich tapestry of landscapes, leading visitors to hidden waterfalls, cinder cones, and serene pools. The Sliding Sands Trail, for instance, offers a descent into the crater itself, providing an up-close encounter with its stark, otherworldly beauty.

Whether one seeks solitude and reflection or a thrilling outdoor adventure, Haleakala National Park offers a sanctuary where the natural world takes center stage, leaving an indelible impression on all who explore its breathtaking vistas.

Waimea Canyon State Park, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” is a natural marvel nestled on the Hawaiian island of Kauai.

This awe-inspiring geological wonder stretches across approximately 14 miles and descends nearly 3,600 feet, revealing a stunning palette of vibrant reds, oranges, and greens that paint the canyon walls.

Carved over millions of years by the erosive forces of wind and water, Waimea Canyon offers a glimpse into the Earth’s intricate geological history. The dramatic contrast between the lush vegetation and the deep, colorful chasms creates a breathtaking panorama that has captivated visitors for generations.

Trails like the Canyon Trail and the Cliff Trail lead hikers to breathtaking viewpoints that offer sweeping vistas of the canyon and the Napali Coast beyond.

As visitors ascend or descend through the canyon’s layers, they traverse lush forests, cross gushing streams, and witness waterfalls cascading down the cliffs.

The Red Dirt Waterfall Hike, for example, treats hikers to a surreal experience as they traverse rust-colored trails that seem to lead through a magical realm.

With its unrivaled natural beauty and the sense of awe it inspires, Waimea Canyon State Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking to connect with the raw majesty of Kauai’s rugged interior.

Find more things to do in Kauai in our complete guide !

Those interested in history should absolutely visit Pearl Harbor while exploring Oahu. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial stands as a solemn tribute to a pivotal moment in American history and a place of reflection on the sacrifices made during World War II.

The Pearl Harbor Oahu memorial encompasses several iconic sites, including the USS Arizona Memorial, which straddles the sunken battleship that serves as a watery grave for over 1,100 sailors who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

The stark white structure floats above the sunken vessel, allowing visitors to pay their respects and gain insight into the devastating impact of the attack that propelled the United States into World War II.

The nearby USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park and the Battleship Missouri Memorial further deepen the historical immersion, offering visitors the chance to explore a submarine and the very ship where the Japanese surrendered, marking the end of the war.

The visitor center houses exhibits, photographs, and artifacts that vividly recount the events of that fateful day and the subsequent global conflict.

The memorial serves as a reminder of the human cost of war and the enduring importance of promoting peace, while also honoring the bravery and sacrifice of those who defended their nation in the face of adversity.

As a place of both education and remembrance, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial holds a significant place in the collective memory of the United States and the world.

Another one of the best places to visit in Hawaii is Akaka Falls State Park . Situated on the lush Big Island of Hawaii, is a haven of tropical beauty and cascading wonder.

The park’s main attraction, Akaka Falls, is a towering waterfall that drops 442 feet into a lush gorge, creating a breathtaking spectacle of natural power and serenity.

A short, well-maintained trail winds through the park’s dense rainforest, leading visitors through a tapestry of exotic flora, including bamboo groves and vibrant orchids.

As you follow the path, the anticipation builds until you catch your first glimpse of the stunning Akaka Falls, a pristine example of Hawaii’s dynamic natural landscapes.

No matter how much time you have on the Big Island, Akaka Falls State Park is one of the best places to visit on the entire island, so make sure you plan a visit there!

Kaanapali Beach, a paradisiacal stretch of coastline on the island of Maui , is a haven of sun, sand, and surf that embodies the charm of the Hawaiian Islands.

With its golden sands stretching for miles along the shores of the Pacific Ocean, this beach beckons visitors with its postcard-perfect beauty and laid-back ambiance.

Nestled against the backdrop of the West Maui Mountains, Kaanapali Beach offers a blend of natural splendor and luxurious amenities, making it a destination that caters to both relaxation and adventure.

The beach is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. Moreover, the daily cliff diving ceremony off the iconic Puu Kekaa (Black Rock) adds a touch of tradition and spectacle to the beach experience.

Maui is also known for its incredible whale watching , so try to include that in your Maui itinerary! You can often spot Hawaiian green sea turtles and other marine life on a boat tour here.

Located on the remote Kalaupapa Peninsula on the island of Molokai, Kalaupapa National Historical Park is a place of profound historical significance and poignant remembrance.

The park serves as a memorial to the devastating impact of Hansen’s disease (leprosy) and the individuals who were forcibly isolated on the peninsula during a dark chapter in Hawaiian history.

Kalaupapa National Historic Park encapsulates the stories of those who were sent into exile due to the stigma surrounding the disease, showcasing their resilience, struggles, and triumphs.

With its stunning coastal landscapes, including towering sea cliffs that rise dramatically from the ocean, the park offers a striking contrast between the beauty of the environment and the haunting history it holds.

Access to Kalaupapa is restricted due to its isolated location, with visitors typically arriving via a mule ride down a steep trail or by small plane. Once there, visitors can explore the remnants of the settlement, including historic buildings, churches, and graveyards that bear witness to the lives of those who lived and suffered there.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park is one of the most unique places to visit in Hawaii!

Wai’anapanapa State Park on Maui’s rugged eastern coastline is a breathtaking testament to the raw power of nature and the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii.

The park’s diverse landscapes are a tapestry of lush greenery, striking black sand beaches, and towering sea cliffs, all shaped over centuries by volcanic activity and the relentless forces of the Pacific Ocean.

Home to the famous black sand beach, created by the volcanic minerals, here you can admire the stark yet striking contrast to the turquoise waters and verdant surroundings.

Exploring the sea caves, blowholes, and lava tubes within the park offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the ever-evolving nature of the Hawaiian archipelago.

Beyond its stunning black sand beach and geological wonders, Wai’anapanapa State Park also holds immense cultural significance.

The area was historically inhabited by native Hawaiians, and the park’s name translates to “glistening water” in the Hawaiian language.

The nearby Pailoa Bay contains a freshwater spring that was believed to be a bathing place for Hawaiian royalty. Ancient Hawaiian legends and stories intertwine with the rugged beauty of the park, adding an air of mystique to its already enchanting atmosphere.

Check out our detailed 3, 5, or 7 day Maui Itinerary for more ideas on this beautiful island!

Waikiki Beach , an iconic crescent of golden sand framed by the gleaming skyscrapers of Honolulu, stands as one of Hawaii’s most famous and bustling coastal destinations.

Situated on the southern coast of Oahu, this vibrant stretch of shoreline is synonymous with Hawaiian leisure and surf culture. With its gentle waves, warm waters, and a backdrop that seamlessly blends natural beauty with modern urbanity, the famous Waikiki Beach exudes an atmosphere of relaxation and recreation.

The beach’s shallow waters make it an ideal spot for novice surfers and people of all ages. Go on a glass-bottom boat tour or a snorkel tour to immerse yourself in the underwater beauty of Waikiki Beach!

Or if you’re looking for a more adventurous outdoor activity, consider hiking the Diamond Head Crater! Located right next to Waikiki Beach, Diamon Head Crater is an iconic place to visit in Hawaii that offers stunning views!

Whether lounging on the sands, catching waves, or hiking Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach encapsulates the spirit of Hawaii’s unique blend of natural splendor and urban vitality.

Hapuna Beach, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is another highlight of the Hawaiian Islands.

Widely acclaimed as one of Hawaii’s best beaches, Hapuna stretches for about half a mile along the Kohala Coast, drawing visitors and locals alike to its inviting shores.

Whether sunbathing on the soft sands, exploring the tide pools, or playing beach volleyball, Hapuna Beach exudes a laid-back ambiance that makes it a highlight of the Big Island.

Surrounded by the majestic Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes, Hapuna Beach also presents a breathtaking backdrop that perfectly complements the natural beauty of the coastline.

The Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area features well-maintained facilities, including picnic areas, showers, and lifeguards, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for all visitors.

While the beach itself is a haven for sun seekers, its surrounding landscapes offer opportunities for adventure. Nearby hiking trails lead to panoramic viewpoints, showcasing sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the island’s rugged terrain.

Whether spending a leisurely day under the sun or venturing into the scenic wonders that envelop it, Hapuna Beach captures the essence of a Hawaiian paradise, leaving an indelible imprint on those fortunate enough to revel in its beauty.

Read Next: Check out these fun things to do in Hilo while you’re on the Big Island!

Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve, located on the southeastern shore of Oahu, Hawaii, is a haven of marine biodiversity and natural beauty that draws snorkelers, swimmers, and nature enthusiasts from around the world.

Formed within the remains of a volcanic crater, the bay’s sheltered waters and vibrant coral reefs provide a unique window into Hawaii’s underwater ecosystem.

With its crystalline waters teeming with colorful fish and marine life, Hanauma Bay offers an unparalleled opportunity for snorkelers of all skill levels to explore the enchanting underwater world.

The bay’s carefully preserved environment serves as a reminder of the delicate balance that must be maintained to ensure the health of coral reefs and the species that call them home.

The bay’s ecosystem has been designated a marine life conservation district, with regulations in place to protect the delicate balance of its environment.

Hanauma Bay serves as a powerful reminder of the preciousness of marine ecosystems, offering a unique opportunity for connection with the natural world while emphasizing the necessity of their preservation for future generations.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The Ultimate 3 Days in New York City Itinerary (2024 Update)

25 Best Things To Do In Santa Fe, New Mexico (2024 Guide)

The 21 Best Things To Do In Richmond, Virginia (2024 Guide)

Related Posts

The perfect 3 days in nashville itinerary (2024 guide), 21 best things to do in honolulu, hawaii (2024 guide), the perfect kauai itinerary – 3, 5, and 7 day kauai itinerary options (2024 guide), 30 of the best things to do in jacksonville, florida (2024 guide), leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Protect Your Trip »

The 21 Best Beaches in Hawaii

These gorgeous Hawaii beaches are perfect whether you love surfing, snorkeling or tropical views.

Getty Images

There are many beautiful beaches in Hawaii for all kinds of enjoyment, from sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling to watching the sunrise or sunset.

The islands that make up Hawaii's archipelago are known for their unique culture, their stunning tropical foliage and their laid-back vibe. Hawaiian beaches are also some of the most beautiful in the world thanks to the tall, swaying palm trees and the dramatic mountain scenery that surrounds them.

Which beaches in Hawaii are worth a visit? Practically all of them, but some feature better scenery or waters for surfing or snorkeling than others. As you start planning your next trip to the gorgeous Hawaiian islands , consider adding a stop to these Hawaiian beaches for a few hours … or a few days.

Poipu Beach: Kauai

The island of Kauai is popular due to its mountainous terrain, its verdant and lush landscapes, and its accessible waterfalls. However, the golden sand beaches are also a sight to behold. Once named "America's Best Beach" by the Travel Channel, Poipu Beach is located on the south shore of the island and features a natural ocean wading pool perfect for snorkeling and swimming.

Big Beach (Makena Beach): Maui

Maui 's Big Beach (also called Makena Beach ) is long, beautiful and wide, with rough waters and stunning mountain views. Visitors can spread out and enjoy plenty of space thanks to the sheer size of the beach, and its shorebreak brings huge swells perfect for surfing, extreme boogie boarding and other water sports.

Read: The Best Maui Helicopter Tours

Hanauma Bay: Oahu

Located within the city of Honolulu , Hanauma Bay is home to an array of tropical fish and other marine life, making it an ideal place for learning about the area's delicate underwater ecosystem via a snorkeling excursion. This nature preserve is so important to locals that tour buses are no longer permitted inside. However, individual travelers can still make the journey to admire this gorgeous stretch of coastline.

Hulopoe Beach: Lanai

Hulopoe Beach is located in front of the Four Seasons Resort Lanai , one of the premier luxury resorts in all of Hawaii . In addition to its incredible scenery, this beach offers some of the best snorkeling and swimming waters off the coast of Lanai. Large tidal pools on the eastern side of the bay also create ideal swimming and exploring opportunities for children.

Polihale Beach: Kauai

Polihale Beach is located within Kauai's Polihale State Park , and it's known for its amazing sunsets and jaw-dropping views of the famous Napali Coast . This stretch of coastline is perfect for families who want to enjoy a picnic or relax in a remarkably natural setting. Plus, swimming is possible when ocean conditions are calm.

Kahalu'u Beach: Big Island

Located on the Kona coast near the town center of Kailua-Kona, Kahalu'u Beach boasts an array of marine animals that range from sea turtles to tropical fish. This makes the beach ideal for snorkeling and learning about the ocean, although rocks near the shore necessitate water shoes. Rougher waters not far from the shore also make this beach a popular spot for surfers.

Ko Olina Beach: Oahu

Ko Olina Beach is home to several resorts, including the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina and Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club, and is made up of four different lagoons that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. While the beaches here are privately owned, travelers can visit and daily parking is available. Many activities like scuba diving and surfing are prohibited, but the beach is worth a visit thanks to its ample ocean wildlife and clear waters.

