Choose from 196 Fun Things to Do in Hawaii
ShowingFilter 81-100 of 196 listings.
Lahaina
The city of Lahaina on the western coast of Maui is, today, sometimes seen as simply a way to get to the beaches of Kaanapali. If you're just passing through, however, you're missing the town's charms completely.
Lahaina was once the royal capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii, from 1820-1845, and many of the attractions in the historic district date from that era – including the old cemetery, where you'll find royal graves, and a defensive fortress with reconstructed walls. Later, the city's economy was built on the whaling industry. Visitors today, however, come by the thousands to go whale watching rather than hunting.
The Lahaina Historic District is the center of tourism in the town, with several 19th century attractions to check out, and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1962. In addition to the historic attractions and whale watching, you can also enjoy snorkeling, surfing, sightseeing cruises, and luaus.
Practical Info
Lahaina is well-known for its year-round sunny weather, but the popular whale watching cruises are only available in the winter when the humpback whales are migrating. If you're flying directly to Maui, chances are you'll land at Kahului Airport, which is about a 45-minute drive from Lahaina on Route 30.
Address: State Highway 30, Lahaina 96761, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 45
Kohala
Formed by a 5,400-foot volcano, Kohala is dominated by lush valleys, laid-back plantation towns, verdant pastures and ancient Hawaiian religious sites. The area is an outpost of cowboys and hippies with its beaches, valleys and architecture, the latter of which ranges from the modern resorts of South Kohala to ancient temples constructed entirely of stone. Although the land area only comprises 6% of the Big Island's total area, it could still take weeks to explore in its entirety.
Most visitors to South Kohala are familiar with the resort enclaves of Waikoloa and Mauna Lani, where golf courses sit in stark contrast to the surrounding black lava fields. The white sands of Hapuna Beach are a favorite of beachgoers, and history buffs will love stopping in to the Pu’ukohola Heiau, which was commissioned by the great King Kamehameha. While this national historic site sees thousands of annual visitors, only a mere handful will make the journey to the smaller Mo’okini Heiau on windswept Upolu Point; constructed in the 5th century AD by some of the earliest Polynesian voyagers, this is also where King Kamehameha was born.
Further up the road in the North Kohala plantation towns of Hawi and Kapa’au, travelers will find artisan outposts of craft stores and coffee shops. A massive statue of King Kamehameha presides over Kapa'au and is still draped in flower lei during the annual King Kamehameha Day celebrations each June.
On the eastern coast, rugged valleys with sing-song names such as Pololu, Waipio, and Waimanu form deep clefts into the lush mountainside, and are a favorite of island hikers and thrill-seekers. Waterfall trekking to jungle ziplining are popular in these outdoor playgrounds, and Waipio Valley is regarded as one of the most scenic corners of the island.
Most visitors to South Kohala are familiar with the resort enclaves of Waikoloa and Mauna Lani, where golf courses sit in stark contrast to the surrounding black lava fields. The white sands of Hapuna Beach are a favorite of beachgoers, and history buffs will love stopping in to the Pu’ukohola Heiau, which was commissioned by the great King Kamehameha. While this national historic site sees thousands of annual visitors, only a mere handful will make the journey to the smaller Mo’okini Heiau on windswept Upolu Point; constructed in the 5th century AD by some of the earliest Polynesian voyagers, this is also where King Kamehameha was born.
Further up the road in the North Kohala plantation towns of Hawi and Kapa’au, travelers will find artisan outposts of craft stores and coffee shops. A massive statue of King Kamehameha presides over Kapa'au and is still draped in flower lei during the annual King Kamehameha Day celebrations each June.
On the eastern coast, rugged valleys with sing-song names such as Pololu, Waipio, and Waimanu form deep clefts into the lush mountainside, and are a favorite of island hikers and thrill-seekers. Waterfall trekking to jungle ziplining are popular in these outdoor playgrounds, and Waipio Valley is regarded as one of the most scenic corners of the island.
Practical Info
Like a large thumb jutting into the sea, the Kohala district occupies the northwestern tip of the sprawling Big Island of Hawaii.
Address: Kohala, Hawaii, HI, USA
From $ 120
Ko Olina
Although it is often referred to as a resort, Ko Olina doesn’t describe a property in particular. It is, in fact, a master-planned vacation and residential community containing several upscale resorts, like the Aulani Disney Resort & Spa, the JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa and Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club. The area is famous for its pristine, man-made beach coves (the sand was imported from Lanai!) that are very popular with swimmers. Their creation was more a necessity than a caprice, as the ocean tends to be quite turbulent in these parts; the rock levies encase the lagoons for safer sea ventures.
