When I first arrived in Hawaii, I was blown away by its beauty. The blue ocean, green mountains, and warm breeze made me feel like I had stepped into a postcard. Each island has something unique to offer, whether it’s adventure, peace, history, or just a sunny day on the beach.
In this article, I’ll share some of my favorite things to do in Hawaii. From exploring volcanoes and hiking trails to relaxing on famous beaches and tasting local food, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re planning a trip or just dreaming about it, I hope this guide helps you discover the best of what Hawaii has to offer.
Relax on Waikiki Beach in Oahu
One of the first places I visited in Hawaii was Waikiki Beach in Oahu—and I instantly understood why it’s so famous. The soft white sand, the gentle sound of the waves, and the view of Diamond Head in the background made it the perfect place to relax. I spent hours just sitting by the shore, watching surfers ride the waves and people enjoying the sunshine.
Waikiki isn’t just a beautiful beach—it’s also full of life. There are beachside cafes, local food trucks, and places where you can rent surfboards or try paddleboarding. I even caught a stunning sunset one evening that made the sky turn shades of orange and pink. It felt magical.
If you’re visiting Oahu, don’t skip Waikiki Beach. Whether you want to swim, surf, or simply lie under a palm tree, this beach has a little something for everyone.
Explore Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island
One of the most unforgettable parts of my Hawaii trip was visiting Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. It felt like stepping onto another planet. I got to see massive craters, walk on hardened lava fields, and even catch a glimpse of glowing lava from a safe distance. The power of nature here is incredible.
The park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes—Mauna Loa and Kilauea. I learned a lot at the visitor center, then followed the scenic Crater Rim Drive, stopping at overlooks and lava tubes along the way. The Thurston Lava Tube was one of my favorite spots—I actually walked through a tunnel formed by flowing lava thousands of years ago!
If you love nature and adventure, this place is a must-see. Bring sturdy shoes, a jacket (it can get chilly), and a sense of wonder. Exploring the volcanic landscapes of the Big Island is something I’ll never forget.
Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
Visiting Pearl Harbor was one of the most moving experiences I had in Hawaii. It’s not just a tourist spot—it’s a place full of history and emotion. I took a boat ride out to the USS Arizona Memorial, which sits above the sunken battleship where many sailors lost their lives during the attack on December 7, 1941.
Walking through the memorial, I felt a deep respect for the people who served and sacrificed. There’s a wall with the names of those who died, and the quiet atmosphere made it easy to reflect. The visitor center also has museums and exhibits that helped me understand what happened on that day and how it changed history.
If you want to connect with Hawaii’s past and pay your respects, this is a must-do. Pearl Harbor isn’t just about looking at ships—it’s about remembering and learning. I left feeling grateful and humbled by what I saw.
Drive the Road to Hana in Maui
One of the best adventures I had in Hawaii was driving the Road to Hana on the island of Maui. It’s a long and winding road with over 600 curves and dozens of one-lane bridges, but the journey is truly the destination. I took my time, stopped often, and soaked in the stunning views.
Along the way, I saw beautiful waterfalls, lush green rainforests, and black sand beaches. I pulled over to hike through bamboo forests, dip my feet in clear streams, and even buy banana bread from a local roadside stand—it was delicious! My favorite stop was Waianapanapa State Park, where I walked along the black sand beach and watched the waves crash on the rocks.
The Road to Hana is not just a drive—it’s an experience filled with nature, peace, and surprises around every bend. I recommend starting early, driving slowly, and taking the whole day to enjoy it. It’s one of those things you’ll remember forever.
Snorkel at Hanauma Bay or Molokini Crater
Snorkeling in Hawaii was one of the most amazing things I did. I visited Hanauma Bay on Oahu and later took a boat tour to Molokini Crater off the coast of Maui. Both places offered crystal-clear water, colorful coral reefs, and tons of tropical fish. It felt like swimming in a giant aquarium!
At Hanauma Bay, I simply rented gear at the beach and waded right in. The fish swam so close, and I even spotted a sea turtle. The bay is calm and great for beginners like me. Molokini, on the other hand, was a bit more adventurous. I joined a morning boat tour, and once we anchored, I jumped into some of the clearest water I’ve ever seen.
Whether you choose Hanauma Bay or Molokini Crater—or both—you’ll get a close-up look at Hawaii’s underwater beauty. It’s peaceful, exciting, and a must-do if you love the ocean.
