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Hawaii tourism authority launches educational malama hawaii campaign.

For Immediate Release: June 1, 2021 HTA Release (21-15)

2021-06-01 HTA Launches Educational Malama Hawaii Campaign.pdf

HONOLULU – Hawaii is inviting travelers to experience the Hawaiian Islands on a deeper level with a greater emphasis on connecting with our culture, giving back to the destination and preserving it for the future, while following safe health practices. That is the message behind a series of poignant and educational videos being played to visitors before and after they arrive in Hawaii. It is part of the Malama Hawaii marketing campaign, which was recently launched through a partnership between the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) and the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau (HVCB).

The campaign’s target audience is the mindful traveler – those who respect the culture and environment of the places they visit and seek to explore responsibly, to make meaningful memories through enriching experiences. This is in line with HTA’s 2020-2025 Strategic Plan and its four interacting pillars: natural resources, Hawaiian culture, community, and brand management.

The Malama Hawaii campaign launched across the U.S. and includes social, digital, and video ads. The digital and video ads can be seen by audiences on the mainland and in Hawaii.

The campaign messages are delivered in a variety of versions, including longer-format videos. Working together, they highlight issues relating to the restoration of Hawaii’s natural resources, perpetuation of Hawaiian culture, and how visitors can engage in these efforts:

• Episode 1:  Noelani Lee on Aquaculture: Malama Hawaii
• Episode 2:  Kiai Collier on Habitat Stewardsip: Malama Hawaii
• Episode 3: Sam Ohu Gon III on Reforestation: Malama Hawaii
• Episode 4:  Rick Barboza on Sustainable Farming: Malama Hawaii
• Brief version: A New Way to Travel: Malama Hawaii

The videos drive visitors to the Malama Hawaii page on www.gohawaii.com . HTA’s Malama Hawaii  program   is a statewide initiative involving nearly 100 industry partners and local organizations that provide inspiring volunteer opportunities, which ultimately leads to regenerative tourism.   By making a positive impact, visitors are able to engage in an enriching travel experience and can even enjoy a free night stay at participating hotels. Importantly, visitors traveling to Hawaii with purpose will walk away with a long-lasting understanding of what it means to malama (take care) our earth, each other and ourselves. 

The Malama Hawaii videos and campaign were presented to HTA’s Board of Directors during the May board meeting, which was held last Thursday.

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Hawaii Vacation Packages

We are proud to offer exclusive vacation packages, most with rates under $1,000. These packages include airfare, car rental, and hotel stay for six to eight days. Visiting different islands, or "island-hopping" as we call it, is highly recommended because each island has its own distinct "personality."

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How to Find the Cheapest Vacation Packages

Understanding Hawaii’s travel seasons will make it easy for you to book an affordable trip to the Rainbow State. With summer and winter being peak travel times for the islands, you can find vacation deals by booking during the “shoulder” seasons—spring and fall. Fortunately, Hawaii is just as beautiful and magnificent during fall and spring as it is in summer and winter, so aside from the cost of travel, nothing will change about your trip to Hawaii.

Should You Book an All-Inclusive Package?

Planning a trip is, what we call in Hawaii slang “humbug.” It’s a bother, a nuisance—even stressful. But it doesn’t have to be. By booking an all-inclusive vacation package, the hard work is done for you. Cars are rented, hotel rooms are booked and it can be cheaper to book a package versus booking everything ala carte.

Best Areas to Stay on Each Island

While there are no bad choices for places to stay in the islands—you are in Hawaii after all—there are some areas that are very well suited for travelers. Waikiki on Oahu has a variety of accommodations, malls and restaurants all dotting the golden shores of Waikiki Beach. On Kauai, Hanalei and Poipu are perfect for visitors who want to be close to the beach during their island stay—and in a similar vein, Kaanapali on Maui is a perfect blend of resort luxury and island living that will truly make visitors feel like they’re in paradise. On Hawaii Island, also referred to as the Big Island, both Kona and Hilo will provide travelers with convenient accommodations, activities and dining options.

The Top 3 Hotels and Resorts on Each Island

• Hilton Hawaiian Village
• Turtle Bay Resort
• Grand Wailea
• Kaanapali Beach Hotel
• Fairmont Kea Lani
• 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
• Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
• Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
• Fairmont Orchid
• Hilton Waikoloa Village

On Oahu, the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, Turtle Bay Resort and the Halekulani reign supreme. Maui’s Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, Kaanapali Beach Hotel and Fairmont Kea Lani are popular choices amongst travelers. For Kauai, the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, The ISO and the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa are stunning accommodations that will make it hard to even leave your room—while on the Big Island you can’t go wrong staying at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection, Fairmont Orchid and Hilton Waikoloa Village.

Which Hawaii Island is Best for You?

Kauai’s picturesque Na Pali Coast.

For nature lovers and those who seek adventure, Kauai is a primordial playground full of epic hikes, stunning beaches and botanical gardens—it is the Garden Isle after all.

Sunrise over Na Mokulua islands from Lanikai Beach on Oahu.

Oahu has a great mix of everything a visitor could want and is perfect for families with young children as there are more keiki (kid) friendly activities on the island.

Waianapanapa State Park, Maui.

Maui & the Big Island

Both Maui and the Big Island are great places for travelers looking to escape from their worldly distractions. Instead of waking up to traffic and city noise, on these islands, the soft sounds of birdsong and crashing waves will serve as your natural alarm clock.

Hawaii Travel Tips

You’ll want to hit the ground running—presumably to the beach!—once you’ve landed. Also be sure to pack a few jackets or hoodies along with your beachwear, as the islands typically has “passing showers” from time to time due to its tropical climate. Another major travel tip to remember is that, unless you’re staying on Oahu, you will absolutely need to rent a car to fully enjoy the best of each island, as public transportation options are limited on the out islands.

Welcome to Hawaii Travel Spot, your source for insider information to plan an epic Hawaiian vacation! On this Hawaii travel blog you’ll find must-read tips for every island and every type of travel, all written by someone who has seen and done it all during dozens of Hawaii trips.

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Eight unique islands., six destinations to explore., one remarkable experience.

Hawaii provides you with six unique islands to choose from, four of which we cover in detail in our three  2024 Hawaii Travel Planner & Visitor Guides due to their popularity with travelers like yourself. Once you know which island (or islands) best suits you, then you can really begin to plan.

Don't miss out on our inside Hawaii knowledge, tips, and recommendations . In these Hawaii Travel Guides, we'll help you select an island, or islands, for your trip if you're still undecided. If you already know which island(s) you're visiting, excellent; we've included a lot of pertinent information for Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island of Hawaii that should help you plan the perfect trip! Our travel guides are updated twice a year (or more) to ensure they're entirely up to date with the latest Hawaii details and information.

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Highlights & essential visitor guide for each island, statewide guides, 2024 hawaii travel guide & visitor planner.

Grab your copy today  and take advantage of our  destination expert's Hawaii insights . We've just updated and released our latest three Hawaii Travel Planner & Visitor Guides for 2024. These new travel guides contain over 40 visual pages (Intro version),  over 60 visual pages (Highlights version),   and over 100 visual pages (Deluxe Essential version)  of pertinent Hawaii travel information  to assist in planning your perfect Hawaii trip.

The islands of  Kauai ,  Oahu ,  Maui , and the  Big Island  are covered in detail. A complete table of contents is additionally included within each travel guide. The top attractions are included for each island (top 5 in the Intro guide, top 9 in the Highlights guide, and top 11 in the Deluxe guide). The Highlights and Deluxe planner also include our Best Places to find Authentic Hawaii food guide.