The destination is famous for its unparalleled golfing opportunities, including the LPGA Lotte Championship (women's professional golf tournament on the LPGA Tour). Ko Olina caters to a luxury and affluent clientele, but visitors should know that it is entirely possible and strongly encouraged to visit the lavish hotel grounds without being a registered guest – the gardens and exotic flora alone are worth the detour. Additionally, the Ko Olina golf course features 72 impeccably maintained courses complemented by cascading waterfalls and rolling hills, as well as a Hawaiian fusion restaurant.
Because of its location on the west side of the island, Ko Olina makes for a perfect spot to enjoy one of Hawaii’s legendary sunsets. Activities in the area are otherwise limited if visitors are not registered guests at one of the three resorts.
Practical Info
Ko Olina is located on the western leeward coast of O’ahu, 17 miles northwest of Honolulu. It can be reached by car via routes H201 and H1 in 40 minutes. It is also possible to get there by bus but the journey is quite lengthy and complex. The beach is fully equipped with visitor facilities, such as showers, restrooms and outdoor restaurants at hotels.
Address: Oahu, Hawaii, USA
From $ 134
Koko Crater
Koko Crater is where locals head when they’re in need of a really good workout, and it’s also a popular visitor attraction thanks to the stunning views from the top. In order to reach the summit, however, you’ll first need to conquer the 1,048 steps that run in a straight line up the mountain. The steps themselves are actually railroad ties left over from WWII, and while the first half of the steps are moderately steep, it’s the final push to the 1,100-foot summit that make your legs really start to burn.
The reward for reaching the top, however, is unobstructed, 360-degree of the southeastern section of O‘ahu. Gaze down towards Hanauma Bay and the turquoise waters of the crater, and watch as waves break along Sandy Beach and form foamy ribbons of white. Neighboring Diamond Head looms in the west and is backed by Honolulu, and the island of Moloka‘i—and sometimes Lana‘i—float on the eastern horizon. To explore Koko Crater’s dry interior instead of hiking to the top, the Koko Crater Botanical Garden offers self-guided tours of the 60-acre basin and its colorful dryland landscape.
Practical Info
The trailhead for Koko Crater is located on Koko Head Park Rd. off of Kalanianaole Hwy. There is no fee to hike the trail or hours of operation, the cooler hours of morning and evening are the most popular since there isn’t any shade. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the panoramic view, and the Botanical Garden is open during daylight hours on every day except Christmas.
Address: Koko Head Park Road, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
From $ 40
Lanai Island
Dwarfed by neighboring Maui, Lanai is Hawaii’s smallest inhabited island. Miles of backroads and open spaces, geological formations, and quiet beaches offer the opportunity for rugged adventure far from the beaten path. It’s the perfect place to get away from it all without having to go very far from Hawaii's more populated islands.
The Basics
Those not staying at one of Lanai’s posh luxury resorts often explore Lanai on a day trip from West Maui. Tours departing from Lahaina offer an economic way to experience this land, once dominated by sugar plantations. The waters off the coast rank among the best in the world for snorkeling and scuba diving, and on a snorkel trip from Maui, it’s possible to spot Hawaiian spinner, bottlenose, and spotted dolphins as well.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lanai is a must-visit for nature lovers and those looking to get away from it all.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection; Lanai’s desert-like climate means there’s little shade.
- If you’re renting a car, keep in mind that most of the island’s roads are unpaved.
How to Get There
Lanai island lies 10 miles (16 kilometers) off the west coast of Maui, opposite the historic old whaling port of Lahaina. It’s a 30-minute ferry trip from the mainland. A small airport on the island is serviced by regional flights from Honolulu, Kapalua, and Molokai.
When to Get There
The climate in Lanai, like much of Hawaii, is close to ideal throughout the year. Visitors during the winter months might see slightly more frequent rain showers and a higher surf. Peak season for whale watching falls between December and April.
Beaches of Lanai
While Lanai isn’t as well-known for its beaches as neighboring Maui, it still has some gems worthy of an afternoon in the sand. The best and most popular is Hulopoe Beach, located in front of the Four Seasons. A 4-wheel-drive vehicle takes you to Polihua Beach—an often empty stretch of sand that’s ideal for sunbathing.
