11 Best Places to Visit in Hawaii – Vacation in Hawaii

Isolated, volcanic, stunning, and culturally significant. Hawaii is a lot of things. Each island has its own distinct charms and experiences, from soaring over scalloped mountains to strolling along iconic beach resorts, or from learning to hula to exploring the fiery legends of Pele. A vacation in Hawaii will lead you to some of the most unique and best travel experiences.

Hawaii is a holiday destination unlike any other and there are quite some fun things to do in Hawaii, attracting visitors from all over the world not only for family vacations and honeymoon retreats, but also for groups of friends looking for endless parties and entertainment. Hawaii is well known as a haven for beach lovers, and it never disappoints the average traveller, owing to the numerous places to visit in Hawaii that ensure one has the best vacation of their lives!

places to visit in hawaii vacation
places to visit in hawaii vacation

 

Whatever island you choose to visit, Hawaii’s allures are numerous and profound. With the world’s most active volcanoes, the only royal palace in the United States, and the welcoming aloha spirit, Hawaii is unlike anywhere else on the planet. Explore the sparkling ocean, emerald valleys, and golden sands. Get lost in the spiritual beauty of the hula and discover how the warmth of the Hawaiian people perfectly complements the perfect temperatures of the islands. This article will talk all about the best places to visit in Hawaii and give you insights about how to plan a fun and inexpensive vacation in Hawaii.

 

Main Islands in Hawaii

  • Kaui

Kauai is Hawaii’s fourth largest main island. Due to its undeveloped land and forests, Kauai is known as the Garden Isle.  It is the oldest of the main islands because it is the farthest away from the hotspot that formed the archipelago. As a result, its mountains are more eroded; the highest point is Kawaikini, at 5,243 feet (1,598 meters). However, Kauai’s mountain ranges are rugged, and the island is known for its steep cliffs and rugged coastline. There are quite a few fun things to do on this island.

places to visit in hawaii vacation guide
places to visit in hawaii vacation guide

With so many things to do on Kauai, your adventures on the Garden Isle will never end! Explore our lush, green Hawaiian Island by air, land, or sea, or immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture by attending a luau. We guarantee that you’ll never forget your enchanting Kauai vacation and the activities you enjoyed here, whether you choose to explore the island on a thrilling ATV ride or swimming under a waterfall and reconnecting with nature. Kauai tours are available from Hawaii Adventure Center near Waimea, Princeville, Hanalei, Kilauea, Lihue, and Koloa!

 

  • Maui

Though it is perhaps best known for the spectacular coastlines of Ka’anapali Beach and Wailea Beach, Maui is an excellent choice for first-time visitors seeking variety in their vacation. Maui is known as the Valley Isle, and it’s topography reflects this. It has lowlands along its coasts, as well as several mountain ranges separated by valleys. Maui is well-known for its beaches and natural beauty. Maui’s economy is primarily based on agriculture and tourism, with the most important agricultural products being coffee, macadamia nuts, flowers, sugar, papaya, and pineapple.

 

Wailea Beach, Maui hawaii vacation
Wailea Beach, Maui hawaii vacation
  • Hawaii- The Big Island

For tourists who prefer a jam-packed itinerary, Hawaii Island’s abundance of unique attractions and family-friendly activities makes it the perfect destination. In addition to having both white and black sand beaches, including the well-known Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, the Big Island is also home to two active volcanoes, lush jungles, and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

 

  • Honolulu-oahu

Oahu is the third largest island in Hawaii. It is known as the Gathering Place because it is the most populous of the islands and serves as the state’s government and economic centre. This can be great option for honeymoon in Hawaii.

The topography of Oahu is made up of two main mountain ranges separated by a valley, as well as coastal plains that encircle the island. Oahu is one of Hawaii’s most visited islands due to its beaches and shopping. Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, and Waikiki Beach are among the most popular attractions on Oahu.