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Hawaii is a destination that attracts a unique mix of tourists from all over the world. There are  resorts and hotels  all over the major islands, but there are also many free-standing hotels and vacation rentals, which allow you to choose from a wide range of accommodations. We provide a  list of these top favorable destinations by island , according to the popularity of each area.

Our  Where to Stay guides  will highlight the  best places to stay in Hawaii  and the best parts of each island. Hawaii offers several favorable areas for different types of vacationers on each unique island.

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Details on Hawaii's Weather & Climate

Hawaii weather is known for being rather sporadic, but that doesn't have to leave you guessing what to expect.

Know what you're likely to experience weather-wise on your trip by reading through our Hawaii Weather summary. Our weather information additionally includes a rainfall map , a precipitation chart (for each month of the year), and a high/low-temperature graph/chart so you can plan accordingly for your trip.

We've also included the best links of where to check the daily forecast for the most accurate weather outlook.

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Wondering what the hotel prices will be during the weeks of your visit? Look no further, we've got you covered with our Hawaii Hotel Price averages graphic that provides insight into what pricing you can expect at different times throughout the year.

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When is the best time for good weather? How about when to avoid crowds? Or when exactly is the best time to book your trip to Hawaii? We've covered each of these questions and several others in our Best Time to.... Hawaii FAQ .

Discover which time of the year is the best time to visit for local Hawaii festivals and events , or when hiking conditions are prime for hitting Hawaii's incredible plethora of trails. We've also covered when to go whale watching , take a Hawaii cruise , and much more.

Individual Hawaii Islands in Detail

Each of the four major Hawaiian Islands is covered in our Hawaii Travel Guides, including Kauai , Oahu , Maui , and the Big Island of Hawaii .

A general introduction to each island is also provided, along with our recommendations for each island . If you haven't decided on which island(s) to visit yet, these sections should help you narrow down your choices to a favorite or two.

Detailed Overview of Each Island's Regions

Learn more about each of the regions of Hawaii's major islands in our detailed region section for each respective major Hawaiian Island.

This section covers the basic geography of each island, the top attractions within each region, along with tips on the best nearby attractions to visit.

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Our travel guides wouldn't be complete without detailed high-resolution Hawaii Road Maps for each island. For Maui, we've added a bonus road map for the Road to Hana (Hana Highway), the premier drive on the island.

We've additionally included Beach Maps for each island, so you can quickly and easily determine which beaches are best to visit during your trip; not to mention which are closest to your hotel.

Discover Hawaii's Top Attractions

For each of the major four islands, we've covered their top attractions  in detail, including how to visit and where each attraction is located on the island.

Photos and details are provided for each top attraction, so you can quickly decide which sights , beaches , and/or hiking trails are right for you during your visit.

Top Local Grindz - Best Eats

Sun, sand, and surf are not all Hawaii is known for. Sure, we travel to islands for a relaxing time that will incorporate all these things, but you  gotta eat too , right? Hawaii certainly doesn’t let us down on that issue. Hawaii offers some of the  best culinary experiences  in the world.

In this section, we cover some of our  favorite places for authentic Hawaii food on each island , the best 'ono grindz (delicious food) that can be found in Hawaii.

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Explore the golden beaches of Waikiki

Home of the perfect wave, Waikiki is one of the best-loved places in Hawaii to soak up the sun and sea. Head down to Waikiki Beach, a two-mile strip of powdery white sand, where you can take a dip in the turquoise waters and admire the gorgeous Hawaiian sunset.

Tour the lively seaside village of Kailua-Kona

Set on the west coast of the Big Island (Hawaii Island), Kailua-Kona was once the playground of Hawaiian royalty. Today, it’s a vibrant village and our Local Specialists will show you the dazzling white Kona Hawaii Temple and introduce you to Kona’s coffee culture with a visit to a local coffee plantation.

Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

We’ll reveal the thrilling beauty of Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii’s Big Island with a walk through a real lava tube and a visit to an interpretive museum to learn about these incredible active volcanoes. We’ll also take you for lunch at a restaurant with the steaming Halema'uma'u Crater as the backdrop.

Meet conservation naturalists of the Maui Ocean Center

Dive to the depths of Maui’s underwater world with a visit to the Maui Ocean Centre. We’ll introduce you to the passionate conservation naturalists who will show you around the largest tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, filled with sharks, Hawaiian green sea turtles, live Pacific coral and thousands of tropical fish.

Learn about bio-dynamic farming in Hawaii

Make a Difference with a visit to a local farm in Maui, where you’ll discover the island’s sustainable agricultural practices and support the farm-to-table movement. After learning about bio-dynamic farming, you’ll enjoy a gourmet lunch made with ingredients freshly picked from the farm’s gardens and orchards.

Our top 5 things to do in Hawaii

From the sustainable farms of Maui, to the sugary beaches of Waikiki and the volcanoes of Big Island, our Hawaii holiday packages reveal every side of this beautiful state.

Pearl Harbor

USS Missouri

The USS Missouri memorial is dedicated to preserving the famous ship and her story, documenting the ship from the first launch in 1944 until today. As the site where WWII formally ended, the USS Missouri is one of the most important artifacts of the war.

Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum is the largest museum in Hawaii and houses the world’s largest collection of Polynesian cultural artifacts and over 24 million natural history specimens. There’s also a number of interactive displays, with planetarium shows and a Science Adventure Center.

Iolani Palaca

Built in 1882 in Honolulu, the grand Iolani Palace was once the home of Hawaii’s reigning monarchs. Today it’s a Natural Historic Landmark and a living restoration of Hawaiian culture where you’ll discover the royal histories of King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani.

Best museums in Hawaii

Our Hawaii tour packages show you the vibrant history and culture of Hawaii through the country’s top museums, from indigenous cultures to the history of Pearl Harbor.

A traditional dish of Native Hawaiian cuisine, poke is a dish of diced raw fish (traditionally tuna or octopus), seasoned with green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, seaweed or wasabi. You can find popular modern versions served with additions like avocado, mushrooms, pineapple and jalapeños.

Pork Lau Lau

Pork Lau Lau is a delicious Native Hawaiian dish, made of chunks of pork wrapped in taro (luau) leaf and cooked in a traditional imu oven (an underground pit). Today, pork lau lau is commonly steamed on the stove and served as a lunch dish with a side of rice.

Lomi Lomi Salmon

A traditional Hawaiian dish, lomi lomi salmon is a cold salad of shredded salmon, tomatoes and sweet Maui onions. The name comes from the preparation method, as lomi lomi means ‘to massage’ in Hawaiian, and the salmon is traditionally rubbed with salt by hand before serving.

Best food in Hawaii

Hawaiian cuisine is a tasty blend of native, Asian and European influences, featuring fresh fish, fruit, vegetables and spices. We’ll show you the best spots to taste the classic Hawaiian dishes.

What to pack for Hawaii

With hundreds of beautiful beaches and some of the world’s best surf, you’ll need to pack your swimsuit for your Hawaii trip.

Reef-safe sunscreen

Protect yourself from the sun and protect the coral from Oxybenzone or Octinoxate. Both of these chemicals (commonly found in sunscreen) will be banned in Hawaii from 2021.

Waterproof day bag

Whether you’re trekking to a waterfall or venturing out on a snorkelling trip, you’ll need a waterproof day bag to protect your phones and cameras.

Adaptor plug

In Hawaii, the standard voltage is 120 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type A and B. The standard frequency is 60 Hz.