Pa'iloa Beach: Maui

Maui's Pa'iloa Beach (also known as Honokalani Beach) is located along the Road to Hana within Waianapanapa State Park , and is only accessible with park reservations. However, the trip will be worth it thanks to the beach's startling black sand and clear turquoise waters. This stretch of sand even boasts a natural lava arch in the water, which creates the perfect backdrop for your Instagram-worthy photos.

Read: The Best Things to Do in Maui

Polihua Beach: Lanai

Located on the northern shore of Lanai, secluded Polihua Beach is harder to reach than some of the other top beaches in Hawaii (accessing it requires a four-wheel drive vehicle or a professional guide). However, this beach is 2 miles long and blissfully empty, making it perfect for sunbathing or enjoying the views without any crowds. Strong ocean currents make the waters along Polihua Beach too dangerous for swimming, but it's still a great place to get away from it all.

Read: The Best Things to Do in Lanai

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach: Big Island

If you're eager to see a unique black sand beach, the Punalu'u Black Sand Beach on the island of Hawaii should be on your radar. This beach is located between the towns of Pahala and Naalehu in Kau, so it's easily accessible. While not ideal for swimming, the stark contrast of the black sand and clear waters makes this beach unforgettable. You may even see protected sea turtles relaxing on the shores or swimming directly off the coast.

Hanalei Bay: Kauai

Kauai's Hanalei Bay is known for its incredible surf and proximity to the gorgeous Napali Coast, as well as the many luxury resorts located in nearby Princeville, including The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas . There are actually three different beaches within Hanalei – Waioli Beach Park, Hanalei Beach Park and Black Pot Beach. Each one is dotted with lifeguards, and swimming is possible when the waters are calm.

Read: The Best Things to Do in Kauai

Wailea Beach: Maui

Wailea Beach features soft white sand and calm waters that beg visitors to jump right in. Known for drawing in lots of tourists, this stretch of coastline boasts many upscale eateries featuring gourmet cuisine and fresh seafood. This beach is also home to an array of popular resorts, from the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort to the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea .

Waimanalo Beach: Oahu

Waimanalo Beach is not very popular with tourists, but it's not due to a lack of beauty. This beach on the island's southeastern shore is a sight to behold thanks to its powder white sand, mountainous backdrop and azure ocean waters. There aren't any amenities here, but what the beach lacks in facilities it more than makes up for in its peaceful atmosphere.

Makalawena Beach: Big Island

The Big Island's Makalawena Beach is popular with hikers, and it's easy to see why. As part of Kekaha Kai State Park, this beach is not accessible by car, meaning it's less frequented by tourists. If you do decide to make the 4.5-mile trek to the beach along the Ala Kahakai Trail, you'll be rewarded with a palm-lined shoreline, plenty of shade trees and astonishing natural beauty in every direction.

Read: The Best Things to Do on the Big Island

Lanikai Beach: Oahu

Oahu's Lanikai Beach is located 15 miles northeast of downtown Honolulu, so it's not that difficult to reach. Travelers who make the journey will find a tranquil beach that's a mile long with lighter crowds than nearby Waikiki Beach . While parking can be limited, the calm waters found here make this beach a family-friendly gem.

Read: The Best Things to Do in Honolulu - Oahu

Kalapaki Beach: Kauai

Kalapaki Beach sits behind a protected break wall directly next to Marriott's Kaua'i Beach Club , making it convenient for hotel guests who don't want to drive. This beach is ideal for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding and learning to surf, yet you'll also find visitors sunbathing and playing beach volleyball.

Sunset Beach: Oahu

Oahu's Sunset Beach is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it's perfect for active vacationers who want to take part in water sports like surfing and boogie boarding. This North Shore beach is also easy to visit by car thanks to its location near the town of Haleiwa south of Waimea Bay. Parking is available across the street from the beach, as well as basic facilities like restrooms and showers.

Hapuna Beach: Big Island

Hapuna Beach is located within Hapuna Beach State Park on the Big Island, and it's one of the area's largest white sand treasures. This postcard-perfect beach tends to offer excellent conditions for swimming, as well as calm water activities like stand-up paddleboarding and snorkeling. You can even see whales migrating along the coast during part of the year (most often from January to March), and amenities like food vendors, restrooms and showers will make your visit more comfortable.

Papohaku Beach: Molokai

Papohaku Beach is located on the island of Molokai, and it's one of the longest and widest white sand beaches in all of Hawaii. Families love to camp along the broad expanse of this beach year-round, and picnic and restroom facilities are found on-site. While swimming is safe for part of the year, visitors should avoid getting in the water here from October through March.

Papakolea Beach: Big Island

After you've visited a few of Hawaii's black sand beaches Papakolea Beach , also known as Green Sand Beach, should be next on your list. While this unique shore on Hawaii's Big Island offers no amenities and often experiences a strong surf that makes for dangerous swimming conditions, it's worth a visit just to view the stark contrast of the green sand, which is made that way by a common mineral called olivine. Note that reaching the shoreline requires a hike from the parking lot and that there is little to no shade along the way.

Waikiki Beach: Oahu

Waikiki Beach is located along the south shore of Honolulu, which boasts many of Oahu's most fabulous hotels and resorts, including Halekulani and The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki . This means you'll share the sand with thousands of tourists in the area, but that you'll also be able to find dining and entertainment with ease. Not only does Waikiki Beach stand in the shadows of the beautiful Diamond Head landmark, but it's also an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling and surfing lessons for beginners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hawaii has more than 100 beaches across all of its different islands. Some of the best beaches in Hawaii include:

• Poipu Beach
• Makena Beach
• Hulopoe Beach
• Wailea Beach
• Polihua Beach

See more of the best beaches in Hawaii .

The Big Island and Maui both have several black sand beaches. Some of the top black sand beaches in Hawaii are:

• Punaluu Beach (Big Island)
• Kehena Beach (Big Island)
• Kaimu Beach (Big Island)
• Honokalani Beach at Pailoa Bay, located in Waianapanapa State Park (Maui)
• Oneuli Beach (Maui)

See more great beaches in Hawaii, plus photos .

Waikiki Beach is in Honolulu, about 9 miles east of Honolulu International Airport. It's situated on the southeastern coast of the island of Oahu.

Learn more about Waikiki Beach .

Hapuna Beach is on the Big Island. It's located on the western coast of the island, about 30 miles north of Kailua-Kona and 25 miles north of Kona International Airport.

Find out more about Hapuna Beach .

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Hawaii Tours
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Hawaii: Hotels With Awesome Amenities
• The Top Beach Resorts Around the World
• The Top Overwater Bungalows Around the World
• The Best Beach Bags

Tags: Travel , Hawaii Vacations , Beach Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

12 cheap fourth of july getaways.

April 29, 2024

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

Laura French April 29, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The 10 Most Beautiful Places In Hawaii

Hawaii is perhaps the most exotically-scenic state in the US, with enough beautiful places to fill an encyclopedia. These places of striking natural beauty also rank among the top of the most stunning in the world. 

Halawa Valley, Molokai

The lush, green Halawa Valley is home to one of the most ancient settlements throughout the lesser-visited Hawaiian islands of Molokai. One can find the sprawling valley on the island's eastern side along with the impressive 250-foot drop, two-tiered Mooula Falls. The beautiful waterfall is visible from miles away, at a great lookout point from the turnout mile marker 26 of Kamehameha V Highway. It is only accessible via foot for a majestic close-up and a refreshing reward after trekking the island's magic scape full-of sight and secrets.

The valley is a historically-sacred place where its high concentration of native residents come to worship. It is the former home of the ancient Polynesians and a jaw-dropping destination today for serene beauty mixed with pure rawness. There are cascades, rainforests, and trails ending in sprawling views, with an epic bonus to enjoy it all without another soul in sight. While in the area, one must check out Molokai's, the world's highest cliffs and the state's longest reef fringing the shore. 

Haleakala National Park, Maui

The most beautiful place within a hundred miles radius is home to Maui's highest, Mount Haleakala. It is one of the world's most dramatic sights, rising to 10,023 feet over just 38 miles (61km). According to an ancient legend, the sun was lassoed to the peak by a demigod who wanted to slow its journey across the sky, and the park is known as the "house of the sun." For the most avid sight-seekers, there are the island's iconic Haleakala Crater's cinder cones, along with the 'Ohe'o Gulch pools along the Palikea Stream.

The immense park covers five climatic zones, including the southeastern coast with remarkable sunrises that Mark Twain referred to as "the most sublime spectacle" of his life. There is also vast wilderness and rainforests, along with volcanic terrain, cascading falls, and crystal-clear pools. A whole other landscape leads to the mountain, with ascending sights becoming other-worldly and culminating at the eerie peak. One must climb the top for sunset colors, followed by captivating darkness lit with stars that seem only a hand's-reach away.

Hanalei, Kauai

The gorgeous little city is a must-stop while exploring Oahu's delightful northern reaches. Set along the north shore, right across from Koloa island, Hanalei is a galore of adventures and attractions, like two miles of stunning beaches, windsurfing, zip-lining, hiking, river-rafting, and snorkeling. The town boasts access to the bright-blue Hanalei Bay, flanked by lush green mountains. It is Kauai nature at best, with calm water for sailing and paddle-boarding during summer and surfing the waves in winter. 

The North Shore gem at the center of the bay was named "Hippest Town in Kauai" by Vogue. Hanalei boasts modern comforts to feel at home in the land of exotic opportunities and hosts regular ukulele concerts and music festivals. Its unique history of the Russian imperial past is still evident at the forts it occupied in nearby Princeville. For a great afternoon lingering spot, there's the Hanalei's Waioli Mission House and Church's national historic landmark, established by early Christian missionaries. 

Hanauma Bay, Oahu

The park on the southeast coast of Oahu opens into a wide bay bookended by vibrant foliage. The picture-perfect bay is a must to visit, explore, and linger for the second-to-none vistas. The Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve has been a protected marine life sanctuary since 1967 with the richest marine ecosystem in Hawaii, where even royalty come to hang out for sights and fishing.

It is home to colorful tropical fish and the best snorkeling adventures. There is also access to the beach protected by the bay's curve with teal waters and warm yellow sand. The dominating cliff remains of a dormant volcano complete the real-life postcard appeal of the setting. 

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island

The park is set on the largest but youngest of the islands in the chain that was created through numerous composite volcanic eruptions. It also continues to grow with four active volcanoes that occasionally reveal their natural aggression. While beauty is in the eye of the beholder, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park beguiles with views like nowhere else on Earth. Vouched by visitors as the coolest place on the planet, it looks more like a moon setting dominated by two active volcanoes. The Mauna Loa is the world's largest, while Kilauea's last eruption was in 2018.

The park spans 335,259 acres with 150 hiking miles, deserts, volcanic craters, and other landforms and ecosystems. The night's starry skies and fiery lava flows striking through the rocky wasteland comprise something out of a horror fantasy. The ocean's massive waves mist up the craggy coastline, and perpetual earth tremors are enough to stun-still in the dramatic place. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage and World Biosphere Site, while its two volcanoes added 875 acres to the land since 1983 and more diversity.

Lanikai Beach, Kailua

The coconut-laden paradise beach is right from a postcard with palm trees and powdery sand. Lanikai literally translates into "heavenly sea" in Hawaiian, and the locals know the beach as a top for swimming in Hawaii. Following a dip in the crystal-clear waters, one can siesta all day long with a drink in hand and feel tension escape the body for a relaxing high. 

One can also actively enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and windsurfing, as well as plop down on sugary sands to sunbathe under the blue skies or choose a spot in the shade. All Earthly worries will seep away at the sight of little offshore islands, the Mokuluas, through the coconut trees. "Beguiling" doesn't even scratch the surface in describing this gorgeous place unlike any other for hundreds of miles around.

Molokai's Sea Cliffs

The dramatic Sea Cliffs are a breathtaking natural wonder and a sacredly-powerful spot on Molokai Island. Among them, the 3,900 feet bluffs are the world's tallest and most majestic, offering the conquerors unconquered views. The mind-boggling cliffs are beloved by photographers, while hikers will achieve breathtaking views from the top that will not only make one forget their fear of heights but everything else in the world.

The powerful cliffs pass energy to the macabre through contact, instilling calmness and a sense of being on top of the world. The cliffs within Kalaupapa National Historical Park are also historical sites, and where Saint Damien helped those with Hansen's disease or leprosy. While the eastern cliffs are the world's highest, the Phallic Rock, 200 yards from the Kalaupapa Lookout, must be the most erotic. 

Mauna Kea, Hawaii

The world's tallest mountain captivates with striking natural features as a two million-year-old lava-filled dormant volcano covered in glaciers. It is a year-round sight to behold from any angle, with especially remarkable views from the top at night. Mount Kea's dominant presence is Hawaii's tallest point of record-breaking 32,696 feet (9,966 m), which is 3,661 feet (1,116 m) taller than Everest. Despite being dormant, and half of it consumed beneath the ocean, Kea's volcanic activity actively evolves the landscape of Hawaii.

The summit, accessible by car, offers the best panorama in the state, clear sunrises and bright sunsets, and starry skies like no other. The sharpest views and unrivaled stargazing are thanks to the high elevations, dry environment, and steady winds, along with thirteen astronomical observation sites atop. Mount Kea is a sacred ground of cultural, archeological, and spiritual sites, along with juxtaposing natural sights like tropical and alpine forests, bush wilderness, and stone deserts. Akua, the creator, and other spiritual entities allegedly occupy the higher reaches, while the summit is home to the Polynesian Supreme Being.