Honolulu-oahu and waikiki beach hawaii
Honolulu-oahu and waikiki beach hawaii
  • Lanai

Lanai is known as Pineapple Island because it was once covered by a pineapple plantation. Lanai is mostly undeveloped today, with many unpaved roads. The island has two resort hotels and two famous golf courses, so tourism contributes significantly to the island’s economy. Lanai City is the island’s only town. This island is one of the fun and adventure filled places to visit in Hawaii

There are numerous activities available for those travelling with children, ranging from snorkelling and whale watching to horseback riding. Explore the largest surviving ruins of a prehistoric Hawaiian village at Kaunol Fishing Village, learn about the legend of Pu’u Pehe, or simply relax by the pool at one of the island’s luxurious resorts.

       

11 Best Places to Visit in Hawaii

Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kauai or Jurassic Park
Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kauai or Jurassic Park

1. Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kauai

On the island of Kauai, the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park contains some of the world’s most dramatic landscapes. These were made famous in the film Jurassic Park, which depicts a dramatic coastline with cliffs that appear to ripple, as well as the “Wall of Tears” on Mount Waialeale, named for the way hundreds of waterfalls weep from the mountain’s slopes.

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Approaching by water or taking a helicopter tour to view the simply breath- taking sight from above are two of the best ways to take in the scene. Expert hikers can attempt the Kalalau Trail, an eleven-mile journey that crosses five valleys and takes a full day each way. This park is must visit place in Hawaii.

 

2. Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Volcanoes are physical evidence that the Earth is still forming. On the southeast coast of the Big Island, in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, you can see it for yourself. In this location, steaming hot molten lava sculpts pathways through the desolate landscape. If you only have a few hours to spend in the park, drive along Crater Rim Drive to explore Klauea volcano’s summit.

This beautiful road winds around the summit caldera, traversing both a lush tropical rain forest and arid desert. The path then traverses the caldera floor, leading you to a number of breathtaking vistas. Numerous short hiking trails that you can take to get a better look at the unusual landscape can be found nearby.

Kilauea, the park’s focal point, has been active in recent years, including an eruption in January 2021 that formed a lava lake. There is no way you can go to Hawaii and not see the volcano this is what makes Hawaii so special. There are plenty of places to visit in Hawaii but the volcano beats them all.

Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Among the park’s attractions are the Thurston Lava Tube, the Devastation Trail, and the steaming Halema’uma’u crater. Tourists have the chance to experience the thrill of feeling seismic activity, hearing the boom of gas emissions, or even seeing a pillar of ash erupt into the air during the region’s most active periods.

 

3. Mauna Kea, Hawaii

Mauna Kea, Hawaii’s highest peak on the Big Island, is a world away from the tropical paradise below. The summit, which is only accessible by 4WD vehicle, is frequently very cold, with snow in the winter months. The Mauna Kea Observatory is an active research facility that welcomes visitors during the day. Evening stargazing programmes at the visitor centre, which sits at approximately 9,200 feet, are popular with both tourists and locals.

 

4. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach hawaii places to visit
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach hawaii places to visit

Do you have any experience with black sand beaches? On the island of Hawaii, you can find both white and black sands as a result of ongoing volcanic activity. Punaluu Black Sand Beach, one of Hawaii’s most well-known black sand beaches, is situated on the south-eastern Ka’u coast. While swimming isn’t recommended, there is a picnic area and restrooms where you can have lunch and enjoy the distinctive sensation of black sand between your toes.

To be honest, it’s easily one of the best places to visit in Hawaii. As an added bonus, it has been observed that sea turtles prefer nesting in warmer black sands. All of this means that you will almost certainly see turtles during your visit.

 

5. Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauai

Waimea Canyon, on the west side of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, is known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific“. The canyon is over ten miles long, reaches depths of 3,600 feet, and is up to a mile wide in places. The two main lookouts, Puu ka Pele and Puu hinahina, provide the best views of this dramatic spectacle.