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Hawaii is famed for its towering mountains, hidden waterfalls and phenomenal viewpoints, so bring a sturdy pair of shoes for your hiking adventures.

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You’re ready for a trip to Hawaii and I can’t blame you! As you start piecing together your plan, you’re probably wondering exactly what there is to do in Hawaii. Lucky for you, there is so much to choose from! Hawaii is more than just amazing beaches (though it does have plenty of those).

Here we give you our top Hawaii bucket list items, broken down by island, so you can make sure you see it all.

Things to do in Hawaii: an overview

Hawaii is an archipelago of islands that stretch over 1,500 miles. There are eight main Hawaiian islands, but five that are most visited: Oahu, Maui, Hawai’i (the Big Island), Kauai, and Lana’i. We’ll cover the most popular things to do on each of these islands, but there are some themes for the most popular things to do in Hawaii:

The most popular attractions and things to do in Hawaii:

Visit the beaches.

Each island has spectacular beaches and you can find a range of beachgoing options. Shallow, protected beaches, black sand beaches, famous surfing beaches, Hawaii has it all. Check out the best beaches in Hawaii by island:

• Best Beaches Oahu
• Best Beaches Maui
• Best Beaches Big Island
• Best Beaches Kauai

Take in the waterfalls

In almost every advertisement for Hawaii, you’ll find picturesque waterfalls (and often, someone swimming in them). You can find accessible waterfalls on each island, though be sure to heed warning signs and only swim in them if you can determine they are safe. A number of waterfalls make this list below, our favorite being Twin Falls on Maui. 

See the sea life

The tropical fish, spinner dolphins, humpback whales, and manta rays offer a diverse range of sealife to discover and explore while on the island. Make sure to bring reef safe sunscreen to keep the coral reefs vibrant and safe. We have a number of amazing snorkeling tours listed below, including a tour to Molokini Crater , off the coast of Maui. 

Marvel at a volcano

The Hawaiian islands are volcanic islands, so one of the very unique things to do in Hawaii is to visit a volcano. Whether you are heading up for sunrise atop Haleakala Volcano, seeing the eruption at Kilauea on the Big Island, or star gazing from Mauna Kea, visiting a volcano will probably top your Hawaii bucket list. We have island-specific recommendations in the list below. 

Before you plan a trip to Hawaii, make sure you check out our Hawaii Trip Planning Tips . We keep this updated and it will give you the best, need to know information from people who have lived on both Oahu and Maui. We love Hawaii and we hope that we can help you love it as well. 

Things to do on Oahu

The Gathering Place. Oahu is not the largest island geographically, but it is home to the majority of the state’s population. While the skyscraper and traffic may not initially scream vacation mode, there is a reason most people choose to visit Oahu. From famous Waikiki Beach to the country living on the North Shore, Oahu has much to discover .  

1. 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 ( check out our lesson video here! ) or grab a board for $20 for three hours from guys 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.

2. Hike Diamond Head Crater

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. We strongly prefer a morning reservation slot as you get fewer crowds and you beat the heat of the day.

Directions: Diamond Head Crater Trailhead

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

3. Visit ‘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.

‘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 a historical bike tour of this area or our favorite Pearl Harbor guided tour 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 .

Directions: 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813

4. Enjoy the beautiful sunsets

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

5. Learn more about Hawai’i at the 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

6. Pay your respects at 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. 

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 Memorial. Reservations can be tough to get, especially during the busy holiday season and summer.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial is also handicap accessible. See our Handicap Accessible Hawaii Guide for more Oahu things to do!

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.

You can see a list of all of the best Pearl Harbor tours .

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 .

Directions: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818

7. Snorkel on the Waianae Coast

Head into the water and snorkel off the Waianae Coast. Leaving from Ko Olina, the Ko Olina Ocean Adventures team offers snorkeling tours two times per day and one sunset sail. We did the morning snorkeling adventure and it was great! We left from Ko Olina harbor first thing in the morning (it was an early wakeup for us since we were staying in Waikiki) and enjoyed the ride as we cruised up the coast. The water was calm and it was a great experience — even our four year old jumped in and snorkeled with us!

Check out their morning or mid-day snorkeling tours or their sunset sail .

If you happen to come during whale season , check out this s mall group whale watching tour up the Waianae Coast.

8. Visit charming 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.

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 .

Directions: Haleiwa, Oahu

9. Spend the day at Waimea Bay

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.

If you’re looking for a waterfall swim while you’re on Oahu’s North Shore, go across the road from Waimea Bay to Waimea Valley for a waterfall swim in a botanical garden.

Directions: Waimea Bay Beach, North Shore, HI 96712

10. Go off-road at Kualoa Ranch

When we lived in 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

11. Hike Mokapu’u Beach and 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

Want more? Check out all of our Oahu Things to Do articles: 

• 40 Things to do on Oahu (we will surprise you!)
• 23 of the Best Things to do on Oahu with Kids (from the Hawaii Vacation Guide Mom and Dad)
• Free Things to do on the North Shore of Oahu

Our 21 Things to do on Oahu Video

While we love writing about our experiences, some things are just better in video. Watch the video to see the best things to do on Oahu.

Planning an Oahu Trip?

Don’t waste your time — get our itinerary. 

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! I’m thankful for the opportunity to give a little back to your family through the itineraries and tour suggestions. Kim S.

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 Maui

Maui is a special place, and is my favorite island to recommend visiting. With the most swimmable beaches, great snorkeling, and the epicenter of whale watching in the winter, Maui is truly a special place to discover . 

12. Stroll through historic Lahaina

Lahaina Town was destroyed on August 8th, 2023 by a wildfire. The town is closed as it rebuilds but we are keeping this on our Best Things to Do in Hawaii list as we love Lahaina. It was our home for three years. See our Maui Travel Updates for travel advice on visiting West Maui.

Well known for the largest banyan tree in America at about 2 acres in size with 16 trunks, Lahaina also has shopping, restaurants, and a historic walking tour. The banyan tree survived the fire but lost some trunks in the process! Hawaii has the best arborists on the islands working on it.

Our full Lahaina Guide will show you where to eat, what to do, Lahaina’s best beaches , and where to stay .

13. Take a day trip to Lana’i

One of the great things about visiting Maui is its proximity to Lanai. After a quick 45-minute ferry ride, you can find yourself landing on a different island. A private island owned by a billionaire.

Explore Hulopoe Beach (one of the best in Hawaii), head to Lanai City for galleries and lunch, or hop in a Jeep to get to Shipwreck Beach. Lanai is worth a day trip . Our favorite 21 things to do Lanai will show you how to explore the island.

The ferry to Lanai currently leaves from Maalaea Harbor ( click for directions ). Get a round-trip ticket and off you go!

Currently, the ferry to Lanai is the only operating ferry between Hawaiian islands. See our Hawaii Island-Hopping Guide for tips on exploring more islands during your trip.

14. Go whale watching

Each winter, upwards of 10,000 humpback whales migrate from the waters of Alaska to Hawaii to mate, birth, and nurture their young. And the best island to visit for whale watching? Maui! The whales love the warm, shallow waters of the ‘Au ‘au channel, which is between Maui and Lana’i. 

If you’re visiting Maui between December and April, you’re in luck! This is the perfect time to see whales . While you can see them from the shore, it’s a special experience to be out on the water and enjoy seeing them from a boat. 

There are so many whale watching tours to choose from: a power raft, a catamaran, a big boat, or a kayak. We prefer the smaller boats. When it’s just Jordan and I, we head out on a power raft ( this is our favorite raft whale watching tour ), and when we take the kids, we choose a catamaran ( this is our favorite catamaran whale watching tour! ). 

