Are you planning a trip to Hawaii?
Let’s face it, planning a trip can be downright stressful. You want to cram in all of the best sights and places to see whilst also ensuring proper relaxation. This is why planning your trip right from the start is so important.
To make matters easier, we’re going to help you out with our expert guide.
If you’re looking to plan an unforgettable trip to Hawaii, you’ve come to the right place! We’re showcasing the fifteen top places to visit in Hawaii to ensure that you make the most of your trip.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started on planning your dream Hawaii vacation! Definitely you need to be sure that you have a travel authorization visa for it. ESTA for Hawaii it’s the permit to entry Hawaii if you are coming outside of the US.
Table of Contents
- 1. The Island of Lana’i
- 2. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- 3. Hana Highway
- 4. The North Shore of Oahu
- 5. Tour The ʻIolani Palace
- 6. The USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor
- 7. Diamond Head
- 8. Haleakalā National Park
- 9. Waimea Canyon
- 10. Kualoa Ranch
- 11. Waiʻanapanapa State Park
- 12. Hanauma Bay
- 13. The Shore in Waikiki
- 14. Shop at Ala Moana
- 15. Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park
- Try These Top Places to Visit in Hawaii
1. The Island of Lana’i
It would be impossible to compile a list of the best places to visit in Hawaii without including The Island of Lana’i.
This is a private island that also happens to be one of the most beautiful and serene islands in all of Hawaii. For nature lovers, you can look forward to the possibility of seeing green turtles and even humpback whales. While it’s only 9 miles from Maui, The Island of Lana’i feels like an entirely new world.
Here, there are plenty of expensive and world-class resorts and spas. This is a great place to unwind for the weekend and recharge before heading back to the hustle and bustle of Maui.
2. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Is witnessing a volcano on your bucket list?
If so, it’s time to head to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park! Here, you can witness powerful volcanic landscapes and learn how the Hawaiian islands were formed.
Of all the volcanoes in Hawaii, this is where you’re going to see and learn the most about volcanoes.
3. Hana Highway
If you’re looking for a stunning drive, look no further than Hana Highway!
It’s safe to say that the Road to Hana is one of the most enjoyable experiences in all of Hawaii. With this, you can look forward to witnessing the stunning landscapes that surround such a special place.
You can either rent and car and drive the route yourself or you can join a tour company. Either way, this journey is sure to be one of the best aspects of your Hawaiian vacation.
4. The North Shore of Oahu
Are you looking to catch a serious wave?
The North Shore of Oahu is a stretch of coast that is best known for its beautiful scenery, stunning cliffs and large-scale waves.
For this reason, this has become a popular shore for surfers and is even home to some of the best world-class surfing competitions. For beginners, this isn’t exactly the best place to learn the ins and outs of surfing 101. Instead, this shore attracts advanced surfers that are looking to catch some serious waves.
5. Tour The ʻIolani Palace
Are you looking to learn more about the Hawaiian monarchy?
If so, this one’s for you! This palace was built in 1882 and was the royal residence of the rulers of the Kingdom of Hawaii. In your tour, you will visit the palace and learn all about the history of the monarchy.
This is the perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon in Honolulu!
6. The USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor
If you’re looking to take a break from the beach or hiking, it might be time to indulge in some Hawaiian history.
Located in Honolulu, the memorial at Pearl Harbor is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Hawaii. This memorial outlines where World War Two began for America and provides insight into the events that took place.
Free tours are generally available to the public on most days.
7. Diamond Head
Located in O’ahu, Diamond is a stunning volcanic tuff cone.
One of the most popular activities in Diamond Head is to hike to the very top. After a short and simple hike, you can take in panoramic views of turquoise beaches and the local seaside towns.
Pro tip: The hike to the top of Diamond Head is relatively simple. It’s safe to say that you don’t need to be an experienced hiker or mountaineer to reach this summit. Score!
8. Haleakalā National Park
Are you looking to set your sights on a famous Hawaiian volcano?