The canyon’s landscape includes a variety of coloured rock strata as well as several breathtaking waterfalls. There are guided tours available along the many challenging hiking trails and rafting tours that explore the river below, as well as additional trails for all skill levels at the nearby Kokee State Park.

Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauai, hawaii
Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauai, hawaii

 

6. Secret Falls, Kauai

After becoming a popular kayak tour destination for the past 20 years or so, Secret Falls is no longer considered a secret, but that doesn’t make it any less impressive. It cascades 110 feet into a pool below and is also known as Sacred Falls and Uluwehi Falls. You can take a refreshing dip there. You must take a Secret Falls tour with one of the many businesses on the island that provide it to get there.

If you’re an expert paddler, you can rent your own kayak and paddle upstream on the Wailua River until you come to a fork where you’ll branch to the right, continuing to the landing spot filled with kayaks. From there, a one-mile trail will lead you to the falls. The trail frequently has a lot of mud and requires crossing several streams, one of which has a guide rope that runs across the water to help. Even though getting there isn’t exactly simple, the effort is unquestionably worthwhile.

Secret Falls, Kauai in hawaii
Secret Falls, Kauai in hawaii

7. Wailua Falls, Kauai

The most famous waterfall on Kauai is this one. The Wailua River plunges dramatically in twin cascades down an 80-foot cliff in this area of the island’s eastern coast before it pools and flows into the sea. The best time to visit the falls is in the morning, which frequently rewards early risers with rainbows in the mist from the sun’s young rays.

The fact that Wailua Falls can be easily seen from the side of the road contributes to its popularity as a tourist destination. Visitors can also decide to make the quick hike to the falls’ base to view them from below. The viewing area is on Road 583 (Maalo Road), which can be reached from Lihue via Road 560.

 

8. Polynesian Cultural Center, Oahu

Polynesian Cultural Center, Oahu
Polynesian Cultural Center, Oahu

The Polynesian Cultural Center is found on Oahu, less than an hour’s drive from Honolulu. The centre depicts the culture and way of life of the Polynesian islanders of Hawaii, Tahiti, the Marquesas Islands, Tonga, Samoa, and Fiji, as well as the Maoris of New Zealand, through music, dance, craft demonstrations, games, and other activities. A section in the centre represents each of these locations.

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The fact that many of the performers are natives of the islands they represent, adds a level of authenticity. Tours of the facility are available during the day, and performances are held at night. This is one the best places to visit in Hawaii.

 

9. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Oahu

Hanauma Bay, which was created within the crater of a volcano on the island of Oahu, is a distinctive protected bay that has long been a favourite among snorkelers. The bay has been brought back to its former splendour after overuse damaged the delicate reef ecosystem and caused pollution, and it is once more accessible to tourists.

There are several snorkelling rental shops that offer lessons, and the Hanauma Bay Education Center is a great place to learn about the bay. This allows visitors to get up close and personal with the stunning reef system and its inhabitants. The park kiosk offers equipment rentals, including life jackets and snorkelling gear.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Oahu
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Oahu

 

10. Iao Valley State Monument, Maui

Iao Valley State Park is on almost every travel guides and tourist pamphlet’s list of must-see attractions, and for good reason. It is easily accessible by car or tour companies, and it features paved walkways, steps, and historical signage. It is also visually stunning and ideal for older people and children.

The main draw here is the ‘Iao needle (Kuka’emoku), a 1200′ (2250′ from sea level) high peak formed by millennia of erosion of the softer rock around it. It is known as the phallic stone of the ocean god in Hawaiian culture (Kanaloa.) Climb the 133 steps to a viewing platform with breath-taking views of the valley and Wailuku. It takes 30 minutes to complete the walk. Take the left fork to quickly detour to a paved loop through a tropical garden as you climb up. This hike is one of the most adventurous things to do in Hawaii.