Check our our full list of our favorite whale watching tours on Maui to find the best one for you. 

And don’t forget to read our full Maui whale watching guide before you go. 

15. Snorkel Molokini

Molokini Crater is a 200,000-year-old, crescent-shaped, p artially submerged volcanic crater that is located just 3 miles off the coast of Maui. It is a premier destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. The visibility in this crater is outstanding and it is one of our favorite places to snorkel on Maui. 

While you’re visiting Maui, there are several excellent snorkeling trips you can take, here are the 5 Best Molokini Snorkeling Tours . But one that is always at the top of our list is a snorkeling trip to Molokini. We have two favorite trips, depending on your boat preference. 

Our favorite trip to do as a family is a catamaran boat trip to Molokini with Kai Kanani . Their boat leaves directly from Maluaka Beach just south of Wailea. And their early morning trip gets you out there before any other boats, so you beat the crowds!

When it’s just Jordan and I out snorkeling, we love going out with Redline Rafting. This tour leaves from the Kihei Small Boat Harbor and they offer a 2 hour or 5 hour tour. Their 5-hour tour also does the back wall of Molokini, which is pretty special. Check out our full write-up and video on our Molokini snorkeling trip with Redline Rafting . 

16. Watch the sunset at Makena Cove

Secret Cove is the place to go for sunset, engagements, and wedding vow renewal in South Maui. This picture-perfect cove can be found through a narrow opening in a lava rock wall. 

We like to visit for sunset, family pictures, and whale watching in the winter. Find a reason to go to Makena Cove during your Maui vacation.

Directions: Makena Cove off Makena Road

17. Visit one of the best beaches in America

Kapalua Beach at Kapalua Bay is our favorite beach on Maui. The small, crescent-shaped bay has excellent snorkeling, standup paddleboard rentals at the beach, and a coastal walking trail. And we’re not the only people who think it’s amazing. Dr Beach named Kapalua Bay Beach the best beach in America in 2018.

Kapalua Bay is a good spot to see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles from shore or when snorkeling around the edges of the bay. The bay has gotten more popular in recent years so the public parking lot fills up fast. There is some street parking and paid parking at the tennis club.

Want more Maui snorkel spots with turtles? See our 11 Best Snorkel Spots on Maui .

Get everything you need to know about Kapalua Bay, including directions and parking . 

18. Eat at the food trucks

All of the islands have a good food truck scene, but the food truck options on Maui are by far the best. The variety is outstanding: local cuisine, seafood, thai food, gourmet food, it’s all here. While there are excellent restaurants on the island that are worth the work to get into (looking at you Mama’s), make sure you eat at least a couple of meals at a food truck. 

A few favorites you should prioritize going to: 

• Kitoko in Kihei (South Maui Gardens)
• South Maui Gardens in Kihei

Check out our favorite food trucks on Maui.  

19. Visit ‘Iao Valley State Monument

‘Iao Valley State Monument is home to the ‘Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot erosion feature in a magnificent valley. Come to walk the 0.6 miles to the observation deck, see waterfalls, explore the botanical garden, and learn the history of the decisive Hawaiian battle that made the river turn red. Confirm their opening hours and entrance fees here .

‘Iao Valley made our list of the best easy hikes on Maui .

20. Hike the Waihe’e Ridge Trail

Waihe’e Ridge Trail is one of our favorite moderate hikes on Maui. The 4 mile out and back hike takes you up a steep ridgeline to 1,600 feet. The trail can get muddy and slippery as you are now on the wet side of the island.

Enjoy the impressive views of the West Maui Mountains and the ocean as you make the climb. 

After your hike, take a break at ‘Ula ‘ula cafe. 

21. See the sea turtles and windsurfers at Ho’okipa Beach Park

Famous for sea turtles and windsurfing, Ho’okipa Beach Park makes for a nice day at the beach or come at sunset to see the sea turtles. After a long day on the Road to Hana, this is the place to unwind at sunset.

There is also Ho’okipa Lookout at the park. The lookout has sweeping views of the North Shore coastline, surfers down below, and windsurfers out on the deeper break.

22. Enjoy at waterfall swim

Twin Falls at Wailele Farms is a private waterfall hike along a stream. The stream has three major waterfalls that are all great swimming holes. The famous Twin Falls is the last one on the short hike. 

Wailele Farms manages and maintains the property. They also host a fruit stand with the best banana bread on Maui. To care for the ‘aina (land), they charge $10 for parking. The parking gets full quickly, so plan to either visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. This is a special spot, so make sure to treat it and it’s carers with respect. 

23. Tour a local farm

Possibly our favorite activity on Maui (or in Hawaii in general) is going on a farm tour. The agricultural diversity that you find here is amazing and there are so many small farms that are doing wonderful things with regenerative farming and taking care of the ‘aina (land). This might not be the first thing you think of when planning a trip to Hawaii, but make sure to put a farm tour somewhere on your list. 

Whether you want to see how coffee is grown and produced or you want to see a pineapple farm (one of two left in the US!), we have a list of our favorite farm tours on Maui . 

24. Visit Haleakala National Park

Maui erupted out of the sea from two volcanoes over a million years ago. Today, no trip to Maui is complete without seeing the summit of the dormant volcano Haleakala (House of the Sun). 

Haleakala National Park is best known for its sunrise tour (which lives up to the hype) but the National Park is also worth a day trip to see the endangered state bird the Nene, stand on the 10,023-foot summit, or hike into the crater for the adventurous travelers. 

We’ve enjoyed Haleakala at sunrise, sunset, and during the day and no matter when we go, we always have a wonderful time. You can see our sunrise experience in the video below and decide if a 2:30 am wakeup time is worth it for you! (and yes, we have a 10% discount code you can use on this same exact sunrise tour .)

Haleakala Sunrise or Sunset: When Should I Go?

25. Sip Maui Wine

MauiWine started making wine on the Ulupalakua Ranch in 1974. As the vines were ripening, they started making sparkling pineapple wine. It was a hit and today you can taste a selection of wines from The King’s Cottage tasting room.

Located at the end of Upcountry, we like to pair MauiWine with the farm-to-table cafe at the Ulupalakua Ranch Store. After a long day of exploring Upcountry Maui , grab a burger or sandwich from the ranch store and then head across the street for wine tasting.

26. Drive the Road to Hana

I hope I haven’t kept you waiting. The Road to Hana is one of the most popular things to do on Maui. We share our perfect day for exploring the Road to Hana in our Maui itineraries . But, we can’t help but share some of our favorite stops below. 

You can do the Road to Hana in one day with our tips , stay the night in Hana , drive straight to Hana and then do the stops on the way back, or drive the backway to Hana (video) . 

The only wrong way to do the Road to Hana is to park illegally, swim on private property, and not let locals pass. Yes, there is a Road to Hana etiquette as the road gets busy. We want this beautiful drive to stay open for years to come so stay safe out there.

Here is another one of our Road to Hana videos, this one showcases eight stops.

We have driven the Road to Hana numerous times but my favorite time was when someone else did the driving for me. 

A guided tour will secure the reservations at the black sand beach, take you for a waterfall swim, and stop at the best stops based on the time of year. Save 10% on our recommended, local Road to Hana tour guide .

27. Hike the Pipiwai Trail (with a bamboo forest)

The Pipiwai Trail is famous on social media for the pictures of the boardwalk through the bamboo forest. The trail is part of the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park. 

