Hawaii Top Destinations
Our island-by-island list of the top sites we recommend visiting in Hawaii. We will provide you with additional info to help you with your own research
by Celeste Lipford and Terry Lipford
Below you will find our list (for each island) of the top sites you should consider visiting in Hawaii. This list is not an "itinerary" but are meant to suggest to you destinations that are worth visiting while you are in Hawaii.
You should be aware that when we say "our list" that it means that we have visited there, explored it, and we are passing on to you our thoughts on each location listed. If we haven\'t visited a spot that many people feel is a "top spot/site", then we do not list it because we are giving you our perceptions of each destination.
Click any of the five image boxes below to go to that section of this page. Within each section, you will find additional links. And oh yeah, if all you are looking for a just another list, here is a link to a Google Search Results Page for "Hawaii top sites".
And for those of you who have had the pleasure of sampling Malasadas in Hawaii, here is our page where we let you know what malasada shops we have sampled.
And for those of you who have never had a malasada; Forget boring donuts, malasadas are Hawaii's fluffy, golden bombs of joy! Imagine clouds dipped in sunshine, then stuffed with creamy goodness like guava, lilikoi, or haupia – basically, an island party in your mouth. They're warm, melt-in-your-smile magic, best enjoyed with a sunrise view or while hula-ing under palm trees. Forget counting calories, these little clouds of bliss are worth every happy sigh. So you will want to grab a malasada, let the tropical flavors explode, and aloha yourself to deliciousness! Just be warned, one bite and you'll be saying "mahalo" for more!
The Big Island (officially named Hawaii) is the largest island in the United States' Hawaiian archipelago in the Central Pacific. Its diverse terrain spans colored-sand beaches at Papakolea (green) and Punalu’u (black) to lush rainforest. It is the 75th largest island in the world at 4,029 square miles.
Kona International Airport
Although we do not normally describe, or talk about, airports in our Travel Blog - Kona is unique in that as you land here and notice all the blackened ground in and around the airport, you realize that the blackened ground is the result of lava flows. If you read the Wikipedia Page for this airport, you will discover that the entire airport was built on top of a 200 year old lava flow, the 1801 Huʻehuʻe flow from Hualālai. This flow extended the Big Island shoreline out an estimated 1 mile.
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Akaka Falls State Park
This area is located 16.6 miles from our Hilo hotel and there are actually two waterfalls; Akaka Falls (442 feet high) and Kahuna Falls (100 feet). The walkway is paved for the entire route around the grounds (.4 mile) and there are roughly 200+ steps, so the trail is not wheelchair accessible. The parking lot is not large, and you should arrive here early in the day to avoid the tour buses that will start arriving after 10am.
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Entrance and other information are available here. Hawaii
residents are free (must display Hawaii driver license) and non-residents are $5.00 per person. Parking is free to Hawaii residents, $10.00 per car
for all non-residents. Limited number of parking spots next to the trail entrance - get there early.Hilo Hawaii
Our travel plan was to spend 4 nights in Hilo, for several reasons - there are numerous waterfalls in the area, and we'd never been to this area previously. However, the weather was frequently intense rain showers. We had brought good rain gear with us, so we decided that we would just deal with the rain and not let it disrupt our explorations. The weather pattern known as the "Kona Low" was the cause of all the increased rainfall, and given that Hilo is already known as the "fourth wettest city in the USA" (averaging 126.72 inches yearly), residents & tourists alike were utilizing rain gear of all types to deal with the heavy rain.
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Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park encompasses two active volcanoes: Kīlauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the world's most massive shield volcano. The park provides scientists with insight into the development of the Hawaiian Islands and access for studies of volcanism. For visitors, the park offers dramatic volcanic landscapes, glimpses of rare flora and fauna, and a view into the traditional Hawaiian culture connected to these landscapes.
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Date and time specific reservations are required click here to
obtain more price and visiting information. The National Park Service has a lot of useful information and tips on their website.Kona and Ka'u Coffee Plantations
There are more than 650 coffee farms of all sizes clustered along the ±20 miles of scenic roads on the Hualalai and Mauna Loa slopes. Many of these farms offer tours to the public, click here to view a web page describing various Kona Coffee tours that are available.
