The island nation of Hawaii has a diverse and beautiful landscape. From the striking lunar surface of Kilauea to lush green forests filled with exotic flowers, these islands jutting from the sea have a laid-back Pacific Island feel. Hawaii is home to waterfalls, ancient rivers, and active volcanoes. Many islands are also filled with lush forests, beautiful lakes and rugged cliffs. The most visited island is Oahu, where you can visit Pearl Harbor, with its rich history and cultural significance. The Pacific is home to a variety of marine life. You can snorkel, scuba dive, surf or just swim in the ocean after sunbathing. Perhaps the most special thing about these islands is the very friendly people.
1. Hanapepe Town and Kilauea Sugar Mill Ruins
Hanapepe is a historic town located on Kauai’s south shore. It is home to the Kauai Museum, which displays artifacts from the island’s past. The town is also known for its galleries, shops, restaurants and weekly farmers market. Just outside of Hanapepe is Kilauea Sugar Mill Ruins, an old sugar mill that was abandoned in the late 19th century. The ruins are open to visitors and offer a glimpse into the history of Hawaii’s sugar plantations.
2. Wailua Falls and Kilauea Lighthouse
Wailua Falls is one of the most visited waterfalls on Kauai. It can be seen from the road and has a short hike that leads to its base. The waterfall is known as ʻOheʻo Gulch and is part of a state park. Kilauea Lighthouse, also known as the Kauai Lighthouse, is a lighthouse located on the southern coast of Kauai. The lighthouse was built in 1871 to aid ships that were traveling between Hawaii and California.
3. Waikoloa Village and Kings’ Shops
Waikoloa Village is a popular tourist destination in the island of Hawaii, which includes the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa, located right on the beachfront. The area also includes golf courses, shopping centers, restaurants and other amenities. Kauai is home to a variety of beautiful beaches and natural landmarks, as well as world-famous resorts. The most famous landmark on the island is Waimea Canyon, also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.
4. North Shore Beaches
The North Shore is world-famous for its beaches, surf spots and waves. It is also home to one of Hawaii’s most famous landmarks the North Shore Lifeguard Headquarters. This building, which looks like a giant red and white lighthouse, has become an iconic symbol of the island and can be seen from any point on the North Shore.
5. Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head State Monument
Waikiki is the capital of tourism in Hawaii. Waikiki is a suburb of Honolulu and is home to some of the biggest resorts in the world. It’s also a popular place for dining, entertainment, and shopping. A historic trail in Waikiki is made up of surfboards to honor the legacy of Duke Kahanamoku, a famous Olympic gold medalist swimmer and avid surfer. The Duke is responsible for bringing surfing to the U.S. mainland, making him an important figure in Hawaii’s history. The boardwalk is a great place to enjoy a nice meal and get some shopping done. Or, if you’d rather eat at home, you can find all sorts of wonderful ingredients at the market. Diamond Head is an iconic landmark for Hawaii. This volcanic crater once served as a military fortress and provides gorgeous views of the coast. Visitors can hike up to the summit, where they’ll find historic ruins and artillery bunkers.
6. Kaupo Store and Dole Plantation
Kaupo Store is a small grocery store on the Big Island that is known for its fresh produce and friendly service. It is also the only place you can get your hands on a Dole Whip, an iconic pineapple treat.
7. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a popular snorkeling spot in the east of Oahu. The coral reef at the bay is home to a variety of marine life, including turtles and colorful tropical fish. After snorkeling, you can relax in the park and enjoy lunch at one of the nearby restaurants.
8. Kalalau Beach and Na Pali Coast
Kalalau Beach is a popular destination for hikers who are looking for a challenging trek. The trail to the beach is strenuous and takes approximately 10 hours to complete, but it offers stunning views along the way. The beach itself is known for its natural beauty, with cliffs rising up on both sides of the beach and majestic rock arches in the distance.
9. Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial
Pearl Harbor, in Honolulu, is a war memorial to the brave men and women who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and paid the ultimate price during World War 2. The USS Arizona Memorial stands out as a popular attraction and visitors can get an up-close look at the sunken battleship that still rests in the harbor today. Adjacent to the Memorial is the USS Arizona Museum, where you can learn more about the history of the ship and its crew.
10. The Na Pali Coast and Kalalau Valley
The Na Pali Coast is home to some of Hawaii’s most dramatic scenery. It features towering cliffs, hidden waterfalls and dark caves. Just off the coast of northwestern Kauai is Kalalau Valley, which features a series of sea caves and arches carved out by ancient waves.
11. Hanalei Bay and Princeville Resort
Hanalei Bay is a popular destination for beachgoers, surfers and snorkelers, who come to swim, fish and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The bay is also home to some of the island’s best dining options. Princeville, which can be accessed by a 22-mile drive along the Napali Coast, is home to one of Hawaii’s most luxurious resorts.
12. Dole Plantation and Waimea Falls
In Wahiawa, Dole Plantation is a popular attraction, offering a chance to visit working pineapple fields and a pineapple processing plant. Visitors can sample fresh pineapple juice made from the fruit grown on site, as well as enjoy other tropical treats. A short drive away is Waimea Falls, where visitors can hike or drive up to the top of the waterfall and enjoy views of the surrounding area.