Located 10 miles (35 minutes) past Hana, the park is home to the Pipiwai Trail, Waimoku Falls, ‘Ohe’o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools), and camping. Plan about 2 hours to hike the easy to moderate Pipiwai Trail. The waterfall views and the walks through the bamboo forest are out of this world.

If you visited Haleakala National Park then keep your receipt as you can visit the Kipahulu District within three days without purchasing another ticket. 

Want more? Check out all of our Maui Things to Do articles: 

• 33 Things to do on Maui — leave the crowds behind
• 15 Amazing things to do in Upcountry Maui
• 68 Things to do on Maui with Kids
• Things to do on Maui on a budget

Our 21 Things to do on Maui Video

While we love writing about our experiences, some things are just better in video. Watch the video to see the best things to do on Maui. It’s our most popular video to date!

Planning a Maui Trip?

Our itinerary is all you need for a great trip. 

Our family thanks you and Erica for your itineraries and videos that we used on our recent trip to Maui and Kauai. They were most helpful for deciding what to see and how to schedule our time. Keep up the good work! Jeff and Debby M.

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

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

Things to do on the Island of Hawai’i (the Big Island)

The largest, and youngest, of the Hawaiian islands, the Big Island offers some truly unique experiences. Whether you want to see an erupting volcano or sip coffee in Kona, there is something for everyone here. 

28. Visit Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

If you are looking for a unique experience that you’re only able to enjoy on the Big Island, a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is it. Encompassing two of the world’s most active volcanoes — Kilauea and Mauna Loa — the park is a UNESCO world heritage site with hiking trails, crater views, lava tubes, and sometimes, lava viewing. You could spend days exploring the park with scenic drives, wilderness adventures, and learning from the robust education at the visitors center. 

If you’re staying on the Kona side, it is possible to visit the park on a day trip, but for an even more immersive experience, consider staying overnight at Volcano House . Waking up to a view of Halema’uma’u Crater is an experience you won’t soon forget. 

Visiting an active volcano and the next item made our 12 Things You Can Only Do in Hawaii (intrigued?).

29. Night snorkel or dive with Manta Rays

If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure that you can’t get on any other island, head out for a night snorkel or dive with Manta Rays. Imagine jumping into the ocean when it’s pitch black and then having a “gentle giant” with a wingspan of up to 16 feet roll past you, inches from your face. It’s one of our favorite activities and something we do each time we head to the Big Island. 

Read our full Manta Ray Night Snorkeling guide and also check out our favorite Big Island tour operators , like Sea Paradise . 

30. Sample Kona Coffee

Coffee enthusiasts will love exploring the famous Kona coffee country. There are hundreds of coffee farms located around the island, and many of them offer public tours. Head into the hills above Kailua-Kona to take a farm tour, watch beans get roasted, and sample a fresh cup of coffee straight from the farm. Tours are usually free (and come with free samples) and you can take back a bag of your favorite roast to enjoy. 

Check out a full list of our favorite coffee farm tours on the Big Island . We’ve done so many, and these really stand out above the rest!

Not sure how to fit a coffee farm tour into your day? Our Big Island itinerary has an excursion day that combines a day of snorkeling with a trip to Kona Coffee Country. It leads you step-by-step through six carefully planned excursion days around the island — all you have to do is download and go! 

31. Go to Punalu’u black sand beach

The best black sand beach in Hawaii (in our opinion) is Punaluu Black Sand Beach . Located in the Puna District, it’s a great place to stop on the way to or from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. 

While this isn’t a great beach for swimming, the black sand is absolutely stunning, and you can often find Hawaiian green sea turtles hanging out on the sand. Enjoy the beach with food that you’ve picked up from Punalu’u Bake Shop . 

32. Snorkel Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook Monument

The Big Island has some spectacular snorkeling, but the best spot, in our opinion, is snorkeling near the Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay. There’s no sandy beach to relax on here, which adds to the great visibility (no sand means higher visibility). But this spectacular snorkeling spot isn’t easy to reach. To get there you need to take a boat tour, kayak, or hike. It’s well worth the journey, in our opinion.

Yes, Kealakekua Bay made our #1 spot in our top 5 snorkel spots on the Big Island . See the full list if you plan to snorkel during your visit.

Here are some of our favorite tours to help you reach this special snorkeling spot: 

• Catamaran snorkel in Kealakekua Bay
• Power Raft snorkel tour to Kealakekua Bay
• Guided kayaking and snorkeling to Kealakekua Bay

When you visit the bay, consider reading up on the historical significance of the bay and the resulting Captain Cook Monument. We share our favorite Hawaii history books in our 9 Ways to Have an Authentic Hawaii Experience .

33. See ‘Akaka Falls

Just 11 miles north of Hilo is the famous ‘Akaka Falls . The waterfall plunges 442 feet and is viewable from an easy to navigate 0.4 mile walking trail. The trail itself is beautiful as well, winding you through lush scenery and you make your way to the main event.  ‘Akaka Falls draws the crowds — it’s one of the most visited sites on the windward side of the island. But there’s a good reason for it: it’s a stunning sight that is easy to get to and view. 

34. Learn About the History at Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Located on the south Kona coast, Pu’uhonua O Honauanau is a spiritual sanctuary and was a place of refuge for Hawaiian lawbreakers. Until the 19th century, Hawaiians who broke the law (kapu) would be punished by death. The only way to avoid this fate was to make their way to Pu’uhonua, where their actions would be absolved by a priest. 

Learn about Hawaiian history at this 180 acre park that has been beautifully restored. Walk the self-guided trail (0.5 miles) or watch a cultural demonstration. You can also snorkel at the popular snorkeling spot “Two Steps” located just outside of the park. Plan your visit with the park’s website. 

35. Visit Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden

While you’re enjoying the beauty of the Hamakua Coast, soak in a little more nature and visit the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden. With over 1800 species of tropical plants, this is a wonderful spot for nature lovers. Take a walk through the gardens and enjoy waterfalls, ocean views, and the lovely sound of birds chirping. It’s pretty much a tropical paradise. 

Learn more about Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden . 

36. Go Ziplining at Umauma Falls

If you’re looking for a fun day out, get a view from above of waterfalls, suspension bridges, and a river while you zipline at Umauma Falls. While the zipline is incredibly fun (9 lines!), the scenery makes this spot so enjoyable. Stroll the gardens, kayak the river, or grab a coffee and just take in your surroundings. 

If you want to see more of the beautiful spot, check out a full review and video of the Umauma Zipline experience . 

37. Enjoy a hike and waterfall swim

When Jordan and I had a day to ourselves (thank, grandparents!), we headed straight for this tour. A guided tour to North Kohala, we were able to head onto private land for a hike and waterfall swim. It was stunning. Not only was it so nice to be legally off the beaten path, but we also learned so much from our guide. 

And the day ended with a beautiful, private, scenic lunch spot overlooking Pololu Valley. It was an experience for the memory book. 

See our full review of this waterfall swim and hike on the Big Island . 

Want more? Check out all of our Big Island Things to Do articles: 

• 21 Incredible Things to Do on the Big Island
• Thing to do in Kona with kids

Our 21 Things to do on the Big Island Video

While we love writing about our experiences, some things are just better in video. Watch the video to see the best things to do on the Big Island

Planning a trip to the Big Island?

I can’t tell you how much we have appreciated your effort with the guidebook.  We saw things this past week we would never have known to look for.  These hidden gems were amazing Chris P

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

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Things to do on Kauai

As the Garden Isle, Kauai gets the most rain. But with that rain comes rainbows, and some of the most lush rainforest landscapes you could ever dream of. When you step off the plane, and look up at those mountains, it’s hard to not feel as though you’ve been truly transported. Kauai is truly a tropical paradise . 