Address: Kanepuu Highway, Lanai City 96763, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 117
Kokee Natural History Museum
Part way between the colorfully striated Waimea Canyon and Kalalau Lookout atop the fabled Napali Coast, the excellent but aging Kōkeʻe Museum serves as a regional visitor information center as well as a natural history museum. Inside you’ll find topographical maps, cultural and geological information, late 19th century botanical prints, dioramas of Hawaii’s forest birds, and mounted specimens of its more notorious feral invasive species like Polynesian boar and mouflon sheep. The gift shop occupies nearly half the space and features many books, guides and Kauai-made souvenirs. Next door, the rustic Kokee Lodge Restaurant has all day breakfast, soup and sandwiches and is the only meal for miles.
Each October, Hawaiian Queen Emalani’s visit to Kokee is celebrated with a traditional hula festival on the expansive treeless Kanaloahuluhulu Meadow. Fronting the museum, this large, treeless green is popular with picnicking families. No one really knows trees don’t grow here, but, according to one Hawaiian legend, it was formed by an angry, headless, giant demi-god who plows the path each night in search of his missing head. For brave overnighters, there’s a small selection of rental cabins across the lawn.
Practical Info
The museum is in Kokee State Park at 3600 Kokee Road. It keeps daily hours—including holidays—from 9am-4pm. There is a suggested donation of $1 per person.
Visitors can learn about regular visitor talks and programming by calling (808) 335-9975. Kokee is in upper elevation forest with temperatures rarely topping 70 degrees. Remember to dress warmly and bring a rain jacket.
Address: 3600 Kokee Road, Kekaha, Kauai, USA
Hours: 9am-4pm daily
From $ 270
Makapuu Lighthouse
Within Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline on Oahu’s Windward Coast, the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a popular hike ending at the historical red-roofed Makapu’u Lighthouse, built in 1909. Though the lighthouse is not open to the public, the moderately challenging hike attracts travelers and locals alike for its stunning coastal views.
The Basics
The scenic Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is entirely paved and stretches for 1.2 miles (2 kilometers). The hike affords views of Makapu’u Beach, Koko Head, and, on clear days, the neighboring islands of Lanai and Molokai. Lucky hikers will also see humpback whales breaching in winter months. There are also several delights along the trail, including military pillboxes and teeming tide pools.
Most travelers hike the trail independently, while many group and private tours of East Oahu and the entire island include stops at the Makapu’u Point Lookout.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Makapu’u Point is ideal for lighthouse enthusiasts and anyone looking for a lovely, low-impact outdoor experience.
- There is no access to the lighthouse.
- Good walking shoes are recommended, as are a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. On cloudy days, tote a rain jacket.
- The trail is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, though it does have a moderate grade to the lighthouse. The side trail to the tide pools is not accessible.
How to Get There
The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is located on Oahu’s southeastern point, about 16 miles (26 kilometers) from downtown Honolulu. If driving, park on the street or in the free Makapu’u Point Lookout parking lot (opens at 7am) at the base of the hike.
When to Get There
The trail is open year-round. Oahu has mild tropical weather but can be wet in winter and quite hot in summer. No matter the time of year, arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and heat.
Makapu’u Tide Pools
Once you reach the third rest stop along the lighthouse trail, you can climb down a challenging, rocky trail to the Makapu’u tide pools. Made of black volcanic rock, the pools host sea stars, crabs, fish, and intermittent blowholes. Be advised that this portion of the hike is unpaved and best suited to experienced hikers. There have been serious injuries and deaths at the tide pools—visitors are advised to stay far from the area during high tide.
Address: Hawaii, USA
From $ 25
Kolekole Falls
Maybe not as well-known as nearby neighbor Akaka Falls, Kolekole Falls is hidden beneath a bridge along the Hamakua Coast, north of Hilo. Lush and almost jungle-like, the waterfall is part of Kolekole Beach Park.
There is a rocky beach where the Kolekole Stream meets the ocean that has a reputation for being rough. Kolekole Beach Park, like other coastal areas along Hawaii can experience seasonal high surf and strong currents, making the ocean unsafe for swimming. But the stream is usually calm and a favorite swimming spot complete with a rope swing tied to a banyan tree.
The streamside park is also a popular place to fish and picnic. Along with picnic tables, there are barbecue pits, pavilions with electricity and restrooms.
Practical Info
There is no cost to enter Kolekole Beach Park to see the waterfall or to enjoy any other activities. To get there, take Highway 19 north from Hilo about 12 miles. The park will be on your left. It is open from 6 am to 11 pm. Camping is allowed with a county permit.