Attend a Traditional Hawaiian Luau
One of the highlights of my trip to Hawaii was attending a traditional Hawaiian luau. It was more than just a meal—it was a full cultural experience. As I sat under the stars, I watched dancers in beautiful costumes perform hula and fire dances. The music, the rhythm, and the stories they told through movement gave me a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian history and traditions.
The food was incredible too. I got to try local dishes like kalua pig, poi, poke, and sweet haupia. Everything was served buffet-style, and I loved being able to sample a little bit of everything. Everyone at the luau was so welcoming, and it felt like a big family gathering.
If you’re visiting Hawaii, I really recommend going to a luau. It’s one of the best ways to enjoy authentic Hawaiian culture, taste traditional food, and make memories that stick with you long after your trip is over.
Hike to the Top of Diamond Head Crater
One of the most unforgettable things I did in Hawaii was hiking to the top of Diamond Head Crater. This famous volcanic crater sits right next to Waikiki in Oahu, and the view from the top is totally worth the climb. The hike isn’t too long—about 1.6 miles round trip—but it does get a bit steep in places, so I made sure to bring water and take breaks.
As I walked up, I passed through old tunnels and even climbed a few stairs built long ago for military use. Reaching the top gave me a sense of accomplishment. The lookout offers a breathtaking view of Honolulu, the sparkling blue ocean, and the lush green hills around. I spent a while just soaking it all in and snapping pictures.
If you’re visiting Oahu and enjoy being outdoors, I highly recommend this hike. It’s one of the best ways to see the island from above, get a bit of exercise, and experience one of Hawaii’s most famous landmarks up close.
Explore Kauai, the “Garden Isle”
Visiting Kauai was like stepping into a tropical paradise. Known as the “Garden Isle,” Kauai is covered in lush forests, stunning waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs that took my breath away. I loved how peaceful and natural the island felt compared to the busier parts of Hawaii.
One of my favorite spots was the Na Pali Coast, where I hiked along trails that gave me jaw-dropping views of the ocean and towering cliffs. I also explored the beautiful Waimea Canyon, sometimes called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The colors and views there were simply incredible.
If you want to experience the wild, green side of Hawaii, Kauai is the place to go. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or just relaxing in nature, the island’s beauty is unforgettable.
Go Whale Watching or Take a Sunset Cruise
One of the most magical experiences I had in Hawaii was going whale watching. From December to April, humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters, and I was lucky to see these giant creatures breaching and playing close to the boat. It was incredible to watch them up close and hear their spouts and songs. If you visit during whale season, I highly recommend booking a tour—it’s truly unforgettable.
Another amazing way to enjoy Hawaii’s beauty is on a sunset cruise. I took one along the coast, and watching the sun dip below the horizon while the sky changed colors was breathtaking. The warm breeze, calm ocean, and views of the islands made it a perfect, relaxing way to end the day.
Whether you choose whale watching or a sunset cruise, both offer unique ways to connect with Hawaii’s ocean life and natural beauty.
Taste Local Hawaiian Food
One of the best parts of visiting Hawaii for me was trying the local food. Hawaiian cuisine is a delicious mix of flavors influenced by native traditions and many cultures. I loved starting my day with fresh tropical fruits like pineapple and papaya.
I also tried dishes like poke—which is marinated raw fish—and ** laulau**, where meat is wrapped in taro leaves and steamed. Another favorite was the plate lunch, a hearty meal with rice, macaroni salad, and meat like teriyaki chicken or kalua pork. And of course, I couldn’t miss out on a sweet treat called haupia, a coconut pudding that’s refreshing and tasty.
If you visit Hawaii, make sure to explore the local food scene. It’s a wonderful way to taste the culture and add even more flavor to your trip.
Conclusion
Hawaii truly surprised me with its amazing mix of natural beauty, rich culture, and fun activities. From relaxing on the golden sands of Waikiki Beach to hiking up Diamond Head and exploring the lush landscapes of Kauai, every day felt like an adventure. Whether you’re into outdoor activities, history, or just enjoying great food and sunsets, Hawaii has something special for everyone.
If you’re planning a trip, I hope these activities help you make the most of your time in the islands. Hawaii’s warmth and beauty left a lasting impression on me, and I’m sure it will on you too. So pack your bags and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful places on earth!
