12 Best Things to Do in Hawaii

The tropical paradise of Hawaii is widely known for its beautiful beaches, lush island forests, and towering volcanoes. But wait, we knew that already. What else is there to see? Here are the best things to do in Hawaii – all guaranteed to take your breath away.

1. Take a Roadtrip Down Hana Highway

This highway is also dubbed the “Divorce Highway” because of the many harrowing and exhausting hairpin curves you’ll face along the way. Not to mention, there are more than 50 one-lane bridges as well as blind spots that could pose a bigger challenge. The imposed speed limit is 25mph or less. Before you can argue and say it’s boring, you should know you can also stop to see the beautiful waterfalls, fantastic views, lush gardens, beach parks, and the awesome sunset! Just make sure you don’t take photos while driving. Hana Highway is said to be the most beautiful highway in the world, but you don’t want to fall down from sheer cliffs with 100 feet drops.

2. Explore the Kauai Landscape by Helicopter

A helicopter tour is probably the most popular option for visitors looking to explore the Kauai landscape. You’ll be at the front row seat of the stunning vistas of Na Pali Coast as well as the waterfalls of Kauai. One famous attraction is the Manawaiopuna Falls which was featured in the original 1993 Jurassic Park movie! If you’re up for an extra adrenaline rush, you may even find a helicopter tour okay with the doors off! Crazy? Well, that just about sums up the best things to do in Hawaii!

3. Go Mountain Tubing Through Canals and Tunnels Kauai

Float down the open canals, tunnels, and flumes hand-dug in the 1870s, and enjoy the gently flowing waters and beautiful scenery! The Kaua’i Backcountry Adventures is a famous eco-tour company that can give you access to 17,000 acres of former plantation lands. This fascinating experience is the only tubing activity of this type in Kauai, so make sure you add this to your must-go-to list! At the end of your adventure, you’d also be treated to a picnic area for lunch and a refreshing dip in their natural swimming hole!

4. Ride a Submarine and Explore Ocean Depths With Atlantis Submarines

There’s no need to get wet even if you want to explore the seafloor! The Atlantis Submarines Maui will take you 100 feet below the surface so you can discover the amazing marine treasures of Lahaina. It is a comfortable and relaxing ride that even uses quiet, battery-powered, and eco-friendly submarines. Visitors usually anticipate the sights of Carthaginian, a sunken 19th-century whaling brig, now an artificial reef supporting marine life.

5. Book a Snorkeling Tour With Your Friends

Whether you’re aiming to see hundreds of fish species, green sea turtles, manta rays, or dolphins, your dream snorkeling activity can easily be found in Hawaii!

Some of the most famous snorkeling spots and tours include:

• Molokini Crater and Turtle Town (Molokini Snorkeling Adventure – the Calypso)
• Turtle Canyon (Catamaran Snorkel Cruise)
• Kona Coast (Manta Ray Moonlight Tour)
• Oahu (Oahu Snorkel Cruise)

6. Surf the Waters of Old Mans Oahu

The Old Mans Oahu or the “fun-for-all” surf spot is one of the best places to learn and practice surfing. When you come here, you’ll probably be greeted by fellow paddleboarders or longboarders. It’s frequented by beginners, but that doesn’t mean the stars don’t come here every so often.

If in doubt, paddle out!

7. Visit Akaka Falls

Take a short 0.4-mile hike from the parking lot to see the majestic Akaka Falls, a 422-feet waterfall and a famous stopover to anyone crossing the Hamakua coast. It is located inside the Akaka Falls State Park, where you’ll see the equally large waterfalls, Kahuna falls. Just take a look. Don’t you feel like you’re in a Jurassic Park movie?

8. Be in the Company of Cats at Lanai Cat Sanctuary

Are you a cat lover? Then you should make time to visit this sanctuary! The Lanai Cat Sanctuary was born, thanks to founder Kathy Caroll, who vowed to stop the suffering of homeless cats struggling to survive. Today, the sanctuary sits on a 3.5-acre land and has more than 600 rescue cats enjoying food, medical care, and more importantly, love. The place is open daily from 10 am to 3 pm. The staff encourages visitors who want to come and play to bring a picnic and stay for the day.

9. Race Through the Maze in Wahiawa

The world’s largest plant maze, which is almost two and a half miles of paths weaved through native plants, can be found just near the town of Haleiwa. Race through the maze and try to beat the fastest times which are posted on the entrance signs!Some visitors take about an hour or even more. But the record time for completing it is just seven minutes.

Imagine that!

10. Check out the ‘Ohe’o Gulch Pools

The seven sacred pools are what it is, sacred. It’s the most popular attraction in East Maui thanks to the spectacular waterfalls and pools that empty into the Hawaiian ocean, along the Kipahulu coastline. Go on a walk or a muddy hike while taking in this beautiful natural scenery!

11. Make Great Memories at the Blue Room

Are you already exploring Kauai’s North Shore? Then make sure you check out the heavenly Blue Room, located in a wet cave before the end of the road. You can only get there by swimming -but we promise – the spot is worth it! Once you enter, it’s like you’re in a different world because the light from the sun brightly shines through the clear waters, turning the whole room blue!

12. Learn About Hawaii’s Culture at Pu’Uhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park

One of the best things to do in Hawaii is to get a glimpse of their history and visiting Pu’Uhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park! There are Park Ranger talks in the Amphitheater just next to the Visitor’s Center, and the good thing about it is it’s offered daily! About the place: This park located on the south Kona coast is called the “city of refuge,” as it has become a haven for those that broke the Kapu laws during the old times. People who were given the death penalty would be pardoned by the Kahuna (high priest) and given a second chance at life.

If you are to choose the Top 3, which would you pick as the best things to do in Hawaii?