Address: Kolekole Beach Park, Honomu, Hawaii 96728, USA
Hours: Daily 6am-11pm
From $ 187
Kona Coffee Living History Farm
Aside from the towering, active volcanoes that stoically rise behind town, nothing has helped shape Kona more than the coffee crop and its farmers. Plantation workers from around the globe arrived in Kona in the early 1900s to work sugar, coffee, and fruit farms, and the Kona Coffee Living History Farm is set on the grounds of the authentic and historic D. Uchida Coffee Farm. Having arrived from Japan in 1906 to work in a sugar plantation, Daisaku Uchida saw opportunity in coffee and leased this 5-acre, Captain Cook farm that is little changed today. When the lease on the farm was finally up, rather than see the area developed into residential homes, it was donated to the Kona Historical Society as a means of preserving this vital chapter of Kona’s plantation past. When visiting the Kona Coffee Living History Farm today, walk through the farmhouse where coffee was processed and learn the tricks of the trade, and also experience the daily life of pioneering farmers. For travelers who loves history, culture—and coffee—this is a truly an immersive and educational way to experience Kona’s past.
Insider's Tip: Try samples of fresh macadamia nuts when you first arrive at the farm. Also be sure to take advantage of the freshly brewed Kona coffee.
Practical Info
Most tours are self-guided, though there are also occasional guided tours with lively, costumed interpreters.
Address: 82-6199 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook, Hawaii 96750, USA
Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-2pm
Admission: $15 for adults, $9 children ages 7-17, free for children under 7
From $ 124
Laie Point State Wayside Park
Laie Point State Wayside Park, a rocky promontory on Oahu's North Shore hidden behind a residential neighborhood, got its 15 minutes of fame in the 2008 comedy Forgetting Sarah Marshall. It’s here where Peter (Jason Segal) and Rachel (Mila Kunis) cement their relationship by braving the cliff jump off its side. Many daredevils still attempt the jump, but, as the abundance of floral memorials and crosses attest, it might not be the smartest choice—particularly when the waves pound during winter, making the already-challenging climb back up the cliff’s lava rock face all but impossible. Besides, there’s plenty to see from land.
Between November and March, humpback whales are often sighted in the waters off Laie Point and year-round local fishermen cast for dinner from the park's rugged edges. To the south, the greenery of the Windward Coast looms large with its backdrop of Koolau Range "foothills." Five small offshore Islands, one with a prominent puka (hole) through its center, and the wave-beaten texturized lava rock here make unusual and noteworthy subjects for photography enthusiasts. Read the plaque atop the boulder near the parking area to learn the Hawaiian creation story of the offshore Islands.
Practical Info
The park is free and open daily during daylight hours, but there are no lifeguards and facilities to speak of. To access the park, head to Laie turning off Kamehameha Highway about a mile north of the Polynesian Cultural Center onto Anemoku Street, which jogs and turns into Naupaka Street. Naupaka dead-ends at the park. Several bus tours include a stop at Laie Point Wayside Park with visits to the nearby Polynesian Cultural Center or the Laie Mormon Temple. Note that due to the North Shore town’s rich history with the Mormon faith, Laie is a dry town and many restaurants and stores are also closed on Sunday.
Address: Laie, Oahu 96762, USA
From $ 99
Liliuokalani Gardens
Stone bridges stretch across shallow brackish moats that flow through well manicured gardens with red pagodas and rock gardens by the sea. The 30-acre Liluokalani Gardens, connected by a series of trails to Coconut Island in coastal Hilo, is a serene setting as popular with local walkers and joggers as it is with visitors staying the nearby hotels along Banyan Drive. Named for Queen Liliuokalani, the last monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaii prior to U.S annexation, and designed in the Japanese Edo style in 1917 to honor the many area Japanese sugar plantation workers, the gardens are a perfect blend of Hawaii and Japan. Look beyond the palm trees and across the bay and you’ll see the slopes of Mauna Kea along the Hamakua Coast, but look around you and you’ll see a traditional Japanese tea house—still used by the Urasenke Hilo Association to share the tradition of Japanese tea ceremonies—koi ponds and Eastern statues. One popular stone bridge and pagoda appears to rise out of the water—the determined will have to walk through shallow water to reach it, except during some low tides.
Practical Info
You can access the park by turning off Hilo’s main drag, Kamehameha Ave., and toward the ocean at Lihiwai Street just before the airport. There is limited parking along Lihiwai Street fronting the park, and a larger lot just after the turnoff for Kelipio Place before the bridge to Coconut Island. There are no posted hours, but the best time to go is early morning, when you can catch the sunrise over the ocean.
