50 Amazing Things to Do in Hawaii

Are you looking for the ultimate list of things to do in Hawaii? This Hawaii bucket list is written by a Hawaii local!

There are so many things to do in Hawaii – from visiting canyons to swimming with dolphins to even seeing snow! Sometimes it’s hard to keep track of all of the activities on the eight Hawaiian Islands that are worth your time. To help you out, I’ve created a Hawaii bucket list of sorts with 50 amazing things to do in Hawaii.

Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii

Power through the Lanikai Pillbox Hike

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike might be my favorite hike. It’s not an absurd amount of effort, and you reach the best view I’ve ever gotten on a hike. Imagine the Pacific Ocean, changing from a light teal color to a dark blue the farther you look from shore. Then add two green island dots to make a picture-perfect view.

Sounds like something you’re interested in doing? Here’s everything you need to know about doing the Lanikai Pillbox Hike.

One of the most iconic things to do on Oahu is to tackle the Stairway to Heaven. But in case you didn’t catch my warning in the title, it is illegal! However, if you’re committed to doing this hike, here is a post to help you figure out the details.

*Note: The Hawaii government has plans to remove the Stairway to Heaven by summer 2022.

Watch the Sunset at the Ko Olina Lagoons

Time and time again, I’ve said that the best place to watch the sunset in Hawaii is at the Ko Olina Lagoons. From the angle to the colors, it’s got it all. And here’s more of my reasoning for that claim.

Thinking about spending more time at this beautiful set of lagoons? Here is the Ultimate Guide to the Ko Olina Lagoons!

Watch a Surf Competition at Pipeline

Banzai Pipeline on the North Shore of Oahu is the place to go to watch surfers. Throughout the winter months when waves reach 20 feet (or 40 feet for anyone who’s not local – we measure wave size differently), there’s probably going to be a surf competition happening. And you should definitely watch one, because that’s one of the best things to do on the North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii.

You can check out Da Hui Backdoor Shootout, Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, or Billabong Pipe Masters.

Want to spend more time on the North Shore? I have an Ultimate Guide for that beautiful span of land too!

Spend a Morning at Lanikai Beach

Not too long ago, I wrote an entire post on Lanikai Beach, the Oahu beach that has been voted as the best in the world. Relax on the soft white sand or swim in the picturesque turquoise waters!

Take a Drive on Oahu’s H-3 When It’s Raining

One of the most stunning sights in the world can only be seen from one of Oahu’s highways. Typically, on H-3, you drive through the plant-laden Koolau Mountain Range, which is already stunning. But then, when it rains hard enough, each and every crevice in the mountains (and there are many) becomes a waterfall. How amazing is that!

Here are a few other scenic drives on Oahu for you to enjoy.

Paddle Out to Chinaman’s Hat and Then Hike to the Top

Rent a paddle board or kayak and make your way to Chinaman’s Hat, the little island just off of the east coast of Oahu. Then, after that upper body workout, make your way to the top of the island for some breathtaking views of the Koolau Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean.

If this sounds like one of your must-do things to do in Hawaii, here is a detailed guide to getting to and hiking up Chinaman’s Hat.

Find the Mermaid Cave

On Oahu, there is an elusive, yet breathtaking secret location called the Mermaid Cave. See if you can find it!

Take an ATV Tour at Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch is nestled within the luscious green Koolau Mountain Range on Oahu and is probably one of the most stunning places on the planet. Zoom around on an ATV to see as much of this stunning landscape as possible, while also munching on mountain apples and macadamia nuts and learning about Hawaiian myths. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Visit the Pearl Harbor Memorial

On December 7, 1941, the U.S. Navy base at Pearl Harbor was bombed by the Japanese Navy Air Service, which prompted the United States’ involvement in World War II. Hundreds of Americans gave their lives that day. Over 1,000 passed away on the USS Arizona alone.

A visit to the Pearl Harbor Memorial on Oahu will allow you to learn about and remember December 7, 1941.

Book Here: Official USS Arizona Memorial Audio Tour

Visit the Dole Plantation

Everyone knows the Dole Plantation for their pineapples and Dole Whips. Not long ago, because of the Dole Plantation, the Hawaiian Islands were covered in pineapple fields. If you want to get a glimpse of that today, head to the Dole Plantation on Oahu.