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There are a large number of coffee plantation tours available, plus many of the coffee plantations offer their own tours.
Click here to view a Google Search Results list for "Kona Coffee Plantation tours"
You could also consider a self-guided tour of coffee plantations.
Click here to view that type of tourKailua-Kona Area
A very popular area that has some diverse activities, ie; Kailua-Kona is the start and finish of the annual triathlon Ironman World Championship , the Kona Coffee Festival , and the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament .
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The Maui road system does not quite completely encircle the island. Route 30/310 (on the western side of the island) will take you south of Makena Beach - but - you cannot get to Hana unless you drive on route 37/360. On the north side of Maui, route 30 connects with route 340/3400 which will take you to route 360 which will eventually take you to Hana on the south side of the island.
Haleakala National Park
Haleakala (in Hawaiian "House of the Sun") is a dormant volcano that rises 10,023 feet above sea level. It's a popular place to visit at sunrise and we highly recommend that you try to visit at that time. The road to reach the top is about 34.9 miles long and winds its way to the top via frequent switchbacks. The drive takes about 2 hours so if you want to catch the sunrise you'll need to wake up very early.
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If you plan to go within your first few days in Hawaii you'll be jet lagged - so go later and it will be easier to get up
very early in the morning to make the trek. The sunrise as viewed from the summit is stunning, and if you do not go early, you will
miss it or find that there is no parking!
The two-lane road to the summit is very challenging, hitting a 15% of maximum gradient through some of the ramps. The elevation gain
is 3021 meters and the average gradient is 5.39%. It is a well-maintained two-lane highway containing many blind turns and very steep drop offs
without guardrails, mainly composed of 32 switchbacks.The Road to Hana
This is one of the more challenging drives in Hawaii, ie; Route 360 is comprised of 620 white-knuckle switchbacks, steep cliff drops & falling rocks. The views along the coastline while you are driving on route 360 are stunning, and then once you arrive in Hana, you have access to interesting hiking trails, good snorkeling in Hana Beach Park, and shopping in the village itself. You should consider this as a day trip because of the distances involved, the one lane bridges, etc.
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This is an all day trip, on a road that is very rough and very narrow. You need to exercise caution as you drive this route and
be very careful you follow the rules on the single lane bridges. Note that there are 59 bridges, of which 46 are only one lane wide. Drivers
are expected to follow a process of "one car at a time" alternating crossing the bridge.Lahaina
In Lahaina you'll find some of the best restaurants on Maui, plenty of art galleries, art fairs, a large number of great souvenir shops, and a really fun small-town vibe.
Be sure to visit Banyan Tree Park, located on the popular Front Street in Lahaina. There you will find the world famous banyan tree, imported from India, planted in April of 1873, and it has managed to grow to over 60 feet.
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NOTE: Obviously after the major fire that took place in Lahaina, all of the places that we visited in Lahaina are either destoryed or are not open. We wish the Lahaina survivors all the best and hope that they recover from this tragedy. Please consider a contribution to the "Maui Strong Fund" to help. Contributions are also being accepted at the Maui United Way Website. A list of charities that are accepting donations can be found here.
Maui Ocean Center
Just 8 miles north of Kihei on Maalaea Bay (route 30), it is an aquarium and oceanography center. The 3 acres facility is the largest living tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere.
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Date and time specific reservations are required click here to
obtain more price information. This is an interesting place to visit, good exhibits and the 3-D humpback whale sphere experience is awesome.Makena Beach State Park
This is one of Maui's signature beaches. With white sands extending nearly 2/3 of a mile long, it is one of the largest, undeveloped beaches in Maui.
How much does it cost to go to Makena Beach? Currently, entrance costs $5 for nonresidents (in addition to the $10 parking fee). Bathrooms and picnic tables are available on-site.