38. See the Napali Coast Wilderness Area

When you see pictures of Hawaii, they’re usually showing the Napali Coast. Napali Coast State Wilderness Park covers the northwest coast of Kauai. The cathedral cliffs along the ocean are remote, rugged, and romantic for honeymooners to hikers.

The coast is full of sea caves, waterfalls, and ancient Hawaiian villages. While most people explore this area via boat (see our favorite tours here ), you can hike into the wilderness area with a permit .

Directions: Napali Coast State Wilderness Park

I was fortunate to hike the Kalalau Trail (11 miles), swim to the Honopu Arch, and sleep on Kalalau Beach with friends years ago. It was one of my most memorable Kauai vacations. But exhausting. 

39. Visit Ha’ena State Park

Ke’e Beach is our favorite beach on Kauai. Located at the end of the Kuhio Highway, Ha’ena State Park is home to working lo’i kalo (taro patches), heiau (temple), trailheads for the Kalalau Trail and Hanakapi’ai Beach and waterfall, and the popular Ke’e Beach.

Ke’e Beach is a small bay tucked under towering cliffs. With a lifeguard on duty, showers, and restrooms, the beach is great for kids. The reef makes for a natural lagoon for snorkeling and swimming. But, during the winter the high surf makes this beach a no-go. 

Due to the popularity of Ke’e Beach, entry and parking reservations are required for access to the state park. Shuttle reservations are available.

You can hike a portion of the Kalalau Trail with your Ha’ena State Park entry fee. Hiking from Ke’e Beach to Hanakapi’ai Beach is 2-miles. You will be rewarded with amazing views of the coast and a sandy beach during the summer (not a good swimming beach due to strong currents). The waterfall hike is 8-miles roundtrip. 

40. Enjoy Hanalei Bay

Hanalei Bay has nearly two miles of beach and in the summer the water is as calm as can be. 

To swim at Hanalei Beach, we prefer to park on the east side of Hanalei Bay, near the Hanalei Pier and Black Pot Beach. From here you can get a great view of the bay and play on the pier. Directions below are to the public parking lot.

Beware in the winter, waves here get rough. There may be some days that the beach is closed and swimming here (especially with kids) is really only ideal in the summer. 

Hanalei Bay made our 7 Best Kid-Friendly Beaches on Kauai and 9 Best Beaches on Kauai for Swimming .

41. Take in the view from Hanalei Lookout

A quick stop when passing through Princeville on the way to Hanalei is Hanalei Valley Lookout. Pullover across the street from the Foodland grocery store to take in the grandeur of Kauai. 

The lookout is a panoramic view of the Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge and Kawaikini mountain range. The taro field patchwork with the mountains in the background is my favorite view on Kauai.

42. Visit the Kilauea Point Lighthouse

Located past the village of Kilauea is the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Many come for the short walk to the historic Kilauea Point Lighthouse built in 1913. As you are perched on 180-foot high cliffs, the views of the coast are wonderful but this place is really about the wildlife. 

Watch blue-footed boobies. The birds soar along the cliffs for a stunning experience. Hopefully get to see Hawaii’s state bird, the nene. Reservations are required to enter the refuge.

Directions: 3580 Kilauea Rd, Kilauea, HI 96754

43. Bike the Kapa’a Beach Bike Trail

Don’t miss the multi-use path that follows the coast along Kapa’a Town. Explore the beaches, enjoy views of the coast, and just take in the sun. You can rent beach cruisers and e-bikes in Kapa’a for a few hours to enjoy a relaxing ride.

We rented our bikes from Hele on Kauai in central Kapa’a. They are located 30-seconds off the beach path.

44. Kayak to Secret Falls

Perhaps no longer a secret waterfall, Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls) is only accessible via a kayak tour down the Wailua River. First, enjoy a leisurely kayak down the class 0 Wailua River. Then land the kayaks to go on a 3 mile round trip hike to the large waterfall. The hike was slippery and slightly challenging at times, but it was well worth it when we made it to the falls. We took our four year old with us on the long day trip (6 hour tour!) and he loved it. Our proud parents’ moment was he did almost the entire hike on his own. 

Learn more about the Wailua kayak and waterfall hike tour .

This easy kayak and hike tour is a great way to explore the Wailua River. Perhaps stay the evening to see the Fern Grotto and one of the best luaus on Kauai – Smith’s Family Luau .

45. Visit kid-friendly Lydgate Beach and Pond

This is one of our favorite beaches on Kauai for swimming . Lydgate Beach Park is a long beach that can have rough surf for swimming, especially during the winter, but there is the Lydgate Pond, which is a great option for everyone, including kids. 

The pond on the north end of the beach are protected from the waves by a large stone wall. The water is calm, there are large fish inside the pools for easy snorkeling, and the beach is sandy. There are lifeguards on duty, picnic tables, and lots of parking.

There is also a large, community playground called Kamalani Playground across from the pools. 

46. View Wailua Falls

Another Kauai waterfall that is easily accessible by car, Wailua Falls is located off the road on the south end of the Wailua River. The falls cascade into two streams that drop over 80 feet into a pool.

The best viewing is along the road, just before the parking lot for the falls. The size of the stream is dictated by the rainfall uphill. During our last visit, Kauai was hit by a tropical storm so the waterfall was roaring. 

Wailua Falls is known in pop culture as the opening scene in the television show Fantasy Island. Kauai is famous for most of the filming of Jurassic Park and other movies. You can go on a guided tour of Kauai’s famous movie and TV scenes, pickup is available at your hotel.

Directions: Wailua Falls Hawaii 96746

47. Go on a mountain tubing adventure

After a 4WD ride through a jungle, hop on a tube to float down a 100-year-old, hand-dug plantation canal system that will take you through caves and small waterfalls. This was an easy, leisurely tour that takes you into backcountry. You get to enjoy the nature in Kauai off the beaten path, legally. We really enjoyed this laid back tour. Get wet and have a blast!

This tour is Kauai’s only tubing adventure through irrigation canals. Read more about the Mountain Tubing Adventure here .

48. Stroll through historic Koloa Town

Established in 1835, the old plantation town is a walk down memory lane. Visit the Old Koloa Town Shops in plantation-era style, see the Old Sugar Mill Memorial, and have a local plate lunch.

We visit Koloa Town to grab food before hitting Poipu Beach to the south. Grab a plate lunch at Koloa Fish Market or one of the many food trucks. There are two food truck parks with award-winning food trucks in Koloa, see our Kauai Food Truck Guide for details.

Shave ice! South Shore Kauai is full of the best shave ice on Kauai. Visit The Fresh Shave or explore our other favorite shave ice on Kauai .

49. Hike the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail

The Maha’ulepu Heritage Trailhead starts at Shipwreck Beach. The easy-to-moderate hiking trail follows the coast along dunes, under kiawe trees (wear closed-toed shoes), and cliffs.

The trail is significant for being one of the last undeveloped spots along the South Shore. Also, this is a sacred place so leave only footprints behind.

50. Spend the day at Poipu Beach

If you’re looking for a thing to do on Kauai, this is more than a beach. 

Not only does the beach have calm waters (heavier surf during the summer) and is beautiful with two crescent-shaped bays, it has a playground that kept our son entertained when he was done playing in the sand. 

There are lifeguards on duty, picnic tables, limited shade, showers, and restrooms at the beach.

Plus, there’s a deli right across the street so whatever food or drink you need is easily accessible.

