hawaii tourism sites

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hawaii

Written by Lana Law and Lura Seavey Updated May 11, 2023

Author Meagan Drillinger traveled throughout Hawaii in January of 2023 while on assignment for PlanetWare.

Hawaii's tropical climate and laid-back Pacific Island atmosphere are just part of what makes the state so special. Occupying the tops of massive volcanic mountaintops jutting from the sea, these islands have a diverse and beautiful landscape that varies from the stark lunar surface of the Kilauea volcano to lush green forests filled with exotic flowers.

Waterfalls stream down the mountainsides like tears on the dramatic Na Pali coast, while ancient rivers have carved deep into the rock of Kauai to create the Waimea Canyon. The Big Island is home to an active volcano, and Oahu is home to Pearl Harbor and its rich history.

Surrounding them all, the mighty Pacific is home to a plethora of ocean life, providing endless opportunities to snorkel, scuba dive, surf, or simply go for a swim after sunbathing. Perhaps the most special part of the islands, however, are its people, whose welcoming attitude makes you truly feel like you are in paradise.

Discover the islands and the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in Hawaii.

1. Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial, Oahu

2. na pali coast state wilderness park, kauai, 3. volcanoes national park, hawaii, 4. haleakala national park, maui, 5. waikiki beach and diamond head state monument, oahu, 6. halawa valley, molokai, 7. waipio valley lookout, hawaii, 8. polynesian cultural center, oahu, 9. mauna kea, hawaii, 10. kauai's botanical gardens, 11. waimea canyon state park, kauai, 12. hana road, maui, 13. papohaku beach park, molokai, 14. maui ocean center, maui, 15. kona coffee living history farm, hawaii, 16. wailua falls, kauai, 17. hanauma bay nature preserve, oahu, 18. iao valley state monument, maui, 19. hamakua heritage corridor, hawaii, map of tourist attractions in hawaii, best time to visit hawaii.

Highlights : One of the most historically significant landmarks in America, and one of the top visited war memorials in the world

Pearl Harbor is a National Historic Landmark and active military base that earned its place in history for the 1941 attack, which killed 1,177 servicemen on the USS Arizona. The site is now home to several attractions that are part of the World War II Valor in the Pacific Monument , including the USS Arizona Memorial , which floats above the remains of the sunken ship — parts of which can be seen protruding from the water. There is no cost for a tour of the memorial; however, reservations are recommended due to its popularity.

The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center has free admission and is the meeting place for tours, including transportation to the Pacific Aviation Museum on Ford Island , where visitors can see WWII aircraft and artifacts, as well as experience landing an airplane on an aircraft carrier in a flight simulator.

Other attractions at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial include the USS Oklahoma , USS Utah , and the Battleship USS Missouri whose deck can be toured by visitors .

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Honolulu

Highlights : The most awe-inspiring landscape on the island of Kauai, complete with lush valleys, hiking trails, and waterfalls

The Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai contains some of the world's most dramatic landscapes. These were made famous in the film Jurassic Park, which shows a dramatic coastline with cliffs that seem to ripple, and the "Wall of Tears" on Mount Waialeale, named for the way in which hundreds of waterfalls weep from the slopes of the mountain.

Some of the best ways to take in the scene are to approach by water or to take a helicopter tour to view the simply breathtaking sight from above. Expert hikers can try the Kalalau Trail , an eleven-mile trek, which traverses five valleys and takes a full day each way.

Highlights : Still-active, bubbling volcanoes; steaming calderas; and millennia-old lava tubes

Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Volcanoes National Park offers a unique, close-up look at an active volcano system where lava seeps from fissures in the earth. The surrounding landscape is shaped by cooled lava rock, both old and new, which has flowed over roads in a display of its unstoppable force.

The park's centerpiece, Kilauea , has been active in recent years, including an eruption in January 2021 that formed a lava lake. Visitors should be aware that portions of the park are closed during periods of seismic activity that might pose a threat.

The park has many things to see and do, including the Thurston Lava Tube , Devastation Trail, and the steaming Halema'uma'u crater. During the area's most active periods, tourists have the chance of experiencing the thrill of feeling seismic activity, hearing the boom of gas emissions, or even seeing a pillar of ash escaping into the air.

Address: 1 Crater Rim Drive, Hawaii National Park, Hawaii

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of Hawaii's Volcanoes National Park

Highlights : A magnificent drive up 10,000 feet leads to sweeping Maui views and a spectacular bird's-eye look at the ancient crater

Located on Maui, Haleakala National Park offers access to the inactive Haleakala Volcano, which stands at over 10,000 feet. Views from the summit stretch across the entire island and are particularly beautiful at sunrise.

The dormant crater is exposed, showing a lunar-like landscape, while other areas of the park are covered in subtropical rainforests, which are home to endangered species. Visitors can explore the many hiking trails freely or sign up for guided ranger-led tours, and the more adventurous can spend the night in the park, surrounded by one of Hawaii's most impressive landscapes.

Highlights : Fabulous resorts and restaurants, and some of the most famous beachfront in the Hawaiian islands

Waikiki, with its beautiful stretch of oceanfront beach, is Hawaii's biggest tourist attraction. A suburb of Honolulu, Waikiki is popular for its big resorts, dining, entertainment, and shopping.

The Waikiki Historic Trail includes historic markers made of surfboards, inspired by Waikiki's own Duke Kahanamoku, an Olympic gold medalist swimmer and avid surfer.

The boardwalk, known as the Waikiki Beach Walk , is lined with cafes and entertainment venues, while Kuhio and Kalakaua Avenues are where the bulk of the area's restaurants and boutiques can be found.

Diamond Head State Monument sits at the end of the crescent-shaped beach, creating a distinctive profile on the coastline. It was once an important vantage point for the island's coastal defense, and a steep hike to the top brings you to the old bunkers and artillery control station and rewards your efforts with panoramic views.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Waikiki
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Honolulu

Highlights : Lush tropical rainforest, waterfalls, hiking trails, and very little human influence

The island of Molokai's Halawa Valley is widely considered the oldest settlement in Hawaii, with a small population still inhabiting the area despite widespread damage to the village from a tsunami in the 1940s. The valley is full of lush tropical rainforests punctuated by a dramatic landscape and cascading waterfalls, virtually untouched by humans.

The best way to see the valley is on a tour led by father-and-son team Philip and Greg Solatorio, one of the few families that still call the Halawa Valley home. In addition to a guided hike to Mo'oula Falls , visitors will learn about the region's unique history and traditional Hawaiian culture.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do on Molokai, Hawaii

Highlights : Spectacular views over a historic valley, veined with hiking and horseback riding trails

One of the most scenic spots on the Big Island of Hawaii is the lookout over Waipio Valley. Surrounded by lush cliff walls, the fertile valley opens out to the ocean, where the black-sand beach is met with white waves and blue water.

Hiking in Waipio Valley is considered some of the best in the state, and many of the trails are suitable for beginners. For an extra special experience, local guides provide horseback riding tours of the valley, allowing you to enjoy the sights from a different perspective.

Highlights : Music, dance, and demonstrations that shed light on Polynesian history and culture across the islands

Located on Oahu, less than an hour's drive from Honolulu, is the Polynesian Cultural Center. Through music, dance, craft demonstrations, and games, the center portrays the culture and daily life of the Polynesian islanders in Hawaii, Tahiti, the Marquesas Islands, Tonga, Samoa, and Fiji, as well as that of the Maoris in New Zealand.

The center is divided into sections representing each of these locations. Many of the performers come from the islands that they represent, providing a high degree of authenticity. Visitors can tour the facility during the day or see a show in the evening.

Address: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Oahu, Hawaii

Highlights : Epic views, hiking trails, and astronomy lessons from the top of the highest mountain in Hawaii

The highest mountain in Hawaii, Mauna Kea, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a world away from the tropical paradise below. The summit, which can only be reached in a 4WD vehicle, is often very cold, with snow in the winter months.

The Mauna Kea Observatory is an active research facility, which welcomes tourists during daylight hours. Only expert hikers should attempt a climb to the summit on the six-mile trail, which rises to an altitude of 13,800 feet from the Visitor Information Station .

Evening stargazing programs, held at the visitor center, which sits at around 9,200 feet, are popular with tourists and locals alike.

Highlights : Fruit trees, palm groves, exotic flowers, and medicinal plants

Kauai's nickname of the "Garden Isle" is well-deserved thanks to its natural abundance of lush greenery and diverse flora. In addition to the acres of wilderness, Kauai is home to many excellent botanic gardens that showcase the island's long history as a haven for rare and stunning plants.

The most dramatic of Kauai's botanic areas is Allerton Garden , known not only for its stunning flowers but also its wide variety of palm and fruit trees. Its most recognizable areas are the fig trees, whose partially exposed roots create dramatic scenes that have been featured in films like Jurassic Park . Visitors can also book a tour that includes nearby McBryde Garden ; allow at least three hours to fully explore.

The Princeville Botanical Gardens is a family-operated facility, which grows a wide variety of exotic flowers, medicinal plants, and food-bearing plants. Enjoy the gardens via guided tours and learn about the plants while seeing cacao trees, stunning flora, and working beehives. Tours also include a sampling of both raw and processed cacao, as well as honey made from the nectar of tropical flowers.

Nearby in Kilauea, the Na 'Aina Kai Botanical Gardens & Sculpture Park features 260 acres filled with vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and an open-air sculpture gallery. Also on the north shore, near Hanalei, Limahuli Garden & Preserve has 17 of its 1,000-acre preserve open to the public. The gardens feature hundreds of endangered plant and bird species, and visitors can learn about the ancient techniques that staff use to maintain the delicate ecosystem.

Highlights : "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific" has miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, rivers, and dramatic views

Waimea Canyon, located on the west side of the island of Kauai, is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." The canyon stretches over ten miles long, reaches depths of 3,600 feet, and is a mile wide at some points. This dramatic spectacle can be viewed best from the two main lookouts, Puu ka Pele and Puu Hinahina.

The canyon's landscape features rock strata in varying colors and several stunning waterfalls. Guided tours along the many challenging hiking trails and rafting tours that explore the river below are available, and there are additional trails for all skill levels at the nearby Kokee State Park.

Address: Waimea Canyon Drive, Uninc Kauai County, Hawaii

Highlights : Fifty-two miles of jungle switchbacks, beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and waterfalls

The dramatic Hana Road, officially named Hana Highway, is a scenic 52-mile stretch of highway on the island of Maui that winds from Pāʻia through lush forests and along the coast to the remote town of Hana. This trip is worthwhile for the sightseeing along the stunning drive, the things to do along the way, and the visit to the town itself. Attractions along the route include numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and beaches.

Hana's location, relatively cut off from the rest of the island, has allowed it to maintain more of a traditional Hawaiian culture than other towns.

Highlights : Three miles of white-sand beach and few other people

On Hawaii's main islands, it can be nearly impossible to find a stretch of sandy beach that doesn't have other sunbathers, swimmers, and water sports aficionados. But on Molokai, seclusion-seekers can have it all to themselves at Papohaku Beach: a three-mile swath of white sand 100 yards wide that rarely has more than a handful of people on the entire beach.

The beach covers over 10 acres on the western end of the island, and visitors can find facilities at Papohaku Beach Park on the northern end of the beach. There are no lifeguards, but visitors will find restrooms, showers, and picnic sites for public use.

Those who will be swimming or playing in the water should be cautious and pay attention to signage and current conditions. Also, avoid the water in the winter months when it can be dangerous.

Highlights : A 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit, an underwater tunnel, and 40 species of Pacific coral

The Maui Ocean Center allows visitors a chance to see close up what lies beneath the ocean's surface and learn about the unique marine life and ecosystems that surround Hawaii.

The aquarium's centerpiece is the massive Living Reef, which is home to more than 40 Pacific coral species and thousands of fish. The 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit gives visitors the chance to walk through an underwater tunnel, surrounded by ocean life including sharks, stingrays, and other marine animals.

The center's Turtle Lagoon is another popular spot, and behind-the-scenes turtle-feeding encounters can be booked.

Address: 192 Ma'alaea Road, Wailuku, Hawaii

Highlights : An immersive experience on the history of coffee, with tastings, traditional performances, and tours

The Kona Coffee Living History Farm is the only living history farm in the nation that is dedicated to the history and traditions of coffee farming. Costumed interpreters can be found throughout the grounds, going about daily tasks, from food preparation to farming chores, always happy to answer questions.

You are free to explore the plantation, which still produces coffee, where you might even spot a Kona Nightingale. You can also find tours of modern Kona coffee producers, including plantation tours at Hula Daddy and roasting facility tours at Mountain Thunder Plantation.

Location: Captain Cook, Hawaii

Highlights : A double waterfall plunging 80 feet down the rock face into a pool below

This stunning waterfall is Kauai's most famous, once featured in the opening scenes of the TV show Fantasy Island . Located on the eastern side of the island, this section of the Wailua River plunges dramatically in twin cascades down an 80-foot cliff before pooling and then running to the sea. Morning is the best time to visit the falls, often rewarding early risers with rainbows in the mist from the sun's fresh rays.

Another thing that makes Wailua Falls such a popular tourist attraction is that it can be seen easily from the side of the road, so even tourists with mobility limitations can fully enjoy its beauty.

Visitors can also choose to take a short hike to the base of the falls to admire it from below. The viewing spot is located at the end of Road 583 (Maalo Road), which is reached via Road 560 from Lihue or Hanamaulu.

Highlights : A protected marine area with a gorgeous beach and the best snorkeling near Honolulu

Formed within the crater of a volcano on the island of Oahu, Hanauma Bay is a unique protected bay, which has been popular with snorkelers for a long time. After overuse caused pollution and damage to the delicate reef ecosystem, restoration efforts have restored the bay to its original splendor, and it is again open to visitors.

The Hanauma Bay Education Center is a great place to visit to learn about the bay, and there are several snorkeling rental shops that offer lessons so that visitors can see the breathtaking reef system and its inhabitants up close.

At one time, feeding the tropical fish frozen peas was a touristy thing to do; this practice is no longer allowed. Also, to safeguard the area for future generations, all first-time visitors are required to watch a nine-minute video on marine life, safety rules, and preservation.

Equipment rentals, including life jackets and snorkeling gear, are available at the kiosk in the park. Securing a spot in the pay parking lot can be tricky sometimes, as the 300-car lot fills up quickly in the winter. A per-person fee is charged to enter the park for those 12 years and older, although Hawaii residents get in for free.

Highlights : A sacred valley with lush jungle hikes and mountains shrouded in mist

The centerpiece of this well-known pilgrimage site on Maui is a 2,215-foot-tall rock named the Iao Needle . Visitors will find well-kept paths that make it easy to view the needle and the foreboding black cliff, Pali'ele'ele, that is nearby.

In addition to its unique shape and geological features, the site is steeped in cultural and spiritual significance. The legend says that the needle was formed when the demi-God Maui turned his daughter, Iao's suitor, into stone. Legend also warns that the Iao Valley is home to manas, the ghosts of gods.

Due to its location in the valley, pathways may be inaccessible after rain, so check local conditions before heading to the monument.

Highlights : A stunning drive with some of the top natural attractions on Hawaii's Big Island

This scenic drive along the Hamakua Coast stretches from Hilo to the Waipio Valley Lookout on the Big Island of Hawaii. In addition to spectacular views of the coast and the region's lush landscape, several top Big Island attractions reside along the way, making this an ideal sightseeing excursion.

From Hilo, tourists take the Onomea Scenic Drive past Onomea Bay and the renowned Hawaii Tropical Garden , which houses more than 2,000 species of tropical plants. As the route heads north, it continues past the 442-foot Akaka Falls and its sibling Kahuna Falls , and then the World Botanical Gardens , where you can view a triple waterfall named Umauma Falls , as well as Mauna Kea .

Other attractions along the way include a Pacific lookout at Laupahoehoe Point , hiking at the Kalopa State Recreation Area , and the quaint town of Honokaa . The drive ends at the legendary Waipio Valley Lookout , once home to King Kamehameha.

The weather in Hawaii is fairly consistent, with just a few subtle changes throughout the year. Generally speaking, Hawaii has two seasons: summer and winter.

Summer is from May through October, while winter is from November to April. While the islands are a year-round destination, the best time to visit Hawaii is April, May, September, and October . May is the best overall month thanks to the weather and reasonable rates. But September and October are also fantastic for weather, as well as a large selection of events and festivals.

It's important to note that the Hawaiian islands are made up of dozens of microclimates, so while it may be sunny and warm on one side of the island, the other side of the island could be quite windy, and it could be raining up in the mountains. Typically the wettest months are November, December, January, February, and March.

More on Hawaii

The Ultimate Hawaii Travel Guide

Plan your dream vacation with our extensive Hawaii travel guide. Discover islands, attractions, dining, activities, culture, eco-friendly tips, and much more.

• Introduction

The Hawaiian Islands are an archipelago of eight major islands, several atolls, numerous smaller islets, and undersea seamounts in the North Pacific Ocean. Each island has its own distinct personality, adventures, activities, and sights.

This travel guide aims to give you an in-depth look into the magic that is Hawaii, providing all the information you need to plan and enjoy the Hawaiian vacation of your dreams.

Why Visit Hawaii

Hawaii is not just a place, but a feeling. A feeling of tropical sun warming your skin, of soft, golden sand beneath your feet, of the rhythmic lullaby of the Pacific ocean.

It’s a place where towering waterfalls plunge down cliffs in the heart of lush green jungles, where the scent of tropical flowers fills the air, where every sunset paints a breathtaking picture in the sky.

But beyond its physical beauty, Hawaii is a place with a rich cultural heritage, a unique cuisine, a relaxing atmosphere, and the Aloha spirit that’s infectious. Visit Hawaii for the adventure, the relaxation, the culture, the food, and above all, for the memories that will last a lifetime.

The Unique Hawaiian Experience

The Hawaiian experience is like no other. Here, you can surf the majestic ocean waves, explore the mystical volcanic landscapes, dance to the rhythm of the hula, taste the rich flavors of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, and feel the warmth of genuine Island hospitality.

Every moment spent in Hawaii is a step into a world where nature, culture, and adventure blend seamlessly, creating an experience that’s profoundly unforgettable.

Table of Contents

Island guides, travel planning, accommodations, cuisine & dining, attractions, tours & activities, transportation, culture & history, environment, safety & health, sustainable travel.

Hawaii consists of several islands, each with its own unique charm and personality. This section will provide a comprehensive guide to the four major islands – Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Big Island.

The Big Island

The Valley Isle

The Gathering Place

The Garden Isle

Which Island Should You Visit?

Deciding which Hawaiian island to visit depends on your personal preferences, desired activities, and travel goals. Each island offers a unique experience and cater to different types of vacations.

Remember that you can’t go wrong with any island – it’s more about matching your interests with what each island has to offer. Many visitors also choose to island-hop, experiencing the best of multiple islands in one trip.

The Island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, is the youngest and largest of the Hawaiian Islands. It is famous for its diverse landscape, which ranges from black and green sand beaches to lush rainforests, and from the snowy peaks of Mauna Kea to the active volcano of Kilauea.

Why Visit Big Island

The Big Island offers an adventurous Hawaiian experience. With its unique natural phenomena like active volcanoes, it’s the only island in Hawaii where you can see lava flows. Additionally, the Big Island has some of the best astronomical observing sites in the world.

Big Island’s Highlights

The Big Island captivates with its active volcano at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, towering Mauna Kea Summit, enchanting Akaka Falls, idyllic Hapuna Beach, and culturally-rich Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park.

2 Tank Night Manta Dive Charter

Brown’s Beach House

Hau Tree at Mauna Kea

Umauma Falls

Kohala Waterfalls Adventure

Hapuna Beach Park

Expedition South Kona

Historical Dinner Cruise

Captain Cook Snorkel & Dolphin ~ 12pm

Manta at Mauna Kea

Maui, the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands, is famous for its diverse landscapes. From the heavenly beaches to the picturesque valleys and the summit of Haleakala, Maui’s beauty is both dramatic and diverse.

Why Visit Maui

Maui is the perfect destination for those seeking beach relaxation, outdoor adventures, and natural beauty. With the scenic Road to Hana, the stunning sunrises and sunsets at Haleakala National Park, and the migrating humpback whales, Maui offers a quintessential Hawaiian experience.

Maui’s Highlights

Maui enchants with its vast dormant volcano at Haleakala National Park, the verdant journey along the Road to Hana, historic charm in Lahaina, the stunning Kaanapali Beach, and the majestic Iao Valley State Park.

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort

Grand Wailea Maui

Four Seasons Resort Lanai

The Ritz-Carlton Maui

Makena State Park

Fairmont Kea Lani Maui Villa Experience

Haleakala National Park

Four Seasons Resort Wailea

Sunset Live!

Lunch Performance Sail – Ma’alaea

Oahu, the third-largest of the Hawaiian Islands, holds a unique blend of urban and natural attractions. Its southern shore is home to the city of Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital, and the popular tourist area, Waikiki. While the cityscape offers shopping, dining, and historical attractions, the rest of the island offers lush mountains, a beautiful coastline, and world-class surf breaks.

Why Visit Oahu

Oahu should be on your list if you’re looking for a blend of city attractions, bustling nightlife, and natural beauty. It’s home to the iconic Waikiki Beach, historic Pearl Harbor, and the surf mecca of the North Shore. The island offers cultural experiences through its food, art, and historical sites, making it an ideal destination for a broad range of travelers.

Oahu’s Highlights

Oahu delights with its lively Waikiki, historic Pearl Harbor, famous surfing North Shore, diverse marine life in Hanauma Bay, and panoramic views from the Diamond Head hike.

Trump International Hotel Waikiki

La Mer at Halekulani

natuRe waikiki

The Ritz Carlton Residences

USS Arizona Memorial

Banzai Pipeline (‘Ehukai)

Dolphins and You

UMI by Vikram Garg

Nuuanu Pali State Wayside

Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline

Ocean and You

Whales and You

Often referred to as ‘The Garden Isle’, Kauai is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands and is characterized by its lush greenery, jagged cliffs, and idyllic beaches. It’s an outdoor lover’s paradise with numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints.

Why Visit Kauai

Kauai is a nature lover’s dream, known for its rugged landscapes, outdoor adventures, and tranquil beaches. With more than 60 beaches, the famous Na Pali Coast, and the breathtaking Waimea Canyon, Kauai offers a more laid-back, less commercialized Hawaiian experience.

Kauai’s Highlights

Kauai’s natural splendor features the dramatic Na Pali Coast, the grand Waimea Canyon, picturesque Hanalei Bay, the navigable Wailua River, and the historic Kilauea Lighthouse.