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Entrance and other information are available here. Hawaii
residents are free (must display Hawaii driver license) and non-residents are $5.00 per person. Parking is free to Hawaii residents, $10.00 per car
for all non-residents. Limited number of parking spots next to the trail entrance - get there early.Waiʻānapanapa State Park
OK, so this is actually on the Road to Hana, but it is a beautiful park and one you should visit if you have the time. Remote, wild, volcanic coastline offering solitude and respite from urban life. Lodging, camping, picnicking, shore fishing and hardy family hiking along an ancient Hawaiian coastal trail which leads to Hana. Excellent opportunity to view a seabird colony and natural stone arch. Other features include native hala forest, heiau (religious temple), sea stacks, blow holes and small black sand beach.
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Date and time specific reservations are required, and there are fees both for entrance and parking, click here to
obtain more info and your reservations. Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Tours
We took the Hana & Haleakala Tour from the Maui Kahului Airport and flew west around Haleakala, over Haleakala National Park and the Seven Sacred Pools, Hamoa Beach, Hana, Waiʻānapanapa State Park, Kea‘ā Beach and then back to the Airport over the eastern coastline of Maui. The views from the Helicopter are fantastic & cannot be duplicated from ground level !
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Click here to view our Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Tour
Click here to visit the Blue Hawaii Helicopter Maui Tours website
Advanced reservations are required and they recommend booking this a month or more before your arrival. A credit card is
required to finalize a reservation with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters and they will charge you for your seats at the time your space is
confirmed with their office. Go to their website link above for additional information.Hoʻokipa Beach Park
Hoʻokipa is a beach on the north shore of Maui, adjacent to Mama's Fish House on Hawaii route 36 (AKA "The Road to Hana"). A combination of large, well-shaped waves breaking across a system of reefs that extend across the bay and consistently strong winds make it ideal for the sport.
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Lava Lava Beach Club
Nestled along the idyllic shores of Kauai, the Lava Lava Beach Club stands as a quintessential island oasis, captivating visitors with its charm and laid-back ambiance. This beachfront haven, with its pristine white sands and azure waters, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
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Wailua River Kayaking
Kaying on this river is a lot of fun and very scenic! Once you have paddled to the end of the river, there is a nice hike to Wailua Falls, be careful in rainy season as it will be all mud! The trail to the falls is approximately a third of a mile long but the crux of the trail is down a very steep and slippery slope. Hikers must hold on to roots, limbs and handy ropes (if present) to safely navigate the slope. The trail can be completed in about 15-20 minutes (each way).
Yes, you could drive to Wailua Falls; From Lihue, take Hawaii State Highway 583 to Maalo Road and you would be "above" the falls. This route is only 5.3 miles from Lihue. Note that the parking lot is is free.
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This can be a very muddy hike, yet shoes are necessary due to the rocks, roots & limbs on the trail. Wear something that
you can rinse off at the Falls or back at the river.Anahola Beach
A beautiful beach on a beautiful bay with a beautiful white sand fringed bay & good swimming and decent snorkeling most of the year due to a protective outlying reef.
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Kauapea Beach
This beach is perhaps more well known by it’s nickname, Secret Beach but in Hawaiian it is known as Kauapea Beach. However, many locals simply call this beach Secrets for short. This 3,000 foot long north shore beach is known for its size, privacy, and scenery. Secret beach is between Kalihiwai Bay and Kilauea Point and is accessed by a steep trail which is not marked.
How to get here may explain the nickname of "Secret Beach"; Drive north on Kuhio Highway (Route 56) past Kilauea town. Then look for the Kalihiwai Road exit (second one after Kilauea) and turn right. Shortly after the turn, you'll see a dirt road on your right. This is unmarked, so keep your eyes peeled! Proceed down the bumpy dirt road for about 50 yards. You'll reach a small parking area at the end. The trail to the beach starts here. The trail is a moderate 10-minute walk down a steep path with exposed tree roots.
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Wear proper footwear, sturdy shoes are crucial for navigating the steep & uneven terrain. There are no restrooms
or amenities at the beach, so plan accordingly. Pack out all your trash and leave no trace to preserve the beach's natural beauty.Hanalei Beach
This is yet another beautiful beach - and it has also been a popular Hollywood movie location and was featured in the movies South Pacific and The Descendants.