While you’re there, try an authentic Dole Whip, wander through the world’s largest maze, take a train tour, and learn about different varieties of pineapple.

Things to Do on Maui, Hawaii

Drive the Winding Road to Hana

The winding road to Hana is one of the most well-known things to do in Hawaii. And it’s definitely one of the best things to do on Maui. However, one thing needs to be made clear: Hana is not the goal. The best part of the road to Hana is the journey, not the destination.

On the way to the tiny, sleepy city of Hana, you’ll come across several Maui waterfalls, an arboretum filled with plants native to Hawaii, a beach peninsula, a lava tunnel, a black sand beach, and a fantastic banana bread joint. What more could you ask for?

*Note: Before you head out on the road to Hana, be sure to fill up gas in the town of Paia! It’s the last gas station before you start your exciting adventure!

Book Here: Road to Hana Tour

Enjoy Hawaii’s Best Shave Ice at Ululani’s

I’ve been asked before, “what makes one shave ice better than another shave ice?” The answer is simple: fresh, real flavors and a smooth ice texture. Which shave ice encapsulates that? Ululani’s on Maui.

*Note: Ululani’s also has a location on the Big Island, but it originated on Maui and has many more locations on Maui.

Catch the Sunrise at Haleakala

The sunrise from Maui’s highest peak is absolutely stunning. Pinks, oranges, yellows, and even blues and purples paint the morning sky. But getting to the summit on time can be a bit difficult if you don’t plan it right. Here’s everything you need to know to catch the Haleakala sunrise.

Book Here: Haleakala Sunrise Tour

Visit a Red Sand Beach

I know you’ve probably heard about Hawaii’s black sand beaches. Maybe you’ve even heard about the green sand beach on the Big Island. But Kaihalulu Beach on Maui is a RED sand beach.

Just as a warning, getting to the Kaihalulu Beach is quite difficult, and, consequently, many visitors end up injuring themselves. For this reason, visiting Kaihalulu Beach is sometimes illegal (the law changes rather frequently), so be sure to do your research before trying to get to the elusive red sand beach.

Snorkel at Molokini Crater

While there are quite a few amazing places to snorkel across the Hawaiian Islands, Molokini is one of the most unique. This crescent-shaped island just off the coast of Maui safely harbors many species of fish within its curve, meaning that there will be a lot for you to see!

Book Here: Molokini Snorkel Tour

Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii

Get a Glimpse of Some Lava at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Currently, across all of the Hawaiian Islands, there is only one active volcano: Kilauea in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. That means, if you’re going to have any chance of getting a glimpse of lava, you’ll have to go there.

While some risky adventurers attempt to hike to see the lava, that sounds like a lot of work with a questionable amount of reward. I mean, what if the lava is flowing two miles away from where you expected it to be? That’s a lot more extra walking.

Instead, there are both boat tours and helicopter tours that can get you to safely get a glimpse of this glowing hot lava from Kilauea.

Book Here: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour

Book Here: Helicopter Tour Over Hawaii Volcano

Visit a Green Sand Beach

That’s right. Hawaii also has a green sand beach for you to visit. Papakolea Green Sand Beach located on the Big Island of Hawaii boasts this green sand beach of green crystals known as olivine (which also came from the volcanoes’ lava).

Take in Akaka Falls

Akaka Falls is a 442-foot waterfall! It’s definitely one of the best waterfalls in Hilo. Can you even imagine that?! And before you even get there, you can get a glimpse of the 100-foot Kahuna Falls. So two stunning waterfalls in one trip. I highly recommend.

And Akaka Falls definitely isn’t the only noteworthy Hawaii waterfall. There are so many more to see!

Find the Secret Waterslide in the Middle of Nature

Yes, there is a 35-foot waterslide in the middle of the Big Island forest. Are you up for trying to find it?

*Note: many reports have made it clear that trying to find this secret waterslide is not wise. The path to get there requires following an unclear path, navigating on the side of a very steep cliff, and even marching through a tunnel filled with water.