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

Waialeale Falls (Blue Hole)

Eating House 1849

Napali Sunset Boat Tour

Red Salt at Ko’a Kea Resort

Aina Kauai Restaurant

Old Koloa Sugar Mill

Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls)

The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

Waipo’o Falls

Visiting the beautiful islands of Hawaii is a dream for many, and with the right planning, this dream can be a fantastic reality. Each stage of planning, from deciding the best time to visit, to understanding the costs involved, to knowing what to pack, plays a vital role in ensuring a seamless and memorable travel experience.

Additionally, understanding local customs and etiquette can deepen your connection with this unique destination, enhancing the cultural richness of your journey. This section provides a comprehensive guide to planning your Hawaiian getaway, covering essential topics to help you prepare for your island adventure.

Best Time To Visit

Hawaii is a year-round destination, but there are some differences in the seasons:

• Winter (December – February) : This is the peak tourism season, with higher prices and bigger crowds, particularly around the holidays. However, it’s also the best time for surfing on the north shores and whale watching.
• Spring (March – May) : This is a shoulder season, with pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices.
• Summer (June – August) : The weather is warmer and drier, and it’s a popular time for families to visit due to school vacations.
• Fall (September – November) : This is another shoulder season, with warm weather, fewer tourists, and potential for lower prices.

Cost And Budget

The cost of a trip to Hawaii can vary widely depending on factors like the time of year, accommodation preferences, dining habits, and desired activities. Here’s a rough estimate:

• Flights : Depending on where you’re flying from and when, flights can range from $300-$800 per person round-trip.
• Accommodations : Budget for anywhere from $150 for a mid-range hotel to $500+ for luxury resorts per night.
• Food and Drink : Expect to spend around $50-$75 per person per day for meals if eating at restaurants.
• Activities and Tours : Most tours (helicopter tours, boat tours, etc.) cost around $100-$200 per person.

Essential Packing List

Here are some essential items you should pack for a trip to Hawaii:

• Beach essentials : Swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses, beach towel, and a hat.
• Outdoor gear : Hiking shoes, reusable water bottle, and a backpack.
• Light clothing : Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, but also pack a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings or higher elevations.
• Travel documents : Passport (for international travelers), driver’s license, and any reservation confirmations.

Local Customs And Etiquette

Respect for the local culture is important in Hawaii. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Aloha Spirit : This is the coordination of mind and heart, and is expressed by treating others with deep care, respect, and humility.
• Lei Greetings : It is considered rude to refuse a lei if it is offered to you, or to remove it in the presence of the person who gave it to you.
• Sacred Sites : Many places in Hawaii have spiritual significance for the native Hawaiian people. Always respect these sites and follow any posted rules.

Travel Checklist

Before you leave for your trip to Hawaii, make sure to:

• Check your travel documents : Make sure your passport is valid (for international travelers), and you have all necessary IDs and reservation confirmations.
• Check the weather : While Hawaii’s weather is generally consistent, it’s always a good idea to check closer to your departure date.
• Notify your bank : Let your bank know that you’ll be traveling to avoid any issues with your credit or debit cards.
• Pack accordingly : Use the essential packing list to ensure you don’t forget anything important.
• Check in for your flight : Do this 24 hours before your departure time.

Choosing the right place to stay can significantly enhance your Hawaiian vacation. From luxury resorts with breathtaking ocean views to cozy boutique hotels nestled in lush tropical landscapes, each island offers a variety of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets.

Big Island’s Best Hotels

Big Island’s accommodations provide guests with a variety of unique experiences, from rooms overlooking an active volcano to oceanfront cabanas. Top picks include the ‘Four Seasons Resort Hualalai’, the ‘Mauna Kea Beach Hotel’, and the ‘Hilton Waikoloa Village’.

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

Hilton Waikoloa Village

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Kona Village a Rosewood Resort

Maui’s best hotels.

Maui’s resorts are renowned for their lavish amenities, stunning settings, and world-class service. The island’s top accommodations include the ‘Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea’, the ‘Andaz Maui At Wailea Resort’, and the ‘Fairmont Kea Lani’.

Oahu’s Best Hotels

Oahu’s accommodations are diverse, ranging from the luxurious high-rise hotels of Waikiki to the more laid-back beachfront rentals on the North Shore. Top choices include the historic ‘Royal Hawaiian’, the ‘Moana Surfrider’, and the ‘Ritz Carlton Residences’.

Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

The Royal Hawaiian

Moana Surfrider Resort & Spa by Westin

Turtle Bay Resort

Kauai’s best hotels.

Kauai offers an array of accommodations, from luxury resorts in Poipu to charming cottages in Hanalei. Notable accommodations include ‘1 Hotel Hanalei Bay’, ‘Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa’, and the boutique ‘Koa Kea Hotel & Resort’.

Koloa Landing Resort

Koa Kea Resort

Hawaiian cuisine is a vibrant fusion of flavors influenced by the many cultures that call these islands home. Each island offers unique dining experiences, from luxurious fine dining establishments to casual beachfront eateries serving fresh local fare.

Big Island’s Best Restaurants

Big Island’s vibrant culinary scene ranges from AAA Four Diamond awarded ‘Brown’s Beach House’ to island dining at ‘Hau Tree at Mauna Kea’, and Japanese-inspired ‘CanoeHouse’.

Kuleana Rum Shack

Beach Tree Restaurant

Maui’s best restaurants.

Maui’s gastronomic paradise features sushi from ‘Vana Paia’, California-Hawaiian fusion at ‘Wolfgang Puck’s Spago’, and contemporary Japanese fusion at ‘Morimoto Maui’.

The Restaurant

Wolfgang Puck’s Spago

Banyan Tree

Oahu’s best restaurants.

On Oahu, ‘La Mer’ offers Neoclassic French cuisine, while ‘natuRe Waikiki’ highlights Island French cuisine, and ‘UMI by Vikram Garg’ presents an international array.

Moku Kitchen

Morimoto Asia

Kauai’s best restaurants.

Kauai’s dining variety includes ‘Aina Kauai Restaurant’s’ Japanese fusion, oceanfront ‘Oasis on the Beach’, and Hawaii-flavored ‘Eating House 1849’ by Chef Roy Yamaguchi.

Oasis on the Beach

Beach House Restaurant

Each Hawaiian island offers a unique array of attractions, from lush rainforests and active volcanoes to historical sites and stunning beaches. Let’s dive into the top attractions on each island:

Big Island’s Best Attractions

Big Island showcases natural wonders from the active Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to lush Akaka Falls State Park, cultural insights at Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park, and the celestial Mauna Kea Observatory.

Pololu Valley Trail

Kailua-Kona

Green Sand Beach Trail (Papakolea)

Captain Cook

Waipio Valley Lookout

Waialea (Beach 69)

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Akaka Falls

Maui’s best attractions.

Maui entices with the scenic Road to Hana, breathtaking sunrises at Haleakala National Park, historic Lahaina District, and hiking in Iao Valley State Park.

Twin Falls Maui Hike

Wall of Tears

Lahaina Historic District

Maui Ocean Center

Ka’anapali Beach

Ka’anapali

Wai’anapanapa State Park

Sliding Sands (Keoneheehee) Trail

Iao Valley State Monument

Oahu’s best attractions.

Oahu’s attractions range from the poignant Pearl Harbor National Memorial, lively Waikiki Beach, vibrant snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, to panoramic views from Diamond Head.

Byodo-In Temple

Lanikai Pillbox Hike

Diamond Head State Monument

Bishop Museum

Diamond Head Summit Trail

Waimea Valley Trail

Waikiki Beach

Waimea Falls

Kauai’s best attractions.

Kauai, the Garden Isle, boasts rugged Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, panoramic Waimea Canyon State Park, scenic Hanalei Bay, and recreational Wailua River State Park.

Sleeping Giant Trail

Koke’e State Park

Princeville

Wailua Falls

Hanalei Bay

Tunnels Beach (Makua)

Hawaii offers a vast array of activities and tours that cater to adventure seekers, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts alike. From thrilling water activities to land tours that immerse you in Hawaii’s stunning landscapes, there’s something for everyone.

Big Island’s Best Tours

From the stunning overhead perspectives offered by helicopter tours to sea-based adventures like sunset cruises and whale watching, there is no shortage of ways to explore the island’s natural beauty.

Volcano Unveiled

Mauna Kea Stargazing Experience + Free Photos

Magical Waterfalls Helicopter Tour

Night Manta Experience

Zip N Dip Combo

Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch

Kohala Zip & Dip

Maui’s best tours.

Whether it’s soaring over the island’s stunning features like Haleakala Crater and the Road to Hana via helicopter, exploring the ocean through whale watching or snorkeling excursions, Maui ensures a rich, well-rounded experience.

West Maui Dolphin Sail & Snorkel Tour

Adventure Sunset Sail

Original Sunset Cocktail Cruise

North Shore Zipline Tour

Sunrise Deluxe Snorkel

Premium Sunset with Dinner

Lunch Performance Sail – Lahaina

Xpress Snorkel

Signature Deluxe Snorkel

Halfway to Hana + Garden of Eden Tour

Oahu’s best tours.

Between nature, culture, and adventure, there’s something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking aerial views of iconic sights like Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, and Waikiki Beach via helicopter tours, or venture out on the ocean with a sunset cruise or snorkeling tour in Hanauma Bay.

Helicopter Photo Flight

Island and You

Pearl Harbor USS Arizona

North Shore Adventure Tour

Turtles and You

Sunset Sail

Twin Islands Guided Kayak Tour

Catamaran Snorkel Sail – Midday

Ka Moana Luau

Kauai’s best tours.

Whether it’s taking to the skies in a helicopter to experience Kauai’s breathtaking landscapes, exploring the Na Pali Coast via boat tour, attending a traditional luau, or hiking the legendary Kalalau Trail, Kauai offers myriad ways for visitors to connect with its unique charm.

Ultimate Ranch Tour

Photography Helicopter Flight

Niihau + Napali Super Tour

Secret Falls Tour With Lunch

Napali Snorkel Sail

Waterfall Triple Trail Expedition

Na Pali Coast Tour on the Makana

Na Pali Coast on the Seiko I & II (Private Tour)

Discover Scuba Diving – Ocean Experience

Leila Napali Sunset Sail

Hughes 500 Doors-Off Helicopter

Navigating the Hawaiian Islands involves various modes of transportation. From flying between islands to cycling around town, understanding your options can help make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Inter-Island Travel

Flights are the most efficient way to travel between islands. Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Mokulele Airlines operate regular inter-island services. There are also ferry services between some islands, notably the Maui-Lanai and Maui-Molokai ferries.

Public Transportation

Each island has its own public bus service. TheBus on Oahu has the most extensive network, covering Honolulu and other key areas. Maui Bus, Kauai Bus, and Hele-On Bus in Big Island have limited coverage but can be useful for getting to certain destinations.

Car Rentals

Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore the islands at your own pace. Major rental companies operate at airports and key tourist areas. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Cycling And Walking

Cycling can be a great way to explore the more urban areas like Honolulu and Lahaina, and there are many beautiful hiking trails across the islands. Always ensure you have maps and are aware of local conditions and regulations.

Transportation Tips

Here are some tips for getting around Hawaii:

• Book Early : Car rentals can sell out during high seasons. Booking flights and ferries in advance can also save money.
• Bus Schedules : Public buses don’t run as frequently as in larger cities, so check the schedules and plan accordingly.
• Road Conditions : Be aware of road conditions, particularly if you’re driving on less-developed roads. Some attractions may require a 4-wheel drive vehicle.
• Cycling Safety : Always wear a helmet and follow local traffic laws. Keep in mind that some areas have hilly terrain and roads can be busy.
• Walking : Be prepared for Hawaii’s warm climate if you’re walking long distances. Carry water and sun protection.

Hawaii boasts a rich cultural heritage and fascinating history that are deeply entwined with its stunning natural landscapes. From ancient Polynesian traditions to pivotal historical events, understanding Hawaii’s culture and history can greatly enhance your appreciation of the islands.

Native Hawaiian Culture

The Native Hawaiian culture is a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of spirituality, social hierarchy, and traditional practices:

• Aloha Spirit : The concept of Aloha is central to Hawaiian culture, encompassing love, peace, compassion, and a mutual understanding of respect between people and the land (‘āina).
• Hula and Mele : Traditional Hawaiian dance and chant, often performed at luaus, are ways of storytelling and preserving history.
• Kapu System : The ancient Hawaiians followed a complex system of laws and societal rules known as the kapu system.
• Arts and Crafts : Native Hawaiian arts include lauhala weaving, lei making, kapa (bark cloth) making, and tattooing.

History Of Hawaii

Hawaii’s history spans from the arrival of Polynesians, through the era of the Hawaiian Kingdom, to becoming a U.S. state:

• Polynesian Arrival : Polynesians from the Marquesas Islands were the first to inhabit Hawaii, arriving around 400 A.D. They were later joined by Tahitians.
• Unified Kingdom : King Kamehameha I united the Hawaiian Islands into one royal kingdom in 1810 after years of conflict.
• Overthrow and Annexation : In 1893, Queen Lili’uokalani was overthrown by a group of businessmen and sugar planters. Hawaii was annexed by the United States in 1898.
• Statehood : Hawaii became the 50th U.S. state on August 21, 1959.

Hawaii’s Culture & History

Engage with the nuances of local customs and delve deep into a rich cultural tapestry woven by centuries of history.

The Role of Hawaii in the Pacific Theater of WWII

The Significance of ‘Ohana in Hawaiian Culture

The Evolution of Education in Hawaii

Hawaiian Myths and Legends: Stories from the Pacific

Traditional Hawaiian Navigation Techniques

Aloha Spirit: Understanding its Meaning and Importance in Hawaii

Understanding the Role of Missionaries in Hawaii’s History

The Role of Whaling in Hawaii’s History

Hawaii’s History: From Polynesian Settlement to Modern Day

Colonization’s Impact on Hawaii’s Native Population

Traditions of Hawaiian Childbirth and Naming

The Iolani Palace: America’s Only Royal Palace

Hawaii’s environment is a unique blend of biodiversity and endemic species, yet it faces several challenges due to increased human activities. As visitors, understanding these environmental aspects can help us contribute positively.

Hawaiian Flora And Fauna

Hawaii’s isolation has led to the evolution of a multitude of endemic species:

• Flora : Notable native plants include the Hawaiian silversword, ‘ōhi’a lehua, and the hala tree. The islands are also famous for hibiscus and orchids.
• Fauna : Endemic animals include the Hawaiian monk seal, green sea turtle, and various bird species like the Hawaiian honeycreeper. The waters around Hawaii are home to numerous marine life forms, including humpback whales.

Environmental Challenges

Hawaii faces several environmental issues:

• Invasive Species : Non-native plants and animals threaten the survival of native species.
• Climate Change : Rising sea levels and increased storm intensity pose risks to Hawaii’s ecosystems and communities.
• Pollution : Land-based pollution, including plastic waste, can harm marine environments and the broader ecosystem.

How To Be An Eco-Friendly Tourist

As a visitor, you can help preserve Hawaii’s unique environment:

• Respect Wildlife : Keep a safe distance from all wildlife, especially endangered species like the Hawaiian monk seal.
• Leave No Trace : Follow the “leave no trace” principles – take only photographs, leave only footprints.
• Minimize Plastic Usage : Use a refillable water bottle, bring your own shopping bags, and refuse single-use plastic whenever possible.
• Stay on Marked Trails : When hiking, always stay on marked trails to avoid damaging sensitive habitats.
• Choose Eco-friendly Tour Operators : Support businesses that practice sustainable tourism.

Hawaii’s Environment

Gain a deeper understanding of the unique ecosystems that make these islands a true paradise on Earth.

Climate Zones of Hawaii: An Island for Every Season

Hawaii’s Sea Level Rise Vulnerability

The Science Behind Hawaii’s Spectacular Sunsets

Hawaii’s Butterfly Species: Colorful Island Inhabitants

The Science of Hawaii’s Bioluminescent Marine Life

Impact of Climate Change on Hawaiian Coral Reefs

How Hawaii Deals with Invasive Plants

Rock Types of Hawaii: From Basalt to Coral Sand

Exploring the Diverse Ecosystems of Hawaii

The Impact of Tourism on Hawaii: The Balance of Economy and Ecology

Hawaii’s Unique Creepy Crawlies: Insects of the Islands

The Impact of Climate Change on Hawaii

While Hawaii is generally a safe destination, being mindful of health and safety precautions can help ensure a worry-free vacation. From respecting the ocean to protecting yourself from the sun, here’s what you need to know.

Health Precautions

Maintaining your health during your vacation is essential:

• Travel Insurance : Consider obtaining travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
• Stay Hydrated : Hawaii’s warm climate, especially when coupled with physical activity, can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Dengue Fever and Zika Virus : While rare, these diseases can be present in Hawaii. Use mosquito repellent and wear long sleeves and pants when possible.

Ocean Safety

Respect for the ocean is a key part of Hawaiian culture and an essential aspect of safety:

• Rip Currents : Be aware of the possibility of rip currents, especially on beaches without lifeguards.
• Marine Life : Keep a safe distance from marine life, including coral reefs. It’s illegal to touch or harass sea turtles and monk seals.
• Surfing and Water Sports : If you’re new to surfing or other water sports, consider taking a lesson from a certified instructor

Sun Protection

Hawaii’s tropical location means strong sun exposure:

• Sunscreen : Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30, even on cloudy days.
• Cover Up : Wear a hat and UV-blocking sunglasses, and seek shade during the sun’s peak intensity (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
• Drink Water : Stay hydrated to help prevent heat-related illnesses.

Emergency Contacts

In case of emergency, here are some important contacts:

• Emergency Services : For police, fire, or medical emergencies, dial 911.
• Coast Guard: If you’re on the water and need help, call the U.S. Coast Guard at (800) 323-7233.
• Poison Center : If you need information about poisons, or in case of poisoning, call the Poison Center at (800) 222-1222.

Sustainable travel in Hawaii is all about minimizing our impact on the islands’ delicate ecosystems and contributing positively to local communities. It means traveling with sensitivity, responsibility, and respect.

Respect For Nature

Hawaii’s natural beauty is its greatest asset, and it’s our responsibility to protect it:

• Stay on the Path : Always stick to marked trails while hiking to avoid disturbing local flora and fauna.
• Leave No Trace: Never leave trash behind. Pack out everything you pack in.
• Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals and never feed them.
• Don’t Disturb the Land : Do not take sand, rocks, or any natural materials from the beaches or parks.

Eco-Friendly Practices

Make your trip greener with these practices:

• Use Public Transportation:  Minimize your carbon footprint by using public transport or shared ride services.
• Reuse and Recycle:  Refuse single-use items, bring a reusable water bottle and shopping bag, and recycle whenever possible.
• Choose Sustainable Accommodation : Support hotels and resorts that prioritize sustainability and give back to the local community.
• Support Local : Choose local businesses and restaurants to support the local economy.

Volunteering Opportunities

Give back to Hawaii during your visit:

• Beach Cleanups : Participate in organized beach cleanups to help protect marine life.
• Forest Restoration : Join local organizations in their efforts to restore native forests.
• Voluntourism : Consider vacation options that incorporate volunteering with local nonprofits or community groups.

Exploring Hawaii offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history. From its mesmerizing landscapes, warm tropical climate, diverse activities, to its mouthwatering cuisine, the Hawaiian islands truly offer something for everyone.

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Top Destinations

The Top 15 Destinations in Hawaii

Putting the finishing touches on a trip to Hawaii is a dream come true for most travelers, and crossing that destination off your bucket list wouldn’t be complete without catching some of the best destinations the state has to offer.

History buffs won’t want to miss the iconic Pearl Harbor on the island of Oahu, as well as the Polynesian Cultural Center, Bishop Museum, and Kalaupapa National Historical Park on Molokai. Hike through jungles and botanical gardens to view the waterfalls at Manoa Falls, or book a thrilling zip line tour at Kualoa Ranch, also on Oahu. The famous Road to Hana road trip on Maui attracts visitors from all over the world, and the majestic Volcanoes National Park and Mauna Kea on Hawaii Island are unlike anywhere else on earth. For nature-lovers, head to Haleakala National Park on Maui to witness a unique blend of different climates ranging from tropical to arid. Check out the scene on the popular Waikiki Beach and Kaanapali Beach, or hike to the top of Diamond Head to catch unrestricted views of the Pacific Ocean. On Kauai, the sea cliffs along the Na Pali Coast are unparalleled, and on Maui, the views from the top of Waimea Canyon will take your breath away.

When it comes to choosing which island to stay on, there are no bad choices. Each island brings its own unique flavor to the table, whether you’re into shopping, the outdoors or a fun foodie scene.

Pearl Harbor

 Sean Davey / Aurora Photos / Getty Images

One of the most defining moments in United States and world history took place right on the island of Oahu at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. Japan’s military airstrike sunk four of the eight battleships present in Pearl Harbor at the time and destroyed more than 180 aircrafts that were on the ground, killing more than 2,000 American sailors, soldiers, and marines. Pearl Harbor remains a military base to this day, and visitors are welcome to come pay their respects. There are four main attractions at Pearl Harbor: the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine, the USS Missouri Battleship, and the Pacific Aviation Museum, and you’ll need to secure tickets for each either online or on-site. Tourists short on time can visit walk-through museums at the visitors center, which is free to enter. Not staying on Oahu? Since Pearl Harbor is arguably the most popular activity in the entire state, multiple tour agencies offer one-day tours from Big Island, Maui, and Kauai that include airfare and transportation.

Na Pali Coast

 jimkruger / Getty Images

Along the coastline of Kauai’s northwestern shore, the giant cliffs of the Na Pali State Wilderness Park absolutely stun everyone who sees them. The famous Kalalau Trail is one of the most famous hikes in all of Hawaii, and the five valleys that make up the area are full of dense vegetation, lush jungles, and hidden waterfalls. Experience the Na Pali Coast by land, air, or sea and see for yourself why this majestic corner of Kauai island holds a special place in Hawaii.

 JTSorrell / Getty Images

Mauna Kea on the Big Island is considered a very sacred place for the Native Hawaiians and should be treated as such. Additionally, it is the home for a variety of rare plant and animal species, some of which can only be found on the unique climate of the mountain. In addition to regular star-gazing programs, the Visitors Center hosts local community speakers to lead discussions and speeches about Mauna Kea from a cultural perspective on the fourth Saturday of each month. The Visitor Station is located at 9,200 feet above sea level and the summit is 13,796 feet, so altitude sickness may be a cause for concern for visitors with health issues.

