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Our Favorite Things To Do in Hawaii

Aloha, and welcome to Hawaii. Hawaii is a breathtaking tropical paradise that’s captured the hearts of vacationers (and Instagrammers) from around the world. From the vibrant culture to the stunning landscapes, Hawaii is a place unlike any other, where visitors can experience a unique blend of natural beauty and rich traditions. So, let’s take a closer look at some of our favorite things to do in Hawaii.

Mike Kennedy - Apr 14, 2023

The team at KOALA is thrilled to share some of the best things to do and see in Hawaii, from the iconic beaches and towering waterfalls to the awe-inspiring volcanoes and lush rainforests. Our goal is to provide you with a warm and informative guide to this incredible destination, so you can experience all that Hawaii has to offer with ease and confidence.

We’re sharing some general Hawaii must-dos, as well as 5 top things to do specific to the islands of Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island! 

Our love for Hawaii runs deep, and we are committed to showing respect for the local culture and customs that make these islands so unique. We want to share our passion for this magical place with you, while also providing practical information that will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Hawaii.

So sit back, relax, and let us take you on a journey to the heart of Hawaii. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, we hope you’ll discover something new and exciting about this incredible destination. Mahalo for joining us on this adventure!

 

General “Must-Do’s”

  1. Visit the beaches: Hawaii has some of the best beaches in the world, including Waikiki Beach, Lahaina Beach, and Kaanapali Beach. You can swim, sunbathe, surf, or just relax and enjoy the breathtaking views.
  2. Explore the volcanoes: Hawaii is home to five active volcanoes, including Kilauea and Mauna Loa. You hike through the lush rainforests to witness the beauty of these natural wonders.
  3. Go snorkeling or scuba diving: Hawaii’s crystal-clear waters are teeming with colorful marine life including sea turtles, tropical fish, and even dolphins. You can even take a snorkeling or scuba diving tour to explore the underwater world.
  4. Experience traditional Hawaiian culture: Hawaii has a rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. Attend a hula dance performance, participate in a traditional Hawaiian feast (luau), or visit a cultural center to learn about the history and customs of the islands.
  5. Go on a helicopter tour: Hawaii’s landscape is incredibly diverse, ranging from lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls to rugged cliffs and deep canyons. A helicopter tour will provide a bird’s-eye view of these natural wonders and leave you with unforgettable memories.

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Oahu
Oahu

  1. Hike Diamond Head: Diamond Head is a volcanic crater located on the east side of Oahu. The hike to the summit takes about 1-2 hours and offers stunning views of Waikiki and the surrounding coastline.
  2. Learn to surf on Waikiki Beach: Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous surf spots in the world, with gentle waves that are perfect for beginners. Taking a surfing lesson on Waikiki is a great way to experience Hawaii’s surfing culture and learn a new skill while having fun in the sun.
  3. Attend a traditional Hawaiian Luau: A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast that’s accompanied by music, hula dancing, and other cultural performances. It’s a great way to experience Hawaii’s rich history and culture, while enjoying delicious food and entertainment. 
  4. Snorkel in Hanauma Bay: Hanauma Bay is a protected marine life conservation area on the east side of Oahu. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters and an abundance of colorful fish and coral.
  5. Tour Pearl Harbor: Pearl Harbor is a historic site that marks the site of the Japanese attack that brought the U.S. into World War II. A tour of the site includes a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial and the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum.

Maui 

  1. Drive the Road to Hana: The Road to Hana is a winding, scenic drive that takes you through some of Maui’s most beautiful landscapes, including waterfalls, beaches, and rainforests. With over 600 turns and 50 bridges, it’s an adventure that’s not to be missed. (Be sure to keep an eye out for the beautiful and rare Rainbow Eucalyptus trees!)
  2. Snorkel in Molokini: Located just off the coast of Maui, Molokini is a crescent-shaped island that’s home to some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii. With crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life, Molokini is a must-visit for anyone who loves the ocean.
  3. Go beach-hopping on the west coast: Maui’s west coast is home to some of the island’s most beautiful and secluded beaches, including Kaanapali Beach, Kapalua Beach, and Honolua Bay. Beach-hopping along the coast is a great way to soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
  4. Trek to the Seven Sacred Pools: Located in Haleakala National Park, the Seven Sacred Pools are a series of waterfalls and pools that are a popular destination for hikers. The trail is challenging, but the views of the pools and surrounding rainforest make it well worth the effort.
  5. Hike the Haleakala Crater: The Haleakala Crater is a stunning natural wonder that’s worth the trek. The 11-mile round-trip hike takes you through the otherworldly landscape of the crater, with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.

 

Kauai

Kauai 

  1. Take a helicopter tour: Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in Hawaii. A helicopter tour is the perfect way to experience the island’s natural beauty, with views of the rugged coastline, towering waterfalls, and lush rainforests.
  2. Explore the Napali Coast: Located on the island of Kauai, the Napali Coast is one of Hawaii’s most stunning natural wonders. The best way to experience it is by hiking the Kalalau Trail, a challenging 22-mile round-trip trek that takes you through lush valleys and along dramatic cliffs overlooking the ocean. Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking views of the coastline and cascading waterfalls.
  3. Snorkel or scuba dive at Tunnels Beach: Tunnels Beach is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, with crystal-clear waters and a wealth of marine life. It’s located on the north shore of Kauai, and offers easy access to some of the island’s best underwater sights.
  4. Take a sunset sail: Taking a sunset sail along Kauai’s coastline is a great way to relax and take in the beauty of the island. Many boat tours offer drinks, snacks, and live music, making for a memorable evening.
  5. Take a zipline tour: Kauai is home to several zipline companies that offer tours through the island’s dense rainforests and over scenic valleys. It’s a thrilling way to experience the island’s natural beauty and get your adrenaline pumping.

 

The Big Island 

  1. Visit Volcanoes National Park: Volcanoes National Park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, as well as miles of hiking trails and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore lava tubes, see steaming vents, and witness the awesome power of nature.
  2. Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay: Kealakekua Bay is a marine sanctuary located on the west coast of the Big Island, and is one of the best places to snorkel in Hawaii. It’s home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins.
  3. Explore the Waipio Valley: The Waipio Valley is a beautiful valley located on the northeast coast of the Big Island. Visitors can hike down to the valley floor, swim in the waterfall pools, and take in the stunning views of the coastline.
  4. Take a Kona coffee farm tour: Kona coffee is world-renowned for its rich, smooth flavor, and the Big Island is home to many coffee farms that offer tours and tastings. Visitors can learn about the history and process of coffee cultivation, as well as sample some of the island’s best brews.
  5. Visit the Mauna Kea Observatory: Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano located on the Big Island, and is home to several world-class observatories. Visitors can take a tour of the facilities, learn about astronomy, and witness the beauty of the night sky from one of the best vantage points in the world.

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