Drive to the Top of Mauna Kea to See Snow in Hawaii

SNOW IN HAWAII? Yes, it’s a real thing! Drive up to the top of Hawaii’s tallest mountain (fun fact: it’s a dormant volcano!) to see it! If you would like to reach the summit of Mauna Kea, it is recommended that you have a four-wheel drive (due to the lack of paved road) and that everyone in the car should be over 13 years old (due to the quick and extreme change in altitude).

Since practically none of the rental car companies on the Big Island of Hawaii allow you to drive to the summit (except one, and they charge some HEFTY fines for the smallest scratches or dents), I highly recommend taking a tour.

*Pro Tip: If you go around sunset and stay into the evening, Mauna Kea is an AMAZING place to stargaze.

Book Here: Mauna Kea Sunrise Tour

Book Here: Mauna Kea Sunset and Stargazing Tour

Stop by the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory

The most popular macadamia nut company in Hawaii (and maybe even the world) is Mauna Loa Macadamia Nuts. Take a couple of hours to visit their factory in Hilo on the Big Island, and you won’t be disappointed!

You can drive through three miles of macadamia nut trees, learn about the macadamia harvesting process, munch on some free samples, and perhaps even buy some to take home with you!

Warm Up at the Kilauea’s Steam Vents

The Kilauea Volcano is constantly emitting heat – although not necessarily through lava. This volcano also emits heat through steam vents! And you can actually access these steam vents and warm your hands up, because it can be quite chilly at such a high altitude.

*Note: it smells like rotten eggs at these steam vents because of the sulfur that is being released.

Things to Do on Kauai, Hawaii

Head to the Na Pali Coast

This stunning oceanfront mountain range on the island of Kauai is VERY difficult to get to. Your options: boat, helicopter, or an 11-mile hike called the Kalalau Trail. If you are a very active person, the Kalalau trail might be the option for you. If not, a Na Pali Coast snorkeling tour or helicopter tour might be better suited for you.

Despite the fact that the Na Pali Coast is quite difficult to get to, it’s still one of the best things to do on Kauai. That’s just how amazing it is.

Book Here: Na Pali Coast Snorkeling Tour

Book Here: Na Pali Coast Helicopter Tour

Kayak to Sacred Falls

Can you imagine kayaking on a river for five hours to end up at a waterfall that is only accessible by kayak? That’s what it’d be like to kayak to Sacred Falls on Kauai. Plus, the Wailua River that you will be paddling on is considered to be one of the most sacred places in Hawaii. Sounds like a pretty awesome experience, right?

Book Here: Sacred Falls Kayaking Tour

Visit Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon on Kauai is often compared to the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Most people go in expecting to see the same thing – I mean, how different can a canyon be?

Waimea Canyon boasts a contrast of the red canyon rock to the bright green Hawaii plants that the Grand Canyon simply cannot compete with. Plus, there’s also the beautiful Waipoo Falls, which just makes everything even more picture-perfect.

Book Here: Half-Day Waimea Canyon Tour

Float Around in the Queen’s Bath

The Queen’s Bath is a unique tidepool located in Princeville, Kauai. This rather large, picturesque tidepool is perfect for floating around in, looking for fish, and even spotting a sea urchin or two!

*Note: do not go to the Queen’s Bath during high tide, as this is VERY dangerous! The waves here have been known to sweep unsuspecting visitors off the rocks. So before you go, make sure that the tide is very low!

Go Mountain Tubing on Kauai

We all love riding in a pool floatie down a lazy river. Now, imagine doing that on rivers, canals, and tunnels in the middle of a greenery-filled forest on the island of Kauai. Where else can you do something like that?

Stare at the Jaw-Dropping Wailua Falls

The entire island of Kauai is known for its amazing waterfalls. As a matter of fact, if you go to Kauai, I think you should just spend your entire trip just waterfall hunting, because there are so many gorgeous Kauai waterfalls!

One of the best waterfalls on Kauai is undoubtedly Wailua Falls. This waterfall is sometimes 200 feet tall! And if you visit in the morning, it might have a wonderful rainbow glow around it.

Relax at Polihale State Park

This remote beach on the west side of Kauai is slowly becoming known as one of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches. With stunning white sand and a backdrop of the famed Na Pali coast, it’s no wonder that Polihale State Park is so gorgeous.