If so, you’re in luck! The Haleakalā National Park is located on the Island of Maui. This is where you’ll find the dormant Haleakalā Volcano which has become an incredible hot spot for tourists.
Here, you can participate in one of the most stunning hikes of your life. You can look forward to witnessing gorgeous mountain views, rugged trails, cinder cones and lava flows.
Many businesses in the area also offer sunrise tours. This will allow you to tour the area as a group during the most stunning time to experience the park.
9. Waimea Canyon
This Hawaiian canyon is known by locals as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.
It stretches for ten miles and is up to 3000 feet deep in some areas of the canyon. Here, you can tour yourself or join an arranged tour to explore the area.
This is surely one of the most picturesque areas in all of Hawaii so don’t forget your camera!
10. Kualoa Ranch
It’s safe to say that Kualoa Ranch isn’t like any other ranch.
In fact, it features over 400 acres of a private nature reserve. Not only is this a working cattle farm, but it’s also a stunning and serene place to find yourself. This is also where many Hollywood films such as Jurrasic Park and Godzilla were filmed.
This ranch is located only 24 miles from Honolulu. If you’re wondering what else to do and see whilst in Honolulu, be sure to visit this link to plan a trip to Hawaii.
11. Waiʻanapanapa State Park
Have you ever visited a black sand beach before?
Located in Maui, Waiʻanapanapa State Park is home to a stunning black sand beach. This beach is nestled in a private cove and boasts incredible, turquoise waters for swimming.
Be careful, black sand is significantly hotter than traditional white sand!
12. Hanauma Bay
For those looking to explore the clear waters of Hawaii, this is for you!
Hanauma Bay is a popular destination for snorkelers and divers alike. The clear, turquoise water allows for an incredible opportunity to swim with turtles, fish and other marine life.
Because this is a marine protected area, you can look forward to spotting plenty of marine life!
13. The Shore in Waikiki
If you’re looking to combine beachside relaxing with high-class shopping, this one’s for you.
The Shore in Waikiki is a vibrant neighborhood home to high-rise hotels, local and designer shopping and a stunning white sand beach. Come sundown, the many bars and restaurants in the area come alive. Grab a signature cocktail, sit back and enjoy a local hula show.
This is a great place to kick back, relax and enjoy a weekend. What more could you want on a sunny, Saturday afternoon?
14. Shop at Ala Moana
Are you looking to get your shop on?
As it turns out, there’s no better place to shop than Hawaii. After all, Honolulu is home to the largest open-air shopping market in the whole world.
Unlike the majority of shopping malls, the Ala Moana feels like you’re shopping in the great outdoors. Here, you can catch a tan and a breath of fresh air while you peruse the homewares at your favorite shop.
There are also plenty of great eateries, cafes, and bars to whet your palette!
15. Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park
Are you looking to experience some of Hawaii’s most breathtaking scenery?
The Napali Coast State Wildnerness Park is located in the northwest of Kauai Island. It’s home to stunning sea cliffs, gorgeous waterfalls, narrow valleys and plenty of trails.
This is the perfect place to get some incredible photographs and test your endurance on the many trails. Camping and overnight visits are also possible in this area with a special permit.
Try These Top Places to Visit in Hawaii
Are you getting ready to pack your bags for Hawaii?
If Hawaii has been on your bucket list for quite some time, you’re certainly not alone! The state of Hawaii has always been an incredibly popular tourist destination. But, in recent years, a greater number of tourists have caught on to the magic of Hawaii and it’s become one of the most popular destinations in America.
In fact, Hawaii was recently home to over 9.3 million tourists in the period of only one year. Considering that the population of Hawaii is only 1.42 million, it’s easy to understand just how telling this number is.
The fact of the matter is simple: Hawaii is a true paradise on earth! It’s also home incredible food, gorgeous weather, and incredibly exciting and unique culture.
So, go on and discover the top places to visit in Hawaii. It’s safe to say that after reading this guide, you’ll be well on your way to make your trip to Hawaii one of your best yet.
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