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Haena State Park
This is the "end of the road" on the north side of Kauai, you cannot circumnavigate the island. Hā’ena State Park is located at the northwestern extent of Kuhio Highway on Kauai’s north-shore. The park offers viewing of restored lo’i kalo (taro fields), as well as the spectacular Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park.
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Waimea Canyon State Park
Drive Hawaii route 50 to State Highway 550 and exit north from 50 onto 550. This is not a long drive, 41 miles total from the Lava Lava Beach Club. The Canyon can be viewed from various lookouts; Waimea Canyon Lookout (mile marker 10) is the main viewing area for the canyon and it offers panoramic views, allowing you to go right up to the rim. Puʻu Hinahina Lookout (mile marker 13.5) and Kalalau Lookout (mile marker 18) also provide good viewing. Most of the route 550 road has quite a few trees, so the canyon may not be visible except in the larger turnouts.
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If you have a limited amount of time, head straight to Kalalua Lookout and make your way down from there.
Click here to view a Google Driving Route Map.Captain Cook Landing website
Situated at the mouth of the Waimea River, this National Historic website will mainly be of interest to history buffs: There’s not really much to see, though the nearby Hofgaard Park has a statue of Captain Cook and a plaque about the expedition's landfall.
This historical website marks the spot where British explorer Captain James Cook first set foot on the Hawaiian Islands in 1778. As you stand on the shores of this picturesque website, you can envision the momentous arrival of Cook and his crew, forever altering the course of Hawaiian history.
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At 596.7 square miles, Oahu is the third largest Hawaiian Island and the most populated at 1,016,508 according to the 2020 U.S. Census. This is 70% of the total population of the State of Hawaii.
Dole Plantation: Wahiawa, Hawaii
Drive north from Honolulu on the Hawaii Route 2 to route 99 north where you will find this Historic pineapple plantation which now attracts families with a train ride & the world's largest maze. More than just a fruit stand (though it started that way in 1950!), Dole Plantation offers a fun-filled experience for the whole family,.
Be sure to visit their Pineapple Garden Maze, ride on their Pineapple Express Train Tour, or explore their Plantation Garden Tour. Activities are available daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Closed on Christmas day).
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Tickets and Information available here. Note
that a specific date and time must be specified for entrance. Prices vary based upon your selection criteria.Haleʻiwa Area
Haleʻiwa is a lot more than the laid-back surf town that it might seem, Haleʻiwa is filled with local style and country ambiance, as well as cool surf shops and boutiques, charming art, etc.
Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, it is a charming coastal town renowned for its laid-back atmosphere and surf culture. This historic community offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Hawaiian life with its quaint storefronts, art galleries, and local eateries. Haleiwa serves as a gateway to some of the world's most famous surf breaks, attracting surfers and beach enthusiasts from around the globe. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as Waimea Valley, home to botanical gardens and waterfalls, or embark on a scenic drive along the coastline to enjoy breathtaking ocean views.
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Try some shaved ice at Matsumoto Shave Ice or Haleiwa Shave IceWaimea Falls
Head north on the Kamehameha Highway. Waimea Falls, also known as Waihi Falls, is one of the more accessible falls on Oahu. It is located within Waimea Valley, which is a unique Hawaiian botanical garden within a significant cultural and archaeological website.
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Tickets and Information available here. The
Falls are located within Waimea Valley, a sacred Hawaiian website.Waimea Bay Beach Park
A very pretty beach with a famous surf break. This beach is famous for its 30-foot waves in the winter and is a top place to watch some of the world’s best and bravest surfers. During summer, the water calms considerably and is a great destination for swimming, snorkeling and diving.
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Click here to see a list of videos on Youtube about Waimea Beach, the waves can get to some serious heights!Turtle Bay Resort
Located at the very northern-most tip of Oahu, it is a beautiful location and a scenic resort, with a protected cove & beach that has good snorkeling.
Turtle Bay Resort, situated on Oahu's North Shore in Hawaii, is a premier destination offering luxury accommodations and unparalleled natural beauty. Nestled between lush tropical landscapes and pristine beaches, the resort boasts stunning ocean views and a serene ambiance. Guests can indulge in a range of activities, including surfing, golfing, horseback riding, and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. The resort also features world-class dining options, spa facilities, and spacious accommodations with modern amenities.