Poipu Beach does get busy so don’t expect a secluded beach day. Walk over to Brenneck’s Beach as that is less busy and known for bodyboarding. 

Quick Tip: Never turn your back on the Pacific. While the waters may look calm, don’t let your guard down. Keep your body facing the waves so one doesn’t sneak up on you.

If you stay for sunset, expect serious crowds. Not only is this a great place to take in the sunset, you’ll also find monk seals and sea turtles coming ashore during this time. Remember that these are both federally protected animals, so giving them space on the beach or in the water is important. 

51. Take a Napali Coast Boat Tour

Finally, let’s talk about Napali Coast tours. The most popular thing to do on Kauai and for good reason. We included this in our 3-can’t-miss Kauai activities video . 

Best viewed from a boat, the Napali Coast is a stretch of sea cliffs full of waterfalls, ancient Hawaiian fishing villages, sea arches, sea caves, and stories told by captains and crews. 

Go on a snorkel tour , power raft and snorkel tour , helicopter tour , or a sunset dinner cruise . Just make sure you get out there to see the coast. 

Most tours leave from Port Allen in Eleele on the West Side. Only a select few, like this power raft and snorkel tour , leave from Hanalei Bay during the summer (when the waves aren’t quite as big and strong).

52. Waimea Canyon State Park

Another popular thing to do on Kauai is Waimea Canyon State Park . Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, incorrectly attributed to Mark Twain, the stunning canyon is full of waterfalls, lookouts, hiking trails, views of Ni’ihau island, a scenic drive. 

Parking and entrance fees are now required, and paid on site. Enjoy half a day to a full day here to explore the area.

We like to drive up the canyon to stop at Red Dirt Waterfall, lookouts, and finally to the top which turns into Koke’e State Park with Kalalau Valley Lookout. 

Want more? Check out all of our things to do on Kauai articles: 

• 35 of the best things to do on Kauai
• 24 things to do on Kauai with kids

Our 21 Things to do on the Kauai Video

While we love writing about our experiences, some things are just better in video. Watch the video to see the best things to do on the Kauai

Planning a trip to the Kauai?

We returned home from our family vacation to Kauai on Monday, and wanted you to know how helpful your Wayfinder Itinerary was.  We used it throughout the trip and it never failed us – thank you for providing such a thorough and thoughtful guide.   We are certain to return – hopefully to other islands – and will once again rely upon your insights and advice. Mary B.

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

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Things to do on Lana’i

Famous for its billionaire owner , Lana’i is quiet, yet far from boring. 

53. Snorkel Hulopoe Beach

Located on the Manele-Hulopoe Marine Life Conservation Area, you will find one of the best beaches in America, as ranked by Dr. Beach . We love this beach for the lack of crowds, amazing and large marine life, and things to do around the beach itself.

Hulopoe Beach is well known for snorkeling. The pristine reef and protected bay make for great visibility. Always check ocean conditions before you venture out as there can be strong currents and high surf. 

We find Lanai to be better than Molokai for secluded snorkeling.

The gold sand beach is excellent for walking or just relaxing under the sun. 

Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins rest in the bay so encounters are common. Per NOAA law, you can’t swim or approach the dolphins within 50 yards. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy watching their acrobatic spins. 

• Restroom facilities
• Picnic tables and BBQ grills
• No lifeguard on duty

54. Walk to Sweetheart Rock

​​A short 10-minute walk past the Keiki Tide Pool is Sweet Heart Rock. The landmark is a beautiful addition to the coast. It is named Sweet Heart Rock as it is in the shape of a heart and legend says a heartbroken warrior jumped from this 80-foot summit, rising from the sea, overcome with grief after his princess wife’s passing. 

55. Visit Lana’i City

No trip to Lanai is complete without exploring the historic plantation town of Lanai City. Located 17-minutes from Manele Small Boat Harbor, the planned community is home to Lanai’s 3,000 residents. 

While a shuttle is required to get to Lanai City, once you arrive you will find a walkable town village. The quaint town has the large Dole Park with a playground at its center.

While the bowling alley has been converted into a community center, you will find restaurants, cafes, and art galleries surrounding the park.

Lanai City is a small town so check operating hours if you’re set on having lunch or dinner. Many places close in the afternoon.

We like to go to Lanai City for the local restaurants, coffee, and a little shopping. Below are our favorite places.

Lanai City Restaurants

• Blue Ginger Cafe: a great no-frills breakfast and lunch spot for local eats and fresh baked goods.
• Pele’s Other Garden Deli: Italian fare set in a retro diner, this mom and pop deli is open for lunch and gets more lively at night.
• Coffee Works: located a block from Dole Park, enjoy excellent coffee and pastries in this bohemian cafe.
• Ganotisi’s Pacific Rim: Opened in 2022, they offer plate lunches, burgers, fish and chips, and sandwiches. This is the new, popular place to eat in town.
• Richard’s Market: one of two grocery stores in town, you can find picnic supplies here, fresh poke, and drinks for wherever you plan to explore.

Lanai City Shops

• The Local Gentry: full of cute Lanai souvenirs, clothing, and artwork.
• Mike Carroll Gallery: the local art gallery and artist is known for its art and hospitality
• Lanai Hula Hut: a little blue shop featuring Lanai clothing and souvenirs

Lanai City Attractions

• Lanai Culture & Heritage Center (temporarily closed): at the top of Dole Park, explore Lanai displays and find events that showcase the local community.
• Lanai Theater: derelict since the 70s, Larry Ellison transformed this movie theater into a state-of-the-art venue with luxury seating. He planned to start a film festival but local residents now get to enjoy it!

Explore the Town! Sit in Dole Park, walk amongst the historical churches, check out the old courthouse and jail, and walk the neighborhoods to appreciate the plantation architecture. Lanai City is a little city lost in time.

56. Drive to Shipwreck Beach

Located over 30-minutes (9 miles) northeast of Lanai City is one of Lanai’s most interesting things to do. Travel time varies based on road conditions. 

The scenic and windy drive down the side of Lanai’s extinct volcano will land you on the edge of Shipwreck Beach. Park the car and walk the 8-mile beach and rocky coastline to explore more shipwrecks. 

At least a dozen vessels have been intentionally stranded or accidentally sunk on along the hazardous north shore coast of Lanai. 

The prominent rusting hulk of a YOGN-42 navy fuel barge can be seen beached on the reef. It isn’t a Liberty Ship, but a fuel tanker made of concrete and steel. The concrete hull is why it is still there today.

I wouldn’t recommend swimming here as strong currents and high surf make this a dangerous place to enter the water. You will feel the remoteness of Lanai when you visit this beach.

57. Visit the Lana’i Cat Sanctuary

Some would say this is the most popular attraction on Lanai. The Lanai Cat Sanctuary is a well-designed and well-run cat sanctuary built to shelter the large homeless cat population that was on Lanai. 

Since opening in 2006, they have saved over 3,000 cats. By sheltering feral cats, they have saved countless native and endangered ground-nesting sea birds on the island. 

Open daily, come over to frolic and play with some of the 600+ cats. Admission is free but donations are welcomed!

They are located 5 minutes from Lanai Airport. 

58. See a Volcanic Rock Garden

Take a rough ride 45-minutes from Lanai City to see a volcanic rock garden. 

As the Hawaiian Tourism Authority explains the legend of this area:

“According to Hawaiian lore, this windswept landscape is the result of a contest between two kahuna (priests) from Lanai and Molokai. Each was challenged to keep a fire burning on their respective island longer than the other, and the winner’s island would be rewarded with great abundance. The Lanai kahuna, Kawelo, used every piece of vegetation in Keahiakawelo to keep his fire burning. The landscape is the way it is due to the introduction of ungulates and subsequent erosion.” – Hawaii Tourism Authority

Located on the top of a hill, you can see Oahu and Molokai on a clear day.