Watch the Sand Sparkle at Kauai’s Glass Beach

First, I have to preface this recommendation by saying that this is not like the El Dorado of sea glass. You won’t come here and find the largest, most colorful pieces of perfect sea glass that you’ve ever seen. However, you WILL find a beach with tons of small sea glass pieces that seem to make the sand glitter, especially at sunset.

Things to Do on Molokai, Hawaii

Ride a Mule on the Kalaupapa Trail

Hop on your mule for a ride down from the world’s highest sea cliffs on the Kalaupapa Trail! This spectacular view begins at 1,700, and you and your mule will get a stunning view of the Molokai coastline the whole time!

Things to Do on Lanai, Hawaii

Visit the Garden of the Gods

The Garden of the Gods on Lanai is one of the most magical places that I have ever been to. With no sound except the whistling wind, it was as if we had been transported to another planet! If you’re interested, here’s a guide to the Garden of the Gods!

Thinking about spending more time on this small, secluded island? Here is the Ultimate Guide to Lanai!

Things to Do on Kahoolawe, Hawaii

Help Clean Up Kahoolawe

The smallest of the eight main Hawaiian islands is actually a small 45-square-mile island known as Kahoolawe. This island actually has no permanent residents and was used as a training ground and bombing range during World War II.

Unfortunately, this period of bombing was very harmful to the island. To this day, there are still bomb fragments that can be found. Even worse, there is hardly any plant life!

If you would like to help restore Kahoolawe to its natural beauty that was once on par with the rest of the Hawaiian Islands, you can volunteer to do so!

Things to Do on Niihau, Hawaii

Spend a Morning on “The Forbidden Island” of Niihau

Most people have never heard of the Hawaiian Island of Niihau, as it is actually privately owned by one native family. However, they do offer one way for tourists to visit the island. From Kauai, you can book a half a day helicopter tour. 

I have never been there, and I haven’t been able to find much information about the tour itself. But I mean, you’d be going to an island that the vast majority of people haven’t even heard of!

Things to Do on Multiple Hawaiian Islands

Watch a Hula Competition

To the native Hawaiians, hula serves as a way to remember their history, tell their stories, and keep their culture blossoming. When English missionaries came to Hawaii, they actually tried to suppress hula. But this valuable, culturally-rich tradition managed to pull through and is still practiced today. As a matter of fact, there are many hula competitions across the Hawaiian Islands.

Easily the most famous hula festival is the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival held annually in Hilo on the Big Island. As a matter of fact, this is one of the best things to do in Hilo.

However, there are also other hula festivals, including the Prince Lot Hula Festival and Na Hula Festival on Oahu, the Hula Arts at Kilauea Series in Kona on the Big Island, and the Molokai Ka Hula Piko Festival on Molokai.

Swim with Dolphins in the Wild

Hawaii is one of the only places in the world where you can swim with dolphins in the wild. They can enjoy their beautiful natural home, and you can watch them enjoy it!

Dolphins love hanging out on the west side of Oahu, and their favorite spots on Kauai are the Na Pali Coast and Kauapea Beach. On the Big Island, they enjoy the Makako Bay, Kealakekua Bay, and Honaunau Bay.

If you’re on Maui, Molokai, or Lanai, the dolphins like to hang out in the Auau Channel, which is the body of water in between the three islands. (I actually saw a pod of dolphins on a normal ferry ride from Lanai to Maui once.) On Lanai specifically, dolphins are commonly spotted at Hulopoe Bay.

If you do choose to swim with dolphins in the wild, please give them their space. When you see them, it’ll most likely be during daylight hours, when they’re resting. If you disturb them when they’re resting, they might act in more aggressive ways then they usually would, because their brains are actually half shut off when they rest! (It’s kind of like humans in the morning – we need a little time to wake up too!)

Book Here: Dolphin Snorkeling Tour in West Oahu

Book Here: Kayaking and Dolphin Snorkeling Tour in Kealakekua Bay, Big Island

Book Here: Maui to Lanai Dolphin Snorkeling Tour

Visit a Black Sand Beach

Across the Hawaiian Islands, there are quite a few black sand beaches. Basically, these black sand beaches come to be when the black lava rock is eroded down to become tiny black rock pieces (a.k.a. black sand).