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Polynesian Cultural Center
From Turtle Bay, continue east/southeast on route 83 to the Laie area. A visit here will give you a very good look into what the Polynesian Culture was all about; they offer shows, a luau dinner with another great show and a "living museum" village.
The Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu, Hawaii, is a renowned destination offering an immersive experience into the diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands. Spread across 42 acres, the center features authentic village replicas representing seven Polynesian cultures, including Hawaii, Samoa, Tahiti, and Fiji. Visitors can enjoy interactive demonstrations, traditional performances, and hands-on activities, providing a deep dive into Polynesian customs, arts, and crafts. The center also hosts the popular Ali'i Luau, showcasing traditional Hawaiian cuisine and entertainment.
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Tickets and Information available here. Note
that a specific date and time must be specified for entrance. Prices vary based upon your selection criteria, ie; which package you select and
whether you want to see the show, etc. Go to the website (link above) to view what is available for your desired date.Pearl Harbor Tours
The Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, Bowfin Submarine, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, if you are a WW2 buff, this is a tour that you do not want to miss.
NOTE: A complimentary shuttle is available to transport visitors to the Battleship Missouri Memorial. Please park at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center parking lot, then take the shuttle to the Battleship Missouri Memorial on Ford Island.
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Tickets and Information available here. Note
that a specific date and time must be specified for entrance. Note that the USS Arizona Memorial is some distance from the USS Missouri, catch the free
shuttle bus to Ford Island to visit the USS Missouri.Waikiki Beach
A very famous beach but it really isn't as pretty as some of the other beaches you will find in Hawaii. It attracts visitors with its white-sand beaches, celebrities, the Moana Surfrider Hotel, the proximity to Oahu attractions, and the Diamond Head backdrop.
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Hilton Hawaiian Village Honolulu
Because this hotel is so centrally located, it was a nice stroll down Waikiki Beach to various eateries, shops, pubs, etc. Being close to Ala Moana Boulevard also made it easy for us to drive to anywhere north or south via the H-1. By the way, anything you've heard about Honolulu traffic is probably true.
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Diamond Head State Monument
This is a nice (but steep) hike up to the top where you will have stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu that are gorgeous.
The
hike starts from the parking lot (limited number of spaces) and proceeds upward via a winding trail to the very top, where you will find
a lookout post built during WW2. Bring your camera!
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This is a short hike in distance (1.8 miles out & back), however, the final section of the hike is steep and strenuous, gaining 560 feet as it ascends from the crater floor. You need to wear
sturdy & comfortable shoes and bring water. There are currently restrictions regarding parking & entrance to the park, out of state
visitors are required to purchase tickets. Currently Hawaii non-residents must acquire date & time permission in order to enter and park in their parking lot.
Tickets and Information available hereHalona Blow Hole
The Hālona Blowhole is one of Hawai'i's natural wonders, created thousands of years ago when molten lava tubes were formed from volcanic eruptions. Hālona, in Hawaiian, means “lookout,” and visitors can see miles of pristine coastline waters from the lookout. When the Ka‘iwi Channel is churning during the winter months, strong currents and big waves send water rushing into the molten lava tubes below the lookout, sending geysers as high as 30 feet through the blowhole.
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Take a look at these YouTube Videos
of the Hālona BlowholeSandy Beach
It is widely known for its excellent bodyboarding and bodysurfing opportunities due to shore break and consistent barrels. It will get crowded here if there is an event, so arrive early because parking can get used up quickly. This beach is adjacent to the Halona Blow Hole, so you could plan on stopping here next and kill two birds with one stone.
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Click here to see a list of videos on Youtube about Sandy Beach, the waves can get to some serious heights!Sea Life Park
This is a marine mammal park, bird sanctuary and aquarium in Waimānalo near Makapuʻu Point. Popular with tourists for its diverse animal shows and entertainment. There are more than 2,000 marine creatures in the Hawaii Sea Life Park, including indoor aquariums and open-air venues built by the sea. As the park was built in 1964, it is showing it's age in some respects, and the reviews you will find are all over the place.