 

11. Iolani Palace- Honolulu, Oahu

Iolani Palace is the sole official state residence of royalty in the United States and a national historic landmark. The last two kings of the Hawaiian kingdom had it as their official residence. It featured flush toilets, intra-house telephones, and the state’s first electric lighting system, all of which were influenced by European architectural designs. You can easily picture the royal balls, which included dancing and music in the throne room, while strolling through the corridors.

The royal family’s private quarters, a magnificent koa staircase, striking family portraits, ornate furniture, and more are also on display. One of the highlights is the “Imprisonment Room,” a space where the queen was imprisoned for five months and where she also made the quilt.

 

big island honeymoon in hawaii
big island honeymoon in hawaii

Unique Experiences That you cannot miss in Hawaii

  • Stargaze on the Big Island

Mauna Kea Summit Adventures offers stargazing with some of the world’s largest telescopes at Mauna Kea Summit. Dinner, hot drinks, sunset views, and, of course, stargazing with some very high-tech telescopes are all included in the tours. Prices for tours start around $195 per person, plus tax. You should definitely add this to your list of things to do in Hawaii.

 

  • Zipline through Jurassic valley in oahu

Explore the 4,000-square-foot Kualoa Ranch nature reserve. Drive ATVs through mud pits and jungles, or zip-line through the Jurassic Valley’s treetops. The zip-line has two suspension bridges and seven tandem sections, and you’ll be flying above the Jurassic Park filming location. If these tours are too strenuous for you, there are also horseback riding and kayaking tours. Prices differ. This is one of the fun things you can do during your vacation in Hawaii.

 

  • Become a Mermaid in Maui

If you’ve always wanted to be a mermaid, this is your opportunity. Mermaid Adventures provides you with your very own mermaid tail as well as instruction on how to swim in it. Underwater photographers will capture you in your true mermaid form. I mean who does not want to be mermaid once in their lifetime this can be a fun thing to do in Hawaii during your next girls trip. Although this experience is intended for children, we’ve seen crazier things than an adult dressed as a mermaid, so go for it! A private lesson and photo session starts at $199.

Mermaid in Maui hawaii costume for mermaid
Mermaid in Maui hawaii costume for mermaid

 

  • Kayak underground On the big Island

A ditch was drilled through the Kohala canyons to move water over 100 years ago. Flumin’Kohala Adult tour prices start at $135 plus tax and take you through these underground tunnels, passing waterfalls, caves, and other impressive scenery along the way. This is such a fun thing to do in Hawaii.

 

  • Dive for Plane wrecks in Oahu

At the bottom of the Pacific, a Corsair aircraft’s cockpit is accessible. Although small, the wreck has been there since 1946. Along with the airplane, you can dive through a number of shipwrecks, such as the Sea Tiger wreck, the YO-257, and the New Barge, which is a haven for numerous sea turtles.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best ways to reach Hawaii?

The quickest way to travel from India to Hawaii is by plane, which costs between $49,000 and $80,000 and takes 23 hours and 6 minutes.

 

2. Is Hawaii expensive for tourists?

Vacation in Hawaii is considered expensive, or even very expensive if you want to take advantage of local attractions or stay at one of the lovely oceanfront resorts. But careful planning and having a schedule can help you save some money.

 

3. What is the best time to visit Hawaii for a Honeymoon? 

Hawaii is best visited from mid-November to mid-March. However, it is also peak travel season, when travellers pour in at large numbers and airfares and hotel rates soar. The best times to go on a honeymoon in Hawaii are actually April through May and September through November.

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honeymoon beaches in hawaii vacation travel couple
honeymoon beaches in hawaii vacation travel couple

4. Which are the best Resorts and Hotels in Hawaii?

Hotel Wailea, Maui, Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani, Oahu Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Maui Prince Waikiki, Oahu are the top rated resorts and will make your vacation in Hawaii memorable.

 

5. Which are the best honeymoon destinations in Hawaii?

If you are planning a trip to Hawaii, consider including some of the beautiful islands on your itinerary. Big islands, beaches, and other attractions are among the best places to visit while on a honeymoon in Hawaii.