Waikiki Beach

 Glowimages / Getty Images

You’d be hard-pressed to find an Oahu tourist who hasn’t set foot on Waikiki Beach ; it is hands-down the most popular and famous beach in the Hawaiian islands. A majority of visitors to the state stay within this 2-mile stretch of coastline on Oahu’s south shore. It is a shopping destination for both international and domestic travelers, a foodie destination for restaurant enthusiasts, and overall the most happening spot in Hawaii. Stay at the legendary pink-colored Royal Hawaiian Hotel or the oldest resort in Waikiki, the Moana Surfrider. There are also more budget-friendly options further inland because let’s face it, you won’t be spending too much time in the room with a beautiful beach just steps away.

Diamond Head

 NNehring / Getty Images

The most iconic landmark on the island of Oahu is hard to miss when flying into Honolulu. Diamond Head was formed by a volcanic eruption more than 300,000 years ago and was historically used by the American military as a lookout to defend the island. Hike the Diamond Head Summit Trail to view the beach below and the surrounding Pacific Ocean from the edge of the crater—it is one of the most trafficked hikes on Oahu.

 Kelly Headrick / Getty Images

Driving the Road to Hana along Maui’s famed Hana Highway is a rite of passage for any Hawaii tourist. The narrow, winding road contains one-lane-bridges, numerous switchbacks, and sheer cliffs, so caution is key. The reward, however, is a once-in-a-lifetime road trip with pull-outs to adventurous hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, stands of locally grown fruit, and more. The town of Hana (where most drivers choose to make their final destination) doesn’t have a lot to see, but this drive is about the journey, not the destination.

Bishop Museum

 LanaCanada / Getty Images

With a sharp focus on history, science and Hawaiian culture, The Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum is a great choice for those who only have time for one museum in Hawaii. It has become the official (and largest) state museum of natural and cultural history since opening in 1889 by Charles Reed Bishop (late husband of Bernice Bishop, a descendant of the royal Kamehameha family). Visit their signature galleries, special exhibits and planetarium daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Kualoa Ranch

 maximkabb / Getty Images

If you’ve ever seen photos of visitors horseback riding, ziplining, or ATVing with the most epic backgrounds behind them, chances are they were at Kualoa Ranch on the northeast side of Oahu. The privately owned nature reserve is home to a working cattle ranch, fishery, and garden producing some of the finest ingredients that the island has to offer, but the 4,000-acre space doesn’t stop there. There are a number of exciting and unique expeditions offered by Kualoa Ranch, from jungle expeditions to ultra-terrain vehicles to electric bike-riding.

Haleakala National Park

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Perhaps one of the most scenic areas in the state, and spanning more than 30,000 acres of Maui land, Haleakala National Park encompasses a famous dormant volcano rising more than 10,000 feet above sea level. You’ll find important cultural sites all throughout the park in both the summit and Kīpahulu district of the park. Haleakala translates into “house of the sun” in the Hawaiian language, and it is easy to see why. Most visitors experience the park through sunrise by waking up early to drive all the way up the mountain to the Haleakala Visitors Center, undoubtedly a once in a lifetime experience. Don’t worry if you’re not a morning person, Haleakala can be experienced any time of the day through its various hiking trails—some people even drive up to the Visitors Center in the evening to catch the sunset and do some stargazing.

Polynesian Cultural Center

 Radius Images / Getty Images

Get a feel for the history of the Pacific Islands at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, Oahu. The 42 acres cover simulated villages representing six different islands: Tonga, Tahiti, Samoa, Aotearoa, Fiji, and Hawaii. Their evening luau has been rated one of the best in the state, and it is certainly one of the most popular.

Volcanoes National Park

 Kevin Thrash / Getty Images

Ever wanted to witness new Hawaiian land being created right in front of your eyes? Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii Island celebrates everything that makes Hawaii what it is, literally. All of the islands were formed from volcanic activity, and the Big Island is still growing. Schedule an unforgettable helicopter tour to fly over the active lava flowing into the ocean, explore the park on foot through lava tubes and volcanic lava rocks, or complete a scenic drive around the grounds. Make your first stop the Kīlauea Visitor Center to get information and plan your visit.

Manoa Falls

 segawa7 / Getty Images

One of the most beautiful hikes on Oahu is located just beyond the outskirts of Honolulu. Hiking Manoa Falls Trail is like stepping straight into the past; you’ll almost expect to see a dinosaur trekking through the distance. At the end of this journey through a lush tropical rainforest you are rewarded with a beautiful 150-foot waterfall surrounded by streams and rocks. Along the way, look out for bamboo forests, native plants, birds, and hau trees. As with any hike in Hawaii, be sure to be respectful of the land, bring out what you brought in, and do your best to keep this beautiful, sacred area in great condition.

Waimea Canyon

 NIntellectual / Getty Images

Also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon provides breathtaking views on the island of Kauai. Choose to experience the canyon through short scenic trails or longer day hikes that take you into the bottom of the vibrant gorge. The red-colored soil and Hawaiian flora here makes for some unparalleled and unforgettable views. The waterfall flowing into the canyon, which is 3,000 feet deep in some spots, can be seen from numerous lookout points throughout the area.

Kaanapali Beach

While Waikiki offers a more robust, party-like atmosphere, Kaanapali Beach is known for a more laid-back vibe—it was even named “America’s Best Beach” by Dr. Beach. Water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are available along the shore and snorkeling is very good as well. Head to the north side of the beach towards Black Rock for the best snorkeling, and you might even spot a turtle or two munching on algae or seagrass.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park

 GeoStock / Getty Images

Hidden away on the smaller island of Molokai, Kalaupapa National Historical Park holds a lot of history within its borders. Hawaii’s King Kamehameha V made the decision to turn the Kalaupapa region of Molokai into confinement for those suffering from leprosy after the disease was introduced to the Hawaiian islands. Since the year 1866, more than 8,000 patients have died there, and there are still fewer than a dozen living inside Kalaupapa in isolation. Tours are available through select companies only.

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To help market Hawai‘i authentically, browse through a resource of Hawaiian language tools, style and information guides, cultural activities and festivals, and other pertinent information.

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Register to access the Knowledge Bank, a public resource of images related to Hawai‘i and tourism-related activities.

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HTA's Global Marketing Team offers a variety of consumer, travel trade, and MCI marketing opportunities. Partnership opportunities include digital and social media marketing, public relations, travel trade, and meeting sales programs.

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Read the latest announcements that provide up-to-date information about current HTA's programs, events and activities.

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Hawaii - The Big Island   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Sean Davey | Aurora Photos

21 Best Things To Do in Hawaii - The Big Island

Hawai'i, also known as the Big Island, is the largest of the eight Hawaiian Islands. You won't have trouble finding a one-of-a-kind Hawai'i activity that will make lasting memories – the island is full of out-of-this-world natural

• All Things To Do

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

There are two active volcanoes in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Loa and Kilauea, but Kilauea is the real "must-see." A 4,000-foot-tall mountain, Kilauea has been active since Jan. 3, 1983. In 2018, it erupted into the Puna District residential area, destroying more than 700 homes. It has erupted as recently as Jan. 5, 2023, but the eruption paused as of March 7, 2023. Check in at the Kilauea Visitor Center for up-to-date information on trails, safety precautions and whether or not there is active lava flow. Kilauea is at the top of the list for many Hawai'i visitors, with some commenting that it was impressive with or without lava flowing.

Mauna Loa – or Long Mountain – is overshadowed by Kilauea's fame, but not its height – this occasionally snow-capped volcano reaches 13,681 feet. Exploring Kilauea will probably eat up much of your time and energy, but don't worry; majestic Mauna Loa is clearly visible and picture-ready in much of the park. Stop to snap a photo from afar even if you don't get up close and personal.

'Akaka Falls State Park 'Akaka Falls State Park

A visit to Hilo's 'Akaka Falls State Park requires a short (0.4-mile), low-intensity hike in northeastern Hawai'i. Its payoff comes in the form of two consecutive waterfalls – cascading Kahuna Falls and the spectacular 'Akaka Falls, which earned the park its name.

Those who've hiked the less than half-mile, flat, paved loop trail say it's more of a "walk" that's easy enough for just about anyone – although there are stairs. Considering 'Akaka Falls' small investment of time and money, travelers say it's worth the trip. Many of the best Hawaii tours also stop here, if you don't want to venture to the area on your own.

Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area free

Hapuna Beach – Hapuna means "spring of life" in Hawaiian – is one of the most loved Hawai'i beaches, by both visitors and locals. Located on the South Kohala coast, it boasts soft, white sand, aquamarine water and unbelievable sunsets. Keep in mind, Hapuna Beach's famously calm waves are really only calm for part of the year; in the wintertime the tide might be too rough for swimming (though you may spot migrating whales from the shore).

Visitors love this family-friendly beach for boogie boarding, with many calling it their favorite beach on the island. Others lament the temporary lack of formal facilities, such as restrooms and a concession stand, due a water pipe leak. However, there are portable toilets.

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Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park is one of Hawai'i's most sacred places. Up until the early 19th century on Hawai'i, Hawaiians who broke sacred laws (kapu) could avoid a punishment of death by fleeing to a region of the west coast known as pu'uhonua, or "place of refuge," where they would be forgiven by an area priest. In present day, this place of refuge is a 180-acre historical landmark. The National Park Service maintains structures within the park, but lineal descendants still use it as a functioning religious site.

It's an extremely popular outing for Hawai'i vacationers, especially those who have an interest in history and ancestral traditions. The site features eye-catching temples, intricate ki'i (a symbolic representation of the  akua , or Hawaiian gods and deities, most commonly carved into wood or stone) and plenty of honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles), that live in the ocean surrounding the premises. Two Step, which is located just outside Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, has some of the best snorkeling on Hawai'i (note that this site is not located within the national park).

Hawai'i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden Hawai'i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden

Located on the east side of the island, this lush, tropical garden features more than 2,500 species of rare and endangered plants. Visitors can hike the trails to see waterfalls, cross bridges and take in the views of Onomea Bay. There are also picnic areas to stop and enjoy a snack while taking in the views. Wearing insect repellent, sunscreen and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Recent visitors raved about the beauty of the garden and particularly enjoyed the tropical flowers and waterfalls. Others said a visit here pairs well with a stop at ' Akaka Falls State Park , which is located about 10 miles northwest of the garden.

Kauna'oa (Mauna Kea) Beach Kauna'oa (Mauna Kea) Beach free

Kauna'oa Beach (also referred to as Mauna Kea Beach) is one of Hawai'i's most picturesque white sand beaches. So, most travelers recommend coming early (before 9 a.m.) to Kauna'oa to snag one of the too-few parking spots – and spending most of the day there. This eggshell-colored sand beach on the central Kohala coast has plenty to amuse you. Snorkeling is popular here, especially at either end of the beach, but you can also try bodyboarding or a pickup volleyball game.

The beach is accessible via the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection , which flanks this popular beach. It is about 30-some miles north of Kailua-Kona , off Highway 19 and nearby mile marker 68. Restrooms and showers are available. If your stomach starts to grumble, consider sitting down for a meal at one of the resort's restaurants. There are around 30 free public beach parking spots, but if those are full, you'll have to pay $30 for valet parking if you're dining at the resort for lunch.

'Anaeho'omalu Beach 'Anaeho'omalu Beach free

One of the Kohala Coast's premier beaches, 'Anaeho'omalu Beach is a favorite haunt for frequent Hawai'i visitors. Do as they do and call it "A-Bay" – that way you'll truly be in the know. At this family-friendly beach, you will have lots of opportunities to try some water sports, such as stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, in the calm water. Snorkeling is also popular here, but some recent visitors said you'll have to swim farther out to spot any fish since the water directly off the beach is cloudy.

Situated in front of the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa , the beach is equipped with restrooms, dining options and chair rentals. At the Lava Lava Beach Club, a favorite of recent visitors, you can dine right on the beach. There are also historic fishponds and petroglyphs to explore. Many beachgoers say it is the perfect spot to watch the sunset.

Go on a Mauna Kea stargazing tour Go on a Mauna Kea stargazing tour

If you love stargazing, it doesn't get much better than the summit of Maunakea. In fact, the dormant volcano is one of the top 10 places for stargazing . With little light pollution, the summit's dark skies allow gazers to spot a multitude of stars and constellations. At 13,803 feet, Maunakea is home to the world's largest telescopes, which scientists use to study the universe.

You can visit the summit of Maunakea on your own, but you'll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to traverse the gravel road. If you'd rather let someone else do the driving, consider joining an organized tour. Several of the best Hawaii tours offer guided trips to the summit that include round-trip transportation from your hotel.

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Pololu Valley Lookout Pololu Valley Lookout free

If you're looking for an alternative to the Waipi'o Valley Overlook (which tourists are now discouraged from visiting), consider the equally magnificent Pololu Valley Lookout. Located in North Kohala, the Pololu Valley Lookout provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the lush, green Pololu Valley and the island's northeastern coast. The road, Highway 270, literally dead ends at the lookout, where you'll find a small parking lot. For the best chance at finding a parking spot, heed the advice of recent travelers and arrive at the lookout early (before 9 a.m.).

If you're feeling adventurous, you can take a (steep) approximately half-mile hike down the Pololu Trail that leads to the ocean and a black sand beach. Though strong currents make the beach unsuitable for swimming, past visitors say it's worth the hike for the views alone. What's more, reviewers say the views afforded from the trail are better than those at the lookout. If you plan to hike, wear suitable shoes and bring plenty of water.

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach Punalu'u Black Sand Beach free

Some say the waters here are too rough and rocky to enjoy swimming, but that's not the main reason to visit Punalu'u anyway. This beach in southern Hawai'i (specifically Ka'u) is ideal for its picture-taking potential. For one thing, the onyx-tinted sand here owes its unique hue to the ongoing volcanic activity of Kilauea in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park . And for another, this beach is often visited by honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) that like to swim to and sun on the shore. You might also catch a glimpse of a hawksbill sea turtle from time to time.

Past travelers were in awe of Punalu'u and said there was plenty of free parking, though they cautioned that the beach's black sand can get very hot.

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park free

About 5 miles south of the Kona International Airport, you'll find the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park. This coastal park is a sacred area with temples, petroglyphs and native fishponds. It was here that Native Hawaiians built fishponds to manage the flow of brackish and fresh water and ultimately survived in the park's hot, arid climate. Wildlife, such as honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles), monk seals and native birds, can be spotted. Visitors can enjoy relaxing on the beach, swimming in the ocean, exploring tide pools, fishing, snorkeling and walking along ancient footpaths. There is also a visitor center with rangers who are happy to provide information and answer questions; you'll also find brochures and a book store.

Travelers who visited the park have commented that seeing the turtles was a highlight and that the rangers were very helpful.

Snorkel at Captain Cook Monument Snorkel at Captain Cook Monument free

The Captain Cook Monument is a 27-foot obelisk that was erected in 1874 to memorialize where Cook died. He was killed in 1779 after a fight broke out between the Hawaiians and Westerners. The monument stands on the shore of Kealakekua Bay .

Today, this is a popular snorkeling site. The site can be reached by boat tour, kayak or by hiking the steep Ka'awaloa Trail. Past visitors said the snorkeling was "spectacular," and compared the variety of fish to an aquarium. However, they cautioned that the 4-mile round-trip hike is strenuous (thanks in part to an approximately 1,400-foot elevation change). If you plan to hike, you'll want to wear sturdy hiking shoes and sunscreen (there is little to no shade along the trail), and bring plenty of water. You'll also want to pack your own snorkeling gear and water shoes.

Kealakekua Bay Kealakekua Bay free

Snorkelers like to visit this remote bay on Hawai'i's west coast for the tropical fish, sea turtles and Hawaiian spinner dolphins that are plainly visible just below the calm, shallow water's surface. History junkies make the trek to Kealakekua for a different reason altogether.

British explorer Capt. James Cook first spotted the bay and stayed here as a guest in January 1779. Weeks later, tensions rose and he was killed on the very same shore. Take time in between snorkel trips and scuba dives to behold the large white Captain Cook Monument that sits across the bay. There's also a traditional religious site, Hikiau Heiau, across the bay.

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Rainbow Falls Rainbow Falls free

Located at Wailuku River State Park, the 80-foot Rainbow Falls is a popular stop for Hawai'i visitors. The waterfall borrows its name from the fact that the mist coming off the falls typically casts a rainbow. Legend has it that the cave behind the waterfall was once the home of Hina , mother of the demigod Maui. The park is also home to Boiling Pots – a series of pools that are connected by underground flow that cause the surface of the water to bubble like boiling water.

Travelers recommend visiting in the morning to spot the rainbow and comment that it is easy to get to. They also say that you don't need to hike to admire the waterfall and say this a is quick, 15-minute stop. Others highlight the intricate banyan trees located at the top of the trail stairs as reasons to visit.

White Sands Beach Park (Magic Sands Beach Park) White Sands Beach Park (Magic Sands Beach Park) free

White Sands Beach Park, also called La'aloa, is nicknamed Magic Sand Beach due to the fact that it disappears and reappears throughout the year, depending on tides and surf. This beach is good for swimming, bodysurfing and boogie boarding, but waves can be strong during the winter months.

Previous visitors warned that the beach is small and that the water can be rough, but say it's beautiful. Others appreciated the beach's proximity to nearby lodging and restaurants.

Explore Kailua-Kona Explore Kailua-Kona free

Located on the west side of Hawai'i, Kailua-Kona is a popular tourist destination, with lots of restaurants, shops and hotels along Ali'I Drive. The town is actually Kailua, and the larger district is Kona. But there is also a Kailua on O'ahu , so to differentiate between the two, the town on Hawai'i is called Kailua-Kona. However, most locals just call it Kona (which also includes the surrounding area).

The town is situated on Kailua Bay with boats docking at Kailua Pier. This is a popular place to do a night dive with manta rays – one of the best Hawaii tours and a "must-do," according to visitors.

Kaumana Caves Kaumana Caves free

About 5 miles from downtown Hilo, on Kaumana Drive, you'll find the Kaumana Caves. Originally formed in 1881 by lava flow from Mauna Loa, the caves are now accessible to visitors via a metal ladder. The caves can be wet, dark and muddy, so proceed with caution and pack a flashlight or headlamp (your cell phone's flashlight won't cut it, according to past travelers). There is free parking, as well as restrooms and picnic tables.

Hulihe'e Palace Hulihe'e Palace

If you're looking for a historic attraction during your visit to Kailua-Kona , consider stopping at Hulihe'e Palace, which sits on bustling Ali'i Drive. Originally built out of lava rock, the palace was home to more members of Hawaiian royalty than any other residence in Hawai'i. This palace has been preserved by the Daughters of Hawai'i, who, in 1924, had the foresight to ensure that the history of Hawai'i and its language were well documented and protected by turning the Hulihe'e Palace into a museum. Today, the museum gives visitors an insight into to life as a royal Hawaiian, with koa wood furniture, artifacts from the King Kalakaua and Queen Kapi'olani era, historic portraits and artwork, such as kapa, feather work and Hawaiian quilts. Along with six rooms, the site also boasts two oceanfront lanais and manicured grounds.

This sneak peek into Hawaiian royals' history was a hit with recent visitors, who called out the friendly and knowledgeable tour guides as highlights. Others said a stop at the palace is a must-do for history and architecture lovers.

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Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site free

This sacred site has one of the largest and oldest heiau  (temple) in the state, Pu'ukohola Heiau. The lava rock structure is said to have been built by King Kamehameha I as a place to worship and to make sacrifices to the war god, Ku-ka'ili-moku. Located on the Kohala Coast, it is still used as a place of worship and for traditional Hawaiian ceremonies. Visitors can tour the site on a half-mile paved walking trail, which includes Pu'ukohola Heiau, Mailakini Heiau, Pelekane (a royal courtyard), Hale O Kapune (a submerged heiau) and John Young's Homestead. Young was a British sailor who got stranded on the island in 1790 and later became an advisor to Kamehameha. There is also a visitor center where travelers can watch videos about the site, see exhibits and stroll through the small museum.

This national park is a hit with visitors who want to learn about the history of Hawaii, some of whom commented that they enjoyed learning how the temple was built and appreciated the informative park rangers.

Hilo Farmers Market Hilo Farmers Market free

Local farmers and artisans congregate each day to sell everything from locally grown produce to fresh seafood, handicrafts to clothing in downtown Hilo. The rotating list of vendors sell everything, from the run-of-the-mill (like pineapples and bananas) to more unique items (like wood carvings or jade jewelry). You can also enjoy some poke and shaved ice while you browse.

Though most travelers enjoyed their visit to the market (especially on Wednesdays or Saturdays, when the market welcomes the most vendors), some were disappointed with the selection of wares and crafts, cautioning that some of the goods did not appear to be local. Many said this was a great place to stop for lunch, but may not be a satisfying spot for quality souvenirs.

Lyman Museum and Mission House Lyman Museum and Mission House

At the Lyman Museum and Mission House in historic downtown Hilo, visitors can browse exhibits on volcanoes, view gem and mineral displays, admire Hawaiian artifacts and learn about the history of Hawai'i and its people. Take a self-guided tour of the Lyman Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate built in 1971, to see artifacts, archives, natural history exhibits, special exhibitions and a gift shop. Visitors can also opt for a docent-led tour of the Mission House next door. Built in the late 1830s, it was owned by David and Sarah Lyman, missionaries from New England. Today, it's one of the oldest standing wooden structures in Hawai'i, and is on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Inside, visitors will find furniture, tools, household items and artifacts used by the Lymans and other early missionary families.

Past visitors called the museum a "hidden gem," and a great activity for a rainy day. Others were particularly impressed with the volcano exhibit and the knowledgeable docents.

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Best 40 Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii (the list + map you need)

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The island of Oahu in Hawaii is best known for its Waikiki Beach, stunning mountains, and gorgeous beaches. But it can also feel like a crowded, big city. Let us show you the best things to do on Oahu, Hawaii so you can escape from Waikiki to visit the country of this Hawaiian paradise.

Most things to do on Oahu lists take you randomly around the island. Here, I’ll show the best things to do starting in Waikiki, greater Honolulu, and then clockwise around Oahu. 

With maps, directions, and why we love the activity, you can start planning your trip to Oahu easily. 

My wife Erica and I lived on Oahu and now visit Oahu two to three times a year with our kids (sometimes with our dog Hattie ). We are constantly exploring to find the new, best places to eat, things to do, and tours.

Our free Oahu Travel Guide has more to help you plan your trip to Oahu. You also won’t want to miss the best beaches , snorkel spots , and places to stay on Oahu .

Things to Do on Oahu Video

One of our most popular videos is 21 Things to Do Around Oahu. This article contains even more things to do but we’ve found a video is the best way to show you what you can expect with the best things to do on Oahu. 

If this video doesn’t get you excited about your Hawaii vacation , I don’t know what will.

After all these amazing things to do on Oahu, you may be asking yourself how many days do you need on Oahu?

If your a family traveling to Oahu, see our 23 Things to Do on Oahu with Kids !