59. Take a snorkeling trip to Lana’i

If you’re not up for a full Lana’i trip, head to the island on a snorkeling trip. We have loved our snorkeling tours out to the island. While these tours don’t let you explore the island, you still get to experience the marine life out there. We’ve seen a pod of spinner dolphins on our way out, and have enjoyed a few different snorkeling spots off the coast. 

Watch our experience on our Lana’i snorkeling trip: 

Don’t Leave Home Without These

Coming to Hawaii is an expensive trip — don’t leave it to chance. We’ve done all the hard research for you and compiled it all into a concise itinerary . For less than the cost of a round of Mai Tai’s, you’ll get your trip planning done for you. 

Cruising Hawaii Guide

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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• There are loads of types of vacations in Hawaii and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $658; Family vacation $598; Romantic vacation $838; Luxury vacation $878; Budget vacation $412.

Why should you book a vacation package to Hawaii?

When should you book a vacation package to hawaii.

High season for tourists is typically from about mid-December to April, and you can find the cheapest Hawaii flight and hotel rates from September to mid-December. Hawaii enjoys a tropical climate, tempered by sea breezes. The rainy season is from October to April. There are fewer tourists on the beaches during the hottest summer months, from June to September, when temperatures average just under 90 degrees. Hawaii vacation packages can make travel during any season more affordable.

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For any vacation type in hawaii:.

Set against a lush green hillside, with a pool and beach front on the Wailea coast, the Fairmont Kea Lani in Maui offers a quintessential Hawaii experience. The hotel is located about 17 miles from Kahului Airport (OGG), with car rentals available both at the airport and the hotel itself. The Hilton Waikiki Beach hotel places you close to many of Honolulu's major attractions, including the Honolulu Zoo, with many shops and restaurants within walking distance. It's only 9 miles - and an affordable taxi ride - from the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL).

For family vacations in Hawaii:

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Oahu, is a renowned full service family resort set against an expanse of perfect beach. Waterslides and a man-made reef complement a huge, pristine pool area, with excellent service and Disney movie characters wandering the grounds. The resort offers a shuttle service to and from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, about 20 miles to the east. The Kauai Marriott Resort in Lithue, Kauai, lets parents and kids alike enjoy life on the palm-dotted beach, with one of the largest pools in Hawaii, and extensive on-site amenities, including a spa, fitness space and business center. Lithue Airport (LIH) is only 2 miles away, with a complimentary shuttle service available to and from the resort.

For romantic vacations in Hawaii:

Soak up the sun together in the peaceful Ko'a Kea Hotel & Resort, just a walk away from Poipu Beach and its golden sands. It's about 15 miles from Lihue Airport, with many taxis available to and from the resort. If romance plus adventure is appealing, Turtle Bay Resort in Oahu offers a range of water sports and experiences, including cage-diving with sharks, canoeing, and glass-bottomed kayaks. The shuttle service from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport can be booked through the hotel.

For luxury vacations in Hawaii:

The St. Regis Princeville resort in Kuai offers guests a serene escape from the everyday in the lush tropical setting of a 9,000-acre resort community. Enjoy the beach, gardens, nearby mountains, and the onsite Makai Golf Club. Private car and taxi services are available to and from Lihue Airport. Hawaii travel deals are available to the upscale Four Seasons hotel in Hualalai on Hawaii Island's Kona-Kohala Coast. It offers a taste of authentic Hawaiian culture and traditions in a luxury property, including fine dining and activities. Taxi service is readily available to Kona International Airport, about 10 minutes or 7 miles away.

For budget vacations in Hawaii:

The Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort offers the best of a beach holiday just steps from the Waikiki Beach Walk promenade, with multiple options for shopping, dining, and entertainment. A free shuttle service is available to and from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, about 9 miles away. Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort features two hotel towers set on Waikiki Beach. An expensive shuttle service is available to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, about 8 miles away, directly from the main lobby.

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• Solar Eclipse 2024

See How the Solar Eclipse Will Look Anywhere in America

Today's total solar eclipse will cut a 2,000-mile path across the United States in just over an hour, casting near darkness over a region of more than 200,000 square miles from Texas to Maine. The rest of the continental United States — plus Hawaii and a spot of southern Alaska — will enjoy a consolation prize of partial occlusion. The following interactive simulates what this will look like from any location in the U.S., no special glasses needed .

This eclipse is the second time in seven years that such an astronomical rarity has favored a large part of the nation. The August 2017 total solar eclipse — for which TIME rented a private four-seat plane to document the phenomenon — cut a mirroring path from Oregon to South Carolina.

This means there is 9,286 square-mile quadrangle centered on southern Illinois that the cosmos has favored with two complete solar eclipses in less than a decade. As astrophysical odds go, one envies the residents of this anointed parallelogram.

How the simulation works

TIME's solar eclipse simulation uses coordinates for the sun, Earth, and moon from NASA's industrial-grade SPICE toolkit , which we calculated in the J2000 reference frame centered on the Earth. (Many modern calculations use this pre-Copernican view of the cosmos as a matter of convenience.)

Rather than calculating the exact moment that the eclipse begins and ends for thousands of locations, our simulation uses these coordinates to create a realtime 3D simulation with the same type of computer programming that is common in video games. This includes rotating the viewer's camera in accordance with the Earth's rotation over the course of the eclipse, which accounts for why the moon appears to cut a curved path across the sky.

We took a few small artistic liberties in moderately exaggerating the degree of darkness one witnesses in a partial eclipse by adding a faint ambient light to see the surface of the moon in better detail.

Where the times you see in this simulation differ from other sources of eclipse data by a minute or two, the discrepancy is most likely a small difference in the precise location of the calculation or a slightly different way of accounting for the time it takes the speed of light to travel from the sun to the Earth.

More Must-Reads From TIME

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Write to Chris Wilson at [email protected]

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The next total solar eclipse won’t happen until 2026

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I was unfortunately outside the path of totality when the April 2024 eclipse happened, but the small partial eclipse I did get to see was still beautiful. For those like me who missed totality this time around, catching the next total solar eclipse might not sound like a bad idea, except if you’re in the U.S., you’re going to need to travel to see it.

While the next Great American Solar eclipse isn’t expected to happen until the 2040s, those who want another chance at seeing totality will be pleased to know that parts of Greenland, Iceland, Russia, and even some of Portugal and Spain will get to see a total solar eclipse in August of 2026.

If none of those destinations seem like a hit, you can also wait until 2027 for a chance at totality, as a total solar eclipse is expected to hit Egypt on August 2, 2027. That eclipse should pass right over the site of the great pyramids. And it will last more than six minutes, making it a prime opportunity to catch the eclipse at a great spot.

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But the next total solar eclipse isn’t the only thing that stargazers and skywatchers have to look forward to. A total lunar eclipse is also expected to hit the 48 lower states, including all of Hawaii and parts of Alaska, in 2025. Sure, it isn’t as spectacular as a total solar eclipse, but it won’t require any traveling to see this cosmic event.

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Josh Hawkins has been writing for over a decade, covering science, gaming, and tech culture. He also is a top-rated product reviewer with experience in extensively researched product comparisons, headphones, and gaming devices.

Whenever he isn’t busy writing about tech or gadgets, he can usually be found enjoying a new world in a video game, or tinkering with something on his computer.

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