If you’re hoping to see a black sand beach, your best bet is on the Big Island. Check out the popular Punaluu Beach, the beautiful Kaimu Beach Park, or the newly created (you know, by the recent eruptions) Pohoiki Beach. (There are also quite a few more on the Big Island, but that’s just too many to list.) On Maui, there is Honokalani Beach in Waianapanapa State Park. Lastly, on Kauai, there is Waimea Beach.

Spot Some Turtles

I’ve already written extensively on where to find turtles on Oahu, including Laniakea Beach, Makaha Beach, and the secret lagoon at Ko Olina. On Maui, these majestic sea creatures can be found at Keawakapu Beach, Ulua Beach, and Maluaka Beach. On the Big Island, Honaunau Bay and Punaluu Black Sand Beach are both pretty solid options.

As for Kauai, Brennecke’s Beach and Lawai Beach are you best bets. On Molokai, between 9 and 10 a.m., turtles reportedly flock to Kalokoeli Fishpond for breakfast. Lastly, on the little island of Lanai, your best bet is Shipwreck Beach, but make sure you do not go into the water here, as the current is very strong!

Wander through a Lava Tube

A lava tube is pretty much what it sounds like: a tube (usually made out of hardened lava rock) that lava from a volcano once flowed through. Pretty cool, right? And guess what?! You can visit one (or two or three)!

By far, the most popular and well-known lava tube is the Thurston Lava Tube on the Big Island. This is one of the only lava tubes that you can easily walk through. There is also a lava tube on Maui in Waianapanapa State Park at the black sand beach.

On Kauai, there are several on the Na Pali Coast and quite a few underwater at Tunnels Beach. On Oahu, there is a hidden one at Cockroach Bay. Finally, rumor has it that just off the coast of Lanai, there are lava tubes underwater – which is a perfect adventure for some scuba divers.

Take Part in a Luau

Luaus first came about in 1819, when King Kamehameha II decided to abolish the practice of men and women eating separately. In celebration of this declaration, King Kamehameha II planned a huge feast with both men and women.

Many locals today host luaus of their own with all the traditional dishes, including kalua pig, poi, and poke. While it may be difficult to get an invite to a luau hosted by locals, there are many other luau options, including ones that are hosted by hotels.

A couple of the best luaus on Oahu are the Paradise Cove Luau and Germaine’s Luau. Maui is famous for the Old Lahaina Luau. On the Big Island, the Legends of Hawaii Luau at the Hilton Waikoloa Village and the Mauna Kea Luau at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel go head to head. Kauai’s Luau Kalamaku and Smith Family Garden Luau are also too close to call.

Go on a Petroglyph Walk

Petroglyphs were the Native Hawaiians’ pictorial form of writing. Think of them as like the hieroglyphics of the Native Hawaiian people.

The best place to see petroglyphs is on the Big Island of Hawaii, as many of these images have been carved into lava rock. Check out the Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve, Puako Petroglyph Park, or the Puuloa Petroglyphs. On Oahu, there is only one consistent place to see petroglyphs, which is in the Nuuanu Memorial Park & Mortuary on the way to Kaena Falls.

On Kauai, they can be found on the Mahaulepu Trail and in the Heiau of Lydgate Park. Maui has Petroglyph Hill at Olowalu Valley. Lastly, Lanai has a Petroglyph Field near Shipwreck Beach that is quite difficult to find.

Eat a Spam Musubi

Eating a spam musubi should definitely be on your list of things to do in Hawaii. After all, it was the inspiration behind the Hawaii Food Bucket List. This rectangle of rice topped with a slice of spam and wrapped in seaweed is a local treat that is surprisingly delicious!

See a Shipwreck While Scuba Diving

Many boats that have been too old to continue have been purposely sunk to create a new reef for the Pacific Ocean’s sea creatures. That means that there are quite a few places to dive and see a shipwreck across the Hawaiian Islands.

There is the Mahi Shipwreck on the west side of Oahu, the St. Anthony Shipwreck off Keawakapu Beach on Maui, the Lukemback Shipwreck on the east side of Kauai, two steamboats and one Hawaiian sampan at Mahukona Harbor on the Big Island, and a boat called the Naked Lady at the Big Island’s Kailua Harbor.