Best Things to Do on Oahu in Waikiki

Waikiki is a neighborhood in the city of Honolulu, on the island of Oahu. As the most popular part of Oahu to stay in, Waikiki has a lot to do but also can feel crowded. We always recommend taking a day during your Oahu vacation to relax around Waikiki to walk the main avenue, Kealakakaua Avenue, and sunbathe and swim on Waikiki Beach. 

Here are the best things to do while you enjoy Waikiki.

Check out the map below for a list of all our things to do in Waikiki. Then, see our 7 Best Family Hotels on Oahu for ideas on where to stay and our favorite places to stay in Waikiki .

Do you need a rental car to do all these things on Oahu? Oahu is the only Hawaiian island that we don’t say a rental car is a must-have. See How to Get Around Oahu: Car, Bus, Bike, and More (a full guide) to decide if you need a rental car and what to do if you don’t get one.

Additional Hawaii planning resources:

• What to Pack for Your Hawaii Vacation
• Oahu vs Maui (from someone who has lived on both)
• Oahu vs Maui for Kids

1. Where to Escape the Crowds on Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is a 2-mile-long, gold sand beach lined with highrise hotels. I love Waikiki Beach for the beautiful, clear water and views of the iconic Diamond Head. 

There is so much that makes Waikiki Beach famous , hence the crowds flock to this beach. Half of all visitors to Hawaii stay near Waikiki, usually for their first visit (see our first time to Hawaii guide for planning tips! )

Here is how to find a secluded section of Waikiki Beach. Waikiki Beach is divided up into multiple sections or beaches. The far sides of the 2-mile stretch of beach have far fewer people than the areas in the middle, like in front of the Royal Hawaiian or Moana Surfrider hotels.

To escape the crowds in Waikiki, go to Kahanamoku Beach ( click for directions ) near the Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort. Kahanamoku Beach has been rated the best beach in the country by Dr. Beach for its wide, sandy beach and its great spot for swimming. You will also get epic views of Diamond Head. And a good place to see the fireworks, see below!

Our second favorite secluded spot in Waikiki is on the Diamond Head side of the beach. Go to Queen’s Beach ( click for directions ) to find a place for your towel. We like this part of the beach as there is the Waikiki Wall (small jetty), volleyball courts, and shade near the park side of the beach. 

2. Surf Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is well known for its surf break. The long, slow rolling waves are perfect to learn how to surf. You can take surf lessons ( Erica was so much better at surfing than me ) or grab a board for $20 for three hours from dudes on the beach.

The surf breaks, starting on the Diamond Head side, are Publics, Queen’s, Canoes, Populars, Threes, Fours, Kaisers, and Rockpiles. You will easily see where everyone is surfing once you are on Waikiki Beach. 

If you have never surfed before then a surf lesson ( our favorite surf school is at Publics ) is highly recommended to get you started safely.

A good surfboard rental location is between the banyan tree and the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound and the Duke Kahanamoku statue. You will find local vendors renting out surfboards. Bring cash and look for the surf racks. 

Directions: Kuhio Beach Hula Mound, Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI

Grab our favorite reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreens before you head into the water for surfing and swimming at the beaches below.

3. Friday Fireworks

The show is back! Every Friday night the Hilton Hawaiian Village has a 4-minute fireworks show. From June to September, the show starts at 8:00 PM. The show switches to a 7:45 PM start in the fall. 

You don’t have to be a guest at the resort to see the show. Find a nice place on the beach near the hotel. The best viewing will be from Fort Derussy Beach Park ( click for directions ) to Kahanamoku Beach.

4. Acai Bowls at Tropical Tribe

Our favorite acai bowls in Waikiki are at Tropical Tribe. The small cafe with counter service has the best Brazilian acai bowls with fresh fruit in Waikiki. Located on the Ewa Side, near the Hilton Hawaiian Village, look for the small cafe at street level. 

Directions: 1778 Ala Moana Blvd #101, Honolulu, HI 96815

5. Fresh Poke at Sato Seafood

There is nothing more authentic than fresh poke when you are in Hawaii. While we love getting poke at local grocery stores like Foodland, Sato Seafood serves up unique and delicious poke bowls right in Waikiki.

Order the Hawaiian Munchies or Spicy Maui Maui. You can’t go wrong with their generous portions and quick service. Eat there or take it a block to the beach.

Directions: 2310 Kūhiō Ave. #215, Honolulu, HI 96815

If Muragame Udon has too long of a line, Sato Seafood is right next door.

6. Japanese Noodle House

Sure the line can be long at Muragame Udon, but it is worth the wait in our opinion. Watch them make the noodles and cook your udon right in front of you. 

Grab a tray, order your udon, and then pick up additional bites like tempura or spam musubi in this cafeteria-style restaurant. 

Directions: 2310 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815

7. Hula and Happy Hour

If you don’t have time to attend one of Oahu’s best luaus, then House Without a Key is a good substitute. 

Directions: 2199 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815

Located in the luxury Halekulani hotel, House Without a Key is an open-air patio lounge serving up amazing mai tais, pupus (appetizers), and a light dinner fare. But we come for world-class hula performances and live Hawaiian music. 

With views of Diamond Head and the Hawaiian band playing under a 100-year-old kiawe tree, this happy hour shouldn’t be missed.

If you’re on Oahu now searching for things to do on Oahu or you are just starting your Hawaii vacation planning, then check out our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary . 

Let two professional Hawaii travelers show you the best things to do around Oahu on planned excursion days. No need to write these all down, download our itinerary and you’re off! Learn more below.

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the oahu itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Oahu.

Things to Do on Oahu: Honolulu

Let’s escape from Waikiki to explore things to do in Honolulu. Honolulu is called the Manhattan of the Pacific with its highrise offices and apartment buildings. We love Honolulu for its culture, nightlife, and food. Such amazing food options due to the Pacific island cuisine.

Our favorite neighborhoods are Kapahulu, Kaka’ako, and Chinatown. We have things to do in each. Plus, don’t forget the culture with trips to ‘Iolani Palace and the Bishop Museum.  

But our first thing to do is to beat jetlag with a hike. 

See the map below for all these things to do in Honolulu.

Free Oahu Itineraries for more things to do on Oahu!

• Oahu Travel Guide
• The Best 5-Day Oahu Itinerary
• 7-Day Oahu Itinerary Without a Rental Car
• Your 10-Day Oahu and Maui Itinerary

The free itineraries are great but our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary is world-class (not just our biased opinion).

We are going to Oahu, Maui, and Big Island over the course of 21 days, so I have loved your itineraries–seriously they are a must-have lifeline for planning a trip to Hawaii! Kim S.

8. Diamond Head Crater Hike

Diamond Head Crater Hike starts inside a 300,00-year-old volcano, about a 15-minute drive from Waikiki. A reservation for the Diamond Head hike is now required. The moderate 0.8-mile hike rises up 560 feet to an observation deck overlooking Waikiki and the east coast of Oahu.

Explore an old military bunker inside the volcano and take amazing photos of Waikiki. Rainbow views are possible with a morning hike. The gates open at 6:00 AM so come on over for those jetlagged travelers.

Directions: Diamond Head Crater Trailhead

Diamond Head Crater Hike made our list of the 7 best easy hikes on Oahu .

9. Leonard’s Bakery for Malasadas

Leonard’s Bakery makes it onto all things to do in Honolulu lists and for good reason. Their large, fluffy malasadas live up to the hype. Malasadas are Portuguese donuts with a fruit or chocolate filling. 

The doughy pastries are light, warm, and delicious in the morning with a coffee. The line does get huge at their original location on Kapahulu Avenue just outside of Waikiki.

Directions: 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816

See if you can order online to skip the line (they discontinue the online service at times) or plan on arriving early.

Another way to skip the line is to visit one of the many MalasadaMobiles they have conveniently located around Oahu. Bring cash for those and they only serve three types of malasadas at them.

10. Ono Seafood

The colorful red building with an art mural on the side is hard to miss from Kapahulu Avenue. Locals flock to this seafood restaurant for poke and more fresh seafood dishes. The no-frills place is relaxing and delicious. 

There are a lot of great restaurants on Kapahulu Avenue such as Rainbow Drive-In and Kono’s. You won’t go hungry on this avenue on the Diamond Head side of Waikiki.

Directions: 747 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816

11. Waiola Shave Ice

Shave ice is a must when you visit Hawaii . The fluffy ice and the flavors are a must when it is hot out and it is always a nice, hot temperature in Hawaii. 

Waiola Shave Ice is a classic. While there are few around Honolulu, the one below is the original and a short drive from Waikiki. 

Directions: 2135 Waiola St, Honolulu, HI 96826

Shave ice made our 5 Unforgettable Hawaii Foods You Have to Try video. 

12. Honolulu Nightlife

Honolulu is the place to go (the only place to go) in Hawaii for nightlife. The Hawaiian Islands can feel sleepy as most bars and lounges hardly make it to midnight on the neighbor islands. But in Honolulu, you can find hip lounges, wine bars, and even some clubs. 

For a little bar hopping in Waikiki, check out Lewers Street for Roy’s, Yard House, and some dive bars.

Our favorite area to go to in Honolulu is the hip and trendy restaurants and lounges in Chinatown. These award-winning restaurants, like Fete who is a 2022 James Beard winner, have great food and even better drinks. 

Head to North Hotel Street in Chinatown to find the likes of Lucky Belly, The Manifest, Little Village Noodle House, O’Kims, The Dragon Upstairs, Bar 35, The Tchin Tchin! Bar, and so many more.

Directions to North Hotel Street: 35 N Hotel St, Honolulu, HI 96817

13. Ala Moana Beach

Ala Moana Beach is the place where locals go in Honolulu for the beach. The large beach park has its own L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, Magic Island Lagoon, and a well-protected beach for kids (keiki). 

Located in front of the Ala Moana Shopping Center, an upscale shopping center with a great food court, and next to Waikiki, Ala Moana Beach doesn’t have the Waikiki crowds and is a good place to take the kids for a beach day.

Directions to Ala Moana Beach Park

For those families out there exploring Oahu, read our 23 Things to Do on Oahu with Kids for more ideas!

14. Kaka’ako Street Art

Kaka’ako is an old neighborhood of Honolulu that has been re-developed with condo towers, restaurants, and breweries. We like the breweries for dinner and drinks. But, you can make an evening out of this neighborhood by walking the murals.

Kaka’ako has murals everywhere. Start at Mother Waldron Neighborhood Park and just follow the murals. You can’t miss them.

Directions: Cooke St, Honolulu, HI 96813

Watch our Escape from Waikiki video for our day out exploring unique things to do around Honolulu. 

15. ‘Iolani Palace

The ‘Iolani Palace was the royal residence of the Kingdom of Hawaii. The palace had electricity and running water before the White House. Come to learn about the royal family, the forced overthrow of the kingdom, and Hawaiian history in this well-preserved, stately palace in the heart of Honolulu.

Directions: 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813

‘Iolani Palace is located in Historic Downtown Honolulu. Across from the palace, you will find Ali’iolani Hale, home to the state supreme court and the famous King Kamehameha The Great Statue. You can take our favorite Pearl Harbor guided tour that includes a tour of historic Honolulu.

Historic Downtown Honolulu gets bedazzled for Christmas. From parades to Christmas craft festivals, you will love Honolulu in December. See our Things to Do in Hawaii During Christmas . 

If you’re thinking of visiting Hawaii for a Christmas vacation, then you gotta read our 19 Tips to Plan Your Hawaii Christmas Vacation .

16. Historic Chinatown and the Arts District

As I mentioned in the Honolulu Nightlife thing to do, Chinatown is a fun part of the city to explore. A Chinatown walking tour is a wonderful way to hear the rich history and taste the food or go out and explore yourself.

The area has unique architecture and great food from Vietnamese to Chinese to Hawaiian and everything in between. There are also a lot of shopping and art galleries. 

The first Friday of the month is home to a lively street festival. The art galleries turn into lounges and street performers fight for your attention. It is the place to be for First Friday . 

Directions to Chinatown Parking Lot: 888 Nuuanu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96817

17. Best Honolulu Sunset Spot

Tantalus Look is the place to come for the sunset and amazing views of Waikiki and Diamond Head. Located 25 minutes (6 miles) from Waikiki, drive up a windy road to Pu’u Ualakaa State Park. Bring a picnic and a picnic blanket to sit on the lawn overlooking the grandeur of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. 

The sunset view is best during the winter but even during the summer, this is worth visiting.

Directions: Nutridge St, Honolulu, HI 96822

18. Kamehameha Bakery

While everyone is lined up at Leonard’s Bakery just outside of Waikiki, drive over to Kahili Neighborhood for another famous bakery. Get their maladas or one of their many amazing donuts and freshly baked bread.

Directions: 1284 Kalani St Unit D106, Honolulu, HI 96817

19. Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum showcases exhibits on Polynesian culture and natural history. This is our favorite museum in Hawaii. Our kids love the science center where they can go inside a volcano and get hands-on with science. I enjoy the Polynesian voyaging exhibits and then heading to Highway Inn Cafe for a Hawaii plate lunch.

The Hawaii Hall alone is worth checking out with three wood floors featuring Hawaiian history. It reminds me of the great museums in London.

Directions: 1525 Bernice St, Honolulu, HI 96817

20. Honolulu Helicopter Tours

While we don’t always recommend a helicopter tour in Hawaii due to the weather, the team at Honolulu Helicopter Tours has the best safety record on Oahu. They offer tours for different budgets too. From an 18-minute flight over Honolulu and Diamond Head to a 60-minute circle island tour, you should check them out to get above Honolulu for a fresh perspective. 

Save 5% on all their tours with promo code HVG, learn more and book here: Honolulu Helicopter Tours .

21. Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Welcome to one of the most popular sites on Oahu ( this is the other one ). Pearl Harbor National Memorial brings thousands of visitors a day to pay their respects, learn about the air raid, and visit the historical sites. 

Pearl Harbor is 25-minutes away from Waikiki so it isn’t in Honolulu but I’ll keep it simple for this list. 

Directions: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818

Hop in an Uber, Taxi, Lyft, or drive yourself to the visitor center. But, before you arrive make sure you make a reservation for t he USS Arizona. Reservations can be tough to get, especially during the busy holiday season and summer.

You can skip the hassle of driving and getting a reservation by booking a guided Pearl Harbor and Historic Honolulu City Tour with our favorite local tour group. They will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel.

Bags are not allowed in the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Also, make sure to hop on the free shuttle to take you to Ford Island. Home of the Battleship Missouri Memorial and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum .

If this is your home base, Honolulu has more… way more to offer! Check out our full list of things to do in Honolulu .

Things to Do on Oahu: Ko Olina and Waianae

We lived in Ko Olina, on the leeward side of Oahu, for a couple of years. Ko Olina is at the start of Waianae, the West Side of Oahu. 

Waianae is a residential area of Oahu. Therefore, it is not a place visitors go often and we support that. But, there are some places of note and tours to explore.

22. Ko Olina Lagoons at Ko Olina Resorts

Ko Olina Resorts are known as the home of Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa, but Ko Olina is better known to us for the lagoons. One of the 10 best beaches on Oahu is the Ko Olina lagoons.

We love these lagoons for the calm waters for our kids, proximity to the resort restaurants for lunch and snacks, and the big, empty beaches. 

The lagoons are man-made. Blasted from the volcanic rock as part of the Ko Olina Resorts development, the lagoons are open to the public and ready for your vacation. Arrive before 9:00 AM for a free, public parking spot. See our Oahu itinerary for details.

Stay in Ko Olina (see our Ultimate Ko Olina Guide ) or stay in Waikiki, you can hop over to this dry and sunny side of the island for amazing beaches.

While you are over here, book a tour with our favorite Oahu snorkel tour to see dolphins and sea turtles. Or stay till sunset for their Ko Olina Sunset Sail .

23. Electric Beach for Snorkeling

Electric Beach made our #1 spot for the best snorkeling on Oahu . The beach’s namesake is due to being located in front of a large power plant (Hawaii Electric or HECO). The snorkel spot is abundant in fish as the fish congregate around the hot water discharge from the power plant. 

This snorkel spot is only for advanced swimmers and snorkelers. It is risky because you have to swim out over 100 yards to the snorkel spot, it is in water that is over 30 feet deep, there can be currents or rough surf, and there are no lifeguards on duty. It is not an easy snorkel spot so swim with a buddy and understand the ocean conditions. 

You will be greeted by a lot of fish making for beautiful snorkeling. 

Directions: 92-301 Farrington Hwy, Kapolei, HI 96707

I park at Kahe Point Beach Park. Car break-ins are common in this parking lot so don’t leave valuables or anything in the car.

24. Maili Pillbox (Pink Pillbox) Hike

Pillbox hikes are very popular on Oahu. These are bunkers from the military defenses built to protect the island before and during WWII. We share the history of many of them in this video: All of Oahu’s Pillbox Hikes Explained (plus the history): 5 Honolulu Pillbox Hikes . 

Most of Oahu’s great hikes are located on the windward and east side of Oahu so this one is special. Located on top of Pu’u O Hulu, you can hike the 45-minutes to the pink pillbox, up a steep trail. Beautiful, sweeping views of the Waianae coast will reward you. It is hot and sunny on this part of the island so bring water and sun protection.  

Directions: Pink Pillbox Trail, Waianae, HI 96792

25. Oahu’s Best Whale Watching

The best locations for whale watching on Oahu are on the North Shore and Waianae. Waianae is my favorite as you can expect better weather and calmer seas during whale seasons. The annual humpback whale migration to Hawaii is from December through March, 

While Maui is our favorite island for whale watching , Oahu has some excellent viewing also. 

Our favorite whale-watching tour leaves from Waianae Small Boat Harbor. Head out on a power raft for up-close encounters with majestic humpback whales. We like this tour for the fast rafts increase your chances of seeing them (they don’t chase but cover more ground) and their staff of marine biologists that are full of knowledge. Learn more and book here – Waianae Whale Watching .

Directions: Waianae Small Boat Harbor at 85-491 Farrington Hwy, Waianae, HI 96792

26. Dolphin and Snorkeling Tour

If you can’t make it to Oahu during whale season then a dolphin excursion is your best option. Located at Waianae Small Boat Harbor, the team from Dolphin Excursions Hawaii will take you out to see Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, and to epic snorkel spots on the Waianae Coast. 

Click to learn more about their Dolphin Excursion Tour or their Afternoon Snorkel Safari .

Things to Do on Oahu: North Shore

Time to leave Honolulu and the resorts to get out into the countryside of Oahu. Honolulu is considered town and the North Shore is considered country. Hence, Oahu-founded surfboard company called Town & Country. 

Our favorite area to visit on Oahu is North Shore. Make sure you leave one or two days in your itinerary to see everything. We sure do in our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary !

Finally, time to head to North Shore Oahu. The home of Jack Johnson, big wave surfing competitions, waterfall hikes, and the best food trucks on the island. North Shore is also home to 10 Free Things to Do on North Shore Oahu and the Ehukai Pillbox Hike . If you still haven’t had your fill, we have another 21 Amazing Things to Do on Oahu’s North Shore .

27. Haleiwa Town

Haleiwa Town is the unofficial home base for the North Shore. We love this town for the food trucks, shave ice, and coffee shops. The art galleries and kayak and SUP in the river are also worth checking out.

Directions: Haleiwa, Oahu

Leave Waikiki in the morning so you can stop in Haleiwa for coffee at Haleiwa Cafe, Coffee Gallery, or Island Vintage Coffee (a chain but they have Kona coffee and good food). Then continue up the coast to do the things below. Come back to Haleiwa for lunch or dinner at a shrimp truck or food truck.

Stop at Kaimana Shave Ice and say, “ The Hawaii Vacation Guide brought you here .” You will save 10% on the freshest shave ice in Haleiwa. See our full list of coupon codes here .

28. North Shore Food Trucks

Did I mention the food on the North Shore? Giovanni’s was the original shrimp truck serving up spicy and buttery shrimp from their signature-covered truck in Kahuku, North Shore.

Check out one of the many shrimp and food truck parks in Haleiwa. You can’t miss them off the main road. Kaimana Shave Ice is located near a large food truck park, so you get two birds with one parking spot.

You will also find more trucks in Pupukea near Waimea Bay (across from Shark’s Cove) and in Kahuku, at the northern tip of Oahu.

29. Waimea Bay for a Beach Day

Waimea Bay is hard to miss as you drive up the North Shore on Kamehameha Highway. The road turns to present the beautiful bay with the bell tower in the background. 

Waimea Bay is probably the best beach on the North Shore. The bay has two drawbacks. Parking is limited in the public parking lot and along the road. Waimea Valley and the church charge for parking which I’ve found very helpful. The other drawback is the bay is calm from May to September but should be avoided during the winter. Big waves and strong currents make it a dangerous place to swim.

Pack a lunch and enjoy a day of swimming and relaxing on the beach at Waimea Bay. You will find lifeguards on duty, showers, and restroom facilities.

Directions: Waimea Bay Beach, North Shore, HI 96712

30. Waterfall Swim

If you’re looking for a waterfall swim on Oahu, this is the place to go. With many waterfalls being on private land, hard to reach, or dangerous, the 40-foot Waimea Valley waterfall is the place to go.

Waimea Valley is a botanical garden and Hawaiian cultural immersion area. You can spend half a day here at the arts and crafts booths, walking the valley’s gardens, exploring the Hawaiian villages, and swimming in the waterfall. This is a perfect spot for strollers and kids. It is also home to one of the best luaus in Hawaii .

Reserve your Full Day General Admission to Waimea Valley ticket here. This is a direct booking with Waimea Valley!

Directions: 59-864 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712

31. Shark’s Cove Snorkeling

Shark’s Cove made our list of the best snorkeling on Oahu . From May to September, the waves settle down for some epic snorkeling in the lava rock-protected lagoon. 

Lifeguards are on duty and there are restroom and shower facilities. A snorkel rental shop is across the street along with food trucks for lunch. 

We like Shark’s Cove for the clear water and the protected lagoon. Make sure the conditions are good for snorkeling before you go out by talking to the lifeguard and checking lifeguard flags. Grab our favorite reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreens before you head into the water.

Directions: Shark’s Cove at Pupukea Beach Park, Oahu

32. Romy’s Kahuku Shrimp Hut

As we continue up the North Shore, it may be time to stop for fresh shrimp. Just past Turtle Bay Resort are Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp and Romy’s Kahuku Prawns and Shrimp Hut. These two serve up fresh shrimp from their shrimp ponds directly behind their huts. 

Romy’s is our favorite as we describe in the video below. Stop for a garlic butter shrimp plate before you move on down the road.

Directions: 56781 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731

North Shore Oahu is full of fruit stands and food trucks. You won’t be hungry as you spend the day up here.