Address: 123 N Kuakini St, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA 96817, USA
From $ 99
Maalaea Harbor
Most Maui visitors will spend some time at Maalaea Harbor, the launching point for many of the Island’s best sunset and dinner cruises, fishing charters, snorkeling adventures to the Molokini Crater—a submerged volcanic crater atoll—and more. The 89-slip harbor is the focal point of a quiet bay in the southern nook between the West Maui Mountains and towering Haleakala.
Between late November and early April, head to the scenic lookout between mile markers 8 and 9 to the west of the harbor for sweeping vistas of leaping humpback whales, or any time of the year to spot the dolphins that sometimes ride waves alongside harbor-departing cruises. The Pacific Whale Foundation, organizers of the annual World Whale Day celebrations, have their headquarters in Maalaea Harbor for a reason. Have some time to kill while waiting for your boating adventure? Set back from the sea is the popular Maui Ocean Center, an aquarium highlighting Hawaiian sea life from sharks to sea turtles, corals and more in over 60 indoor-outdoor exhibits. Or, grab some award-winning barbecue from the Beach Bum's Bar & Grill then explore the strips of adjacent Harbor Shops.
Practical Info
Maalaea Harbor is located at 101 Maalaea Boat Harbor Road, a 10-mile straight shot south of Kahului across the Isthmus. The Maalaea Harbor shops are open daily from 9:30am until 9:30pm and harbor facilities include restrooms and showers. Each boat is individually operated, but most sell tickets at the Maalaea Harbor Activities booth dockside near slip 47 between 9am and 8pm. For the best chance of spotting wildlife opt for a boat departing the harbor early morning. Because of the lay of the land here, funneling down between two mountains, it can be quite windy—hold onto your hat when the local trade winds pick up midday.
Address: 101 Maalaea Boat Harbor Road, Maalaea, Hawaii 96793, USA
From $ 45
Magic Island
A sandy peninsula extending into Honolulu Harbor, Magic Island—more rarely referred to by its official name, Aina Moana—affords rare right-off-the-beach green space with a protected swimming lagoon across from the Ala Moana shopping center in downtown Honolulu. The park is popular for local family barbecues and picnics, and its open 30 acres (12 acres) are fronted by remarkable banyan trees and feature tall palms, picnic tables, and long grassy lawns.
The Basics
From Magic Island, you can see the green Koolau Mountains and the high rises of Honolulu in one direction, and great views of the resorts of Waikiki—from the Duke Kahanamoku lagoon all the way to Diamond Head Crater—in the other. The space is great for sunbathing, people-watching, and swimming, especially for kids and their parents, who appreciate the shallow, protected lagoon and the presence of a lifeguard. Many boat and helicopter tours float or fly over the scenic park, and some land-based tours by bike and Segway also visit.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Magic Island is a must-see for sunbathers and families.
- The area offers a free parking lot, but on weekends its 450 spaces fill up fast.
- There are three restroom and changing-room blocks staggered throughout the park.
- Petty thefts have occured here, so keep an eye on your belongings and don’t leave valuables in your car.
How to Get There
Magic Island is located off Ala Moana Boulevard, in the southeast corner of the larger Ala Moana Beach Park. The park is bordered to the east by the Ala Wai Canal and Ala Wai Yacht Harbor, a departure point for some ocean-based tours, and to the west by Ala Moana Beach Park and Kewalo Basin. The centrally located park is about halfway between downtown Honolulu and Waikiki Beach. Bus lines 20, 23, and 42 stop nearby.
When to Get There
Magic Island is great to visit any time between its opening hours of sunrise and sunset—for a morning jog, afternoon picnic and sunbathing session, or sunset barbecue. Due to the park’s location on the island, expect calmer seas in summer months. Each March, the space is consumed with carnival rides and food booths for the three-day Magic Island Carnival.
Magic Island on Memorial Day
Hawaii has a unique Memorial Day tradition: Each year, thousands gather to remember and memorialize all lost loved ones by floating illuminated lanterns in the sea between Magic Island and Ala Moana Beach Park.
Address: Magic Island, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA 96815, USA
From $ 40
Lanai Lookout
Panoramic ocean views, strange rock formations and smoothed shelves with wave-battered edges await at Lanai Lookout. This popular scenic overlook on a promontory north of Kahauloa Cove is so named because it affords sweeping views of the neighboring islands of Lanai, Molokai and Maui on a clear day. Though it may be challenging for visitors to peel their eyes away from the turbulent blue sea, turning 180 degrees provides a rewarding view of the southern slopes of Koko Crater, a dormant volcano climbable via a trail that follows old railroad ties to the summit rim.
