Hawaii is a dream destination for many people. With its crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and lush green landscape, it’s no wonder why. But with so many islands to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one to visit. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the 10 best places to visit in Hawaii. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, this list has something for everyone. So whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore a new culture, be sure to add these places to your Hawaii travel itinerary.
Honolulu – Oahu
Honolulu – Oahu is the capital of Hawaii and is home to many of the state’s most popular tourist attractions. Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world and is a great place to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. Diamond Head crater is another popular destination, offering stunning views of Honolulu and the surrounding area. Other notable attractions include Pearl Harbor, Hanauma Bay, and the Manoa Falls Trail.
Maui
Maui is one of the most popular Hawaiian islands, and for good reason! It’s home to incredible beaches, lush rainforests, and breathtaking volcanic scenery. Maui is also a great place to enjoy Hawaiian culture, with many opportunities to learn about the history and traditions of the island. Here are some of the best things to do on Maui:
• Visit Lahaina – Lahaina is a charming town on the west coast of Maui with a rich history. It was once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii, and today it’s a popular destination for shopping, dining, and enjoying the views of the ocean.
• Drive the Road to Hana – The Road to Hana is one of Maui’s most scenic drives. It winds through jungle-covered mountains and past waterfalls and beaches. Be sure to stop at some of the lookout points along the way!
• Go snorkeling or scuba diving – Maui has some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Hawaii. There are many operators offering tours, and you’ll be able to see beautiful coral reefs and tropical fish.
• Visit Haleakala National Park – Haleakala National Park is home to Haleakala volcano, one of Maui’s most iconic landmarks. You can drive to the summit for stunning views, or go hiking or biking in the park.
Kauai
Kauai is an island in Hawaii that is famous for its natural beauty. Kauai is home to the Waimea Canyon, which is one of the most beautiful canyons in the world. Kauai is also home to Mount Waiʻaleʻale, which is the second highest peak in Hawaii. Kauai is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the beauty of Hawaii.
The Big Island of Hawaii – Hawaii Island
The Big Island of Hawaii, also known as Hawaii Island, is the largest island in the state of Hawaii. The island is home to some of the most popular tourist destinations in the state, including the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Hilo, and Kailua-Kona.
The Big Island is also one of the most diverse islands in Hawaii, with a wide range of activities and attractions to keep visitors entertained. Visitors can enjoy hiking and camping in the national park, relaxing on the beaches in Hilo or Kailua-Kona, or exploring the many shops and restaurants in downtown Hilo.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or an adventure-filled vacation, the Big Island has something for everyone.
Lanai
Lanai is one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii. It is known for its stunning beaches, lush vegetation, and amazing views. The island is also home to a number of interesting historical sites. Visitors to Lanai will enjoy exploring the island's many attractions.
Molokai
Molokai is one of the most isolated and untouched Hawaiian Islands. It's a place where you can truly get away from it all and experience Hawaiian culture the way it was meant to be experienced.
There are no high-rise hotels or resorts on Molokai, which gives the island a very relaxed and laid-back vibe. Visitors can explore Molokai's stunning natural scenery by hiking, biking, or horseback riding through its lush forest Reserve or along the dramatic coastline. There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, and kayaking.
If you're looking to learn more about Hawaiian culture, Molokai is the perfect place to do so. The island is home to several important cultural sites, including Kalaupapa National Historical Park, which tells the story of Hawaii's leprosy colony; Halawa Bay Beach Park, where traditional Hawaiian ceremonies are still performed; and Kaunakakai Town, Molokai's largest town and the gateway to the rest of the island.
Niihau
Niihau, Hawaii's “Forbidden Island”, is one of the most isolated and beautiful places in the world. This secluded island is home to just over 200 people, all of whom are Native Hawaiians. Visitors to Niihau can enjoy its pristine beaches, stunning landscapes, and unique wildlife. Due to its isolation, Niihau offers a truly unique Hawaiian experience that can't be found anywhere else.
Kahoolawe
Kahoolawe is the smallest of the eight major islands in the Hawaiian archipelago. The island is uninhabited and its landscape is characterized by dry, rocky cliffs and hills. Despite its arid appearance, Kahoolawe is home to a variety of plant and animal life. Visitors to the island can explore its hiking trails, visit its beaches, and learn about its history and culture.
Oahu’s North Shore
If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Hawaii, you can’t go wrong with Oahu’s North Shore. This beautiful stretch of coastline is home to some of the island’s best beaches, as well as a laid-back surfer town vibe that will make you feel right at home.
One of the best things about the North Shore is that there’s something for everyone. Whether you want to catch some waves, relax on the beach, or explore the charming shops and restaurants in town, you’ll find it all here.
Here are some of our favorite things to do on Oahu’s North Shore:
• Spend a day at world-famous Waimea Bay. This gorgeous bay is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and boogie boarding.
• Catch a sunrise at Sunset Beach. This is one of the best spots on the island to watch the sun come up over the water.
•Explore Haleiwa Town. This quaint town is filled with art galleries, cute cafes, and trendy boutiques. Don’t forget to stop by Matsumoto Shave Ice for a delicious treat!
• Take a surf lesson at Banzai Pipeline. Even if you’ve never surfed before, this is the perfect place to give it a try. The instructors are great and the waves are perfect for beginners
Haleakala National Park – Maui
Haleakala National Park on Maui is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hawaii. The park is home to the Haleakala crater, a massive volcanic crater that is over 10 miles wide and nearly 3,000 feet deep. Visitors can hike or bike down into the crater, or take a scenic drive to the summit for views of the island. The park also offers camping, picnicking, and wildlife watching opportunities.