33. Polynesian Cultural Center Lu’au

For many visitors to Oahu, this is the must-see thing to do on Oahu. Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the Polynesian Cultural Center attract more visitors than any other sites on Oahu.

Located near the northern tip of the Oahu in La’ie, the Polynesian Cultural Center is known for its luau dinner but we like it for the Islands of Polynesia. Walk past the luau area and into six island nations of Polynesia. Learn about the culture, games, songs, and stories of Samoa, Tonga, Hawaii, Aotearoa, Tahiti, and Fuji. Check out our full Polynesian Cultural Center review .

We recommend you arrive when they open at 12:30 to spend the afternoon there and then go to the Ali’i Luau or Gateway Buffet . Stay late for the HA: Breath of Life Show. Book below and save up to 20% on their luau packages as it is a direct booking link with the Polynesian Cultural Center.

If you’re on Oahu frantically searching for things to do or you are starting your Hawaii vacation planning, then check out our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary . 

Let two professional Hawaii travelers show you the best things to do around Oahu on planned excursion days. Download our itinerary and you’re off! Learn more below.

Things to Do on Oahu: Windward

As we drive over the northern tip of Oahu, past Kahuku and La’ie, we enter windward Oahu. On the windward side, you will be greeted with lush rainforest and towering cliffs of the Ko’olau Range, the remnants of one of Oahu’s two distinct volcanoes.

After North Shore, windward Oahu is my favorite part of the island to visit. 

34. Kualoa Ranch Tours

When we lived on Oahu, the Polynesian Cultural Center and Kualoa Ranch felt too touristy to be worth my time. I regret that decision because they offer such great tours. They are both good places to learn the history of the islands. 

Kualoa Ranch is known as the Jurassic Valley as Jurassic Park and Lost World movies were filmed in part here, plus dozens of other movies. The ranch is a working cattle ranch and farm full of wonderful employees who like to share their stories. 

Visitors to Hawaii make the drive to Kualoa Ranch for the popular tours below, but they have so many more to offer.

• Kualoa Ranch ATV tours
• Kualoa Ranch Zipline
• Malama Aina Tour
• Explore all Kuoloa Ranch Tours here

Directions: 49-560 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744

35. Kaneohe Sandbar

This place has become very popular in the past few years. Kaneohe Sandbar or Ahu O Laka in Hawaiian is a ridge of sand in Kaneohe Bay that becomes a beach island during low tide. 

The water is turquoise, the sand is white, the bay is calm, and sea turtle sightings are common.

Accessing the sandbar is limited. You can kayak by renting a kayak in Kailua or go out on a boat tour. As the sandbar can be tough to reach in a kayak, we recommend going on a boat tour. Boat tours include lunch, snacks, sunscreen, snorkel gear, and other comforts for a day out on the water.

Our favorite Kaneohe Sandbar tour leaves directly from the small boat harbor near the sandbar. Learn more about the best Kaneohe Sandbar boat tour .

Directions: 46-499 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744

36. Lanikai Beach

Another one of our top 10 Oahu beaches is Lanikai Beach located in Kailua. Lanikai is known for its long, white sand beach with outrigger canoes parked on it from the local canoe club, and the views of the Mokulua Islands. 

We find ourselves at Lanikai Beach every time we visit Oahu. We recommend arriving early as there are no public parking lots, only street parking. Respect the neighbors by not blocking driveways or making a lot of noise. Spend the day at Lanikai or go on a kayak adventure.

Directions: Lanikai Beach, Kailua, HI 96734 

37. Kayak to the Mokes

Kayaking to the Mokulua Islands or the Mokes was our favorite activity to do with friends who visited us on Oahu.

Rent kayaks from the local shop, wheel them to Kailua Beach (another great beach) and make the short kayak trip out to the islands. 

You can rent kayaks and go yourself or you can go on a guided tour. If you’re not a confident kayaker then we recommend the guided tour. Click below to learn more.

• Self-Guided Kayak Discovery
• 2-Hour Guided Kayak + Beach Time

38. Waimanalo Beach Park

Welcome to the best walking beach on Oahu. At over 3-miles long with gorgeous views of the mountains and ocean, this white sand beach is worth a trip to the East Side of Oahu. 

Waimanalo Beach Park has abundant public parking, showers, restrooms, and a lifeguard on duty. The currents can get strong during the winter months so check with the lifeguard before heading out. 

We show you how to fit Waimanalo Beach and everything worth visiting in East Oahu in our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary .

Directions: 41-741 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Waimānalo, HI 96795

39. Makapu’u Beach & Lighthouse

Located on the far eastern tip of Oahu, Makapuu Beach and Lighthouse make for a nice morning out with the family. 

Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail is a paved walking path that takes you up to the top of the point, with views of Makapuu Beach, Manana Island Seabird Sanctuary, and coastal views of Oahu. 

If you have time, head down to Makapuu Beach. It is a tucked-in beach that is nice for relaxing. It is known for bodysurfing so be careful of the surf break.

Directions: Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail, Waimanalo, HI 96795

40. Koko Head Crater Hike

Let’s finish strong with a hike to the top of a volcanic cinder cone. 

• Length: 1.8 miles
• Parking: Large parking lot at the bottom of the hill
• Avoid hiking for sunrise as no parking is available

This is more of a moderate hike, not because the terrain is challenging (there’s no hill to slide down or rocks to climb over) but because the hike is steep. This hike is a workout as you ascend up over 1,000 steps to reach the top. 

While it is a workout, it’s also a fun trail with some pretty amazing views. The steps that you take up to the top are old railroad tracks, which adds to the fun (you’re not just taking stairs up to the top). 

Oahu is the best Hawaiian Island for hiking in our opinion. Explore all of Oahu’s easiest hikes and moderate to advanced hikes .

More Things to Do with the Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Thanks for traveling with me around Oahu with this epic things-to-do list. We find ourselves going back to Oahu multiple times a year because there are so many things to do and places to eat. 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or don’t have time to plan a trip to Oahu, then learn more about our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary. The itinerary is structured to grab and go on your mobile device. 

Love this list? Pin it and follow us for more!

Thanks for reading The Hawaii Vacation Guide! I'm the co-founder, with my wife Erica, of the best Hawaii travel guide on the internet in our biased opinions. We enjoy traveling throughout Hawaii after living on Maui and Oahu. We share our adventures, travel tips and resources, and honest reviews so you can easily plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Editing our videos, teaching the kids how to snorkel, and learning about the 'aina (land) and Hawaii culture are my favorite things to do. Have a wonderful trip to the Aloha State.

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First-timer’s guide to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Apr 18, 2024 • 11 min read

The scale and ferocity of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is a wonder to experience © Yiming Chen / Getty Images

Unsurprisingly, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Hawaiʻi Island is one of the state’s most popular attractions.

This incredible landscape is home to two massive volcanoes – Kīlauea being one of the world’s most active – and stretches from sea level to the summit of Mauna Loa, one of the world’s largest. Sprawling across 333,259 acres on the island's southeastern side, the park is one of the most dynamic and diverse in the US.

Its ever-changing landscape boasts an assortment of terrain, from lush rainforests and barren lava fields to a volcano often dusted with snow every winter. Yes, even in Hawaiʻi!

So grab those hiking boots and binoculars and use our insider guide to get the most out of your first trip to this unique national park.

When is the best time to visit Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park? 

There isn’t an especially bad time to visit the park, which sees nearly two million visitors annually. The weather on the Islands doesn’t vary much, with temperatures fluctuating between 66-85°F throughout the year. Winter and early spring, though, tend to be rainier and cooler than other times of the year and hurricane season runs from June to November, which can mean tropical storms, whipping winds and torrential rain.

The busiest travel seasons in Hawaiʻi are summer and winter – summer is peak vacation time for families and winter lures travelers eager to escape colder climes. Expect more people on trails and longer waits for parking during these periods.

Spring and fall are slower travel months and ideal times to visit the park. Trekking conditions are much more comfortable without the intense summer heat and you’ll likely find better airfare prices and hotel rates at nearby hotels. The park does get a surge of visitors during spring break and around the weekend of the annual Merrie Monarch Festival , a week-long hula competition based in Hilo around late March or early April.

Tuesday is the busiest day at the park – pick another day if at all possible. This is when the Pride of America , a cruise ship that sails around the Islands, docks in Hilo. Many of its 2000 passengers head to the national park, hitting popular stops like the Kīlauea Visitor Center , the Kīlauea Iki Trail , and Nāhuku (otherwise known as Thurston Lava Tube ). Winter brings yet more cruise ships to Hawaiʻi Island as thousands of North Pacific humpback whales migrate annually from Alaska to the warmer waters surrounding the Islands.

Though Kīlauea stopped erupting on Sept 16, 2023, the volcano still attracts visitors despite no visible lava fountains or flows. And it’s likely it will erupt again – the Puʻuʻōʻō eruption, which began in 1983 and lasted 35 years, ranks as the longest and most voluminous known outpouring of lava from Kīlauea’s east rift zone in more than 500 years. “If there is an eruption,” says Jessica Ferracane, the park’s spokesperson, “it is busy all day, every day, especially if it’s at the summit of Kīlauea.”

Planning tip: The park is currently undergoing a big disaster recovery project following the 2018 Kīlauea eruption and summit collapse. There could be temporary area closures, lane closures, reduced parking and other limited services for the next two years. Check the park website to check for construction closures and delays . 

Find out everything you need to know about what's happening in Hawaii throughout the year in  our guide to the best time to visit the Aloha State

How much time should I plan to spend at the park?

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park may not be as huge as Alaska’s 13.2-million-acre Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve – larger than Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite National Park and Switzerland combined – but it does stretch from sea level to the summit of 13,681-ft Mauna Loa and across seven different ecological zones. You’ll need at least a full day to explore all the best parts of the park but two days are even better. 

Park staff recommend that visitors arrive by sunrise to hit the park’s most popular trails first – it's open 24 hours to allow everyone to maximize their time. Dusk is also a wonderful time to go exploring – the lack of light pollution provides dark skies that are perfect for stargazing.

There are a variety of hikes within the national park, from the easy 1.2-mile Kīpukapuaulu Trail to the challenging backcountry treks up Mauna Loa that can take two days. And having an extra day means you can visit the park’s quieter and less crowded Kahuku Unit on the southerly slopes of Mauna Loa. This 116,000-acre former ranchland is about an hour's drive from the Kīlauea Visitor Center and is open to the public five days a week. You can hike to the top of an old cinder cone, trek through a pristine Hawaiian rainforest or bike through scenic pastures with panoramic views of the ranchlands.

The tiny town of Volcano Village just outside the park is also well worth a visit, with its laid-back eateries and food trucks, art galleries, and  a vineyard and winery .

Is it easy to get in and around the park?

The nearest airport is Hilo International, about 30 miles northeast of the park (you can fly into the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole, but the drive from Kailua-Kona will take about two hours). Getting to the park from Hilo is easy – take Route 11 (Hawaiʻi Belt Road) west until you reach the main entrance. The drive takes about 45 minutes.

Hele-On Bus is the island’s only public bus service, operated by Hawaiʻi County. The No. 11 Red Line runs between Hilo and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, stopping daily at the Kīlauea Visitor Center. The bus schedule is subject to change, so check ahead. There is no public transportation or shuttle service within the park, so you’ll need a car to get around.

Top things to do at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Kīlauea iki trail.

One of the most popular hikes in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is the 4-mile roundtrip Kīlauea Iki Trail. The terrain is varied – it starts in a forest of native ʻōhiʻa trees and hapuʻu (Hawaiian tree fern) and ends with a walk across an otherworldly crater floor – and it’s short enough to complete in a few hours, giving you plenty of time to visit other parts of the park.

The trailhead is at an overlook of the crater formed from an eruption in 1959 that was marked by fountaining lava over a half-mile long and a plume reaching a world-record 1900ft high. The first part of the trail is a descent through a lush rainforest lined with native ʻōhiʻa and koa trees. Look for the white-rumped ʻapapanae , a nectarivorous Hawaiian honeycreeper, often found flitting from tree to tree. The switchbacks end at the crater floor, a vast moonscape that sharply contrasts with the surrounding native forests.

This lava tube – also known as Thurston Lava Tube – was created by a river of 2000°F (1093°C) molten lava about 500 years ago. Discovered in 1913, this massive lava cave is very accessible, with a flat rock floor and ceiling height of more than 20ft in places. Electric lights illuminate most of the path, though you may want to bring a flashlight – it takes about 20 minutes to stroll through the tube. The rainforest that surrounds Nāhuku is brimming with native birds, including the scarlet ʻiʻiwi , a Hawaiian honeycreeper listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

Hōlei Sea Arch

At the end of the Chain of Craters Road – about 18 miles from the Kīlauea Visitor Center – is the Hōlei Sea Arch , a 90-ft-tall rock formation cut into the cliff of an ancient lava flow about 550 years ago. In 2020, the park opened a new viewing area about 1000ft past the gate at the end of the road and set back away from the cliff edge.

Puʻuloa Petroglyphs

There’s an area of Pānau Nui on the southern flank of Kīlauea with numerous pecked images, or petroglyphs, in the hardened lava. Puʻuloa, which translates to “long hill” in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language), is a sacred place to Native Hawaiians. The archaeological site here boasts more than 23,000 petroglyphs – the largest collection in Hawaiʻi – with motifs of circles, canoe sails, human forms, feathered capes and other geometric shapes.

Devastation Trail

This half-mile hike is suitable for everyone as it's wheelchair and stroller accessible. The paved path meanders through a stark yet beautiful landscape buried by falling cinder from lava fountains of the 1959 Kīlauea Iki eruption. You might find volcanic debris in the form of glass-like droplets and strands called Pele’s Tears and Pele’s Hair, respectively, named after the revered Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes. Nēnē (Hawaiian geese) frequent this area; refrain from feeding or interacting with this threatened species.

My favorite thing to do at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Unfortunately, there aren’t many places in Hawaiʻi where you find native forest birds anymore. Their populations have plummeted due to habitat destruction, predators like feral cats, mongoose and non-native mosquitoes that spread avian pox and avian malaria.

But at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, where native habitats are protected and able to thrive, you can see – and hear – a variety of these special birds, from the friendly ʻelepaio (Hawaiian flycatcher) to the elusive ʻōmaʻo (Hawaiian thrush), which can only be found in the montane rainforests on Hawaiʻi Island. The bright orange ʻākepa , an endangered Hawaiian honeycreeper with an odd-shaped beak, can be spotted in the high-elevation forests of the park’s Kahuku Unit. And if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the endemic ʻio , the only hawk species native to Hawaiʻi.

I love wandering along the 1.2-mile Kīpukapuaulu Trail, an easy loop through pristine native forestland in an area known as a “bird park.” A kīpuka is an area of land that’s surrounded by younger lava flows, like an “island” within a sea of lava. There are more native tree species per acre here than any other forest in the national park, which means you’ll find native forest birds that rely on the native trees that grow here.

How much money do I need?

Park entry costs $30 for a private car, $25 for a motorcycle, and $15 for pedestrians and cyclists. The park has gone cashless, so payment has to be made with debit or credit cards in person or online .

If you're also planning to visit Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park near Kailua-Kona or Haleakalā National Park on Maui, consider buying the Hawaiʻi Tri-Park Annual Pass for $55. This allows you to enter all three of these parks in a single, private vehicle.

The National Park Service offers free admission to everyone on the following days: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the first day of National Park Week in April, Juneteenth, the Great American Outdoors Act, National Public Lands Day and Veterans Day.

Average costs at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

• Basic room for two at Volcano House: $80 to $385 per night
• Airbnb in Volcano: $150 average per night
• Cup of coffee: $3.50
• Midrange meal: $15-$20 per person
• Local beer: $10
• Gas (regular) in Hilo: $4.81 per gallon

How to travel in the park consciously

With two active volcanoes and ongoing construction to repair damage caused by the 2018 Kīlauea eruption, it’s important to stay on marked trails and overlooks and keep out of closed areas. And no matter what you may have seen on social media, please leave the rocks alone and unstacked. Park staff often use ahu (stacked rocks) to mark trails; it’s not an invitation to do the same. Not only is it culturally insensitive but it can be disorienting to hikers who rely on the ahu to guide them along trails. It’s also long believed that taking lava rocks brings bad luck. Hundreds of people return rocks they’ve taken from the park every year.

There are many culturally significant sites within the park, itself a Unesco World Heritage Site. These include petroglyphs, historic trails, fossilized footprints, shelter caves, heiau (Hawaiian temples) and stone walls of canoe sheds and corrals. Many of these sites are listed in the National Register of Historic Places – please be respectful when you get the chance to see them close up.

The land within the park is sacred to Native Hawaiians, with moʻolelo (stories) and mele (songs) tied to this area. They believe Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes, lives in Halemaʻumaʻu Crater at the summit of Kīlauea. If you come across Native Hawaiians performing cultural rituals in the park, keep a respectful distance. Let them – and others – connect undisturbed with nature.

This article was first published September 2021 and updated about 17 hours ago

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Big Island of Hawaii

Visitor information on where to stay, best things to do, and more....

Big Island of Hawaii Travel Guide

Visitor info & top things to do on the big island, essential tips for the ultimate big island vacation experience.

The Big Island of Hawaii seems determined to break the norm; the stereotype of the average tropical island, that is. Here you'll find the ongoing battle between green forests, black lava fields, the ocean, and the rain almost incomprehensible; the diversity is simply stunning . You may find yourself wondering, "Is this an ancient landscape or a future one?"

We say the Big Island is ‘big’ - and we mean it! It is an island of such proportions that all of the other islands in the main Hawaiian chain could fit inside it nearly twice ! Sitting in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the landmass of the Big Island is approximately the same size as the state of Connecticut, about 4,050 square miles, and is still growing regularly thanks to Kilauea Volcano on the eastern coast of the island.

— article continued below —

Pololu Valley - Kohala

FREE Hawaii Island Summary Guidesheet

Updated with a new summary map of the  Big Island  with estimated driving times from popular starting points.

Includes the top must-see & do Big Island attractions, best times to visit , where to stay briefing, Big Island  airports detail , a monthly weather summary , and where to find the most noteworthy local ono 'grindz' (best eats) on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Download Guidesheet Now

On the Big Island, it's always best to expect the unexpected. Even the  beaches  don't follow the rules here. It's almost easier to find a black sand beach than a white one, and if you're adventurous enough, you can even sink your toes into one of the world's few  green sand beaches .

Snorkeling with Manta Rays * in the Kona area and touring the island's volcanoes are just a few of the tops things you should look into while visiting the Big Island of Hawaii. Ultimately, we'll help you discover all that the Big Island of Hawaii has to offer.

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Everything you need to know about the Big Island of Hawaii is here in one convenient place:

• Determine the best time to visit the Big Island
• Discover the perfect Hawaii accommodations or explore our variety of Big Island tours
• Read our Big Island travel tips & advice
• Explore all of the Big Island attractions

Kilauea Iki Trail - Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Summary of Big Island topics covered on this page.

• Big Island Blog, recent news, and current events
• Current Weather, Climate, & Forecast
• Where to Stay on the Big Island - accommodations guide
• Big Island of Hawaii Map Packet
• Best Time to Visit the Big Island  - which month is best?
• Big Island Regions & Destinations Guide
• Top 10 Big Island Attractions to See & Do
• Big Island Trip Itineraries for Planning 1-7 Day Trips
• Top Big Island Sights
• Top Big Island Beaches
• Top Big Island Hiking Trails
• Big Island Popular Tours & Activities
• Big Island Visitor Information & Articles

When to Visit the Big Island?

The best months to visit.

Knowing when to visit the Big Island of Hawaii is essential when planning your Big Island trip or vacation. Honestly, there's not a wrong time to visit the island - it has an incredibly wide diversity and geography that suits almost any type of traveler- from outdoor adventurer to poolside fixture.

But, that said, some months are still better when considering things like the weather and your budget.  The  best times  to visit  the Big Island of Hawaii, taking into consideration the weather, how crowded or not the island is, and the demand for accommodations, are the month(s) of April, May, August, September, and October.  Some call these Hawaii Island's 'off-season periods' or the 'shoulder months.'

There's more to cover on this topic before you make a final decision. In this article, we'll cover visitor arrivals, the Big Island's weather and climate, accommodations, rates, and what to expect on a visit during each season on the Big Island.

When to Visit the Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island Estimated Visitor Arrivals (click to enlarge)

Where to Stay on the Big Island

Knowing where to stay on the Big Island is essential. The island is large (twice the size of all the other islands combined) and diverse. Many visitors find it challenging to decide upon an island accommodation. To assist the process, choose a location on the island that you will enjoy. Our guide will list some essential considerations to help you choose wisely.

Where Do You Stay on The Big Island?

Consider a location that affords you enough time to visit all of the most popular attractions. A week might cut it on smaller islands like Kauai, Maui, or Oahu. But the size of the Big Island requires more time to see all the worthwhile attractions. We suggest one week as a minimum, but two or three weeks are ideal. Plan to divide your time between the two primary halves of the island: the West Side and the East Side.

How to Maximize Your Stay From the West to the East of the Big Island 

We suggest splitting your stay between Kailua-Kona on the west side and Hilo (or Volcano) on the east side during your trip. This will ease a lot of extra driving and allow you to experience both sides of the island. If you have only allocated a week to visit the island, four nights in Hilo and three in Kailua-Kona will suffice. Use that same ratio for more extended visits. Most visitors spend longer periods in Kailua-Kona since most hotels, upscale resorts, vacation rentals, and Big Island motels are here. The north of Kailua-Kona on the Kohala 'Gold' Coast hosts lodging options. Yet, since most of the Big Island's best attractions & sights are closer to Hilo, visitors should attempt to book accommodations in Hilo for at least half of their stay on the island.

In this detailed article, we'll look at the pros and cons of each area we've briefly discussed above.

Where to Stay on the Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island Accommodation Rates (click to enlarge)

Big Island Weather

Weather & climate on the big island.

Weather on the Big Island of Hawaii changes as rapidly as the terrain around it. No other island has the same diversity as the Big Island; not even by a long shot!

In some areas, rainfall can be absolutely zero; not a drop falls all year long, and the terrain reflects this- it's dry and barren. In other areas, it can be rainy every day of the year (as in Hilo or Puna), creating a lush paradise for visitors who enjoy that environment.

For the most part, the Big Island is warm and tropical year-round. In winter and summer, the average temperatures near the major resort areas (coastline) range from 75-85°F (23°C-29°C). At higher elevations like Volcano and Waimea, temperatures are often much cooler, especially during the night. Hilo can also have lower temperatures depending on how far mauka (inland) you travel. And, of course, the summit of Mauna Kea and flanks of Mauna Loa or Hualalai can be quite chilly, if not downright frigid. Plan for snow if you'll be visiting those areas.

Our Big Island of Hawaii Weather article has much more to cover.

