Best places to visit in Hawaii
Welcome to our list of the best places to visit in Hawaii. We are committed to bringing our readers new experiences and tips on the best things to do in Hawaii from a local perspective. Whether you live in Hawaii or are planning your next vacation, enjoy this short list of must-see places in Hawaii.
Everything you need for your vacation - adventure, relaxation, romance, culture, fine dining - Hawaii has it all. From the laid-back, laidback beautiful islands to the lively beach towns of Maui, each island has its own unique vibe.
There are so many amazing places in the Hawaiian Islands that it would be impossible to list them all in one blog! Enjoy our hand-picked list of Hawaii's top attractions.
1. Waikiki, Oahu
The name Waikiki actually means "river" and refers to the fresh water that once flowed into the ocean. In ancient times, South Oahu's Waikiki beach area once covered a large area including Manoa Valley and Palolo Valley. In the 1450s, Waikiki was designated as the first seat of government for all of Hawaii.
Located on Oahu's sunny south shore, Waikiki is the state's most famous city. Over the years the neighborhood has become less kitsch and more authentic. The hotel offers outdoor wreath-making classes and traditional hula performances at the tiki torch-lit hula mound on Kuhio Beach. Learn to surf from daily beach boys or enjoy afternoon tea aboard the historic Moana Surfrider. Some of the island's best restaurants are also located in Waikiki.
Waikiki, Oahu Planning Tip:
The Hilton Waikiki Beach Resort in Hawaii has held a fireworks show every Friday night since 1988 (every two years during the pandemic). Prepare dinner and find a spot on the beach to watch the sky light up. Winter classes start at 19.45, summer classes start at 20.00.
2. North Shore, Oahu
The Oahu coast refers to the geographic area between Kahuku Point in West Oahu and Kahuku Point in East Oahu. The North Shore is famous for its beautiful beaches and incredible winter waves. Another thing the North Shore is known for is that it attracts surfers from all over the world. Famous beach spots include Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, and Banzai Pipeline (Ehukai Beach).
Oahu North Shore Planning Tip:
Take the 2-mile Ê» Ehukai Pillbox hike for a bird's eye view of this famous beach. The road heads north from the Coirau Mountains towards the Second World War bunker, which offers spectacular views of the entire North Coast coastline.
3. Haleakala National Park
Visit the magical island of Maui and feel the power of the surrounding 10,023-foot dormant Haleakala Mountain! While at Valley Island, visitors should definitely plan a trip to Haleakala to watch the sunrise or sunset and enjoy some activities, hikes, and camping. If you want to visit Haleakala at sunrise or sunset, plan to drive at least 1-1/2 hours to the summit from Central Maui (Kahului).
This is a must do in Maui. Once you see the beautiful view, you'll quickly understand why Haleakala "House of the Sun" is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii.
Haleakala National Park Planning Tip:
The park has pristine nights with little light pollution, perfect for stargazing. Temperatures can drop quickly at the summit, so dress warmly and in layers. You will need to bring your snacks with you as there is no food or drink in the park.
Do Check our : Best place to visit in the US in March.
4. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii Island
Venture into the landscape created by the Big Island's powerful volcano to experience "Old Hawaii" and see its ecological advantages with your own eyes. Since 1916, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island has been a destination for those who want to learn more about how the Hawaiian Islands were formed. A truly interesting burst of time and events! Without a doubt, this is one of Hawaii's most popular tourist attractions.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Planning Tip:
Stop at Volcano Village, a rural town outside the park amid a lush forest filled with native hapu'o ferns and trees. Here you'll find interesting holidays, a variety of restaurants, a Sunday farm market, a small winery selling local wines, an orchid farm, and the Volcano Art Center, an art studio and gallery.
5. Na Pali Coast State Wildlife Park, Kauai
Kauai's Na Pali Coastline is one of the most beautiful places in the world. This coastal area is not only one of Hawaii's top tourist attractions, it is also home to Hawaii's amazing cultural history. The area is home to the Aliâi (famous) of Hawaii and is known for its famous waterfalls and fresh waters. It also features a variety of Hawaiian and animal products, as well as foods from the valley to the ocean: taro, sweet potatoes, breadfruit, fresh fish, and more. It's still a bit remote, as the Na Pali coast can only be reached by foot or boat.
Kauai, Na Pali Coast State Wildlife Park Planning Tip:
To get to Kaye Beach at the Kalalau Trailhead, you must pre-order entry to Haina State Park. Entrance fee is $5 for outsiders and $10 for vehicles.