Wailua Falls, Kauai 

The falls boast an undeniable ambiance that pulls one in for a refreshingly glorious day full of relaxation. The fantastic setting on the eastern side of Kaua'i island is easily accessible for anyone who can walk. While Hawaii is a tempered destination any time of the year, the falls range in fullness and height from 80 feet to 200 feet, depending on the season. The site is visible from the side of the road while the short hike is worth the scenery, but also reachable via car.

The rainbow in the droplets of the early morning mist adds more magic to the mysteriously magnetic delight. The hikers to the top have some wild ventures and slippery climbs before hiking back down the hill for a swim in the glorious pool. Daredevils can jump off the cliff into the pool, while anyone can achieve another epic sight just by swimming with enchanting rainbows behind the robust waters.

Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauai

Kauai island is most-desired for its beachy vibes. Its ten-mile-long "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" is like a real mini-deal with an "only-in-Hawaii" scenic touch. It boasts an impressive 3,600 feet depth with iconic red soil, reflected through the name Waimea which stands for "reddish water" in Hawaiian. The state park is a canteen and hiking boots destination with many trails for all-level hiking with varying sights and lookouts over the beautiful canyon.

One can find this green paradise with a vertigo-inducing crack in the Earth on the western side of the island inside the namesake park. The nearby bigger Koke's State park has more scenic trails and shaded places to sit back and relax or sprawl under the sun's rays. After a day-worth of exploring, nothing hits the spot like a sunset picnic at the must-see Pu'u Hinahina lookout with out-of-this-world views.

Bird-watcher, naturalists, and photographers will enjoy the sacred lands and natural wonders in these most beautiful places in Hawaii. At times overly-dramatic and unsettling sights guarantee one to encounter the most-gorgeous scenes of a lifetime. 

More in Places

11 of the Most Charming Small Towns to Visit in Oregon

7 Most Affordable Towns to Retire on the Pacific Coast

8 Most Inviting Towns in Northern California

The Best Small Towns in the Southern United States for a Weekend Retreat

8 Coolest Towns in Rhode Island for a Summer Vacation in 2024

7 Cutest Small Towns In Maine To Visit In 2024

9 Most Scenic Small Towns in Illinois

Vermont's 8 Most Underrated Towns To Visit In 2024

21 of the Coolest Places to Visit + Attractions on Oahu, Hawaii

Of the main islands in the Hawaiian archipelago, Oahu is among the most popular, thanks in large part to the large number of beautiful places to visit and exciting things to do on Oahu!

With the most flights from the mainland of any Hawaiian island and a plethora of world-class attractions in Oahu, there’s no room for boredom on this tropical island.

Oahu is home to Hawaii’s capital city, Honolulu, with its iconic Waikiki Beach and excellent location for exploring the rest of the island.

With an abundance of beachside patios to watch the sunset, luxury resort hotels with beach access, and a laid-back lifestyle, you can do as little or as much as you want when based in Waikiki.

Looking for the absolute best attractions in Oahu, Hawaii?

Here’s where to visit!

This Oahu travel guide was written by Hawaii travel enthusiast Karen Hosier of Forever Karen . Thanks for joining us, Karen!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

The Best Attractions on Oahu, Hawaii

Waikiki beach.

Like any metropolitan city, the Waikiki Beach area bustles with activity.

With a sandy beach, shopping, and world-class restaurants only steps away, you don’t need a rental car if you plan to spend your vacation traveling no farther than this iconic stretch of sand.

Most hotels charge a daily fee for in-and-out parking privileges if you choose to rent a vehicle.

(And if you do, we recommend comparing prices and inclusions for different companies through Discover Cars ).

The city bus and the Biki Bike program allow travelers to reach many of the closest things to do.

City buses circumnavigate the island, so reaching the north shore or other locations is relatively easy.

Many tours, like whale watching tours during winter, also leave from Waikiki.

For a luxury stay, consider The Royal Hawaiian , a classic hotel with a pink exterior.

Diamond Head State Monument 

From Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head Crater dominates the Honolulu skyline to the southeast.

Visitors can enjoy part of the 475 acres in the Diamond Head State Monument with an easy bus ride.

However, most come to climb to the peak for 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, Waikiki, and the surrounding crater.

To beat the heat of the midday sun, plan to hike early, carry bottled water, and forego those flip-flops in place of supportive footwear.

The Diamond Head hike is an interesting one with a switchback trail, a 225-foot tunnel, an old military bunker, and the memorable “stairs of doom.” 

Near the top, the stairs of doom test your fitness level on 99 steep vertical steps to the peak.

Plan one hour to 90 minutes to complete the roundtrip hike, which is widely considered one of the best hikes in Oahu .

Once you complete the hike, reward yourself with a Dole Whip or pineapple smoothie from the food truck in the parking lot.

Keep in mind that as of spring 2022, reservations are now required for visiting Diamond Head.

The Hawaii Capital Historic District 

Honolulu’s historic district showcases notable architecture, providing a mini history lesson.

Standing 18 feet tall, the King Kamehameha Statue memorializes Hawaii’s first king.

Behind him, Ali’iolani Hale, initially built for royalty, is now home to the Hawaii Supreme Court.

While the royal family no longer exists, you can learn their history by visiting Iolani Palace, their last royal residence.

At the palace, discover how the US government overthrew the Hawaiian monarchy, and see the imprisonment room of Queen Lili’uokalani, the kingdom’s last monarch.

The historic Washington Place was another Queen Lili’uokalani home a few blocks away.

Today, it acts as the Governor’s Residence.

Hanauma Bay 

East of Honolulu, the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve aims to protect and safeguard marine life.

The sheltered cove, which derives from a volcanic cone, has a large expanse of coral reef, a vital resource for fish, turtles, and other species.

More than a million visitors a year come to snorkel at Hanauma Bay .

While you can expect to deal with high crowds during peak season, it’s for good reason!

Hanauma Bay is an excellent place for families and those without much swimming experience. 

With calm waters and shallow depth, snorkelers can see tropical fish without wading too far.

The Hawaii state fish, Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa, is commonly spotted in the reef.

Along with 400 other species, you may even be treated to a green sea turtle sighting. 

However, Hanauma Bay doesn’t provide much shelter from the sun.

So, bring an umbrella, wear a rashguard, and ensure you have reef-safe sunscreen (which is required by law in Hawaii).

Ala Moana Beach Park

Not as crowded as Waikiki Beach, Ala Moana Beach Park provides a beach escape with some extras.

The area was once swampland, but the city recently developed it into an artificial beach.

Beachside trees offer plenty of shade, and the abundance of grass is ideal for picnics.

With a natural reef, those new to stand-up paddleboarding can perfect their balancing skills in calm waters.

Unless you arrive early, parking is a challenge. It’s best to use public transit to the Ala Moana Mall across the street.

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

Located on the windward side of Oahu, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is simultaneously one of the top attractions in Oahu and also a great place to get (somewhat) away from the crowds in iconic spots like Waikiki Beach.

These gorgeous gardens are divided into 6 sections, with areas to both walk and drive.

The lush plant life and mountain views are absolutely stunning.

Without a doubt, if you’re interested in Oahu’s biodiversity or simply looking for a break from the beach, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is a fantastic place to visit.

Kualoa Regional Park

Ten miles north of Kaneohe, the Kualoa Regional Park is a must-visit attraction in Oahu.

The park has a huge parking lot which is rarely busy.

To one side, the long expanse of beach provides a great swimming or picnic spot.

On the other, the Ko’olau Mountains, made famous by Jurassic Park movies, dominate the skyline.

Mokoli’i Island, or Chinaman’s Hat, looks like its latter name off the coast.

From the parking lot, a trail leads to Apua Fishpond. Its neighboring pond, Moli’i fishpond, is managed by Kualoa Ranch.

Covering 125 acres, it’s one of Hawaii’s largest fishponds and still raises a variety of fish.

One of the larger towns on Oahu, Kailua is one of the most scenic places on the island.

It’s home to what is arguably Oahu’s most scenic beach, Lanikai Beach (more on that in a minute), but it’s also a wonderful place to visit in its own right.

The dining scene in Kailua is fantastic and you’ll find a lot of great shopping as well.

There are also some excellent hikes to check out in Kailua, such as the popular Lanikai Pillbox hike.

Lanikai Beach

As one of the most stunning beaches in Hawaii, Lanikai Beach offers brilliant white sand and a bright blue sea with the Mokulua Islands in the distance.

The water is calm here compared to the North Shore, so it’s a great place for snorkeling in Oahu .

You can also kayak out to the Mokulua Islands if you want to get active, either independently or with a guided sea kayaking tour.

Valley Of The Temples 

Nestled at the foot of the lush Ko’olau Range, a 240-acre memorial park might seem like an odd place to visit in Oahu.

However, this tranquil place gathers people to honor those from all faiths, including Buddhism and Christianity.

Surrounded by an amphitheater of lush flora, the setting is like something from a fairytale.

At the back of the memorial park, visitors can discover a hidden gem.

The Byodo-In Temple is a half-sized replica of the Japanese temple bearing the same name.

Those entering the grounds are invited to ring the colossal bon-sho sacred bell before entering the temple and making a blessing.

Outside, a large reflecting pond provides a sanctuary for hundreds of giant Japanese koi of every color.

If you want to feed them, a little shop to the right of the temple sells carp pellets.

With an entrance fee of under USD 10, visitors can enjoy a fantastic Oahu attraction on a budget.

Kaiwa Ridge (Lanikai Pillbox Hike)

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike or Kaiwa Ridge trail provides stunning views of the island’s windward side.

With an elevation gain of 625 feet, expect a more challenging uphill climb than Diamond Head.

At 1.5 miles roundtrip, expect to spend an hour to 90 minutes to complete the return hike, depending on stops.

During the dry season, the trail is very dusty with loose gravel.

After 20 minutes, you’ll reach the first of two old military pillbox bunkers. The second requires another 10 minutes of walking.

From the peak, the mesmerizing views of Lanikai Beach, Makapu’u Lighthouse, Mokulua Islands, and Mokoliʻi Island (Chinaman’s hat).

With 360-degree views from the ridge, many tackle the climb to enjoy the sunrise and sunset.

Since you’ll be hiking in the dark, take a flashlight and lightweight jacket.

Kualoa Ranch 

Spread across 4000 acres that cover three valleys, the Kualoa Ranch provides fantastic tours for a fun day.

Adventurers can choose from the Jurassic Valley Zipline or an ATV Raptor excursion to Jurassic Valley. 

Although most know Jurassic Park movies were filmed there, on the Hollywood Movie Sites Tour, you’ll discover the filming spots of “Lost,” “Jumanji,” and “50 First Dates.”

The Ranch recommends making a reservation for tours, as popular ones sell out fast.

Allow for two to three hours on most excursions.

However, the Best of Kualoa Experience package combines three tours and lasts seven hours.

Alternatively, the Kualoa Half Day Package lasts 4-1/2 hours and includes two excursions. Both packages include their incredible lunch buffet.

Near the entrance to Kualoa Ranch, the Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts offers Kona coffee and macadamia nut sampling.

With nuts in flavors like Maui onion and garlic, cinnamon glazed, and Kona coffee, you’ll be able to spoil your family and friends with the  best Hawaiian souvenirs .

Pearl Harbor 

No visit to Oahu is complete without spending a day at Pearl Harbor.

Expect to be humbled as you learn the history of the attack on Pearl Harbor, which took place on December 7, 1941. 

To get the most historical context from your visit (and the simplest transportation option), consider signing up for a tour of Pearl Harbor .

Today, visitors can see some of the preserved fleet, including the USS Missouri Battleship, USS Bowfin Submarine, and USS Arizona National Memorial.

Inside the Pacific Aviation Museum, a collection of vintage planes from the second world war is displayed.

Take to the skies in the Fighter Ace 360 Flight Simulator for the ultimate thrill.

If you can stomach the ride, you’ll experience an aviator’s life with spins, rolls, and aerial somersaults.

A tour of the USS Bowfin is an eye-opener to life on a submarine. The self-guided tour includes the claustrophobic bunks, which are sandwiched above the torpedoes.

While most attractions require a fee, a visit to the USS Arizona National Memorial is complimentary.

After a short boat ride to the memorial, you can read the names of those who lost their lives and see the “tears of Arizona” seeping from the sunken vessel below.

Ewa Forest Reserve

North of Pearl City, the Ewa Forest Reserve allows travelers to experience a dense rainforest.

It’s the polar opposite of the dense concrete jungle of Waikiki, and this mountainous region is not for the faint of heart.

While the area offers a selection of hiking trails, you need a permit to hike there.

Of the hiking trails, the Waimano Falls Trail is a popular one. 

Most trails are rated as hard due to roots, steep sections, and tricky descents.

Along the way, you may encounter two local residents, the feral goat, and a pig.

National Memorial Cemetery Of The Pacific 

A visit to the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific makes a natural add-on to Pearl Harbor.

Located in Punchbowl Crater, it’s an easy 9-mile trip southeast of the military base.

