Last Updated on August 1, 2024 by Mrunal & Jiten
The name Hawaii conjures a dream holiday or a honeymoon spot in a tiny paradise amongst sandy beaches, swaying trees, great food, and a world cut off from reality. These images are so true! Visit the following places to experience this paradise firsthand!
Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Hawaii
Table of Contents
Honolulu
Honolulu’s allure arises from its favorable climate, natural beauty, and inviting beaches. Things to do in Honolulu:
- Head to Waikiki Beach for some fun.
- Drive to the beautiful Waimea Waterfalls.
- Climb Diamond Head, an extinct volcano’s rim, for panoramic views of Honolulu.
- Snorkel in Hanauma Bay and admire the colorful reefs.
- Round off with a visit to Diamond Head Luau for traditional music, dance, and a dinner of Lomilomi salmon, Kalbi short ribs, Kalua pork, and huli-huli chicken.
Paia
Maui Paia is a charming town on the North Shore of Maui. It is known for its bohemian vibes and water sports. The biggest attractions for sun and snorkeling activities are Baldwin Beach Park and Hookipa Beach Park. The North Shore Zipline, passing through a lush jungle, is a 15-minute drive from Paia town.
- Come to Hookipa Beach Park for a picnic and observe sea turtles basking in the sun.
- At the Paia Farmers Market, sample exotic fruits and yummy food from vendors. You can also buy fresh produce, jewelry, handmade crafts, and textiles.
Kauai
Kauai is the biggest jewel of Hawaii. It is nicknamed the Garden Isle for the following reasons:
- Poipu Beach has topped the rankings of the 10 best national beaches (America) according to The Travel Channel. The golden beach, azure waters, and amiable climate are perfect for snorkeling, swimming, surfing, and boogie boarding.
- Visit Na Pali Coast for whale watching.
- Waimea Canyon is a geological wonder changing colors depending on the position of the sun in a day.
- The best waterfall, even featured on TV shows, Wailua, is in Kauai.
Haleakala National Park
The landscape of this park is unique as it looks like Mars. It also has lovely waterfalls, running streams, and rock gardens.
- Do not miss the sublime sunrise and sunset at the Haleakala Visitor Center!
- Hiking trails lead you to the park’s interiors where Ahinahina bloom and nene (Hawaiian goose) inhabit.
- You can go horseback riding or hiking on Keonehe’ehe’e Trail and Pipiwai Trail.
Lanai
Lanai is a small island with lavish five-star accommodations surrounded by serenity and peace.
- Go shopping at the various boutiques or embark on a road trip along Norfolk Pine-lined Munro Trail.
- Do not miss visiting Hulopoe Bay’s marine reserve, which introduces you to amazing sea creatures such as spinner dolphins.
- Likewise, you can take a horseback trip or play golf near the shore.
Big Islands
On the eastern side of the Big Island, the Nani Mau Gardens and Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden are unmissable spots. Imiloa Astronomy Center highlights the astounding connections between Hawaiian traditions and astronomy.
- Big islands have rainforests, lava deserts, tall mountains, and sandy beaches. Some road trips through these natural wonders are:
- Coffee country – through fruit farms and coffee bean farms, learning the process of coffee making.
- Pololu Valley Overlook.
- Waipio Valley Lookout.
- Akaka Falls.
Molokai
Molokai is a small island with few buildings and a small population but many unique offerings to tourists:
- Molokai Forest is a great spot for hiking.
- Make Horse Beach, Kawaikiu Iki Beach, and Hawela Beach are perfect for strolling.
- Kalaupapa is a scenic spot reached by hiking or mule ride. Take a guided tour to Halawa Valley, the oldest Hawaii settlement, and learn about its beginnings while swimming at the base of Moula Falls.
- Kayak or paddle tour the shore reef and mangroves with a guide. Enjoy grand views of Molokai’s high sea cliffs and a chance encounter with humpback whales by joining a boat trip.
Oahu
Oahu is the 3rd largest Hawaiian island known for offerings for every type of tourist – sun-kissed beaches, tropical forests, and vibrant culture. Surfing lovers love North Shore.
History buffs and heritage lovers head to Pearl Harbor and Lolani Palace. For shopaholics, it is Waikiki, Ala Moana Center, and boutiques in towns such as Kailua.
- Cultural immersions are available at Kakaako, Kapahulu, and Chinatown. The “Gathering Place” as Oahu is called has the best nightlife in all of Hawaii.
- A helicopter ride offers panoramic views of the natural beauties of Oahu.
Kaneohe
Continuing on Oahu, Kaneohe is a quiet residential spot some 12 miles from Honolulu. The harmonious fusion of adventure, shopping, and dining is possible only here.
- In between, Kaneohe Bay is a natural sandbar. Accessible by boat, it is a great spot for kayaking, paddling, snorkeling, playing volleyball, or enjoying a barbecue.
- If you are a golf lover, there are two golf courses with 18 holes and an eye-catching landscape.
- There is a 400-foot zip line with views of the Koolau Mountains and Kaneohe Bay.
- Visit the Byodo-In Temple dedicated to Lord Buddha. The pond beside the temple has Koi fish and black swans.
USS Arizona Memorial Pearl Harbor
Though this memorial is in Oahu, it warrants a separate paragraph as it is the No.1 visitor destination in Hawaii.
- This memorial marks the resting place of 1,500+ sailors and Marines who were killed during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The memorial is accessible by boat.
When to Go The best time to visit Hawaii is between March to September when there is minimum rain.
How to Reach There are regular flights from New Delhi to Honolulu and the average flying time is 29 hours.
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