Big Island of Hawaii Weather

*Climate Notes: Weather and Climate numbers are aggregated from trusted weather sources providing the monthly temperature and precipitation figures for the Big Island's primary airports in Kailua-Kona and Hilo. These climate summaries, specific to the airport location, should therefore not be taken as a "whole-island" forecast. Weather conditions can change dramatically on the Big Island due to the diverse topography, changes in elevation, the trade winds, and other unique island conditions. Temperatures are provided in Fahrenheit and Precipitation in Inches.

Big Island Average Monthly Temperatures

Big Island Average Precipitation

Big Island Weather Forecast

Kailua-kona town and hilo town forecasts.

Halemaumau Crater - Kilauea in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

2024 Big Island Visitor Guides

Download your copy of one of our  Big Island Visitor Guides  today  and take advantage of our  destination expert's Big Island of Hawaii insights . We've just updated and released our latest Big Island Essential & Highlights Guides for 2024.

These updated Big Island packets contain nearly  20 visual pages   (in the Intro/Highlights Guide)   and almost  45 visual pages   (in the Essentials Guide)  of pertinent Hawaii travel information  to assist in planning your perfect Hawaii trip. There's lots of good Big Island information + maps, weather charts, hotel pricing graphics, and more - ideal for those who are just getting started planning their trip to the Big Island of Hawaii.

There are also  NO advertisements  or paid product placements within these packets.

Hawaii Island Regions

Popular destinations on the big island.

The Big Island of Hawaii, of course, is the  largest landmass  in the Hawaiian island chain- which consists of  eight major islands  and 124 islets. The archipelago is made up of numerous volcanic islands in the central Pacific Ocean stretching in a 1,500-mile crescent from Kure Island in the northwest to the Big Island of Hawaii in the east, encompassing an area of 6,459 square miles. The eight major islands at the eastern end of the chain are, from west to east, Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and the  Big Island of Hawaii .

With so many different climate zones and vastly different landscapes to explore, it can be hard to decide which part of the island to visit. Browse the Big Island of Hawaii regions below and learn about the many things to do, what to expect, and the diverse attractions of the island.

Kailua-Kona Region | Kohala Region | North Hamakua Region | Hilo Region | Puna Region | Volcano Region | South Kau Region | Saddle Rd Region

Kona (West) Side Big Island Destinations

Kona coast region, kailua-kona town, kealakekua, captain cook, honaunau, and more.

If you're heading to the Big Island there's certainly one area you cannot miss... the  Kona (West) Coast . This warm and sunny leeward area has become the resort hotspot of the island. In total, the Kona Coast stretches some 40 miles along the rugged west coast of the Big Island.

You'll find a vast array of ocean-side restaurants, grocery stores, shops, and activity huts promoting various water activities in the nearby Kailua Bay. Accommodations in Kailua-Kona are generally less expensive than along the Kohala gold coast (Waikoloa), and many resorts/condos are located along Ali'i Drive.

Many historical sites, beautiful beaches (some well-hidden), pristine bays, and lava fields (with prominent petroglyphs) criss-cross and line the coast of this area. North Kona has some of the most gorgeous white sand beaches on the island, like  Makalawena Beach  and Mahai'ula Beach located at  Kekaha Kai / Kona Coast State Park .

Kailua-Kona

Kohala 'Gold Coast' Region

Including waikoloa, waimea, and hawi.

On the far northwest tip of the Big Island is  Kohala , one of the most diverse areas on the island. This part of the Big Island started forming around 460,000 years ago and today includes the Kohala Mountains and the Kohala Ridge Road which straddles the mountain as it makes its way northwestward. Here you'll also discover the towns of  Waimea   (Kamuela) and   Hawi.

The distinction between the windward (wet) side of the island and the leeward (dry) side couldn't be more clear here. Northeast Kohala is green and lush, while the southwest side of the peninsula is dry and sometimes even barren. At one time this part of the Kohala Coast, fittingly called 'North Kohala,' was a area of flourishing sugar cane plantations. Today it has become dominated by one of North America's largest privately owned ranches - the  Parker Ranch .

The Kohala Coast region also includes an area called Waikoloa in 'South Kohala.' Some call this area the  gold coast  because of the many luxury resorts that have been engraved into ancient lava flows in this area. One of the most beautiful beaches on the island,  Hapuna Beach , is also located along this stretch.

Kohala Region

North coast & east big island destinations, north hamakua region, including waipi'o, honoka'a, laupahoehoe, and honomu.

On the  North Coast of the Big Island  lies the  Hamakua coast , one of the most beautiful stretches on the entire island. The North (Hamakua) Coast begins at the entrance to  Waipio Valley , at the end of the Kohala region, a once flourishing indigenous Hawaiian community, and ends at the outskirts of the Hilo region on the east side of the island.

Rainwater from the northern flanks of Mauna Kea along with snow from the summit of the great mountain flows down in countless streams along this part of the Big Island. The result is a mecca of stunning waterfalls and valleys. One such amazing falls are  Akaka Falls  and its surrounding State Park.

The main belt Highway (Highway 19) runs along the coast as the fastest route between Hilo and Kailua-Kona. Highway 19 often flirts with its predecessor, the Old Mamalahoa Highway, on which some amazing places and views can be found. The popular  Four Mile Scenic Route  is one such route off the main highway.

Hilo Region

The most notable location on the northeast side of the Big Island of Hawai'i is undoubtedly Hilo town. Hilo is the island's largest city (second largest in the state - population-wise) and also takes the title for the wettest city in the United States (70+ inches yearly).

Hilo is an especially lush city with several gorgeous orchid gardens, interesting parks (the most prominent being  Liliu'okalani Garden ), museums, and other various attractions. Hilo borders a beautiful bay and is often cooled by sea breezes and tradewind showers.

Hilo town remains the 'back door' of sorts for access to the central part of the island and its famous  Saddle Road .  Rainbow Falls State Park  and  Wailuku River State Park , featuring the Boiling Pots area and  Pe'epe'e Falls , are some of the larger natural attractions in town. Both parks are located on the same river just a few miles separate from one another.

Puna Region

Including Kea'au & Pahoa

East and south of Hilo is the  Puna district  and the funky little town of Pahoa (often called Hawai'i's outlaw town). This region is a diverse area of rain forests, lava fields, and rugged coastline.

One of the major attractions in Puna is the  Lava Tree State Park . In 1790 a lava flow passed through a forest of ohia trees, and today the molds of these trees are all that remain; it's a unique attraction to visit. In 2018, several other attractions in this region were destroyed by one of Kilauea's most recent eruptions.

Volcano Region

Including hawaii volcanoes national park, volcano village, and mountain view.

If there's one single hot-spot on the island (no pun intended) for visitors then it's definitely the Volcano area. The area, is of course, most famous for  Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park  (HVNP).

The most commonly asked question is always... "Will I get to see lava?" You might and you might not, it's really just the luck of the draw. Most of the lava traverses from Kilauea into the ocean via underground lava tubes (see  Nahuku Thurston Lava tube  for a look into an ancient tube). When surface flows do break out, you can usually get pretty close to them, safety permitting.

We honestly believe one of the biggest mistakes visitors make is that they do not devote enough time to the HVNP area. We highly encourage you to allow at least two whole days to this area, preferably starting from Hilo or another nearby town (like Volcano Village) each day.

South Coast Big Island Destinations

South Kau Region

Including Pahala, Punalu'u, South Point, and more

South Hawai'i is one of the quietest areas of the Big Island. Here you'll find no large hotels or resorts, no major golf courses, and no real push for tourism. It's wild country out here. So what makes it worth exploring? How about some unique beaches for starters.

The southern portion of the Big Island is home to two of the most unique beaches in the state,  Papakolea (Green Sand) Beach  to the northeast of  South Point , and  Punalu'u (Black Sand) Beach Park  off the Hawai'i Belt Road (Highway 11).

Central Big Island Destinations

Saddle road region guide, including mauna kea & mauna loa access.

A visit from the Hilo region to the Kona region (or Kona to Hilo) of the Big Island is a must on your visit. To do so you must drive the Saddle, a road that connects the east and west sides of the island passing between the island's two largest mountains, Mauna Loa (13,680 feet) and Mauna Kea (13,796 feet). The past few years there have been tremendous improvements to this entire area.

Today Saddle Road provides the only access to the Army Base, residential areas of Waikiki Ranch, Mauna Kea State Recreation Area, portions of Parker Ranch (mostly located in the Kohala Region), Kilohana Girl Scout Camp, Kaumana City, and Kaumana Caves County Park.

Saddle Road Region

Makalawena Beach

Big Island Travel Map Packet

Updated to include beaches map.

Updated Hawaii Island Travel Map Packet

Updated with a new high-resolution printable map of the Big Island. Includes most major attractions, all major routes, airports, and a chart with estimated driving times.

PDF packet now additionally includes a Beaches Map.

-File is a print-ready PDF document

Big Island Blog & Travel News

Timely big island headlines, events, and announcements.

Akaka Falls State Park

Big Island Top Attractions

Top 10 big island of hawaii things to do.

All of the Big Island of Hawaii is fascinating and worth a visit. However, some Big Island attractions are significantly more popular because they offer an experience that truly captures the magical essence of the state's largest island. Most Inspirational, Must-See, Top Picks, Best of the Big Island... no matter what you label them, you absolutely must witness these attractions for yourself.

Top 10 Attractions on the Big Island

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park including Kilauea Volcano
• Akaka Falls State Park - North Hamakua Coast
• Pololu Valley Overlook - North Kohala
• Pu'uhonua o Honaunau - South Kona
• Makalawena Beach - North Kona
• Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden - North Hamakua Coast
• Hapuna Beach State Park - Kohala
• Manini'owali Beach at Kua Bay - North Kona
• Waipio Valley Overlook - Kohala & North Hamakua Coast
• Kilauea Iki Trail - Volcano area

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

#1 Rated in Sights to See on the Big Island

Originally founded in 1916, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (HVNP) is a living, breathing testament to the awesome power of Mother Nature. HVNP is located 30 miles southwest of Hilo and 96 miles southeast of Kona. It's open year-round, 24 hours a day. 

HVNP is home to Kilauea Volcano, the most continuously active volcano in the world, and the park offers the unique experience of walking on land that is younger than you are. In recognition of its outstanding natural values, Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park has been honored as an International Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site.

The park encompasses 333,000 acres of natural wonders and is situated at 4,000 feet above sea level. With its wealth of trails, drives, and activities you will likely need at least two days to fully experience all the park has to offer.

#2 Rated in Sights to See on the Big Island

Akaka Falls State Park, along the northeastern Hamakua Coast, is home to two gorgeous waterfalls and an abundance of lush tropical greenery to delight visitors.

The stroll to reach Akaka Falls is almost as beautiful as the falls itself. After taking a short set of stairs, turn left and follow the paved pathway through amazing greenery and small waterfalls flowing into babbling streams.

You will hear the dull roar of the waterfall before you see it. Just as you round a corner, you'll catch a glimpse of Akaka Falls free-falling 442 ft. through a green-lined gorge.

Pololu Valley Overlook

#3 Rated in Sights to See on the Big Island

As you pass the 28-mile marker on Highway 270 past Hawi, the coast will open up and you will suddenly be treated to a breathtaking view of the lovely Pololu Valley.

On a sunny day, you will see the vibrant blue and green ocean crashing into the rugged sea cliffs and the deep green carpet of vegetation lining the sides of the valley.

A short walk to the lookout reveals the many folds and creases of the inner part of the valley which drop into a rich, green floor. Lines of ironwood trees divide the lush valley from the grainy black sand beach that meets the ocean.

Puuhonua o Honaunau Historical Park

Kailua-Kona Region

#4 rated in sights to see on the big island.

Pu'uhonua o Honaunau (poo-oo-ho-noo-ah o hoe-now-now), formerly known as Place of Refuge at Honaunau, is an incredibly beautiful and educational experience that no trip to the Big Island should be without.

After paying your vehicle entrance fee and walking past the educational displays, you round a corner and are transplanted into the world of the ancient Hawaiians. On this scorched land of sand and lava rock, the ali'i (ruling class) of Hawaii made their home. 

Visitors can explore how the Hawaiians worked and played underneath the shade of Honaunau's stately palms. Great snorkeling is available nearby at  Two Step  at Keone'ele Cove.

#1 Rated Beach on the Big Island

Like anything worthwhile, Makalawena, or Mak, Beach makes you work a little bit to enjoy it. It's about a 20-minute walk across the lava to the beach, but don't worry, the path is well worn through the a'a flow.

This secluded white sand beach is a crescent broken up by rocky lumps of lava. Palms and other trees rim the dunes near the northern end where you are greeted with picnic tables and some wild chickens.

It's not likely that you will run into many people here and thus you'll likely be able to enjoy the most scenic beach on the island in solitude.

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

#5 rated in sights to see on the big island.

This isn't a free attraction, but we still encourage all visitors to make some time and stop at one of the most beautiful botanical gardens you'll find anywhere: the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden.

This stunning rainforest preserve is touted as one of the most beautiful locations in Hawaii; a distinction it well deserves. With the aid of the map provided by the garden, you will easily spend several hours ambling through the various sections of this magical lush wonderland. Every twist and turn leads to a new plant or tree.

Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Botanical Garden

Hapuna Beach State Park

#2 Rated Beach on the Big Island

This is an extremely popular beach for both locals and visitors. Conde Nast Traveler magazine has often ranked it as one of the top beaches in the US. It is hard to argue with this half-mile stretch of pristine golden sand and crystal blue water.

There are several covered pavilions to enjoy an afternoon picnic and restrooms, albeit rather pitiful ones, are available. There is occasionally a lifeguard on duty...despite the "no lifeguard on duty" sign.

Don't expect a lot of shade on this beach. Consequently, the golden sand heats to an unbearable temperature on a sunny day. During the summer months, the sand reaches 200 feet wide, so unless you want steaming toes wear sandals or water shoes. In the summer, the water is generally calm, but in the winter the surf can be treacherous. Be sure to monitor conditions carefully before entering. For snorkelers, the south end of the beach provides a variety of fish and coral.

Manini'owali Beach at Kua Bay

#3 rated beach on the big island.

Kua Bay, also called Manini'owali Beach, is a lovely little pocket of sand that used to be very difficult to access, but since a multi-million dollar road has been paved right through the lava- it's a snap to enjoy this Big Island gem.

Kua Bay beach has full facilities including restrooms and showers, water, barbecues and picnic tables. It is very popular on the weekends, not to mention parking can be a nightmare, so you might want to aim for the weekdays.

When the water is calm, swimming is great here - some of the best in Kona. However, if the waves are going strong and the surf is up, stay out because it can be extremely dangerous.

Manini'owali Beach in Kua Bay

Waipio Valley Overlook

Kohala & north hamakua region, #6 rated in sights to see on the big island.

Located along the Hamakua Coast on the northeastern coast of the Big Island of Hawai'i, Waipi'o Valley is the largest and southernmost of the seven valleys on the windward side of the Kohala Mountains.

Time and nature's elements have carved an unimaginably massive valley filled with deep green-encrusted cliffs cut by plunging waterfalls. Its floor is carpeted with forests and neatly formed taro patches interspersed with the homes of its few residents.

At the mouth of the valley, the ocean licks the mile-long black sand beach which is sliced in half by the river that is partially fed by the 1,200 ft. free-falling  Hi'ilawe Falls  which resides deep in the valley.

Waipio Valley

Kilauea Iki Trail

#1 Rated Hike on the Big Island

As you stand at the  Kilauea Iki overlook inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you can see a lightly-etched trail stretching across the crater floor. From your 400 ft high vantage point you might be able to see little specks walking the path: those are people!

Kilauea Iki is an approximately four-mile loop that takes 2-3 hours. It skirts the rim of the crater, dips down and across the floor and back up to the overlook. The portion of Crater Rim Trail that runs along the rim is a dense high-elevation jungle populated with flowering ohia trees and graceful ferns.

Awini Trail beyond Pololu Valley

Big Island of Hawaii Itinerary Suggestions

Orchid island itineraries.

The  Big Island  garnered its name from being the largest island in Hawaii. It has vast and transparent blue waters, spectacular beaches, hidden natural reserves, and an abundance of regions to travel to. If you are seeking trails to explore or sights to see in a day, three days, or however long you anticipate, the Big Island has ample amounts of activities. 

Ultimately, we've designed our itineraries around a set number of on-island days: offering  one ,  two ,  three ,  four ,  five ,  six ,  seven , and in now,  ten days  for exploring the island, soaking in the best sights, and ensuring your precious time on the island is utilized wisely. We've tried to balance our itineraries between those who seek adventure and those who are looking to find a good beach and relax. Overall, we want your experience to be exactly what you've dreamed of when planning your Big Island of Hawaii trip.

For each island we've attempted to split up the itinerary days by sorting attractions according to their geographic proximity; i.e; on Volcanoes National Park day, you'd explore the best of the Big Island's HVNP attractions, and activities. Our itineraries are not meant to necessarily be followed consecutively, which would probably be exhausting, but instead as a  grab-and-go resource  for 'mapping' your trip - think of us as a  Wayfinder's guide to the Big Island of Hawaii .

For nearly 20 years now, we've been visiting the Big Island and making detailed notes about what the island's highlights are and what visitors like yourself simply must-see based on the limited time you've allocated for each Hawaiian Island.

It isn't easy and can even be overwhelming to start planning a trip to Hawaii. One quick look on our website, and you'll soon discover there are hundreds of possibilities; a variety of sights to see, a plethora of beautiful beaches to choose from, and a diverse set of incredible trails that criss-cross each of the islands. Honestly, you could spend months on the island and not see and do it all. Having a reliable guide, that's key. We'd genuinely love to be your guide to the Big Island of Hawaii during your stay, and we hope you find our itineraries resourceful while planning your trip.

View Our Big Island Itineraries

Big island tours & activities, popular tours & activities on hawaii island.

For many visitors, a Big Island of Hawaii tour may be the perfect way to experience parts of the island that you'd never get to see.  We've hand-selected these top-4 Big Island tours  below due to their popularity and high ratings with visitors like yourself!

Morning Kealakekua Snorkel Tour

Starting at $159/person

The tour begins in Keauhou Bay, where Hawaii’s longest-reigning monarch King Kamehameha III was born, and the tour provider, Fair Wind, will share with you stories of old Hawai’i as they travel towards Kealakekua Bay .

Learn about the last battle stand at the Kuamo’o Battlefield and view the Royal Holua Slide, the best and largest of its kind in the state!

Inside of Kealakekua Bay, the Captain Cook Monument stands tall as a way to commemorate the site in which the celebrated circumnavigator, Captain James Cook, perished in 1779.

Guests are served a light, plant-based tropical breakfast with a fresh island fruit bowl, traditional muesli, homemade banana bread, herbal tea, and 100% Kona Coffee grown on the Fair Wind family farm. 

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour

Starting at $129/person

Join Fair Wind aboard their Hula Kai vessel, for one of the most exhilarating experiences in Hawaii, Kona’s First-Class Manta Adventure! Mantas are very gentle – no teeth, stingers, or barbs.

They are simply big and beautiful with wingspans that can exceed 15-feet in width!  These “Gentle Giants” visit us nightly to feed on the plankton attracted by Hula Kai’s bright lighting.

Enjoy a short and comfortable five-minute boat ride to Manta Village – located near the Sheraton Keauhou. Once at the site, just after sunset, Fair Wind's professional guides will assist you in the water for an experience of a lifetime! You will witness the mantas up close as they grace the waters and feed on plankton.

Big Island Experience Helicopter Tour

Starting at $629.00/person

See Kilauea & More on Our Big Island Helicopter Tour

The full island VIP adventure tour is for those who want it all! All of our Big Island helicopter tours rolled into one, plus an active volcano!

Helicopter Tour Highlights:

• Fly over the most active volcano in the world, Kilauea, which has been continuously flowing for over 30 years and inspires awe every day.
• While on the east side of the island, you are treated to views of Hawai’i Island’s largest city, Hilo.
• Your private journey continues along the Hamakua Coastline with wave-swept shorelines, tropical rainforests, and hundreds of waterfalls.
• Upon reaching the Kohala Coast, several majestic and sacred valleys exist to explore.
• Deep in the back of the valleys, where only helicopters can reach, are over 2000-foot waterfalls that you can hover right next to as you gaze at their power and beauty.
• Crossing over Kohala Mountain, you cruise over the Gold Coast.

Mauna Kea Summit & Stars Adventure

Starting at $255/person

Our journey from sea level to the nearly 14,000-foot summit of Maunakea reveals the wonders and world-class clarity of the Hawaiian night sky.

Maunakea Summit & Stars Highlights:

• Enjoy a warm picnic dinner and learn about Hawaiian star navigation.
• Learn about the historical accounts of early travelers through the mountain regions
• Delight in the awe-inspiring Hawaiian sunset at the top of Maunakea, the highest point in the Pacific
• Descend to a lower elevation after the sun sets and sip hot chocolate during a private star show with our 11” Celestron telescope

Best Beaches on the Big Island

Big island beach guide.

The Big Island offers up not only some of the loveliest beaches in the state but also some of the most varied. Though the Big Island may be the newest island in the chain and has the fewest major beaches, the island still has some of the best beaches in the world.

Here you'll find everything from enchanting green sand and black sand beaches, family-friendly beach spots, and rugged and remote beaches for the adventurous types.

In our Big Island Beaches Guide , we'll go over the top 10 beaches on the Big Island, and also include links where you can explore every beach on the island by region.

Big Island Beaches

Best Things to See on the Big Island

To say the Big Island is bursting with some of the best and most popular sights and attractions in Hawaii is certainly an understatement.

Tour otherworldly volcanic landscapes; marvel at the beautiful waterfalls, lovely parks, and botanical gardens; or stop by the museums and cultural centers.

You can even commune with the stars on the world's tallest mountain (measuring from the seafloor to summit).  In our Big Island Things to See Guide , we'll show you the best landmarks and natural wonders the Big island has to offer, starting with our top 10.

Things to See on the Big Island

Best Hikes on the Big Island

Big island hiking trails guide.

Green sand beaches, gardens, rainforests, waterfalls, volcanoes, petroglyphs- this and so much more awaits you on the Big Island's incredible trails. 

The Big Island has some of the best hiking trails in all of Hawaii; whether you're a hard-core trekker or just want to stroll and admire the scenery.

Included in our Big Island Hiking Guide are a few of our favorite Big Island excursions, sorted by the top hikes and additionally by region, to get you started. 

Big Island Hikes

Big Island Visitor Information

Travel tips for hawaii's big island.

The Big Island of Hawaii is the third most popular Hawaiian island among visitors, hosting over 1.5 to 1.7 million travelers annually . Often called the "Big Island" to help distinguish it from the 1,500-mile-long archipelago with which it shares its name, Hawaii, the Big Island has certainly earned its nickname.