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Tickets and Information available here. Note
that ticket prices vary based upon your criteria.Waimanolo Beach State Park
The Anderson Estate, which was featured in the TV series Magnum, P.I. as "Robin's Nest", is located in Waimānalo Beach. This beach is usually uncrowded, with good surf. Take a look at the Wikipedia link we've provided and look at the beautiful geography that is located near this beach!!
This is a place rarely visited by tourists, that will leave you in awe of the fact that you had no idea it even existed in Oahu. Waimanalo beach on a sunny day is jaw-dropping dead gorgeous, with turquoise blue waters and miles of some of the softest white sand your will toes will ever touch!
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Click here to view our Hawaii Waimanolo Visit
Click here to visit the Waimanolo Beach State Park Wikipedia Page
Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout
Route 72 from Waimanolo Beach, through Maunawili. Impressive view of windward Oʻahu from brink of pali (cliffs) at 1,200 feet elevation in the Ko’olau Range. Winds are usually so strong that one can lean against the wall of wind.
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Click here to visit the Waimanolo Beach State Park Wikipedia Page
National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific
AKA Punchbowl Cemetery - A beautiful WW2 Cemetery constructed inside an ancient volcano crater. You may wonder why we might suggest visiting a cemetery, but this one is comprised of beautiful grounds with Honolulu and Diamond Head providing a great backdrop.
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Bishop Science Museum
The Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, designated the Hawaiʻi State Museum of Natural and Cultural History, is a museum of history and science in the historic Kalihi district of Honolulu on the Hawaiian island of Oʻahu. Founded in 1889, it is the largest museum in Hawaiʻi and has the world's largest collection of Polynesian cultural artifacts and natural history specimens. Besides the comprehensive exhibits of Hawaiian cultural material, the museum's total holding of natural history specimens exceeds 24 million, of which the entomological collection alone represents more than 13.5 million specimens (making it the third-largest insect collection in the United States).
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Tickets and Information available here. Note
that a specific date and time must be specified for entrance. Adult tickets are currently $28.95 per person.Hanauma Bay
Hanauma is both a Nature Preserve and a Marine Life Conservation District (the first of several established in the State of Hawaiʻi). Reflecting changes in attitude, its name has changed over time from Hanauma Bay Beach Park to Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Visitors are required by law to refrain from mistreating marine animals or from touching, walking, or otherwise having contact with coral heads, which appear much like large rocks on the ocean floor (here, mostly seaward of the shallow fringing reef off the beach).
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Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts
Tropical Farms Macadamia Nut epitomizes the essence of sustainable agriculture and exotic flavors. This idyllic farm, surrounded by vibrant foliage and framed by azure skies, cultivates the finest macadamia nuts in the world. Blessed with the island's rich volcanic soil and a perfect climate, the orchards thrive, yielding nuts celebrated for their exceptional taste and nutritional benefits. Visitors to Tropical Farms embark on a sensory journey, exploring the orchards, witnessing traditional harvesting techniques, and indulging in freshly roasted macadamias. This agricultural haven not only captures the spirit of Hawaii but also contributes to the global appreciation of this delectable nut.
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This is just about the half-way point if you are driving back to Waikīkī Beach. Which makes this a good "pit stop" with interesting
coffees, clean restrooms and plenty of parking. And they have macadamia nuts of every shape, size and taste. Click the above link to their website
to view all of their products.Iolani Palace
The ʻIolani Palace was the royal residence of the rulers of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi beginning with Kamehameha III under the Kamehameha Dynasty (1845) and ending with Queen Liliʻuokalani (1893) under the Kalākaua Dynasty, founded by her brother, King David Kalākaua. It is now a National Historic Landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Click here to view our Iolani Palace Visit
Tickets and Information available here. Note
that a specific date and time must be specified for entrance. General Admission adult tickets are currently $32.95 per person.To review any of our content, make suggestions and/or comments, please click the "Info" menu button at the top of this page. You will find our "Contact Us" link on that drop-down menu.