The approach to the cemetery wows visitors with its boulevard flanked by cathedral trees.

The elevated lookout of the cemetery provides a peaceful resting place for fallen soldiers who served in the United States Armed Forces.

Around the pristine grounds, you can find unmarked graves of Pearl Harbor victims. 

Around the crater’s rim and near the entrance, you’ll enjoy views of Honolulu, the Pacific Ocean, and Diamond Head in the distance.

Planning to visit Oahu’s gorgeous North Shore?

If so, you can’t miss a stop in charming Haleiwa!

Considered the heart of the North Shore, Haleiwa is a great place to stop for lunch or dinner while you’re visiting the North Shore beaches.

The North Shore is less built-up than other parts of Oahu, and Haleiwa is one of the few places with sit-down restaurants, shops, and boutiques.

This is also where you’ll find the rightfully famous Matsumoto Shave Ice . 

The Dole Plantation 

The Dole Plantation, home to everyone’s favorite pineapples, is undoubtedly one of the most popular places to visit in Oahu.

That being said, it has a very dark history , and the Dole family is part of the reason the Hawaiian Kingdom was forcibly overthrown in the late 19th century.

While today’s version of The Dole Plantation is clearly still a fun place for families to stop en route to the North Shore, it’s best to keep its history in mind when deciding to visit.

If you do go, you’ll find attractions like the Pineapple Express train tour, which narrates the history of pineapples in Hawaii. 

In addition to the famous pineapples, they grow other tropical fruits, too.

While Hawaii once thrived on sugar cane, it now produces mangoes, cacao (for making chocolate), taro, bananas, and coffee. 

One of the highlights of the plantation is a garden maze with 2-1/2 miles of pathways.

After a hot trek through the maze, reward yourself with soft-serve Dole Whip, an island favorite.

Waimea Falls

Just off the Waimea Valley Road, a short walk (0.7 miles) through a botanical garden, leads to a picturesque waterfall.

“Focus on the journey, not the destination” is a fitting quote for this walk. 

Giant ferns, lush lily pads, and colorful flora enhance the hike along the paved pathway.

At the end of the path, Waimea Falls cascades into a swimming hole. 

So, remember to wear your bathing suit, and bring a towel!

Popular amongst locals and tourists, the waterfalls can vary depending on rainfall.

Plan to visit after a significant rainfall to enjoy it when it is heavily flowing.

Laniakea Beach 

Better known as Turtle Beach, Laniakea Beach usually attracts visitors for its turtles and surfing–in other words, for having two of the biggest attractions in Oahu, HI!

The winter months, particularly January, provide the most significant waves for experienced surfers. 

If you’re new to surfing, the calmer waves of summertime might be more suitable.

Due to the wave action and riptides, it’s inadvisable to swim there.

Regards of when you visit, parking can be problematic as tourists come to watch the surfers and seek out turtle sightings.

For the best chance to see turtles, head to the far right of the beach.

Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles lie on the beach during the day, enjoying the midday sun.

It’s unlawful in Hawaii to approach, harass or touch a turtle.

So, volunteers generally stand by to police that onlookers abide by the rules, and roped areas keep tourists at a distance.

Shark’s Cove

Despite the name, Shark’s Cove isn’t known for its sharks but for its snorkeling.

In fact, you won’t find any sharks there!

During the winter, the strong ocean waves might create hazardous conditions.

However, summer brings calmer currents to Shark’s Cove, ideal for snorkeling.

Unlike Hanauma Bay which charges a fee, you can swim at Sharks Cove for free.

The cove has two sections.

On the right, the depth varies from 15 to 20 feet. To its left, shallow tide pools are ideal for the non-swimmers.

Due to the sharp lava field, it’s advisable to wear water shoes to protect your feet.

Quick Tips for Visiting Oahu, Hawaii

Even though Oahu has more hotels and resorts than the other islands, don’t expect bargain prices when visiting the top attractions in Oahu.

Hotels and food (restaurants and grocery stores) command high prices.

By law, in Honolulu short-term rentals (such as Airbnb and VRBO), must be rented for no less than 90 days.

If it makes sense for your itinerary, to save money when staying in Waikiki, forego the rental car to save on the daily parking fee.

Hoping to drive to some of the more far-flung things to do on Oahu?

We recommend searching for rental cars through Discover Cars , which will allow to compare prices and inclusions with multiple companies.

If you plan to visit many of the best attractions in Oahu, consider purchasing a Go Oahu Card , which can save hundreds of dollars on admission.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Most Beautiful Places in Oahu Worth a Stop

Are you traveling to oahu and want to know the prettiest places to take photos check out these most beautiful places in oahu worth a stop, this list of the most beautiful places in oahu hawaii was written by marcie cheung (a hawaii travel expert) and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Oahu is one of the largest Hawaiian islands and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. 

From breathtaking waterfalls to towering mountains, this island has almost any natural attraction you could dream of – and it has beautiful cities, well-managed resorts, and world-class restaurants!

Whatever you’re looking for, whether it’s hiking trails to ancient heiau to peaceful beaches to historic plantations, Oahu has options for you! Oahu’s natural beauty has something to offer if you want to find unique photography backdrops or simply enjoy nature.

In this article, I’ve ranked fifteen of Oahu’s most awe-inspiring, magical destinations. These are all awesome for both personal enjoyment and Instagram posts! 

Why trust my tips? I’ve traveled to Hawaii more than 40 times, so I really know my stuff.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu itinerary complete with daily schedules, fun activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

15 of the Most Beautiful Places in Oahu Hawaii

No matter where you’re staying on Oahu, the immense amount of natural attractions on the island means you’ll always have a beautiful activity near you! 

Scroll through this list to see my rankings of the best beautiful places on Oahu.

1. Tantalus

Tantalus’ original name was “Pu’u ‘Ualaka’a,” or “Hill of the Rolling Sweet Potato,” a charming name for an absolutely charming place. Now it’s largely known as Tantalus, named after the Greek king of the same name.

High above sea level and overlooking the capital of Hawaii, Honolulu, Tantalus Lookout is a mere four miles north of Waikiki and provides visitors with a beautiful, panoramic view of the city and mountains beyond it. 

The area itself is tranquil and peaceful, populated by wildlife and beautiful local plants. Whether you’re here to picnic or take pictures, be sure to pause and listen for the melodic calls of the white-rumped shama, a passerine with a black head and yellow-orange body.

As you pose for pictures or take a stroll along the road that runs through the area, you might see other wild animals such as wild pigs, mongooses, and even Jackson chameleons! Remember to never get too close to the animals for the safety of both parties!

If you’re looking for a paradise-like place to hike or picnic, this is the place for you!

2. Laniakea Beach

Laniakea Beach is also known simply as Turtle Beach because you’ll almost always be able to see turtles sunning themselves on the sandy shores. If you’re visiting to admire the wildlife, be sure to come to this beach during the summertime, when turtles most often sunbathe.

Aside from being a turtle-filled paradise, Laniakea Beach is actually part of the 7-Mile Miracle, a stretch of seven miles of beaches with over 30 unique surfing spots. Whether you’re an expert or just starting to learn, the 7-Mile Miracle has the spot for you.

When visiting Laniakea Beach, stay a safe distance away from the turtles and take any trash you produce with you to keep the beaches clean and safe. 

Also, remember that the Laniakea Beach and the 7-Mile Miracle are places of cultural significance. Treat the environment and people there with respect. 

3. Hanauma Bay

One of the best snorkeling spots on Oahu is Hanauma Bay. You’ll need to make reservations or book a tour to visit but it’s definitely worth it.

Here, you’ll get beautiful views of the coral reef as well as sweeping mountains surrounding it. And if go snorkeling, you have a good chance of seeing some incredible Hawaiian sea life.

My top tip is to visit early in the morning when the beach is the least crowded. But, this is a popular spot and it might be tricky to avoid getting people in your photos.

4. H-3 Highway

So, it might seem weird to include a highway on this list of prettiest places on Oahu, but once you drive it, you’ll understand why.

This winding highway has the most gorgeous views of the Ko’olau Mountains. There’s even tunnels through the mountains so you’ll get to see them up close.

I suggest getting someone else to drive so you can fully look around. This is one of the most scenic drives on Oahu that everyone should do.

5. K ailua Beach

Kailua Beach truly fits the vision of what we imagine when we think about beaches. From its fine golden-white sand to the beautifully clear ocean, it’s in every way a tropical paradise, perfect for anyone to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a relaxing beach day on a shore with calm waves and beautiful views, this should be on the top of your list. 

The area offers not only the beach but picnic tables, restrooms, showers, beach volleyball courts, and even a fireworks show on the Fourth of July! You can even go paddle-boarding and kayaking!

If you look off to the West while on the beach, you can even see the Chinaman’s Hat, a small island!

6. Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch holds some of the world’s most popular wedding venues for good reason. While it is geographically in the same place as the Ka’a’awa Valley, I placed it separately on this list because I view them as two distinct areas.

Kualoa Ranch, 4,000 acres big, is a place of pure beauty, ranging from secluded beaches to historical structures to lush mountains. 

There are a variety of tours, such as movie tours or UTV tours , that would suit any tourist, ranging from Jungle Jeep Expedition to the Malama Eco-Adventure . The tour guides are all friendly and knowledgeable, able to inform you of the historical importance or geological histories of the areas you’ll visit.

For active tourists, Kualoa Ranch also offers bike tours , ziplining tours , on-foot visits to beaches and mountains, and even horseback riding tours !

Book a Hawaii Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll have more than just selfies. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

7. Lanai Lookout

Lanai Lookout is one of the more secluded options on this list, as many tourists and bloggers overlook it. One thing to keep in mind is that parking is very limited. The area only has 15-20 nearby parking spots!

The lookout offers a stunning overhead panoramic view of unique rock formations, crashing waves, and the Koko Crater. It’s a perfect place to just sit back and relax, enjoying the sounds of nature. You might even get the chance to see humpback whales , especially during the winter months!

If you’re up to the task, the sunrise here is immensely scenic and unmatched in beauty. No matter when you come here, however, I’d recommend keeping any young children or elderly people away from the edge of the lookout and wearing proper shoes.

8. Manoa Falls

Manoa Falls and the trail that leads to it are both immensely beautiful and worth a visit. It’s one of the most beautiful Oahu waterfall hikes out there!

The jungle trail is fairly easy for all ages and abilities. Just be sure to check the weather as it can get slippery in the rain.

There are plenty of photo spots along the trail but the big payoff is seeing Manoa Falls. It’s a hidden gem on Oahu that a lot of people forget to add to their Oahu itinerary.

9. Kaneohe Sandbar

Found at the center of the reef-protected Kaneohe Bay, the Kaneohe Sandbar is located between the Chinaman’s Hat, also known as the Mokoli’i Island, and the Coconut Island, also known as Moku O Lo’e. 

You’ll need a kayak or boat tour to reach the area, as the sandbar is more than a mile from shore. The depth of the water depends on the tide levels, but generally doesn’t rise enough to submerge an average adult’s head.

Many individuals like to come to the Kaneohe sandbar to unwind on a pool floatie, admire the views of the nearby mountains and islands, and relax amidst tranquil turquoise waters. It’s one of the best things to do in Kaneohe Hawaii !

10. Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach, despite being one of the most crowded beaches in Hawaii, is still one of the most beautiful places on Hawaii.

Unlike the rest of the beach, the end of the beach near Diamond Head is much less crowded and much more tranquil. From there, you can truly admire the natural beauty around you as well as the unique scenery of Diamond Head.

This beach also commonly sees turtles napping by the shore or snacking on seaweed, especially before sunset. If you’re interested, there’s also snorkeling opportunities where you can try to swim with the turtles!

11. Waimea Valley

Waimea Valley has many activities and natural attractions you can visit, the most popular of which is its many botanical gardens. With over 50 themed gardens for you to pick from, you’ll never get bored!

The Waimea Valley is also home to the gorgeous Waimea Falls. The falls and the swimming pool it feeds into are both gorgeously photogenic spots.

12. Nu’uanu Pali Lookout

A mere five miles from downtown Honolulu, the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout is accessible by drive and is one of the most beautiful lookouts on Oahu.

From the lookout, you’ll be able to see a gorgeous, sprawling, panoramic view of Honolulu, the windward coast, smaller nearby cities, mountains, and verdant green fields. Be sure to take plenty of pictures!

Keep in mind that the wind here is very strong and chilling. Dress properly to ensure you don’t get sick!

13. Royal Hawaiian Hotel

The Royal Hawaiian Hotel is the only attraction on this list that isn’t cultural or natural, however, it is still a unique wonder you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the world.

Located on the coastline near sandy beaches and palm trees, the hotel is nicknamed the “Pink Palace” for its beautiful design and unique color. The interior design is similarly gorgeous, with facilities and architecture that’ll make you feel like a royal family member.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the Oahu luau and other activities the hotel has to offer!

14. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is doubtlessly one of the most photogenic destinations on this list. This botanical garden is a paradise of tropical tranquility, covered in aesthetic placements of local plants and even the occasional wild animal.

While you’re here, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for unmatched photography due to the immense amount of beautiful backdrops. Whether you’re looking to stand on the road or take pictures on hikes or even the parking lot, this place is a gold mine for any photographer!