Sitting in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the landmass of the Big Island is approximately the same size as the state of Connecticut, about 4,050 sq. miles, and still growing regularly thanks to Kilauea Volcano on the eastern coast of the island.

Composed of five major volcanoes, the island is the youngest in the Hawaiian chain with origins dating back some 800,000 years to the present day.

Popular Big Island Travel Articles

Big island of hawaii vacation guide, explore hawaii's big island by topic.

Often called the "Big Island" (or "Big I") to help distinguish it from the 1,500-mile-long archipelago with which it shares its name- Hawaii- the Big Island has undoubtedly earned its moniker. The Big Island offers visitors an incredible, diverse, and expansive variety of things to both see and do.

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14 Ancient Ruins In Hawaii That Are As Beautiful As Its Beaches

H awaii is not just a sun-kissed destination with an abundance of opulent beaches and photo-worthy nature scapes - there are also ruins in Hawaii. There are plenty of beautiful beaches to visit in Hawaii , alluring beach-seeking tourists with its turquoise waters and soft, powdery sands. Vacationing tourists flock to Hawaii, often to the Honolulu jewel of Waikiki Beach or to rent a car to venture along the Road to Hana.

Though there are tons of things to appreciate and enjoy in Hawaii's top attractions, visitors often overlook the state's medley of ruins, which highlight Hawaiian culture and the islands' unique histories. Travelers vacationing in the Aloha State can plan their itinerary to visit (or learn more about) some of these ruins in Hawaii, which are just as beautiful as their world-acclaimed beaches. Here are some of the most significant ruins in Hawaii.

UPDATE: 2023/06/02 20:02 EST BY AARON SPRAY

More Great Hawaii Ruins To Discover

Hawaii was one of the last significant places to be inhabited (around 1500 years ago), and over that time it has had a rich history and seen impressive kingdoms. Today there are a number of ruins to discover around the Hawaii islands and many are open to the public. This list was updated and expanded with more great Hawaii ruins to see.

Ahu'ena Heiau

The Ahu'ena Heiau is a temple that served Kamehameha the Great in 1812 and serves multiple purposes (including a site dedicated to the Hawaiian god, Lono). This heiau is on the register of the US National Historic Landmarks. It is regarded as the most significant site in Hawaii's history, as it served as the venue for several events (one of which was King Kamehameha I's death in 1819).

Getting To Ahu'ena Heiau

Curious travelers can find Ahu'ena Heiau in Kailua-Kona Big Island, specifically on the grounds of the Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, next to their Luau Grounds. The landmark is still in use but can only be viewable (not accessible) to the public . Guests staying at the Kona Beach Hotel can also view historical artifacts and artwork at their Hawaiian History Display.

The Kaniakapupu Ruins

These ruins sit in the Nu'uanu Valley, towards Pali Lookout, on the island of Oahu, the Gathering Place . Built on the crown lands known as Luakaha (which roughly translates to "place of relaxation"), the Kaniakapupu Ruins are remnants of King Kamehameha III's and Queen Kamala's summer home, functioning as an escape from the tropical heat (and Western influences). Completed in 1845 , the property served as an entertainment venue for foreigners and a feasting area for chiefs and commoners alike. Famous events that occurred within the walls of the ruins, including the 1847 luau to celebrate Hawaiian Restoration Day (which was said to be attended by 10,000 guests)!

Currently, Kaniakapupu Ruins is NOT open to the public, and it rests on private land. It was closed to protect the site from future vandals and damage. Entrance to the site is only permitted with a permit by the Division of Forestry and Wildlife.

Alekoko Fishpond

Legends claim that the Menehune people built the Alekoko Fishpond in a single night! This ancient site was built about 1,000 years ago and sits in Nāwiliwili, near Līhu'e and the Hulē'ia National Wildlife Refuge on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. Set on a bend in the Hulē'ia River, this ancient fishpond is far from an ordinary body of water, and is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.

The Alekoko Fishpond is a fine example of ancient (and sustainable) aquaculture in Hawaii built by the Menehune. These human-made ponds would create a dam across a part of the Huleia River, which trapped fish that were caught to feed the Hawaiian royalty. The Alekoko Fishpond also functioned as a nursery for other seafood and seaweed. To build this landmark, large stones were used to create a wall that spanned 900 feet across (and five feet high ).

The Alekoko Fishpond sits on private land but is still visible via an overlook located on Hulemalu Road.

RELATED: Snorkeling Paradise: Discovering The Vibrant Marine Life Of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Kualoa Sugar Mill

The Kualoa Sugar Mill (or what's left of it) stands quietly along the Kamehameha Highway, south to the town of Kaawaa, on the island of Oahu. The Kualoa Sugar Mill was the first of its kind to be built in Oahu, constructed between 1863 and 1865 by Charles Hastings Judd and Samuel G. Wilder . The Kualoa Sugar Mill seemed like a prosperous enterprise. Its construction was made possible from imported steam-powered machinery, which created a towering brick chimney that stood out against the Kualoa countryside.

Unfortunately, the sugar mill was only in business for eight years. In reality, sugar-cane farming was unprofitable in the area, and the mill also faced other obstacles related to labor, transportation, and infrequent rainfall. It was also infamous for a tragic accident whereby Samuel Wilder's nine-year-old son fell into a vat of boiling sugar and died. The Kualoa Sugar Mill finally closed its doors in 1871 , leaving behind remains of a short-lived venture.

Kanahā Pond Wildlife Sanctuary

The Kanahā Pond Wildlife Sanctuary is a place to witness the native habitat in the heart of downtown Kahului. This sanctuary is home to over 100 plants , invertebrates, and 86 bird species, some considered endangered. It's also worth a visit, given that it's the last of Hawaii's brackish-water wetland ecosystems. A central pond in the sanctuary was said to be built around the 1700s by Kapi'oho'okalani, the King of Maui. Back then, the area bore two ponds intended as a fish nursery to feed the people. Alternatively, some believe the pond was constructed in the 1500s by Chief Kihapiilani .

Getting To The Kanahā Pond Wildlife Sanctuary

Maui is known for must-see sights along the Hana Highway , but this wildlife haven is also worth seeing. Specifically, the sanctuary is ideal for those interested in witnessing Hawaii's native birds in action, including the Hawaiian stilt and the Hawaiian coot. The sanctuary has an observation deck for year-round access to the pond's southwest area (with a parking lot) of the Haleakala Highway to see these majestic birds. Don't forget to bring binoculars!

Kaneana Cave

Also known as the Makua Cave, the Kaneana Cave sits three miles from the Mākaha community in Oahu, along the Farrington Highway. Meaning the "Cave of Kane," there is some mystery surrounding the nature of the cave. One legend claims that the cave was home to Kamahoali'i, the Hawaiian shark god that could transform between being a human and a shark (or any other fish). It's also said that the shark god lured human victims into the cave to their demise (the god had a particular penchant for human flesh). The Kaneana Cave is also known for being ancient and is said to be about 150,000 years old! It also gives visitors a glimpse into the life of the ancient Hawaiian community.

Travelers should enter the cave at their own risk; it is not maintained and is dark and slippery. Be prepared by wearing the proper shoes and having a flashlight handy. As the site (and the surrounding area) is sacred, avoid disturbing the surroundings and the cave in any way.

RELATED: Best Hawaiian Islands To Visit For First Timers

Poli'ahu Heiau

Situated in East Kauai within Wailua River State Park and across the road to the Opaeka'a Falls lookout point, Poli'ahu Heiau is one of the seven heiau (a place of worship) present along Kauai's Wailua River . This water body is sacred to Hawaii. Specifically, the Poli'ahu Herisau is a temple dedicated to KÅ«, the god of war. It's hard to pinpoint when this heiau was constructed, but it's speculated that this sacred place was constructed by the ancient Menehune people, and was used between the 1600s to 1700s (or possibly earlier). Here, visitors will encounter walls that measure five feet high (and five feet wide), with some evidence of craftsmanship.

As with any heiau, while visiting Poli'ahu Heiau, please avoid disturbing, moving, or sitting on the rocks at this sacred site.

Hale O Lono Heiau

Hale O Lono Heiau can be found in Waimea Valley on the North Shore of Oahu. Considered the Largest Historical Site in Oahu, this heiau is dedicated to Lono, the Hawaiian God of agriculture, fertility, peace, rainfall, and music (hence its name, which translates to "House of Lono"). Speculation that Hale O Lono Heiau was built around 1470 . Occasionally, offerings of fish and other items were placed in the heiau to ensure a year full of harvest for agriculture and fishing. The heiau is still used today by those who worship Lono.

RELATED: 10 Reasons Oahu Should Be Your Next Hawaiian Destination

Hauola City Of Refuge

The Hauloa City of Refuge is found in the mouth of the Wailua River, beside the Hikinaakala Heiau (adjacent to the Lydgate Beach State Park) in Kauai. This site was a pu'uhonua (or "place of refuge") during ancient Hawaiian times. Rule breakers who defied a kapu (or taboo) could escape a sentence punishable by death if they ventured to the Hauloa City of Refuge. The site also functioned as a haven during times of war. The site is highlighted with mounds of stones and a collection of trees.

Olowalu Petroglyphs

Also known as Pu'u Kilea, the Olowalu Petroglyphs can be found in Lahaina in West Maui. These petroglyphs include images of animals, humans, and boats etched into the basalt cliffs of Olowalu, depicting the lives of early Hawaiians. It's speculated that some of these rock carvings have been around for more than 300 years . In the 1960s, the Lahaina Restoration Foundation constructed a wooden stairway and viewing platform to see the petroglyphs. However, these structures are no longer accessible due to vandalism.

Preserved Human Footprints In The Kaʻū Desert

The Kaʻū Desert is sometimes claimed to be the only desert in Hawaii. Here, visitors can see ancient Native Hawaiian footprints that have been preserved in volcanic ash. The footprints are part of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and likely date from between the 15th and the 18th centuries. The footprints are a very vivid glimpse into the lives of real people who walked these lands long ago.

Kūkaniloko Birth Site

The KÅ«kaniloko Birth Site is one of the most important ancient cultural sites found today on the island of O'ahu (it is also called the KÅ«kaniloko Birthstones State Monument). The site protects 5 acres of land, and it is important for being the location for some of Hawaii's royal births. It is the most powerful birth site for the historical high chiefs of the island.

Lapakahi State Historical Park

The Lapakahi State Historical Park protects the ruins of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village that has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973. This is a great place to visit and learn about the traditional Hawaiian culture of the island. Visitors can also see a few partially restored remains so that people can get a better understanding of ancient Hawaiian coastal settlements.

Kohala Historical Sites State Monument

The Kohala Historical Sites State Monument is located on the Island of Hawaii and boasts the site of Mo'okini Heiau. Mo'okini Heiau is known as one of the oldest historical sites in the islands of Hawaii, and it is regarded as one of the most sacred sites to the Native Hawaiians. The site is perhaps up to a thousand years (or maybe even more) years old. The current site has an open stone-paved court enclosed by large 20-foot stone walls.

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20 Best Things to Do on Oahu, According to Locals

These are some of the best ways to enjoy Oahu’s beauty and cultural heritage while being mindful, respectful, and sustainable.

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Oahu’s beauty is legendary — from the famed Waikiki Beach in Honolulu and surf spots on the North Shore to the lush Manoa Valley and the island’s two mountain ranges, the Waianae and the Koolau. Given its diverse natural beauty, as well as its variety of cultural attractions, historical sights, and outdoor activities, it draws tourists from all over the world. This also means Oahu, like many other Hawaiian islands, has experienced an influx of over-tourism, particularly since COVID-19 restrictions were removed. While tourism continues to be one of the largest industries on Oahu (and Hawaii as a whole), travelers must be aware of their impact on both the environment as well as the people who call this exquisite place home. 

“Coming to Hawaii with a mindset of giving versus receiving is a great start,” says Kealoha Domingo, chef and owner of Nui Kealoha, Kupaʻāina . “Know that although we are often dependent on visitor industry dollars, negative impacts and irresponsibility with what our ʻāina (land) has been gracious enough to provide often cannot be reversed. Please come to Hawaii to become an active part of the circular ecology, not as a mere consumer.” 

According to Zita Cup Choy, the palace historian at ʻIolani Palace , this means travelers should take a multi-faceted approach to their visit. Along with “following designated paths, properly disposing of waste, and opting for eco-friendly transportation,” she recommends “engaging respectfully with locals, learning about their traditions, leaving natural areas undisturbed, and supporting conservation efforts.” One of the most straightforward ways to ensure you’re embracing both sustainable and respectful travel practices in Oahu is to support local businesses. “Choosing locally-owned accommodations, dining at neighborhood eateries, and shopping from Indigenous artisans or farmers markets not only offer an authentic experience but also boost the island's economy, ensuring a more sustainable future for Oahu's residents,” she explains.  

Interested in planning a trip to the third largest of the Hawaiian islands? Read on to discover some of the best things to do on Oahu — all of which come recommended by locals and help preserve the island’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. 

Support local artisans and creators.

Laura La Monaca/Travel + Leisure

For Debbie Alipio, artist and owner of Makuahine Vintage , supporting organizations and pop-ups that feature “some of the best Native Hawaiian artisans” is one of the most important things travelers can do while on Oahu. “ Ho’omau Hawaii Market is an exclusive market specifically designed to showcase the best of the best of our Kanaka Maoli makers and artisans,” she says. Aloha Home Market in Kailua, Mālama Hawaii Makers Markets , and Sunshine People Market at SALT at Our Kaka’ako are also great options.

Related : Here’s Where to Find the Best Handmade Crafts on Oahu, From Jewelry to Ukuleles to Panama Hats

Visit ʻIolani Palace.

To “learn the true history of Hawaiʻi and understand what the people of Hawaii have endured,” says Domingo, head to ‘Iolani Palace in Honolulu. A crucial part of Hawaiian history, the Palace was the official royal residence for the last reigning monarchs of Hawaii. “Exploring the Palace allows visitors to step back in time and witness the grandeur and significance of Hawaiʻi’s monarchy. The architecture, cultural resources, and stories within the Palace walls provide a glimpse into our islands’ royal past, offering invaluable insights into our cultural heritage,” explains Choy.  

Learn about traditional Hawaiian aquaculture practices at Paepae ʻO Heʻeia Fishpond.

Heʻeia Fishpond is an ancient Hawaiian fishpond and “a living example of how the early Hawaiians ingeniously managed their resources,” says Choy. One-hour walking tours are offered, and you can also reach out to the organization if you’re interested in a volunteering shift . “Visiting Paepae ‘O He’eia Fishpond allows guests to not only appreciate the beauty of the environment but also to learn about the importance of preserving these cultural practices and the interconnectedness of the land and sea in Hawaiian culture,” she adds.  

Take plenty of photos — and tag responsibly on social media.

There’s certainly no harm in capturing Oahu’s gorgeous sunsets and unforgettable memories on your phone or camera, but Domingo recommends keeping some spots private. “I personally have witnessed beaches that were once quiet and secluded become overrun with visitors, photographers, and flocks of people following the latest Instagram trends,” he says. “If you are lucky enough to find a beautiful secluded spot, let's keep it that way. Please do not geotag it.”

Related: 15 Best Hikes on Oahu

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Waiola Shave Ice.

In between visiting Oahu’s many historical, cultural, and natural sights, make sure to try the flavors of the islands. One of your first stops should be Waiola Shave Ice . “It's not just about the shave ice itself but the tradition and authenticity behind it. It's a local favorite that adds a sweet touch to the visit, showcasing the island's culinary delights,” explains Choy.

Try poi, a traditional Hawaiian staple food.

Eric Broder Van Dyke/Getty Images

Domingo describes poi as “a minimally processed taro dish made of pounded (or milled) steamed taro.” While it can be an acquired taste, he says, try not to waste it. “Traditional Hawaiians consider taro sacred, and in the cosmology of Hawaiian people, it is considered to be our ancestor. We treat taro and poi with great respect.” He says you can find it in local supermarkets and farmers markets — or dine at Waiahole Poi Factory , which both he and Alipio recommend.

Learn about the island’s diverse immigrant history at Hawaiiʻs Plantation Village.

Located in historic Waipahu town, Hawaiiʻs Plantation Village encompasses a living history museum and botanical garden. Choy explains that the museum “showcases the different cultures that contributed to the islands’ development” — including Hawaiian, Chinese, Portuguese, Japanese, Filipino, Okinawan, Korean, and Puerto Rican — and offers “a comprehensive view of the varied lifestyles, traditions, and challenges faced by these communities.” She also says Hawaiiʻs Plantation Village is a destination where visitors can “honor the resilience and contributions of these cultures to Hawaii's heritage.”

Sign up for a pāpale-weaving workshop.

PercyAlban/Getty Images

For travelers who enjoy working with their hands, Alipio recommends a pāpale-weaving workshop with CocoKealohi . All materials are provided, and participants get to make their own open-top pāpale lau niu (coconut frond hat).

Plan your trip around locally-owned restaurants and eateries.

If you enjoy delicious food, Oahu is a wonderful place to be — so open up your Google Maps app and start to plot out some of these local-recommended destinations. Alipio’s must-try places include Kalo Bombs and Tanioka’s Seafood & Catering ; Domingo also has a long list of favorites — The Pig and The Lady , Fête , ʻIliʻIli Cash and Carry , Nami Kaze , and Helena’s Hawaiian Food , among them.

Volunteer for one of the Aloha ʻĀina organizations.

Experience and education go hand in hand, and volunteering while on Oahu is the perfect way to accomplish both. “Like many of us in Hawaiʻi have been taught,” says Domingo, “leave a place better than when you got there.” Consider Papahana Kuaola or Kākoʻo ʻŌiwi — or he, says, “If you’re not able, consider sending a donation to support the work.”

Related : Oahu Is Home to a Jaw-dropping Volcanic Crater, Luxury Hotels, and Some of the World's Most Famous Surf Beaches

Schedule a group lei-making session.

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“For me, a goal would be to provide our visitors with meaningful cultural opportunities to better understand the native people, gain awareness of some of the challenges we face, and offer an opportunity to immerse themselves in cultural activities,” says Alipio. One of the activities she suggests is making a lei with Haku Lei Haleiwa .

Book a surfing lesson.

Surfing originated in the area now known as Polynesia, but it took off after Polynesians introduced it to Hawaiians. Instead of trying out the sport for the first time solo, opt to take a class with a Hawaiian-owned company, like Kalani Surf School . A trained instructor will keep you, and those around you, safe and protected.

Explore Washington Place.

“As the former home of Queen Liliʻuokalani and later a residence for governors of Hawaiʻi, Washington Place holds significant historical and cultural importance,” says Choy. She describes it as “a window into the personal life of Queen Liliʻuokalani and the political climate during her time,” and a way visitors can get a “closer look at Hawaii's political history and the pivotal moments that shaped the islands’ future.”

Pick up local produce at a farmers market.

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While you’re exploring the island, there’s a good chance you’ll pass a farmers market. According to the Hawaii Farm Bureau , it’s a good idea to carry cash in small denominations, a shopping basket or bag, and decent walking shoes. “This would be a great way to support local farmers and try some locally produced foods and, of course, some amazing fresh local fruits and vegetables,” says Domingo. 

Spend the day on the beach.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

With 112 miles of coastline, Oahu has many gorgeous beaches to visit. Before you head out for the day, though, do your research — and keep an eye out for any signage that may alter your plans. “Please know that there are places that are just not designed for visitors. If a trail is marked as off-limits, do not go there. If a beach has warning tape up to keep marine life isolated, please do not cross it,” advises Domingo.

Related : 12 Best Beaches on Oahu With Stunning Views and Epic Waves

Find a moment of peace in the Foster Botanical Gardens.

Foster Garden is Honolulu’s oldest botanical garden — and Choy describes it as a “tranquil oasis” in the middle of the city. “It showcases an incredible array of tropical plants, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature, appreciate biodiversity, and learn about conservation efforts while enjoying a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle,” she says. Along with a map, visitors will receive a self-guided tour upon entry.

Embark on a scenic drive, but do so respectfully.

If you’re driving, you can see many of Oahu’s most popular (and most beautiful) spots in just one day. Remember, though, you’re not the only one on the road. “We are often on many of Hawaiiʻs two-laned highways driving at 20 miles an hour behind a curious visitor enjoying the beauty of our islands. Please pull over and let us get to our jobs and lives,” reminds Domingo. 

View the exhibitions at the Bishop Museum.

Within the historic Kalihi district of Honolulu, you’ll find the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, often shortened to the Bishop Museum . Here, Domingo says, you’ll “learn about true Hawaiian, Polynesian, and Pacific Island history.” It’s open daily, and you can view the current exhibits and programs online . 

Attend a local festival.

“Participating in authentic experiences, like attending local festivals or visiting community-run initiatives, allows visitors to engage with the island’s diverse cultures,” says Choy. Depending on when your trip is scheduled, you may be able to witness the Honolulu Festival in March, the King Kamehameha Floral Parade in June, or the Prince Lot Hula Festival in July.

Related : The Ultimate Hawaii Packing List

Follow the golden rule.

Finally, Domingo shares the Hawaiian phrase, “Aloha ke kahi i ke kahi,” as a general rule of thumb when visiting Oahu. It translates to “the call to love one another,” or he says, “Treat as you would like to be treated.”

• Travel Updates

Tourists blamed for ruining major attraction in Hawaii

Tourists have been blamed for destroying an iconic attraction in Hawaii with the site now being demolished as a result of trespassing.

‘Cancer consuming’ this popular island

Tsunami alert as massive volcano erupts

Wild scenes after deadly floods hit Dubai

Hikers in Hawaii will have to find a new way to reach the Heavens.

The legendary Haiku Staircase on Oahu, Hawaii will finally be demolished after tourists continued to trespass on the legendary landmark despite repeated warnings, the New York Post reports.

According to the Honolulu City Government, the iconic site will be torn down by the end of this month, making good on a motion that the city unanimously voted on in 2021.

“I can promise you that this was not a capricious decision,” Mayor Rick Blangiardi said in a press release . “This was a decision, when we came into office, that was long overdue.”

Often dubbed the “Stairway to Heaven,” the Haiku Staircase comprises a treacherously steep series of 3,922 steps that winds along a mountain range in Kaneohe, making hikers feel like they’re in the clouds.

Built during World War II by the US Navy, the landmark was shuttered in 1987 due to vandalism and littering. Any trespassers are currently liable for a $US1000 ($1550) fine.

Despite the financial deterrent and the dangerous terrain, daredevils, sightseers and social media content creators continued to ascend the stairs.

In 2021, Hawaiian TikTokker Camille Leihulu posted a video chastising a travel TikToker, named Sofia McMillan who filmed herself allegedly accessing the feature.