Lanai Lookout has little more infrastructure than a parking lot with space for just under two dozen cars, but it’s worth it to circle for a space in the early hours of the morning when the sun rises over the horizon beyond the Oahu’s Windward Coast; visitors don’t stay here long. Another good time to visit? Between November and April, when the lookout becomes one of the island’s best locales for spotting visiting humpback whales—many of which spout, dive and frolic in the waters between Oahu and Maui.
Practical Info
The turnoff for Lanai Lookout is an equidistant mile between Hanauma Bay to the south and Sandy Beach to the north, along Kalanianaole Highway (HI-72). It is the southernmost of three similar lookouts on this stretch of the island. Binoculars will be useful for whale watching. If leaving valuables in the car while taking in the view, it’s advisable to keep them out of sight, even if it’s just a short stop.
Address: Oahu, Hawaii, USA, USA
From $ 79
Lyon Arboretum
Twenty minutes. That’s all the time that is takes to be transported from the white sand beaches of Waikiki, up to the waterfall-laden wilds at the back of Manoa Valley. Here, where cliffs rise vertically over 2,000 feet and it rains nearly every day, visitors will find one of Hawaii’s foremost tropical botanical gardens. Managed by nearby University of Hawaii, the Lyon Arboretum spans 193 acres and has over 5,000 species of plants. Given the cool, wet conditions—it rains over 165 inches per year here—the forested amphitheater is the perfect setting for researching tropical plants.
Take an hour to stroll from the parking lot back to Inspiration Point, and reap the rewards of the casual walk with a view looking out at the valley. Along the journey you might encounter up to 25 species of birds, including the endangered amakihi which calls the arboretum home. There are over 200 species of indigenous plants found growing in the arboretum, and rather than being just pretty to look at, this garden is used to educate landscapers about recognizing species of plant species. While ecologists and botanists will be in plant heaven, other visitors will enjoy the hike back to ‘Aihualama Falls. The trail to this waterfall is just over a mile, and the feeling of sitting by the 40 foot falls, the sound of birdsong raining from the trees, in a garden that’s home to thousands of plant species, really lets you know that you’ve left the city are fully immersed in the forest.
Practical Info
The Lyon Arboretum is open for self-guided tours from Monday-Friday from 9am-4pm, and from 9am-3pm on Saturdays. There are also one-hour guided tours at 10am each day the park is open, and self-guided visitors are requested to leave a donation of $5/person.
Address: 3860 Manoa Rd, Honolulu, Hawaii 96822, USA
Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm, Sat 9am-3pm
From $ 40
La Perouse Bay
La Perouse Bay is a stretch of coastline bordering the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve on Maui’s south shore. It was named for the French explorer Jean-François de La Pérouse, the first European to set foot on Maui in the 18th century. The bay is the site of Maui’s most recent volcanic activity, and the landscape is covered in jagged, black lava rock intermixed with pieces of white coral. Though there isn’t much of a beach visitors can hike this area using the King’s Trail, which winds past several small coves.
As its waters are protected from fishing by state law, aquatic life is abundant and excellent snorkeling spots can be found off its rocky coast. Spinner dolphins sightings are frequent in the bay. When waters are calm, it can be a great spot for swimming and kayaking.
Practical Info
La Perouse Bay is located at the end of Makena Alanui Road, at mile marker 7 just south of Wailea. There is a parking lot at the end of the road, but other facilities are limited. Arrive early for optimal hiking and snorkeling conditions before winds pick up in the afternoon.
Address: Wailea, Hawaii, USA
From $ 145
Kona (Kailua-Kona)
Kailua-Kona, the largest town on the Big Island of Hawaii, is the epicenter of activities and tours on the Kona Coast—part of the island’s western (leeward) side. The antithesis to the lush, often rainy jungles of Hilo on the island’s eastern (windward) side, dry and sunny Kona’s activities put a huge emphasis on long days in the outdoors. Kailua-Kona is the jumping-off point for the Big Island’s best coffee-farm tours, superb reef snorkeling, all levels of hiking, and experiencing ancient Hawaiian culture, while downtown’s seaside shops and dining come with spectacular sunset views.
The Basics
Many Big Island sightseeing tours originating in Kona include stops to take in roadside lava tubes, the former royal summer residence at Hulihee Palace, the Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay, ancient Hawaiian heiau (temples) at the Place of Refuge National Historical Park, and coffee-tasting excursions. Some also visit points north and south of town—for example, to stargaze atop Mauna Kea or stroll along striking black- and green-sand beaches. Popular activities include submarine tours of local reefs, night snorkeling with manta rays, fishing charters, luaus, helicopter tours, and surfing and stand-up paddleboarding lessons.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kailua-Kona serves as an ideal starting point for first-time visitors to the Big Island.