While you’re here, be sure to respect the effort and money that goes into maintaining the cleanliness and beauty of the area. Be sure to not cause environmental damage by littering!

15. Byodo-In Temple

Established in 1968 to commemorate the centennial of the Japanese arrival to Hawaii, the Byodo-In Temple on Oahu is a botanical garden, cultural site, and breathtaking temple all in one!

When you arrive here, it’s said that you’ll feel an unmatched sense of deep tranquility. The grounds include beautiful koi ponds, statues, and even wild peacocks.

Hire an Oahu Vacation Photographer

If you want to make the most out of these photogenic areas and create some memories you’ll never forget, consider hiring an Oahu vacation photographer. 

Although I’ve hired photographers from many different companies in the past, I’d personally recommend Flyto grapher , as they are high-quality, low-cost, and very convenient! Check out the latest prices and details.  

Flytographer connects you with independent photographers, each with different styles of shooting, specialties, tools, and portfolios, so you can choose the photographer that best meets your needs.

The process is simple, convenient, and fast, and the photos themselves often take very little time to process, which is a welcome divergence from the main trend in professional photography.

If you’re interested, you can save 10% on your first hired professional Flytographer !  

I’d totally recommend hiring a professional photographer! While the cost may scare you, it’s completely worth it to preserve such wonderful memories!

Beautiful Places on Oahu FAQs

As you’ll be able to see by reading through the article, some of my favorite destinations are Tantalus Lookout, Turtle Beach, and the Crouching Lion trail!

Since Oahu is a tropical island, the weather at almost any time of day is mild and agreeable. The best months for whale-watching are between January and early April , when humpbacks travel to Hawaii’s warmer waters as a part of their migration cycle.

Despite being a repository of natural attractions, Oahu is also the most developed island in Hawaii and therefore has many unique attractions such as high-class shopping, fine dining, an immense variety of Hawaiian cuisine, and exciting nightlife !  

Prettiest Places to See in Oahu Wrap Up

Now that you know some of some of the most photogenic and beautiful places in Oahu, be sure to add these destinations to your itinerary!

Looking for more Oahu travel resources? Check out the prettiest Oahu beaches , best Oahu snorkel tours , things to do in Haleiwa , and things to do in Honolulu at night !

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

READY TO PLAN YOUR TRIP TO OAHU?

LET ME DO THE WORK FOR YOU!

15 Of The Most Beautiful Places on Oahu

If you love gorgeous tropical flowers and cascading waterfalls , oahu is a photographer’s dream find out some of the most beautiful places on oahu that will make you fall in love with hawaii, this most beautiful places to go in oahu post was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Some of the most beautiful places in Oahu are the lush, green mountains and golden, sandy beaches .

Oahu is one of the best Hawaiian islands for photographers because it has such a variety of beautiful backdrops and amazing Oahu attractions.

You’ll find enchanting hiking trails and beautiful farms, tranquil beaches , and awe-inspiring temples. Oahu really is home to a seemingly limitless supply of magical places most people only dream of!

Below you can read about 13 of the most beautiful places to visit in Oahu. They’ll definitely have you doing a double-take, deciding if that vision of beauty is real or just a figment of your imagination.

You’ll want to hit up these Hawaiian Island attractions for the best views in Oahu. These are seriously the best Oahu Instagram spots !

First trip to Oahu ? Get my top Oahu travel tips !

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Oahu.

Popular Oahu Tours/Activities

• Kualoa Ranch UTV Tour (this is a fun adventure with the prettiest views)
• Full Pearl Harbor Tour (this is the BEST way to do everything at Pearl Harbor)
• Hawaii Bucket List Tour (you get to pick where you stop on this custom Oahu Circle Island tour)
• Toa Luau (this is my all-time favorite Oahu luau)
• CLIMB Works Ziplining (this is the longest zipline on Oahu)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Oahu Resorts/Hotels

• Hilton Hawaiian Village (this is our favorite Waikiki resort because of the amazing pool area and nearby restaurants)
• Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa (this is a splurge that is totally worth it)
• Royal Hawaiian Hotel (this is a luxury resort in Waikiki that is pink and gorgeous)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii? One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Click here for step-by-step Oahu travel planning help

Most Beautiful Places on Oahu

Oahu is full of stunning natural wonders and scenic lookouts. You won’t have to go far to take in epic views!

1. Lanai Lookout

The breathtaking Lanai Lookout is often overlooked, but it’s one of the coolest Oahu island attractions.

What’s really special about this lookout are the stunning lava formations.

And the dazzling blue waves crash into the rock formations creating one of the greatest photo opportunities on Oahu.

At Lanai Outlook you may just be lucky enough to witness humpback whales frolicking off the coast!

2. Laniakea Beach

Also known as Turtle Beach , Laniakea Beach hard not to get excited by the giant green sea turtles that bask in the sun. They call this area home, so enjoy the sight, but don’t disturb them!

Laniakea Beach is part of the 7 Mile Miracle . This is a stretch of beaches all with an the perfect surf, sand, and shoreline found anywhere on Earth.

It’s a place of great beauty that people come from all over the world to see. Plus it’s a fun Instagram spot on Oahu’s North Shore.

Book a Family Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

3. Tantalus

Puʻuohiʻa, is also known as Tantalus, is a botanical paradise. It’s also popular with cyclists , hikers , and a birdwatchers. It’s one of the most Instagrammable places in Oahu.

Few places on Oahu retain the mystery as Tantalus has.

Tons of kukui and banyan trees line the mountainous road where you might see mongooses crossing!

Enjoy the sound of shama thrush singing in the trees covered in giant vining philodendron leaves. It’s a peaceful and woodsy place to enjoy a walk.

Tantalus is one of the last places protected by the growing tourism industry. Islanders say it reminds them of old Hawaii or even the Garden of Eden.

4. Ka’a’awa Valley

Ka’a’awa Valley is one of Oahu’s most beautiful valleys and is largely untouched by modern development. That’s what makes it one of the top Oahu tourist attractions for photographers.

In ancient times, it was considered to be one of the most sacred places on Oahu.

The Ka’a’awa Valley has been used for location filming for more than 50 major motion pictures and television productions.

So if you feel like you’re in Jurassic Park, it’s because you are! Don’t worry though, it was just a movie, right?

5. Byodo-In Temple

The non-denominational temple grounds of Byodo-In Temple are a lush paradise nestled in a cleft of the Nu’uanu Pali cliffside.

The Byodo-In Temple grounds include meditation areas and a large reflecting pond with hundreds of Japanese koi. There are stunning statues, small waterfalls, and even wild peacocks.

It’s one of the most beautiful places in Oahu Hawaii to just get away from it all. And because it’s hidden away, it’s a popular place to take photos. Check out my full Byodo-In Temple guide .

6. Kaneohe Sandbar

Kaneohe Sandbar is a collection of exposed islets surrounding coral reefs and is the only such place in all of Hawaii.

It’s a very narrow beach protected by a coral reef. At low tide it’s a beautiful bright white beach with calm, waist-high water.

Kaneohe sandbar is surrounded by the striking Ko’olau Mountains, features crystalline turquoise waters, and fine white sand. It’s truly a picturesque slice of paradise!

7. Maunawili Falls

If you’re looking for an amazing Oahu hike to a waterfall, Maunawili Falls has so much character.

There are many gorgeous Oahu waterfall hikes are gorgeous, but this is one of my favorite!

It has several clearings that open up the valley and then you realize just how deep in the jungle you are. It’s a beautiful place to get away from the city.

8. Waikiki Beach

Even if you’re not a fan of crowds, you can’t deny that Waikiki Beach is a beautiful part of Oahu.

But if you head to the eastern part of the beach, closer to Diamond Head, you’re in for a real treat! It’s actually one of my favorite places in Oahu.

Here, it’s much less crowded. You’ll get to enjoy this amazing beach without having to fight for a spot for your towel.

And the views of Diamond Head are simply gorgeous. It’s no wonder it’s one of the top Honolulu attractions!

9. Kualoa Ranch

Technically the Ka’a’awa Valley and Kualoa Ranch are in the same space. But I decided to separate them for this post because they offer different experiences.

Kualoa Ranch is in the perfect spot to see mountains on one side and coastline on the other.

The ranch has some of the best activities in Oahu, like movie tours, ATV rides , and jungle treks.

It’s also a popular Oahu wedding destination, and it’s absolutely gorgeous! It’s truly one of the must-do attractions in Oahu island.

10. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

You might have seen Instagram photos of people standing on an empty road in Hawaii. chances are it was taken at Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden on Oahu.

It’s recently become one of the top tourist attractions in Oahu. It’s hands down one of the top places to see in Oahu!

Now, technically you aren’t supposed to take photos standing in the road. But, that doesn’t mean it’s not still one of the top beautiful Oahu Instagram spots.

Here, you’ll see lush gardens right up against the mountain and it’s enough to make any photographer fall in love.

There are also several other places to take photos here, like from the parking lot or service road. It’s no wonder it’s one of the top attractions in Honolulu.

11. Crouching Lion

If you are looking for magazine-worthy places on Oahu, Crouching Lion is it. In fact, it made the cover of Hawaii Magazine !

There used to be a few hiking trails up to Crouching Lion, but they were closed due to deaths on the trail. For your safety, I don’t recommend hiking here, though some people still try!

However, you can still take in the beauty of Crouching Lion from several places around Ka’a’wa on Oahu’s Leeward Coast.

12. The Royal Hawaiian Hotel

It isn’t a natural wonder on Oahu. But the Royal Hawaiian Hotel is seriously one of the most beautiful hotels in Hawaii.

It’s nicknamed the “Pink Palace” and you will truly feel like a princess when walking around the grounds! You’ll love the dramatic and detailed architecture. And the lobby and the grounds are all stunning.

It’s also home to an awesome Waikiki luau that’s pretty impressive! Personally, I think this hotel is one of the prettiest places in Oahu!

13. Kailua Beach

If you are looking for one of the best beaches on Oahu, Kailua Beach will be at the top of your list. It’s one of the best places to go in Oahu.

Here, you’ll find powdery sand and clear blue water. It’s definitely a great stop on your sightseeing in Oahu tour of the island.

Plus, you can see Chinaman’s Hat, a little island right off the coast.

14. Waimea Valley

Another amazing North Shore Oahu spot is Waimea Valley (also home to Waimea Falls). This valley actually has a cultural garden you can walk through.

But, the reason you’ll want to head to Waimea Valley is to do the short hike to Waimea Falls. This is one of the few Oahu waterfalls you can swim in.

15. Nu’uana Pali Lookout

If you’re driving around Oahu on a circle island tour , you’ll definitely want to park at Nu’uanu Pali Lookout to take in the epic view.

This place is the site of an important battle in Hawaiian history and that’s worth the stop alone. However, it’s also just an incredibly gorgeous view of Oahu.

Just be prepared, because it’s a VERY windy spot! It can feel like you’ll fly away. But, that’s also fun for photos!

Hire an Oahu Vacation Photographer

If you really want to take advantage of the most beautiful places to visit on Oahu, consider hiring a vacation photographer. Check out the latest prices and more details.

While we’ve used a lot of Oahu vacation photographers throughout the years, some of my favorite experiences have been through Flytographer .

They are a concierge vacation photography website where you can find photographers almost anywhere in the world. Check out our Oahu photoshoot HERE .

Flytographer makes it easy to choose the right photographer for your vacation destination. You can read all about their photography style, favorite places to shoot, and scroll through their portfolio.

And the booking process is simple and quick. Choose the photographer you like and pick your preferred dates. Then, Flytographer will check availability and get back to you with a proposed plan.

If your favorite photographer isn’t available, they’ll check to see if another photographer can do your shoot.

What I love most about Flytographer is that they’re FAST! We sometimes receive our photos before the end of our trip!

SAVE $25 ON YOUR FLYTOGRAPHER OAHU VACATION PHOTOGRAPHER

First-timers will save $25 off their first Flytographer photoshoot if they use my affiliate link.

They specialize in proposals, engagement, maternity, and family photography. It’s perfect for anniversaries, special occasions, or simply just because! And you can meet that at any beach or cool attractions in Oahu.

FAQ about Beautiful Places on Oahu

Waikiki is one of the most popular Oahu places to visit and it’s also really pretty. There are beautiful parks and iconic golden sand beaches. Or you can walk toward the Diamond Head side to get away from the crowds.

Oahu truly has something for every traveler. There’s world-class shopping, epic hiking, incredible diving, and an exciting nightlife , and more! And there are awesome family-friendly Honolulu tourist attractions.

Winter is definitely the rainy season in Hawaii . If you want to minimize the chances of it raining on your Oahu vacation, aim to travel from mid- April to September .

Wrap Up on the Most Beautiful Places on Oahu

And there you have some of my favorite beautiful places in Oahu! Whether you are looking for Hawaii points of interest, Oahu secret spots , or the best Oahu Instagram spots, now you have inspiration.

Looking for more Oahu Travel Resources for when you visit Oahu? Find out the best things to do in Waikiki , my North Shore Travel Guide , and fun things to do in Haleiwa !

TheCoolist is a mood board for your headspace.