Council members claimed that the rampant trespassing made the Haiku Stairs an expensive and dangerous liability, and also encroached upon the local communities, among other factors, per the release.

“This decision that was made was predicated upon our respect for the people who live in and around the entrance to the stairs, our respect for our ʻāina [land and sea], and our respect for both the future and the past history of the culture of the Haʻikū community,” declared Mayor Blangiardi.

The demolition will reportedly take at least half a year and cost $US2.5 million ($3.9 million), the mayor’s office reported.

More Coverage

In the interim, it’s best that people steer clear of the staircase.

“While the actual removal of stairway modules will not begin until later this month, the modules are being prepared for removal and present an immediate safety threat for anyone trespassing along the trail,” officials warned in the release.

This article originally appeared on the New York Post and was reproduced with permission

It’s the idyllic string of islands that’s drawing millions of tourists each and every year. But a sinister trend is pushing the region to “breaking point”.

A tsunami alert has been issued after a volcano erupted several times in Indonesia, with more than 11,000 people forced to evacuate.

The Gulf, including Dubai, has seen its worst rain for 75 years with 150 per cent of the annual rain falling in a day leading to at least 20 deaths.

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Hawaii forced to remove historic attraction due to influencers

Tresspassing by hikers taking photos at iconic site has forced authorities to start dismantling the haiku stairs from mountain ridge, article bookmarked.

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Honolulu authorities have announced that they will finally start a $2.5m project to remove the historic Haiku Stairs, saying the misbehaviour of hikers and influencers has forced them to strip them off the mountainside.

The Haiku Stairs in Hawaii , often called the ‘Stairway to Heaven’, are made up of 3,922 steps across the ridgeline of the Koolau Mountains and have been an iconic, picturesque part of O’ahu’s heritage .

However, years of disturbance and disruption from trespassers – many are hikers who see the closed site as a tourist destination and have turned it into a social media photo hotspot – have led to the stairs’ removal from the mountain , in what was not at all a “capricious decision” by the council, Honolulu mayor Rick Blangiardi said.

The City and County of Honolulu announced that preparatory work has officially begun ahead of the removal of 600 stair modules on the Haiku Stairs later this month, the city said in a statement on 10 April.

Built by the US military during the Second World War for access to their communications facilities, the stairs have been closed to the public for almost 40 years.

But this has not stopped illegal trespassers from finding their way onto the stairs, and disturbing residents who live in the area, ever since the attraction was shut down in 1987 for liability and vandalism reasons.

On the morning that work began, the project workers attended a ho‘omaikai‘i (blessing) ceremony to bless the workers undertaking “this important project,” the city wrote.

The stairs, starting at 400 feet in Haiku Valley and reaching its highest elevation of 2,820 feet in the Koolau Mountains, are being removed as a matter of public safety, city officials said, seeking to stop regular trespassers from traversing the site.

The authorities warned that anyone who ignores the ‘No Trespassing’ signs now that the removal work has started, should know that the site is considered extremely dangerous, and anyone who does decide to wander on the trail will put their safety immediately at threat.

The removal of the stairs has been a long and continuous debate between officials and residents for years, with the decision finally put in place after much deliberation and discussion with the community and the Honolulu City Council.

It has been over two years since the council voted unanimously to strip the stairs from the mountainside in the hopes that while it preserves public safety and the peace of neighbouring people, it will also help the natural beauty and condition of the area.

“This was a decision, when we came into office, that was long overdue. Over the course of many months, in meeting with the people involved and the discovery that we put into it, I can promise you that this was not a capricious decision,” Mayor Blangiardi said during Wednesday’s announcement, the city’s statement said.

Mr Blangiardi added that the decision also to affirm their respect “for the people who live in and around the entrance to the stairs, our respect for our ʻāina [land and sea], and our respect for both the future and the past history of the culture of the Haʻikū community.”

City officials said the project will be undertaken by The Nakoa Comapines Inc, which will start by removing the ageing, narrow metal stair structure.

The workers will collaborate with a biologist, who will evaluate each section of the stairs before and after removal to make sure native species are protected and to prevent any erosion.

After removal, the company will also re-vegetate the impacted areas with native plants, thus “honouring the historical significance of the site”.

The project is predicted to take at least six months to complete, using over $2.5m in funds.

Not everyone is on board with the project. Friends of Haiku Stairs, a community organisation fighting to preserve the site, filed a complaint last year against the dismantling of the stairs, according to Hawaii News Now .

In a statement to the outlet, the organisation said demolishing the stairs is “a senseless waste of taxpayer money and an act of vandalism”.

“The city should heed the majority of Oahu residents, and Haiku Valley residents, who want to save the stairs, not destroy them,” they added.

Honolulu City Council Vice Chair Esther Kiaaina has acknowledged that there will be many people who feel “we are taking away something from them”.

“This is a man-made contraption on a natural valley. And as far as I’m concerned, ensuring that there is no further liability on behalf of the city, providing for public safety, restoring the valley and, providing... a natural setting so that people could remember what Haiku Valley was,” Ms Kiaana said at a conference after the announcement.

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Inside the Late-Night Parties Where Hawaii Politicians Raked In Money

After the state passed a law barring government contractors from donating to politicians, fund-raising parties showed just how completely the reform effort failed.

By Blaze Lovell ,  Eric Sagara and Irene Casado Sanchez

The reporters examined campaign contributions and government contracts for this article, part of a series about loopholes in Hawaii’s pay-to-play laws, for The Times’s Local Investigations Fellowship .

For the better part of a decade, some of Hawaii’s most powerful people huddled together at late-night parties in a cramped second-floor office where lobbyists and executives seeking government contracts lined up to drop cash and checks into a metal lockbox.

That was the entry fee for these extraordinary political fund-raisers. Inside the office, just a short walk from the State Capitol in downtown Honolulu, dozens of guests were served sushi prepared by professional chefs and unlimited beer and liquor.

At the end of the night, Wesley Yonamine, the host and a high-ranking airport official, would, together with the politicians, pop open the box and dole out campaign contributions according to a list of pledges obtained before each event.

As described by attendees, a typical party could bring in thousands of dollars in donations, giving some elected officials almost half their annual campaign haul in a single night.

It was not supposed to work this way. In 2005, in response to a series of scandals, Hawaii passed a law that barred government contractors from giving money to politicians. It was billed as one of the nation’s most ambitious efforts to end pay-to-play in contracting and designed to fundamentally change the political culture of a state steeped in corruption.

But legislators wrote a loophole into the law, effectively gutting it: The ban would apply only to donations from the actual corporate entities that got contracts, but not to their owners, employees or any related businesses.

Mr. Yonamine’s parties illustrated just how completely the reform effort failed.

Today, Hawaii is reeling from its latest government corruption scandal, with state officials accused of taking bribes from Milton Choy, a prominent businessman who wore a wire for at least a year as part of a deal with the federal government.

But that is just one glimpse of the role money plays in politics here.

An examination of Hawaii’s contracting system by The New York Times and Honolulu Civil Beat offers a detailed look at the workings of a state known for favoritism and patronage, a culture where big companies with ties to politicians have historically dominated.

“Pay-to-play is woven into the DNA of the statehood of Hawaii,” said Camron Hurt, director of Common Cause Hawaii, a watchdog group. He pointed to the 1893 overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom that led to an “oligarchy” of businessmen, sugar barons and large landowners lasting decades. The industries involved had close ties to the ruling political parties well into the 1960s and 1970s, when Hawaii’s campaign finance regulations were written.

A Times and Civil Beat analysis of campaign donations and contracts found that since 2006 — the year the pay-to-play law went into place — people tied to government contractors have provided a remarkable percentage of the money fueling state and local politics. They have given state and local Hawaii politicians more than $24 million: about one-fifth of all donations made. Of that total, $6 million has come from people tied to just 15 companies.

Most donors rarely mentioned their employers in public records designed to bring transparency to political donations. But The Times and Civil Beat, reviewing hundreds of thousands of campaign records, linked more than 28,000 of the donations to contractors.

The analysis almost certainly captured only some contributions, in part because the state could not provide a full list of contractors. In fact, record keeping is so poor that some vendor information is collected only on paper, while electronic records are riddled with errors. Several of the state’s biggest agencies did not respond to repeated requests for financial records or said they could not find them.

The examination found more than a dozen examples over the past six years of people tied to contractors donating to political campaigns in the months before key decisions led to deals.

Well-timed donations from people linked to contractors

When some companies were on the verge of winning big government contracts, people connected to them donated larger amounts of money to the relevant officials.

Some of the elected officials who could crack down on favoritism are themselves benefiting from the lack of oversight. At least a dozen legislators have worked for or co-owned companies that won state contracts, some profiting in ways that have not been previously reported.

The Times contacted every politician and campaign donor named in this article. Most of those who responded said there was no link between campaign donations and the contracts they won.

Mr. Yonamine acknowledged hosting the fund-raisers but declined requests for a detailed interview. In a brief statement, he denied influencing any contract awards and said he was “raised to give back to the community.”

“It’s what drove me to work in public service for 36 years,” he said. “Helping those seeking elected office by supporting their fund-raisers is an extension of these values and an important aspect of civic engagement afforded citizens under the law.”

Political donations are regulated by the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission, which has a staff of just five people who are responsible for tracking tens of millions of dollars in campaign contributions.

Gary Kam, the commission’s general counsel, acknowledged that the law restricted only a small portion of donations. Executives can give freely, and if bundled together, in greater amounts than if their company donated on its own. Expanding the law to cover those people is the “key to it all,” he said.

Many people charged with campaign finance violations have been allowed to keep giving — and to keep getting contracts, The Times and Civil Beat found.

Michael Matsumoto, president of the engineering firm SSFM International, pleaded no contest to money laundering involving campaign funds in 2003. He has since contributed $130,000 to a range of politicians, and the company continues to win public work. He declined to comment.

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People with ties to another major contributor are on trial for corruption. In 2022, federal prosecutors accused the chief executive of the engineering firm Mitsunaga & Associates and four of its employees of bribing Keith Kaneshiro, who was the top prosecutor in Honolulu, with campaign contributions to pursue a criminal case against a former employee. The defendants have pleaded not guilty.

Dennis Mitsunaga, the chief executive, encouraged others, including family members and people with ties to his company, to donate to candidates, his lawyers said in court. People linked to the firm have donated heavily to a range of politicians, and the firm has won at least $49 million in state contracts since 2011.

All contracts awarded to the firm “were based on merit,” said Nina Marino, a lawyer for Mr. Mitsunaga.

Mr. Kaneshiro’s lawyer argued that campaign contributions made to gain access to politicians were “perfectly legal.”

Other states have been more successful in curbing big campaign contributions from companies seeking government work. In Connecticut, for example, a ban on donations from corporate officers with contracts has wiped out a large swath of campaign funds, according to Joshua Foley, a lawyer for the State Elections Enforcement Commission.

While contractors in Hawaii account for about 20 percent of campaign donations, in Connecticut “the percentage is zero,” Mr. Foley said.

Following recent corruption scandals, the Hawaii Legislature convened a watchdog panel to recommend new laws to improve government transparency. But lawmakers have so far refused to adopt some of the panel’s most meaningful corrective measures.

Notably, bills that would have closed the loophole in the law by prohibiting campaign contributions from company owners, officers and their immediate family members have failed year after year, including in the current legislative session.

Government contractors linked to the most campaign donations

Since 2006, more than $6 million of the campaign money for state and local races in Hawaii has come from people associated with just 15 contractors.

Timely Donations

People tied to big contractors gave more than $1,000 on average — nearly twice as much as political donors who had no obvious government connections, the analysis found. They were also twice as likely to give the maximum for some offices.

Often, their campaign contributions seemed to go to the right people at the right time.

Take R.M. Towill Corporation, a large engineering firm where employees in 2003 were fined for illegal campaign contributions. In the months leading up to the 2022 legislative session, R.M. Towill executives donated to the campaigns of only two state senators — Stanley Chang and Donovan Dela Cruz. Later that year, the two senators were among the co-sponsors of a law that ultimately led to R.M. Towill getting a $500,000 surveying contract.

Mr. Chang said in a recent interview that, besides general discussions of policy, he never talked about legislation or contracts with employees of R.M. Towill. Mr. Dela Cruz did not respond to repeated requests for comment.

In a statement, R.M. Towill’s president, Greg Hiyakumoto, said that company employees supported candidates who pushed for new infrastructure and sustainable development, both of which were part of its mission.

A handful of powerful lawmakers who control vast sums of government money have been among the largest recipients of campaign donations from executives tied to big contractors and their families. Leaders of the influential House Finance and Senate Ways and Means committees, who direct billions of dollars in public works projects every year, have received more than $482,000 in such donations since 2018.

Representative Kyle Yamashita, the current finance chairman, who spent years overseeing the House’s capital improvements budget, has received more than $44,000 in political contributions from people tied to big contractors. Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke, who previously led the House Finance Committee, received more than $107,000, while former Representative Ty Cullen, the vice chairman until 2022, got $22,100.

Mr. Dela Cruz has received more than $239,000 in campaign donations from people tied to big contractors since he became Ways and Means chairman in 2018. Former Senator Gil Keith-Agaran, vice chairman until October, got $70,000 during the same time period.

Politicians who raised the most money from people tied to contractors

Some powerful politicians in Hawaii drew a fourth or more of their state and local campaign donations since 2006 from people with ties to government contractors.

In April 2023, the Senate Ways and Means Committee, led by Mr. Dela Cruz, budgeted for the purchase of a Maui hotel to convert into affordable housing and a school. That created a windfall for the law firm Starn O’Toole Marcus & Fisher, which got a $450,000 contract to do legal work on the deal. Two of the firm’s directors had recently donated a combined $3,000 to Mr. Dela Cruz and Gov. Josh Green’s campaigns.

One of the directors, Ivan M. Lui-Kwan, contributed another $2,000 to the governor’s campaign as the bill awaited his signature, and another $1,000 after he approved the budget. Mr. Lui-Kwan and Duane Fisher, a partner at the firm, each donated $1,000 to his campaign about two weeks before the contract was awarded.

Mr. Lui-Kwan said donations made by him and his colleagues had no bearing on state contracts. He said they made it a point to never bring up such work at political fund-raisers.

The governor said staff members involved with procurement didn’t communicate with him. “We adopted this approach to avoid any potential conflicts or concerns,” Mr. Green said in a statement.

People tied to big contractors have targeted local races, too.

In December 2021, Goodfellow Bros., one of Maui’s largest building firms, won a $4.6 million contract to expand a local landfill. It was the lowest bidder. The project was approved for funding in 2020 by the mayor at the time, Michael Victorino, and the County Council.

Afterward, executives and their family members gave around $34,000 in campaign contributions to the mayor and to council members, making them among the biggest donors in Maui County.

Goodfellow Bros. said in a statement that its employees could donate to campaigns so long as they did not give in the company’s name.

Alice Lee, chairwoman of the County Council, said that Maui-based companies like Goodfellow Bros. “generally support candidates who support a stable economy, public health and safety and affordable housing.”

Doing Double Duty

In Hawaii, legislators serve part time and can hold outside jobs, which can increase the risk that they will face conflicts of interest. Nevertheless, they are among the highest-paid part-time lawmakers in the country, earning an annual state salary of about $72,000.

An examination of their financial interests found that a dozen of them were employees, directors or co-owners of companies that had won contracts. Since 2006, those companies have gotten at least $56 million in state deals, according to Hawaii’s contract database.

Disclosure records show that Senate President Ron Kouchi earns between $50,000 and $100,000 annually working for his brother’s disposal company on Kauai, which is the only provider of trash services to agencies on that island.

Representative David Alcos III works as a subcontractor on state projects. Representative Micah Aiu is a lawyer at Nan Inc., one of the state’s biggest contractors, which won at least $39 million in projects last year. They have said they are not directly involved in their companies’ contracts.

Mr. Dela Cruz, the Ways and Means chairman, seems to have actually done hands-on work for a state contract: He was the project manager for a $224,000 State Health Department contract with DTL, a communications firm where he was co-owner and vice president.

The State Health Department, which awarded the contract in 2018 for work on a vaccine campaign, said it did not know Mr. Dela Cruz was an owner.

Jason Antonio, a principal at DTL, said in an email that Mr. Dela Cruz was not a project manager and was not involved in the immunization project. But in its proposal, which was submitted to the Health Department in 2017, DTL listed Mr. Dela Cruz as the project manager who would oversee the work on behalf of the firm.

Ronald Balajadia, the department’s immunization chief, said he mostly worked with two other DTL employees and did not recall interacting with Mr. Dela Cruz.

DTL was the only firm to bid on the contract. After selling his ownership interest in the company in late 2020, Mr. Dela Cruz continued receiving money from the firm for consulting services, according to his 2022 financial disclosure.

A Box Full of Campaign Donations

The clearest example of how contractors and politicians regularly circumvented the reforms were the parties hosted by Mr. Yonamine, the former head of visitor information for Hawaii’s airports.

Mr. Yonamine wasn’t directly involved in awarding contracts, but his gatherings provided a casual setting where executives could be introduced to lawmakers and state employees who selected winners, according to attendees.

The parties started as early as 2014 at Mr. Yonamine’s private office in Honolulu, according to campaign finance records, which lists dates and locations where political fund-raisers are held. They moved to the Pagoda Hotel there in 2019 and continued until at least 2020.

Lawmakers who benefited from the parties said Mr. Yonamine provided the venues while campaigns sometimes invited guests.

Attendees would stand chatting along the walls of the office, or later, on a spacious rooftop balcony at the hotel. The guests, sometimes more than 100 at the hotel, said they would discuss legislation, as well as contracts at the airports. Businesses seeking airport work frequently donated to a range of politicians around the time of those fund-raisers. They described the parties on the condition of anonymity because they work for the state or have business relationships with contractors they don’t want to jeopardize. No one, including Mr. Yonamine, denies they took place.

One of the most prominent guests was Mr. Choy, a major political donor and government contractor who would later be sentenced to more than three years in prison for bribing officials. He and his associates donated more than $28,000 to political campaigns around the time of the parties.

By 2020, Mr. Choy was wearing a wire and actively recording meetings to aid federal investigators.

No evidence has emerged that Mr. Choy’s contributions at the parties were illegal or connected to his bribery scheme.

Many guests did work at the airports, a constant source of multimillion dollar contracts.

At least 59 companies competed for airport contracts between 2014 and 2020. But nearly half the airports’ 153 professional services contracts went to just 14 companies. Executives from those firms all donated around the time of Mr. Yonamine’s parties.

Current and former heads of the division overseeing most of the airport design and engineering contracts did not respond to requests for comment.

The contracts were worth a combined total of more than $131 million, according to the state’s Department of Transportation.

These professional services contracts are for design or consulting jobs, and winners are selected based on their qualifications or proposals rather than just their price. The rules tend to give public officials more leeway to choose a company based on favoritism.

Executives at firms that won airport contracts donated a combined $101,000 around the time of the parties, according to campaign finance records, which show when checks were cashed and not when they were given. Candidates raised a total of more than $470,000.

When presented with The Times and Civil Beat’s findings, Ford Fuchigami, then transportation director and now head of the Airports Division, said he could not comment on the awarding of contracts because he was not in charge of selecting the winners. Mr. Fuchigami said he did not recall attending the parties, though records show he donated around the time of a party in 2019. He said he did not know what the state’s rules were for employees like Mr. Yonamine who were politically active or for officials who attended political gatherings.

“What you do on your personal time is what you do on your personal time,” he said.

The fund-raising parties do not appear to have violated the state’s ethics laws.

Robert Harris, director of the Hawaii State Ethics Commission, said there were generally no prohibitions on political activity during off-hours as long as state employees did not use any state resources.

Other lawmakers who received campaign money around the time of Mr. Yonamine’s parties were Ms. Luke, the lieutenant governor; former Gov. David Ige; Mr. Kouchi, the Hawaii Senate president; and former Mayor Kirk Caldwell of Honolulu, according to fund-raising documents.

Mr. Caldwell and Mr. Kouchi did not respond to repeated requests for comment.

Mr. Ige said he mostly remembered seeing Transportation Department employees at Mr. Yonamine’s office but did not recall recognizing contractors.

Mr. Yonamine — who has a certain renown because his uncle Wally Yonamine was a famous athlete — is a figure in local sports. In 2018, one year after he was named varsity baseball coach at Pearl City High School, state lawmakers, some of whom received campaign contributions from his parties, approved $3 million in funding to convert the field from grass to artificial turf.

As Mr. Yonamine spoke from the refurbished field at an opening ceremony in 2022, a Hawaiian priest sprinkled rainwater on home plate.

“Thank you to all who helped make our dreams come true,” Mr. Yonamine said.

This article was reported in partnership with Big Local News at Stanford University.

How the Numbers Were Calculated

The Times and Civil Beat examined hundreds of thousands of campaign contributions and more than 70,000 state contracts to draw connections between vendors and their donations to political races. The analysis revealed that nearly 20 percent of all campaign contributions since 2006 have come from people tied to companies doing business with the state and local governments.

This number is likely an underestimate because the data is incomplete. Records were obtained from the Hawaii Awards & Notices Data System , which tracks who won state contracts, but a 2021 audit found that only 40 percent of all state contracts awarded that year were posted. It’s not clear if the problem applies to other years.

Reporters requested and reviewed check registers to verify the total payments to vendors from departments. Some departments did not respond to public records requests, including those with large numbers of high-value contracts, such as the Education and Transportation Departments.

The gaps in state and county contracting data and check registers made it difficult to determine just how much money vendors actually received. Published amounts were confirmed with source documents or contracting departments.

Contractors were matched against the names of companies, their executives and employees in a database of campaign contributions maintained by the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission. Donations from spouses and relatives of contractor executives were also included in the count when possible. Spouses and relatives were determined based on people who shared the same last name and address as the main contributor. In some cases spouses were jointly listed as contributors.

The analysis focused on vendors who provide legal, consulting, engineering and construction services. Contracts and contributions for subsidiaries were attributed to their parent companies. Universities and other public agencies with government contracts were excluded from the analysis. Organizations that may have other lobbying interests — such as the Hawaii Association of Realtors — were also excluded.

Contributions made at events hosted by Mr. Yonamine were identified by searching for all contributions made to participating candidates within one week of the parties. The Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission requires that contributions be deposited within seven days of receipt.

An earlier version of a picture caption with this article misstated the amount Milton Choy and his associates donated to political campaigns around the time of fund-raising parties hosted by Wesley Yonamine. As the article correctly noted, they donated more than $28,000, not more than $30,000.

How we handle corrections

Blaze Lovell , a reporter in The Times’s Local Investigations Fellowship , writes about government contracts in Hawaii. More about Blaze Lovell