- Hawaii does not recognize daylight saving time like the rest of the US (nor does the majority of the state of Arizona).
- Dozens of hotels line the water in Kona, with a match for every budget.
- Kona typically serves as a home base for couples and families with kids looking for a beach vacation, but is also a convenient starting point for outdoor adventurers and culture buffs looking to explore the rest of the Big Island.
How to Get There
Downtown Kailua-Kona, opposite Kailua Bay, is eight miles south of Kona International Airport. A coastal road, Route 19 (Queen Kaahumanu Highway), connects the town to points north, while Route 11 (Mamalahoa Highway) connects it to points south. Highway 190 runs up through the mountains and links the town via Saddle Road to Hilo and the island’s windward side.
When to Get There
Though Kona enjoys balmy beach weather year-round, winter (November through March) does bring slight temperature dips and occasional afternoon rains. These months, however, also coincide with some popular annual visitors: migrating humpback whales, visible on boat tours departing from the downtown pier and harbor. The annual Ironman World Championship triathlon draws huge crowds and fills hotels throughout the region for weeks leading up to the October event.
Visiting Volcanoes from Kona
The Big Island is home to five volcanoes, and you’d be remiss not to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes to see the active lava flows. Though closer to Hilo on the island’s eastern side, a number of land-based and helicopter tours depart from Kona daily. If driving, plan to spend at least two hours getting to the national park. There are two routes: the high, central Saddle Road and the slow and winding southern coastal roads. Closer to Kona, Mauna Kea offers visitors 13 telescopes and incredible stargazing with nightly programs illustrating constellations.
Address: Kuakini Highway, Kailua Kona 96740, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 95
Lanikai Beach
While we can’t exactly claim it as fact, there’s a good chance that at some point in time Lanikai Beach was a finalist for a Corona commercial. With sand as white as the clouds above and water which is a welcoming and rich shade of turquoise, this tranquil beach on Oahu’s windward shore is the Hawaii you’ve always dreamed of.
Because it’s on the island’s eastern shore, Lanikai is often graced with gentle tradewinds which cool you just to the point of comfort. Afternoons in the summer months can get a little blustery, although kitesurfers and windsurfers who have launched from Kailua Bay opt to make the most of the wind and zip across the turquoise waters which are capped in flecks of white.
Since Lanikai is set in a private neighborhood the beach is accessed by simple footpaths and isn’t too visible from the road, and while this semi-isolation thins out the crowds, it also means there aren’t any facilities and parking can come at a premium.
Nevertheless, Lanikai is the perfect place for a comfortable chair, a good book, and the view looking out at the Mokulua islands graces the cover of many Oahu postcards. The white sand of Lanikai is the perfect place to spend the morning, or, if you happen to time it right, watch the full moon rise over the eastern horizon and as illuminates the cliffs of the Ko’olau Mountains.
While nowhere near as developed as Waikiki Beach or as family-friendly as Kailua Bay, Lanikai Beach is a place you come if you simply want to the put the world on pause for a while. It’s as idyllic a stretch of shore of you could ever hope to find, and it’s no wonder why Lanikai consistently ranks as one of the nicest beaches in the world.
Because it’s on the island’s eastern shore, Lanikai is often graced with gentle tradewinds which cool you just to the point of comfort. Afternoons in the summer months can get a little blustery, although kitesurfers and windsurfers who have launched from Kailua Bay opt to make the most of the wind and zip across the turquoise waters which are capped in flecks of white.
Since Lanikai is set in a private neighborhood the beach is accessed by simple footpaths and isn’t too visible from the road, and while this semi-isolation thins out the crowds, it also means there aren’t any facilities and parking can come at a premium.
Nevertheless, Lanikai is the perfect place for a comfortable chair, a good book, and the view looking out at the Mokulua islands graces the cover of many Oahu postcards. The white sand of Lanikai is the perfect place to spend the morning, or, if you happen to time it right, watch the full moon rise over the eastern horizon and as illuminates the cliffs of the Ko’olau Mountains.
While nowhere near as developed as Waikiki Beach or as family-friendly as Kailua Bay, Lanikai Beach is a place you come if you simply want to the put the world on pause for a while. It’s as idyllic a stretch of shore of you could ever hope to find, and it’s no wonder why Lanikai consistently ranks as one of the nicest beaches in the world.