8 Of the Most Beautiful Places in Hawaii You Must Visit (2023 Edition)

Hawaii is gorgeous. Few places on earth can match up to its paradise-like charm. Its people, culture, food, and lifestyle are unique and captivating. The island’s lush volcanic mountains , rugged coastlines, eye-popping cliffs, and valleys are the epitome of scenic beauty.

Couple this picturesque environment with stunning beaches and rare flora and fauna, and you have the most magical place on earth. Hawaii has a lot to offer the traveler in terms of panoramic beauty, outdoor activities , and beach life. To start your Aloha State tour, visit these spots that are some of the most beautiful places in Hawaii.

What Are the Most Beautiful Places in Hawaii?

Almost every single destination in Hawaii is magical and stunning, so selecting the most beautiful will be quite a task. But here goes.

1. Haleakala National Park

How can you describe one of the most magnificent spots not just in Hawaii but the world, in words? Haleakala National Park .

This park is one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii and home to Maui’s highest peak. Lore has it that it is on this towering peak that Maui, the demigod, lassoed the sun to slow down its journey across the sky. The locals refer to the 33,265-acre park as the “house of the sun.”

Mount Haleakala’s highest peak has the most dramatic rises of all peaks in the world. It ascends to 10,023 feet in a short elevation distance of 38 miles (61km).

Within this large swath of land are five climatic zones that culminate in an eerie, otherworldly landscape at the peak’s top. Visitors rise early and head to Maui’s southeastern coast to witness the grand sunrises over the vast ocean and clouds.

Appreciating this swirl of light and color over Hawaii’s blue waters, Mark Twain remarked it was “the most sublime spectacle” he ever saw.

The mountain’s sunsets are as remarkable as the dawn. The night skies are extravagantly beautiful and captivating as well. You have not seen the best of Hawaii if you have not viewed the island’s starry bright skies at night on top of Haleakala.

Besides its superb sky-watching experience, Haleakala National Park has vast wilderness and rainforests awaiting your discovery. Hike through this sacred park and see its volcanic terrain, magnificent waterfalls, and pools.

There are also many bird-watching activities and miles of rare plants and dramatic scenes, perfect for photography. The Haleakala Crater’s cinder cones and the ‘Ohe’o Gulch pools along the Palikea Stream are the park’s most iconic landmarks.

2. Wailua Falls

Wailua Falls is on the eastern side of Kauai, along the Wailua River’s southern end.

Depending on the season, the beautiful waterfalls can range between 80ft to 200ft in height. You can easily view the falls from the side of the road or hike up a trail to drink in all their beauty.

You can access Wailua Falls by car. Get there early in the morning, and you might catch the occasional rainbow straddling the gorgeous dropping waters.

Hikers have to venture to the wild, go up a slippery path, then hike down the hill for a swim at the bottom of the falls. The trail to Wailua Falls is muddy but serene. You have to be fit to get there, so it is not a good track for the elderly and children.

You will need to grasp the trunks of trees, wade through water, and scramble up a few rocks to get to this gem’s magnificent pool. It is, however, a brief journey filled with awe-inspiring greenery and moss-covered trees. And the booming falls are an epic sight that’s well worth the effort.

You can jump off the top of the cliff to the pool if you are a daredevil, but it has caused some injuries to visitors. A safer way to enjoy the gorgeous falls is to take a swim near its edges as you enjoy the enchanting rainbows that pop up behind the robust water flow.

3. Mauna Kea

Hawaii is home to the world’s tallest mountain. Most people give this title to Mount Everest, but Mauna Kea is 3,661 ft (1,116 m) taller than Everest. The catch is, over half of Mauna Kea’s height is below the ocean that surrounds it.

Mauna Kea is a record-breaking 32,696 ft (9,966 m) high; its volcanic activity plays a key role in forming the Hawaiian Islands.

While Hawaii has diverse natural features, Mauna Kea is the most striking of them all. The great mountain is the highest spot on the islands, and its powerful presence is unmistakable.

Drive up to its summit and have a front-seat view of one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii. Most visitors come up here to gaze at the stars. The view is unrivaled thanks to Mauna Kea’s dry environment, high elevation, and steady winds.

Mauna Kea is so popular as a stargazing site that it has thirteen astronomical observation sites at its summit. The sunsets and sunrises from Mauna Kea are bright, clear, and unrivaled in beauty.

The mountain also has a sacred significance to the Hawaiians. Its higher altitude areas are the home of Akua, the creator, and other spiritual entities. Its summit is the sanctuary of the Polynesian Supreme Being.

There are tons of cultural properties and archeological sites up Mauna Kea and many natural diversities to see. They range from exotic tropical forests, shrublands, alpine woodlands, and stone deserts.

4. Waimea Canyon State Park

Waimea Canyon State Park is the Pacific’s own Grand Canyon. This geological gem in Kauai has stunning orange and red canyon walls contrasted by lush greenery, rivers, and waterfalls.

The canyon is over 14 miles long and a mile wide. Its depth of 3,600 feet was carved into the island by the Waimea River in millions of years, making it one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii.

This plunging gorge’s name translates to “Reddish Waters” because of the river’s hue as it erodes the valley’s volcanic floors. You can get to Waimea Canyon State Park by car and enjoy breathtaking views at the various lookout points along Koke’e Road. The most popular of these viewpoints are Puu Hinahina and Waimea Canyon.

Puu Hinahina has a gorgeous view of the canyon below and the river snaking through it. The Waimea Canyon lookouts have panoramic views of the gorge right from its edge. You will find most folks on cars enjoying the park’s natural beauty from this point.

Hiking up its winding trails is the best way to enjoy all the beauty that lies within Waimea Canyon State Park. The park trails lead to excellent viewpoints, such as the Kalalau, where hikers from Kee Beach can drink in wide views of the valley and the deep blue sea beyond it.

Other trailheads leading to different views of the area include the Cliff Trail and Waipo’o Falls lookout points. The park also has helicopter tours that give visitors a bird’s-eye view of the canyon. Next to the canyon is the Koke’e State Park, a massive rainforest environment.

5. Hanauma Bay, Oahu

Hanauma Bay is a magical wine glass-shaped spot on Oahu’s southeastern side, which looks too perfect to be true.

Nature has built Hanauma Bay right into the hidden side of Koko Head, veiling this jewel from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu, only a 30-minute drive away. The gorgeous bay of Hanauma feels like it is in a world of its own, hemmed in by lush vegetation and Koko head’s, gentle hills.

In the ancient past, Hanauma Bay was a fishing spot for Hawaiian royalty. This tranquil spot is popular with the locals and snorkelers, attracting visitors by their thousands. The bay has over 400 fish species and many green turtles. Diving into Hanauma Bay feels like taking a swim inside a large aquarium.

The water is crystal clear, revealing its cache of colorful coral reefs and the fish that lives in them. You will see the humuhumunukunukuapua’a , the State’s fish, here.

When there is an abundance of sunlight, you will enjoy the exceptional effects of the light as it reflects and refracts against the underwater world, shining in pink, brown, yellow, black, and purple hues.

The fish at Hanauma Bay are so at home with visitors that they will swim right up to your facemask with no fear. Hanauma Bay is a protected nature reserve, with various regulations in place to preserve its fragile ecosystem. Hanauma Bay is one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii for nighttime snorkelers.

On Saturday, experienced snorkelers go into its waters with a waterproof flashlight to view nighttime fish such as octopus. The pitch-dark diving experience is in a league of its own.

Other Hanauma Bay attractions include the Witch’s Brew rocky cliff with violent waves crashes and the Toilet Bowl, a natural lava rock pool.

6. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is on the Big Island. The Maunaloa and Kilauea volcanoes frame the 335,259 acres large park. Kilauea’s last eruption was in 2018.

The park is unlike any other place on earth. It has an otherworldly look, with lava flows gleaming all around its rocky wasteland.

Here, visitors can watch as the earth recreates itself in the planet’s only drive-in volcano. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has over 150 miles of trails that you can hike in. Interspersed between these paths are moon surface-like deserts and volcanic craters.

The park’s craggy coastline sends massive amounts of sea spray up in the air, while the earth sends up shaking tremors to further enhance the drama of this gorgeous landscape.

The two volcanoes have created over 875 acres of land for the island since 1983, adding more diversity to the island. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage and World Biosphere Site.

Alongside lava flows to the Pacific Ocean, you will find much unique birdlife and outstanding natural fireworks. Occasionally, the hot lava and cold ocean meet up, throwing up plumes of steam and smoke.

The park’s lava lakes are some of the most beautiful places in Hawaii, creating exciting molten rock plumes that are rare and unforgettable. Away from the volcanoes’ heat is the flora and fauna of Hawaii, hidden in the park’s grassland and pockets of rainforest.

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is popular with backpackers and photographers . The sublime spectacle and its unique biodiversity have tons of attractions, including a drive to the rim of the crater and vent and camping grounds.

7. Pololu Valley

Pololu Valley has the most majestic views of the island. The valley drops from the sides of the Kohala volcano on Big Island, revealing cliffs covered in lush green forest cover. The magnificent views of the Pololu Valley culminate in breathtaking views of the Pacific.

Pololu Valley is an excellent hiking spot. Walk your way down its black sands to the beach. The sandy beach is magnificent but has strong currents, so it is not safe for swimmers.

Make sure that you are back up again at the lookout for unforgettable sunset views. The valley formed because of a massive landslide that pushed a chunk of an existing volcano down to the ocean floor hundreds of thousands of years ago.

This violent event carved the popular Kohala shoreline, sea cliffs, and the Pololu Valley. Over time, the region has undergone massive changes from weathering and erosion, building huge gorges, deep gulches, and valleys below the volcano.

The area surrounding the Kohala Volcano has seven dramatic valleys, with Pololu Valley closing this extraordinary scene at the northern end. These valleys are the most beautiful places in Hawaii, and you can view some of them from the lookout at Pololu.

8. Pools of Ohe’o, Maui

The Pools of Ohe’o, in East Maui, are a popular attraction and easy to access. There seven pools are all linked by waterfalls, creating an enchanting scene.

Around the swimming holes are dense bamboo forests, making the surrounding valley an idyllic hideaway. You can cliff jump and swim at the Pools of Ohe’o, but the site is closed during stormy weather due to flash flooding.

More Beautiful Places in Hawaii? For sure!

Hawaii is picture-perfect, and these eight spots are amongst some of its most captivating regions. Visit them and enjoy this island paradise’s exotic charm and features.

And if you want to add to our list — from experience — do hit us in the comments section below. We’d love to hear from you.

TheCoolist is a mood board for your headspace . We help curate your cool through deep dives into topics of self-actualization, lifestyle, and interpersonal intelligence. Our articles maintain a high degree of informational integrity, deconstructing complex topics such as personality types, spirituality, socialization, culture, and much more.

Subscribe to our newsletter

At TheCoolist we are reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

• Editorial Guidelines
• Privacy Policy

© 2024 thecoolist.com - All Rights Reserved

TheCoolist.com is operated by Bon Ventures SRL, a registered company in Romania (Company No. 37394109), Str. Barbu Vacarescu 164A, Cladirea C1, 020285, Bucharest. Telephone +40 745 310 155

Pride of Maui Local Travel Blog

Your guide to the best things to do on your vacation in Maui and Hawaii

Top 10 Places to Visit in Hawaii

#prideofmaui

USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor

North shore of oahu, waikiki beach, na pali coast state wilderness park, haleakala national park, road to hana, take a trip to lana’i, moloka’i’s kalaupapa national historical park, hawai’i volcanoes national park, kona coffee farms.

Aloha and welcome to our list of the Top Places to Visit in Hawaii . We love to provide our readers with the latest knowledge and tips about the best things to do in Hawaii from a local’s perspective. Whether you live in Hawaii or are planning your next island-style vacation, please enjoy this short list of must-see places in Hawaii.

10 most popular places to visit in Hawaii

With so many incredible locations to see throughout the Hawaiian Islands, it is impossible to list every place in just one blog post! Please enjoy our carefully curated list of the most popular places to visit in Hawaii.

The USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor in Honolulu is the #1 Visitor Destination in all of the Hawaiian Islands. Over 2 million U.S. and international visitors choose to visit the Arizona Memorial each year to learn about and see where WWII began for America. There are 9 historic sites that comprise the WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument and they are located in Alaska, California, and Hawaii. Five are at Pearl Harbor: the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Utah Memorial, USS Oklahoma Memorial, and areas within Battleship Row and Ford Island.

FREE tours are available from 8 am to 3 pm daily, except for on certain holidays. For more information about daily guided tours of the USS Arizona Memorial, please visit  Pearl Harbor Tours .

Spread out over 17 acres of land, the recently renovated Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is now operated by the National Park Service. While visiting Pearl Harbor, guests can tour the entire Visitor Center but should be prepared to spend at least a few hours if they want to take their time and see it all. Upon arrival, guests will be guided towards a ticket counter to receive two different tickets. They will get a movie ticket for a film about the events of this historic site, and a boat ticket for a trip out to the USS Arizona Memorial. The film and the boat tour together are roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes. Guests will also be able to request headphones at the ticket counter for a narrated tour.

