Best Things To Do In Hawaii

Image: The Haiku Stairs (a.k.a. Stairway to Heaven) in O'ahu, Hawai'i. (photo via iStock/Getty Images Plus/Majicphotos)
Image: The Haiku Stairs (a.k.a. Stairway to Heaven) in O'ahu, Hawai'i. (photo via iStock/Getty Images Plus/Majicphotos)
TravelPulse Staff
by TravelPulse Staff
Last updated: 5:35 PM ET, Tue March 14, 2023

Green mountains, bright blue ocean, white sandy beaches, and volcanic landscapes are just some of the incredible features found in Hawaii. 

The US state is an archipelago located off the west coast of North America in the Pacific Ocean, making it the ideal beach and nature destination for peace and tranquility. 

 

Hit The Road In Waimea Canyon

Often considered the Grand Canyon of this region, the incredible Waimea Canyon in Kauai is a result of both land erosion and collapsed volcano. 

The 3,000-foot crater spans 10 miles across, and its color is an unusual blend of greenery and red soil. You can trek across, and/or hike up several points to enjoy the views. Our favorite thing to do is locate waterfalls for scenic stops along the way. 

Dive To Molokini Crater 

Just off the coast of Maui is the Molokini Crater, a volcanic crater that is almost fully submerged in the ocean. This is a bucket list item for avid divers and snorkelers from all around the world. 

We recommend going out to the crater with a guided boat (swimming to it is not possible) as you can then explore the crater with an expert who will protect your safety in the process. 

Visit Pearl Harbour National Memorial

The USS Arizona Memorial in Honolulu is a landmark that remembers the deadly attack on Pearl Harbour in 1941 by the Japanese military. 

You will not only be able to visit the resting place of many of the soldiers that lost their lives, but also tour through and learn more about the historical event that prompted the US to enter WWII. 

Stay Along Waikiki Beach

A vibrant area to spend your vacation, especially if you are younger and/or traveling with friends in a group, is Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. 

The strip is lined with fantastic hotels and resorts where you can spend days enjoying the amenities and stunning beaches. There are also many restaurants and bars in the area. So if you are looking for a social scene and a buzzing nightlife, we think this is the place for you. 

 

Hike Along NaPali Coast

To feel like you have truly stepped onto another planet, you have to experience the otherworldly beauty of the NaPali Coast State Wilderness Park in Kauai.

This strip of the natural landscape is characterized by its tall, green mountains with sharp cliffs lining the bright blue ocean, with trails and waterfalls dotted in between. You cannot explore this area by car, so get your hiking boots on to discover its beauty on foot. 

Marvel At Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

If you want to see an active volcano, there is no better place than the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Kīlauea and Mauna Loa are active volcanoes that still erupt intermittently. If you plan your trip well or strike a bit of good luck, you may even be able to witness an eruption. 

Other than the volcano viewings, we enjoyed the hiking trails here. Seeing the lava tubes is also a must. 

Indulge In Kauai Cuisine 

To enjoy some of the best food on offer in Hawaii, Kauai is an unofficial capital for delicious cuisine. 

Popular dishes include Poke, fish tacos, coconut shrimp, Lomi Lomi, and much more. The tropical food on the island is known for its fresh, quality ingredients and unmatched seafood and, in our experience, it definitely lives up to expectations! 

Traverse The Islands Of Hawaii

With several islands that each have their own culture and landscape on offer, Hawaii is an archipelago with something for everyone. When you need a tropical getaway from busy city life, this is the perfect escape. And while there, make sure you try some of the above things to do in Hawaii to make the most of your trip.  

 


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