Address: Lanikai Beach, Mokulua Drive, Kailua, HI 96734, USA
From $ 79
Kualoa Ranch
Kualoa Ranch is a one-stop adventure playground and a highlight for many travelers to Oahu. Stretching from the verdant folds of the Koolau Mountains to the tropical sea, the 4,000-acre (1,619-hectare) working cattle ranch is one of the largest tracts of accessible nature on Oahu and offers visitors a huge variety of ways to interact with Hawaii’s stunning landscapes, from ATV rides and zipline adventures to film site tours. The property is divided into two areas: the northerly Kaaawa Valley with its many movie locations, and Hakipuu Valley, fronted by an 800-year-old Hawaiian fishpond and the site’s Secret Island Beach.
The Basics
Guided Kualoa Ranch activities include bouncing along on an ATV tour, exploring the trails on a horseback ride, soaring through the jungle canopy on a zipline tour, cruising by catamaran around Kaneohe Bay, discovering Oahu’s famous film sites on a movie tour, and sunbathing on a white-sand beach. The ranch can be visited for a single activity, on a full-day adventure tour, or on a circle island tour that also visits other top Oahu sites such as Diamond Head, Makapuu Beach, and Kaneohe Bay. Choose from nearly a dozen themed activities, including unique options such as a farm-to-table look at the property’s ranching and a tour of Kualoa’s modern fruit orchards.
Things to Know Before You Go
- All onsite experiences are part of fully guided tours, and reservations should be made at least 24 hours in advance.
- Kualoa Ranch offers lockers, a gift shop, a visitor center, and a restaurant, Aunty Pat’s Cafe, which serves dishes featuring Kualoa-grown meats and vegetables.
- Insect repellant and rain jackets may be helpful on jungle tours.
- Horseback riding tours are limited to visitors ages 10 and up; ATV tours are limited to those 16 and over.
- Some tours include round-trip transport from Waikiki hotels.
How to Get There
The property is set 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of Waikiki Beach and about 11 miles (18 kilometers) north of Kaneohe on Oahu’s windward side. It’s possible to take public transit via The Bus from Waikiki (Bus 55 runs past the property), but most visitors drive themselves along the scenic coastal roads or choose a tour that includes hotel pickup and roundtrip transportation.
When to Get There
The ranch is open daily from 8:30am to 6pm. While each tour departs several times per day, active tours—like ATV riding and ziplining—are best done in early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Year-round temperatures on Oahu are almost always between 70°F (21°C) and 80°F (27°C), so there is no bad time of year to visit, though rain showers are most common between November and February.
Movie Magic at Kualoa Ranch
Kualoa Ranch’s natural beauty is so scenic that its backdrop has been featured in numerous Hollywood films and TV shows. Choose a movie site tour and hop aboard a green bus for an off-road ride into cinematic history. Take photos in one of the Lost bunkers, hide behind the log that shielded Jurassic Park visitors from stampeding dinosaurs, and check out the Hukilau Cafe, where Adam Sandler’s Henry first met Drew Barrymore’s Lucy in 50 First Dates. The ranch offers a 90-minute standard movie tour, a 2.5-hour premier movie site tour, and a special 90-minute Jurassic Park Jungle Expedition, all with multiple daily departures.
Address: 49–560 Kamehameha Highway, Kaaawa 96730, USA
Hours: Daily
Admission: Varies
From $ 48
Little Beach
Little Beach is smaller and more sheltered than many of the beaches on Maui. It is accessed by walking from the neighboring Big Beach, though the two are separated by a large lava rock wall and a five-minute hike. Its fine, white stretch of sand is only slightly more difficult to access than the average beach, but crowds are reduced here. Conditions are often good for both surfing and boogie boarding, and lava rock trails around the beach area lead to some smaller coves and viewpoints of the beaches of Makena State Park.
Also known as "Puʻu Olai,” the beach attracts a free-spirited crowd, with drum circles and fire dancing every Sunday evening. Aside from the blue waters and fine sands, it is a great spot to do some snorkeling (pending current conditions) and watch a famous Hawaiian sunset away from the crowds.
Practical Info
Little Beach is located just north of Makena Beach (Big Beach) in South Maui. You can find it by walking on the sand after turning right from Big Beach. You will come upon a small, rocky cliff with a path leading over it that leads to Little Beach. Be aware that Little Beach has been known for its nude sunbathers, and if you’re going for sunset, be sure to bring a flashlight for the return walk.
Address: Kihei, Hawaii, USA
From $ 75