 

6. Is Hawaii safe for Couples?

Hawaii is generally regarded as a very safe destination. In most cases, you can enjoy the sun, beaches, and wildlife without any issues. Honeymoon in Hawaii can be fun and relaxing. However, be cautious of tourist scams and stay afar from wildlife.

 

7. Which are the best months to travel to Hawaii for a vacation?

The months of April, May, September, and October are ideal for visiting Hawaii. November is the least expensive and most peaceful month to visit the island. The island receives the most rainfall from November to March, while hurricane season lasts from June to November, though storms are uncommon.

honeymoon places to visit in hawaii vacation
honeymoon places to visit in hawaii vacation

8. What are Hawaii’s time zone differences?

Hawaii is the only state in the United States that has its own time zone, Hawaii Standard Time (HST). HST is two hours behind pacific time. Because it lacks daylight savings, it is three hours behind Pacific Daylight Time.

 

9. How can I travel between islands?

There are three airlines that offer flights between Hawaii’s islands. They are Molukele Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Island Air. Each one services Hawaii’s four largest islands Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island and each one has a large number of daily flights. Service is provided to Molokai and Lanai, two smaller islands, by Hawaiian and Mokulele. There is no passenger ferry service between the islands, with the exception of routes between Maui, Molokai, and Lanai, using ferry services can make your vacation in Hawaii way smoother.

 

10. Where in Hawaii is the best place to go snorkelling?

Many snorkelers’ bucket lists include stops at Electric Beach and Hanauma Bay on Oahu, and Tunnels Beach on Kauai is a must-see. If you don’t mind a quick boat ride, Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island is teeming with history and vibrant fish, and Molokini Crater off the coast of Maui offers incredible underwater sights. Snorkelling is one of the best things to do in Hawaii and will definitely make your vacation in Hawaii a memorable one.

 

11. Is Hawaii a good destination for families?

Hawaii welcomes families very warmly. Most resorts offer a kids’ club or kid-friendly activities. In addition, many resorts provide waterparks, kiddie pools, playgrounds, and family rooms that connect.

Family-friendly activities include zip-lining, Sea Life Park, the Polynesian Culture Center, the Dole Plantation, the Dolphin Center at the Hilton Waikoloa Village, and many others. There are quite a lot of fun things to do in Hawaii.

 

12. Which Hawaii Island is the least expensive to visit?

One of Hawaii’s most reasonably priced islands is Oahu. The cost to explore the island is $2625, in total. This island is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii. This also is a great option for honeymoon in Hawaii as the island has a more relaxed and chill vibe.

 

13. What is Hawaii’s average temperature?

The average temperature in Hawaii is in the 70s and 80s (degrees Fahrenheit) all year. Temperatures in the winter can fall into the low 60s (especially at night). In the summer, temperatures can reach the high 80s during the day.

 

14. Which power outlets and voltage are used in Hawaii?

The USA uses 115/120 volts of electricity at 60 hertz (60HZ) per second.

 

15. Is a car required to get around in Hawaii?

Transportation options vary by island, but if you want to truly experience Hawaii, consider renting a car. Many visitors also enjoy taking bus tours to explore the Islands more conveniently. Most islands can also be reached by taxi, shuttle, or public transportation.

 

aloha spirit hawaii vacation
aloha spirit hawaii vacation

Concluding Words

Find out about the shimmering ocean, emerald valleys, and golden sands; get lost in the hula’s spiritual beauty.

Why wouldn’t you love Hawaii?

The 50th state in the United States is renowned for its waterfalls, volcanoes, and black-sand beaches, as well as for its opulent resorts and hopping nightlife. There are coffee plantations and cultural centres to explore in addition to the amazing outdoor adventures this picturesque archipelago has to offer. Here are the top things to do on Hawaii’s main islands, which include the Big Island, Maui, Oahu, and Kauai, if you’re thinking about visiting.

 

 

Jhanavi Suresh

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