*Note: While there are several shipwrecks on the north side of Lanai, this is due to the very strong currents and dangerous conditions. Therefore, it is not recommended that anyone scuba dive there, regardless of experience.

Munch on a Malasada

Malasadas are Hawaii’s replacement for the typical American donut. For a long time, Hawaii was severely lacking on donut joints. But we always had the puffy, fried, sugar-coated rounds of deliciousness.

The place to get malasadas on Oahu is either Leonard’s Bakery or Pipeline Bakeshop and Creamery. (See the pros and cons here.) On Maui, head to Sugar Beach Bake Shop. As for the Big Island, rumor has it the place to go is Tex Drive In.

Take a Helicopter Tour

The Hawaiian Islands are a visually stunning set of islands, so why not see them from a bird’s eye view? From up above in a helicopter, you’ll be able to see the stunning blue ocean crash onto the golden sand before it turns into bold green mountains. If you’re on the Big Island, you could even catch glimpses of lava rock, desert, volcanoes, and lava!

Book Here: Oahu Helicopter Tour

Book Here: Maui Helicopter Tour

Book Here: Big Island Helicopter Tour

Book Here: Kauai Helicopter Tour

Make a Lei

Leis, which are like fresh flower necklaces, were used in native Hawaiian culture to indicate sacredness, status, and peace. Today, many hotels will offer leis to guests upon arrival. Women will usually receive ones made of orchids, and men will receive ones made of kukui nuts.

In addition, many hotels also offer lei-making classes. The process is actually quite simple, as it only requires some flowers, string, and a long needle. Consider taking some time to learn about this special Hawaiian tradition.

Spend Some Time at a Farmers’ Market

Hawaii has some pretty cool farmers’ markets. Not only do we have exotic fruits like rambutan, yellow dragon fruit, lilikoi (passion fruit), guava, and so much more readily available, but there are also locally grown treats like honey, meat, and flowers available for purchase at some of the largest farmers’ markets.

On Oahu, the must-visit farmers market is the Kapiolani Community College Farmers’ Market. On the Big Island, it’s the Hilo Farmers’ Market. If you’re on Kauai, check out the Kauai Community College Farmers Market. On Maui, there’s the Upcountry Farmers’ Market. Or if you’re on the small island of Molokai, check out their ONLY farmers’ market on Ala Malama Street.

Tour a Coffee Farm

Besides its beaches, everyone knows Hawaii for one thing: coffee. That’s why one thing you must do in Hawaii is tour a coffee farm.

Kona coffee is the most popular out of all of the islands. As a matter of fact, visiting a Kona coffee farm is one of the best things to do in Kona.

That said, my personal favorite coffee visitor center is actually at the Kauai Coffee Company. With half of dozen different coffee flavors hot and ready to try, a stacked gift shop, and a peaceful walk around the coffee bean trees, there’s something for everyone (even non-coffee lovers!) to do here.

If you’re looking for more options, here are a few of the best Hawaiian coffee companies.

Do a Hike or Beach Clean-Up

I’ve started to add a hike or beach clean-up to every list of things to do in Hawaii that I have on this website. Why? Not only do I think that this has the potential to be a fun, fulfilling experience, but I also think that if you spend so much time on your vacation enjoying this beautiful trash-free environment, why not help the islands stay that way?

Just grab a trash bag (and perhaps some gloves) and pick up anything that doesn’t belong. Thank you for your help in advance!

 

I’ve mentioned many things to do in Hawaii on all eight of the major Hawaiian Islands. Trying to figure out how to island hop between as many as possible? This island hopping guide should help you out!

What else do you think should make it into this list of things to do in Hawaii? Tell me about it in the comments!

Planning a trip to Hawaii any time soon? Or maybe just dreaming about a future vacation to the islands? Pin this post for later!

LOOKING FOR MORE hawaii TRAVEL ADVICE? HERE ARE OUR FAVORITE hawaii TRAVEL GUIDEBOOKS!

Disclosure: I use referral links in this post, and I might make a commission on my recommendations.

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