Pearl Harbor is the largest natural harbor in the State of Hawaii and was once known as Pu’uloa by the ancient Hawaiians. It directly translates to “water of pearl,” and is a fitting name due to the immense amounts of pearls that were once found in its waters.

The North Shore of Oahu refers to the geographic area between West Oahu’s Ka’ena Point and East Oahu’s Kahuku Point. The North Shore is well known for its breathtaking coastlines and incredibly large waves during the winter. Another thing the North Shore is known for is attracting surfers from all around the globe. Famous North Shore surf spots include Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, and Banzai Pipeline (Ehukai Beach).

The main hub in the North Shore is the historic Town of Hale’iwa, named after the first hotel opened on the North Shore by Benjamin Dillingham in 1898. Hale’iwa is one of the coolest and most charming towns to visit in all of Hawaii. There is a wide variety of art galleries, local food spots, surf shops, a surf museum, gift shops, food trucks, yoga studios, and a great community of laid-back residents.

When you’re on the North Shore of Oahu, make sure you go to Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in Kahuku and order the garlic shrimp plate. Next, visit the historic M.Matsumoto’s Grocery Store in Hale’iwa Town for shave ice, then spend some time at Waimea Bay. After that, check out Lani’s Beach (Laniakea Beach) to see the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles in their natural habitat. Please do not touch the turtles!

The name Waikiki , in essence, means “spouting waters,” and refers to the freshwater rivers that once flowed out towards the ocean. In ancient times, the coastal area of Waikiki in South Oahu once encompassed a much larger area, including the Manoa and Palolo Valleys. During the 1450s, Waikiki was designated as the first government center in all of Hawaii.

Indeed, there’s a host of reasons why Waikiki is one of the top places to visit in Hawaii!

First of all, Waikiki was the first vacation spot for Hawaiian royalty. Foreign visitors would start to frequent Waikiki in the 1830’s. The first hotel was opened in 1901, and a global trend was created! It was then that Waikiki started to become one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world.

Today, Waikiki is a gorgeous beach town spread across 1.5 square miles. It is lined by hotels and luxurious resorts, and decorated by a variety of restaurants,  shopping centers , and nightlife. Waikiki Beach is a glory in its own right thanks to great Hawaiian entertainers like Hilo Hattie and Andy Cummings.

Some mainland celebrities who helped to popularize Waikiki were Clark Gable, Frank Sinatra, Shirley Temple, Bing Crosby, Amelia Earhart and Elvis Presley. Perhaps one of the most cherished local heroes is Duke Kahanamoku , who won five Olympic medals for swimming and helped to popularize the sport of surfing.

When you’re in Waikiki, take some surf or standup paddle board lessons at Waikiki Beach and check out the Duke Kahanamoku statue. Next, visit the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium. Make sure to take a walk through the international marketplace for gifts and souvenirs, and a chance to taste some local fare. Do not miss out on happy hour and some ono pupus (appetizers) at Duke’s Waikiki on Sundays while you listen to famed Hawaiian musician Henry Kapono.

The Na Pali Coastline on Kauai is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places on earth. This coastal region isn’t just one of the best places to see in Hawaii, but it is also super rich in Hawaiian cultural history. This area was once home to Hawaiian Ali’i (royalty) and is known for its exuberantly flowing waterfalls and freshwater rivers. There is also an abundance of Hawaiian flora and fauna, and a bounty of natural food sources from the valley to the sea: taro, sweet potatoes, breadfruit, fresh fish and more. Since the Na Pali Coastline can only be reached by foot or ocean vessel, it has remained somewhat isolated.

Today, visitors and residents have a few choices available to them when exploring the Na Pali Coastline. The most popular way for guests to explore this coastline is by ocean vessel. A variety of sailing companies on Kauai provide snorkel tours to the Na Pali Coastline . Most of them also offer sunset dinner cruises, and longer Kauai ocean tours to Nualolo Kai. Here guests will find a remote beach where they can snorkel, explore, and visit an 800-year-old Hawaiian fishing village.

Another option for experiencing the Na Pali Coastline is by foot through the Kalalau Trail, which is 22 miles long, roundtrip. Here, Kauai visitors can explore a rare ecosystem and see natural waterfalls and streams. They will also find dramatically rugged coastlines and two gorgeous beaches, Hanakapi’ai and Kalalau Beach. The full hiking and camping trip through the Na Pali Coastline is at the very least a 3-day trip. However, just the first 2 miles of the Kalalau Trail from Ha’ena Point to Hanakapi’ai Beach make for a wonderful day trip (approximately 4 miles long roundtrip).

We suggest that guests hoping to explore the Na Pali Coast carefully make their plans first. We strongly suggest that you do not attempt hiking the Kalalau Trail between mid-September and May, so as to avoid unsafe weather and terrain conditions.

Visit the magical Island of Maui, and feel the power of the 10,023-ft dormant Mt. Haleakala all around you! While on the Valley Isle, visitors absolutely must plan a trip out to Haleakala to view a sunrise or a sunset , and enjoy some guided activities, hiking, and camping. If you’re hoping to visit Haleakala for sunrise or sunset, plan for at least a 1-1/2 hour drive from Central Maui (Kahului) up to the summit.

This is a must-do activity on Maui. After witnessing the jaw-dropping scenery, you will instantly understand why Haleakala, “The House of the Sun,” is one of the top places to visit in all of Hawaii.

Due to the high elevation, the temperature will drop, so bring something warm to wear for the unpredictable weather. Make sure to fill up your gas, bring food and water, and check up on local sunrise and sunset times . Reservations must be made in advance.

If you plan on doing guided activities at the Haleakala Crater, make sure you are up to date on all of the most recent event information.

Here, guests can gather in an outdoor classroom and learn more about Maui’s geography and Haleakala’s unique natural and cultural history. Park naturalists are highly educated on all topics and they will engage with participants by way of science projects, demonstrations, and short guided hikes. If you plan to visit and view the sunrise, you will need to be sure to make a  parking reservation .

For hiking and camping adventures to Haleakala National Park, make sure to do your research and plan out your activities ahead of time. Various day-trip hiking options are available, but Haleakala is most famously traveled through multi-day hiking and camping trips. In this way, guests can journey through the Crater while learning about Maui’s unique ecosystems with roughly 30 miles of hiking trails .

Popular Haleakala Maui trails include The Kaupo Gap, Sliding Sands, Halemauu, Hosmer Grove & Supply Trails, and Kipahulu.

If you’re visiting Maui, do not miss out on the chance to witness one of Hawaii’s most beautiful landscapes. Journey out to East Maui on the Hana Highway to experience one of the most incredible and unique places to visit in all of Hawaii.

Driving the  Road to Hana is one of the most popular activities to do in Hawaii and one that Maui lovers should do at least once in their lifetimes. Most visitors choose to experience the road to Hana in one of two ways: by car or as part of a guided tour. The choice is yours, but a private trip with just family and friends is probably the best scenario for those who are looking to explore more freely.

If you are driving, please be pono (respectful). Pull over at designated parking areas (look for the signage), and make sure that you do not slow traffic down by abruptly stopping your car for a coconut or to take a photo. It’s not only dangerous but is also absent-minded and rude toward the many East Maui residents who traverse the Road to Hana each day. Mahalo for understanding!

While en route to Hana, guests should definitely stop in Paia Town to gas up and get some coffee and snacks for the drive ahead. We suggest that you plan to reach Paia Town by 7 am. This way you can avoid the traffic that will inevitably clog up the Road to Hana from late morning until the afternoon. We also suggest that you do your research and pick out a few places that you will definitely want to visit so that you do not get caught up in all the stops on the way. Otherwise, your day will go by so quickly and you will be sad that you missed some sites!

When you’re traveling down the Road to Hana, we suggest you make three stops. Twin Falls (Mile Marker 2) has a light hike to a beautiful waterfall and you can grab a refreshing smoothie or fresh coconut, and Nahiku Marketplace (Mile Marker 29) has yummy treats and gifts. Wai’anapanapa State Park (Mile Marker 32) is a great place to stop to see a black sand beach, a gorgeous coastline, and a rare glimpse into Old Hawaii. Reservations are required to visit Wai’anapanapa.

Once you reach Hana Town, check out Hana Bay, the art galleries, and the farmers markets. Just past Hana Town, guests can spend the day at Hamoa Beach, or travel further towards Kipahulu to view the 7 Sacred Pools of Ohe’o.

Lanaʻi, also known as the “Pineapple Isle,” is the sixth-largest Hawaiian island. It’s renowned for its luxurious resorts, tranquil atmosphere, and a rich history tied to pineapple plantations. The natural beauty on Lanaʻi is surreal with diverse landscapes including pine forests, rocky coasts, and stunning beaches.

Part of Maui County, Lanaʻi does not have direct service from outside of Hawaii but it can be reached by an inter-island flight from Honolulu or Kahului Airport. If you’ll be visiting Maui and would like to hop over to Lanaʻi for a night or weekend, there is a ferry service from Maui’s Maʻalaea Harbor.

When on Lanaʻi, guests will have only a few lodging options from which to choose. There are two Four Seasons Resorts, the Hotel Lanaʻi, private vacation rentals or camping. Whether you are visiting Lanaʻi for only one day or you plan to stay longer, we strongly suggest that you rent a 4×4 vehicle so that you can explore the countless sites that Lanaʻi has to offer.

On Lanaʻi, guests should make sure to explore Keahiakawelo, also known as the Garden of the Gods. It is located 45 minutes from Lanaʻi City at the end of Polihua Road on the northwest side of the island. Here, guests can visit an area full of Hawaiian history with an other-worldly landscape made up of rock towers, spires, and boulders, with gorgeous Pacific Ocean views.

Other noteworthy activities on Lanaʻi include visiting Sweetheart Rock and Puʻu Pehe Beach (the perfect place for a romantic outing with its breathtaking views), and snorkeling and scuba diving at Hulopoe Bay. Guests may also want to try traveling down the Monroe Trail by horseback, and lavish in luxury at the world-class golf resorts.

Established in 1980, the Kalaupapa National Historical Park is an homage to the Kalaupapa and Kalawao Settlements. It also pays tribute to the late Saint Damien and all of his helpers, as well as to the residents who have suffered from Hansen’s Disease (Leprosy). Kalaupapa is a remote destination in Moloka’i that embodies a spirituality full of natural Hawaiian beauty. It serves to commemorate those who did not yet have immunities to Western illnesses and would suffer from diseases brought to the Hawaiian islands. Since 1866, Kalaupapa had housed more than 8,000 people who would go on to die from Hansen’s Disease.

Today, the Kalaupapa Settlement can be visited with a visitors permit while on a tour through Damien Tours, or Kalaupapa Rare Adventure Tours for those who wish to travel by a sure-footed mule. The 3.5-mile hiking trail is uneven, so it is suggested that guests are well prepared and in good health before venturing to Kalaupapa. Tours stop at all of the places of interest including the Windward side of the peninsula, lunch in Kalawao, and the Kalaupapa Bookstore.

The mission of this historic Hawaii park is to “provide a well-maintained community that ensures that the present patient-residents of the Kalaupapa Settlement may live out their lives peacefully and comfortably.”

Experience “Old Hawai’i” by venturing to the landscape created by the Big Island’s powerful volcano and witness her ecological dominance firsthand. Since 1916, the Big Island’s Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park has been the place to go for those who would like to learn more about how the Hawaiian Islands were formed. It is certainly a fascinating and eruptive timeline of events! Without a doubt, this is one of the most sought-after places to visit in Hawaii.

There are a variety of ways for guests to explore the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. The main interests here are visiting the Hawaii Volcano Observatory and observing billowing steam vents, volcanic lava fields, and fiery infernos. The park is also home to a 500-year-old lava cave, the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, and the Kīlauea Caldera. Everything here must be viewed from a safe distance.

When looking to visit the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, plan ahead if you’d like to take a guided tour, a day hike or a longer back-country hike. If you can only visit for a few hours, make sure you try to explore the Kīlauea Summit by journeying the 11-mile Crater Rim Drive. Here, guests can drive around the caldera at the summit, and see desert and jungle landscapes. They will also have a chance to pull over and take short walks to scenic points of interest. Since there are ongoing volcanic eruptions on the Big Island, we highly suggest that guests check for visitor alerts and road closures. Also, make sure to always follow the guidance of the Hawai’i State Park Rangers.

Whether or not you’re a coffee lover, make sure to take the time to visit at least one coffee farm while you are on the Big Island. There are hundreds of coffee farms in Kona, so choose a few and tour them throughout the day like you would on a wine tasting adventure! See coffee farms and mills and learn how the beans are processed. Taste all of the unique flavors that are rich in Hawaii’s agricultural roots.

Besides enjoying the rich coffee pleasures of each destination that you choose, you will have the incredible advantage of sightseeing and exploring while on your way.

If you’re visiting Kona in November, make sure you check out the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival in the historic Kailua-Kona Village. Guests can participate in the local Hawai’i culture while celebrating with food and coffee vendors, live music, and entertainment. This is a great way to explore all of the coffee farm delights to be had at one time.

We suggest that you visit Greenwell Farms , the Hilo Coffee Mill , Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation , and the Kona Coffee Living History Farm during any other time of the year.

