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When you’re planning a holiday in the Hawaiian Islands, don’t be surprised if you find yourself facing a worrying conundrum: how can you possibly squeeze the maximum number of activities into the time you have available, while still having some free time to enjoy a few lazy hours on a spectacular stretch of beach? There’s such a diverse array of activities to choose from, but these are our favourite things to see and do in Hawaiʻi, with something to suit every type of traveller.
Honolulu is the state capital of Hawaiʻi and serves as the main international gateway to the United States’ 50th state. From learning to surf the gentle breaks of Waikiki Beach to soaking up the epic views from the top of Diamond Head, Oʻahu is where you’ll find some of Hawaiʻi’s most iconic experiences.
Hawaiʻi’s location in the heart of the Pacific has created a unique culture that blends a variety of influences, including Polynesian, Japanese, Chinese and American. A visit to Pearl Harbor to view historic sites like the USS Arizona Memorial is a must, even if you’re not a history buff. One of the island’s most popular locations is Kualoa Ranch, where you can enjoy a farm tour like no other. As well as offering ATV, horse-riding and ziplining adventures, you’ll get to see the real-life filming locations of blockbuster movies including Jurassic Park, Finding ʻOhana and Kong Skull Island.
Be sure to take a day trip to the famous North Shore, where you’ll find a much more laid-back atmosphere compared with the bustle of Honolulu. If you’re visiting during the winter months (November to February), you’ll get to see some of Hawaiʻi’s best surfers in action on the famous North Shore surf breaks, including Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach and Banzai Pipeline. Be sure to make a stop at the famous roadside shrimp trucks in Kahuku for a delicious feast of fresh seafood.
Maui is a magical mix of world-class beaches, volcanic landscapes and laid-back island vibes. You can start each day with an early morning paddleboarding session, or watch the sunrise from the summit of Mount Haleakalā. You’ll need to make a reservation in advance that will allow you to enter the summit region between 3 and 7 am, or you can join a guided tour that will allow you to enjoy a little extra sleep during the drive to the top.
The island’s iconic Road to Hāna is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world, and although it’s only 103 kilometres in length, you’ll want to spend the entire day navigating its 600-plus curves and 50-plus bridges on a tour where you can admire waterfalls, jungle and incredible coastal scenery.
Spend an idyllic day exploring the underwater world of Molokini Crater. This crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater is one of the best locations in Hawaiʻi for snorkelling and diving, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
It’s often referred to as the Garden Isle, but the landscapes of Kauaʻi are among the wildest and most ruggedly beautiful you’ll find anywhere in the Hawaiian Islands. From the immense expanse of Waimea Canyon to the cascading Manawaiopuna Falls and the towering, folded cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast, many of the island’s most spectacular sights are best seen from the air on a scenic flight-seeing tour.
It’s a fabulous destination for adventure lovers, with endless options to widen your eyes and get your pulse racing. Go sea kayaking along the northern coast, catch some waves at Hanalei Beach, or try packrafting on the Waimea River. If you’re visiting between December and April, you may be lucky enough to spot migrating humpbacks during a whale-watching boat tour.
Hawaiʻi Island is larger than the other three main Hawaiian Islands combined, and it’s getting bigger every day thanks to the ongoing eruptions of Mt Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. The two volcanoes are, respectively, the world’s most frequently active and the world’s largest active, and together they cover 1308 square kilometres as Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. A guided tour of the park is a great way to learn about its unique geology and safely witness the power of Mother Nature in full force.
The island’s other main peak is Mauna Kea, which stands dormant with much of its immense height concealed beneath the surface of the ocean. With its high elevation and absence of light pollution, this is one of the best places in the world for star-gazing, but you’ll need to dress warmly as the summit is almost 4,205 metres above sea level – almost double the height of Australia’s highest peak.
The pristine waters that surround the Hawaiian Islands are rich with sea life, from spinner dolphins and monk seals to reef fish and five species of sea turtle. Head to Keauhou Bay near Kona on the Hawaiʻi Island’s West Coast, where you can swim with immense and graceful manta rays year-round.
A sunset cruise in Hawaiʻi is a memorable experience for every age of traveller, but a sunset party cruise with live DJ is just for the grown-ups. You’ll be free to sip cocktails and enjoy the vibes, with the twinkling lights of Waikiki to provide the perfect ambience.
Take a tour through one of Hawaiʻi’s boutique breweries and distilleries, where you can sample locally-made craft beers, rum, vodka, and okolehao (traditional Hawaiian moonshine). Favourites include the Maui Brewing Co., the Hanalei Spirits Distillery (on Kauaʻi), and the Big Island Brewhaus.
When it comes to accommodation, Hawaiʻi has it all, from high-rise apartment complexes in Waikiki to luxurious boutique resorts. If you’re travelling without kids, every island offers adults-only resorts where you can treat yourself to poolside cocktails and fine dining every day.
If gourmet five-course dining, accompanied by delicious cocktails and live music, is your idea of peak romance, a sunset dinner cruise in Waikiki is definitely for you. After watching the sun sink into the Pacific Ocean, you’ll have the best seats in the house for the spectacular fireworks display that lights up the sky over Waikiki every Friday night.
If you or your loved one prefer to keep your feet on dry land, you could opt for a private, beachfront dining experience instead. We’re talking barefoot luxury with warm sand beneath your feet, fine dining at your fingertips, and another glorious Hawaiian sunset to set the mood for romance.
Everyone needs a little indulgence from time to time, and Hawaiʻi is one of our favourite destinations for a couples’ spa day. Book yourselves a shared lomilomi massage, followed by a lazy soak in an outdoor bath for two.
A traditional luau night is an absolute must if you’re planning a family holiday in Hawaiʻi. It’s a fun taste of authentic Polynesian culture where you can join in the hula dancing, watch your kids’ faces light up at the thrilling fire knife demonstration and storytelling, and enjoy the stress-free dining that accompanies a ‘something for everyone’ buffet feast.
Koholā (humpback whales) love the warm waters that surround the Hawaiian islands just as much as humans, and the Auʻau Channel between Maui, Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi is one of the world’s greatest locations for whale-watching tours, which operate out of Lahaina. The migration season is December to April, with February and March the peak months for spotting whales as they feed on krill and play with their young. You can even use a hydrophone to eavesdrop on their ethereal singing.
One of the most unique and distinctly Hawaiian experiences you can enjoy as a family is learning to play the ukulele. Join a beginner class, then bring your uke home with you so that you can relive your holiday time and again through its joyful, island-style sound.
If you’re looking for adventure, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained in Hawaiʻi, from night diving with manta rays in Kona to backcountry ATV touring in Kauaʻi. You can hike the summit trail to Diamond Head Crater and soak up the incredible ocean and city views, go snorkelling at Maui’s Turtle Town, Maluaka Beach, or Oʻahu’s Hanauma Bay or enjoy a hike in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Whether you’re seeking thrills or relaxation, cultural connection or breathtaking landscapes, the islands of Hawaiʻi offer something special for every visitor. If you’re ready to plan your dream Hawaiʻi itinerary, talk to your Personal Travel Manager today.
TravelManagers respects and honours the Traditional Custodians of the land and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on the lands where we work and gather, and those we visit.