These are all wonderful choices for tasting Kona Coffee and learning its history through guided tours. Enjoy trying all that these incredible places have to offer during your visit to Hawaii!

What have been your favorite places to go in Hawaii?

Mahalo for reading Pride of Maui’s Top 10 Places to Visit in Hawaii! With such an abundance of wonderful places to see, this article could have easily been the “Top 1,000 Places to Visit in Hawaii.” For more information about things to do in Hawaii, or snorkel trips on Maui and other ocean activities, please continue to peruse the Pride of Maui Blog and our website!

Alexandra Mitchell

Alexandra is a marketing professional with a passion for writing about travel to the Hawaiian Islands, vacation rentals, and luxury real estate. She exposes readers to glimpses of 'Old Hawaii,' new destinations to explore, local events, and all the best things to do on Maui.

Related Maui Blog Posts

Top 10 Little Beach Towns in Hawaii

Top 10 Things to Do in Hana

Top 30 Best Videos About Maui

Top 10 Maui Land Tours and Activities

Privacy overview.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

I’ve Lived in Hawaii Nearly All My Life — and These Are the Most Underrated Destinations in the Aloha State

From one of the only green-sand beaches in the world to the southernmost point in the U.S., these are the top places to visit in Hawaii, according to a local.

BackyardProduction/Getty Images

Hawaii has beckoned tourists away from their daily routines to experience paradise for years. Nearly 10 million people made the trek to the archipelago last year, a destination with a population of around 1.5 million. The Hawaiian islands offer accessible natural beauty throughout the year — from the mountains (known as mauka ) to the sea (called makai ). Think sun-drenched beaches with warm water, waterfalls hidden in rain forests, and sand in hues of white, black, and red. Perhaps what makes Hawaii so special to visitors is the spirit of aloha — a warm hospitality not found anywhere else — and a rich cultural heritage dating back centuries. 

Hawaii is one of the most coveted destinations in the world, but travelers often merely scratch the surface of what the state has to offer. As someone who grew up in Honolulu — a popular tourist stop — and resides there currently, I see it all the time, but I don’t blame them. Tourism has been significant in Hawaii for so long, it seems like everything has been touched by visitors. It can be hard to distinguish what’s worth the crowds and early mornings (to beat traffic) and what’s truly Hawaiian or local. 

Hawaii is more than meets the eye, and there’s a transformative experience awaiting visitors who want to go beyond the beaten path. If you’re looking to experience the spiritual power of the Aloha State's natural beauty and history, or see where the locals like to go , here are 10 underrated places to visit in Hawaii.

Waialae Avenue, Kaimuki

ozgurcoskun/Getty Images

Located a short drive from Waikiki, Waialae Avenue is the artery of Honolulu’s quaint Kaimuki neighborhood. The stores, restaurants, and coffee shops lining the street pulsate with energy. If you’re looking to purchase locally crafted goods, Waialae Avenue has you covered. In fact, there’s an entire movement dedicated to supporting the small businesses of the area, known as Keep It Kaimuki . I’ll typically start my day with a shaken iced latte concocted with locally sourced coconut syrup from Bean About Town before hitting some of my favorite stores like Da Shop , which carries books from Hawaii-connected authors, and browsing the creations of local fashion designers at Ten Tomorrow .

Stargazing Along East Oahu

Hawaii Tourism Authority/Dana Edmunds

If the skies are clear, you should make time for a nighttime adventure. My suggestion is to drive east out of Honolulu and into Hawaii Kai. Take the windy Kalanianaole Highway (carefully) to the Halona Blowhole parking lot, or all the way past Sandy Beach Park and stop along the beach. Away from the city lights, the stars and moon glow brightly across the vast sky. Aside from the beautiful view, stars hold cultural significance to Hawaiians — for centuries, they’ve been used for storytelling, ceremonies, and wayfinding by voyagers.

Yokohama Bay

David Carr/Getty Images

People come to Hawaii for the beach , and while Waikiki may technically have one, it often feels too crowded to relax. For a true beach day, pack up some snacks and gear and head all the way west to Yokohama Bay. (Or, stop by Aloha Poke and grab a bowl of fresh rice and cubed ahi tuna to enjoy on the beach.) It’s the furthest west you can go on Oahu, and about a 1.-5-hour drive from Honolulu. Upon arriving, you'll be met with a wide stretch of golden sand that's surrounded by mountains. As long as there’s no northwest swell wrapping around the island, the turquoise waters are inviting. And since you’re facing the west, be sure to stay for the stunning sunset.

Lyon Arboretum

Douglas Peebles/Getty Images

The flora of Hawaii is part of the state's allure: vibrant flowers like the plumeria and hibiscus; big, green, Jurassic Park-like foliage; and tropical fruits like mangoes and papayas that flourish naturally. The islands' distinctive geography and diverse climates give rise to a rich array of plant life, including unique endemic species that are exclusive to Hawaii, like the spiky, silver ʻāhinahina. You can spend some time learning about Hawaii's flora by visiting Lyon Arboretum in Honolulu’s Manoa neighborhood. Comprising 194 acres and more than 6,000 taxa of tropical and subtropical plants, Lyon Arboretum is a research center at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and an outdoor museum of living plants with a mission to conserve Hawaii’s rare and native plants. Guests can meander the hiking trails or check out the botanical gardens on their own or with a guided tour.

Nakalele Blowhole

MNStudio/Getty Images

The majestic power of Mother Nature can be seen throughout the islands, but Maui’s Nakalele Blowhole is one of the best places to witness that force up close. Getting to the blowhole, located on the northern part of the island, requires a windy and scenic drive along Honoapiʻilani Highway. The parking area offers a good vantage point for seeing the blowhole and its surrounding dramatic lava rock coastline — and humpback whales in the wintertime. The more adventurous can take a 20-minute hike down steep and rocky terrain to some tide pools, making sure to heed any warning signs along the way. Before embarking, make sure to check the tide is high; otherwise, there isn't enough water for the blowhole to erupt. If you’re lucky, there will be a local stand selling banana bread.

Petroglyphs at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson

Perhaps one of the top attractions throughout the islands, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a dynamic, ever-changing landscape thanks to its active volcanoes. While the volcanoes may steal the show, there are other parts of the park that are worth visiting, too. One of those lesser-known spots is the Pu‘uloa Petroglyphs , with pu‘uloa meaning “long hill.” Considered a sacred place, this archaeological site has more than 23,000 petroglyph images, including geometric shapes, canoe sails, and other motifs representing the life of ancient Native Hawaiians. Visitors can take a short hike through a 500-year-old lava field and view the fragile petroglyphs from a boardwalk.

Wailua River State Park

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Nestled into the lush rain forests of the aptly named Garden Isle, the Iraivan Temple is remarkable for a few reasons: The South Asian temple design features ornate white granite intricately carved without power tools in Bangalore and India and assembled together on Kauai. Having the Hindu temple in Hawaii is also unique, as it gives visitors and locals a rare chance to experience Hindu philosophies. The backdrop of the Wailua River Valley, where an adjacent waterfall flows and there are many shades of green, adds to the tranquility. Visitors to the temple must book a reservation for personal meditation and worship. Once you've tapped into your serenity, spend some time in Wailua River State Park , less crowded than Waimea Canyon. The free state park is full of hiking trails to waterfalls and stunning views. For an immersive experience, take a two-mile river cruise filled with Hawaiian songs and stories by the family-owned Smith’s Kauai .

Hamakua Coast

Westend61/Getty Images

While the Kohala Coast gets lots of attention for its sunshine, pristine beaches, and array of resorts, the Hamakua Coast is Hawaii Island’s more rugged, verdant counterpart, with vibrant valleys and majestic waterfalls in a magical, rainy setting. Start your drive from Hilo via the Hamakua Heritage Corridor. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at botanical gardens, waterfalls, and scenic outlooks. You’ll likely hit some crowds at the more popular spots like Rainbow Falls and Waipio Valley Lookout, but if it’s your first time to the island, these locations are still worth a visit. I recommend stopping for lunch and a tour at Hawaiian Vanilla Co. , a small, family-owned farm that offers vanilla-themed dishes and a tasting tour. The drive ends in the agricultural town of Waimea, and if you don't stop for lunch at the vanilla farm, grab a burger at Village Burger Waimea, where the beef is as fresh and local as possible.

imageBROKER/Thomas Lammeyer/Getty Images

Hawaii Island offers travelers the chance to visit Ka Lae , the southernmost point in the U.S. Holding much cultural significance, Ka Lae (or “the point” in Hawaiian) is believed to be where the first Polynesian voyagers landed in Hawaii and one of the earliest settlements on the islands. Evidence of the ancient Hawaiians remains there to this day, including an ancient fishing shrine, marked by stone walls and a platform where fish was once prepared. To get there, drive to the end of South Point Road in Naʻalehu on Hawaii Island until you reach the 69 and 90 mile markers. You’ll be perched atop high cliffs where the ocean crashes below. Once you finish reveling in this sacred space, head over to Papakolea Beach, one of just four green-sand beaches in the world.

Hanalei Pier

Hanalei Pier is a must-visit spot on Kauai . Walk out onto the pier, where local kids like to jump off, and soak in the sweeping vistas of the bay, veiled in rain clouds and teeming with vibrant greenery. Hanalei is my favorite surf spot, where the cold river water meets the warm, salty sea. If you’re not experienced, you can always sit and watch people ride the waves, called heʻe nalu in Hawaiian. While in Hanalei, combine your visit with some responsible tourism and leave Hawaii better than when you arrived.

You can volunteer at the Waipā Foundation , a living learning center that perpetuates Hawaiian values and stewards more than 1,600 acres of land. Every fourth Saturday of the month, the public is welcomed to help take care of the land — whether reforesting native plants or restoring a fishpond — in an action called malama 'aina .

7 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Hawaii - The Islands of Hawaii

T he Islands of Hawaii are full of enchanting natural wonders – so many, in fact, that there are countless places you likely have never heard of before. From majestic caves and hidden beaches to spellbinding geological formations and ancient Hawaiian sacred spots, here are 7 of the most beautiful places in the Islands of Hawaii.

  Mauna Kea

In Hawaiian mythology, Mauna Kea is home to the snow goddess Poli‘ahu. In ancient times, the summit was considered the realm of the gods and was forbidden to all except the highest chiefs and priests. Today, astronomers from around the world explore the universe from its summit and the Hawaiian people go to it in search of ancient spiritual connections. For visitors, it is one of the clearest places on the planet for viewing the night sky and offers a rare opportunity to experience the polar tundra in Hawaii.

Golden Ponds of Ke-awa-iki

Deserted black sand beach, Ke-awa-iki Beach is enchanting, rarely visited, and offers extraordinary snorkeling. Near the beach, in the middle of the a’a lava flows, are the stunning Ke-awa-iki Golden Ponds; a unique ecosystem of golden algae in freshwater ponds. 

Akaka Falls 

Akaka Falls is a breathtaking 420ft waterfall and is undoubtedly one of the most captivating waterfalls on the Big Island . The most fascinating part of the falls? The goby fish, called “o’opu alamao’o”,  literally climb up the wet rocks behind the falls to reach their spawning grounds. 

Kaumana Cave  

A fern draped opening into the earth, that enchants us to explore what was once the domain of Pele, the goddess of volcanoes and fire and the creator of the Hawaiian Islands, a place of fire and molten rock, now a cool, dripping passage beneath the earth.  

Green Sand Beach

Papakolea Beach is a green sand beach at Mahana Bay and is truly magical with breathtaking scenery and wide-open vistas. It’s the only green sand beach in Hawaii and one of only four in the entire world, you will be in awe. But, do not remove the sand from the beach. The volcano goddess Pele has been known to wreak havoc upon visitors who remove green or black sand from her beaches. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Honaunau Bay  “Two Step”  

Two Step is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Hawaii archipelago. With hundreds of multi-colored fish swimming in shoals, consistent visits from dolphins and seals, deep blue crystal clear waters, striking coral seabeds, and green sea turtles abound, Two Step is quite simply a must! And the marvelous federal park leading to the bay is where kappa breakers, defeated warriors, and civilians found refuge in ancient Hawaiian times. The historical significance of this place is truly awe-inspiring and the energy here of forgiveness and peace can be felt deep inside.

South Point  “Ka Lae”  

Ka Lae is the southernmost tip of the US and is registered as a National Historic Landmark. It is sprinkled with fishing shrines, temple ruins, and other cultural relics. A trip here is a chance to experience the elements: land, air, and sea.  That’s what South Point is all about: nature’s raw and mighty beauty.

So whether you visit the Big Island for the exhilarating cliff jumping, the bragging rights to say you have stood on the southernmost piece of land in the US, the majestic caves, or just to enjoy the stunning views from the end of the world, Hawaii is a magical destination for unforgettable memories. What are your favorite places to visit when you travel to the Islands of Hawaii?

I hope this list of 7 most beautiful places to visit in Hawaii, the Big Island, inspires you to get out and explore the beauty the world has to offer. Even if it’s in your own backyard!

The post 7 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Hawaii – The Islands of Hawaii appeared first on The Adventures Of Life-Spontaneous Travel, Food and Fun .