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Hawaii is practically synonymous with “vacation”—and rightfully so. Full of beauty, mystery, and adventure, the islands of Hawaii are a traveler’s dream. The eight major islands each have plenty to see, so we’ve narrowed things down a bit for you. Here are ten of the best places to visit during your time in Hawaii.

Pearl Harbor National Historic Landmark

A historical landmark of the utmost importance, the memorials at Pearl Harbor commemorate the infamous day that America’s involvement in WWII began. The USS Arizona Memorial is Hawaii’s top visitor destination, seeing over two million visitors each year. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center will give you movie tickets for a film summarizing the history of the site, as well as tickets for a boat shuttle to the USS Arizona. While this may be one of Hawaii’s more somber destinations, you won’t regret your visit.

Waikiki 

You can’t visit Hawaii and miss out on Waikiki. A beautiful beach neighborhood full of hotels, resorts, and restaurants, people flock here from all over the world. Waikiki Beach is famous in its own right, since surfing was invented here. With clear blue waters and photogenic surroundings, the beach is the perfect place to spend your afternoon. Once you’ve had your fill of swimming or surfing, check out the Waikiki nightlife—you won’t be disappointed.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to the world’s largest active volcano, Kilauea. It’s constantly producing lava flows, making for an incredible natural phenomenon you need to see for yourself. You can take the Crater Rim Drive Tour to get an overview of the park’s offerings, or join a day hike to get up close and personal. If you’ve never had the chance to see an active volcano, don’t miss Kilauea.

Lanai 

The island of Lanai, now primarily privately owned, was once the world’s largest producer of pineapples. Now, however, it’s known for picturesque beaches, phenomenal diving, and incredible beauty. Keahiakawelo, also known as the Garden of the Gods, is full of Hawaiian history, featuring rock towers, spires, and lovely views of the ocean. Experienced divers should be sure to head to the Lanai Cathedrals site to dive in massive underwater lava tubes.

Mauna Kea Summit

Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano, the peak of which is Hawaii’s highest point. Thanks to its 13,800-foot summit, Mauna Kea is home to the world’s largest observatory, boasting 13 telescopes operated by astronomers from all over the world. If you’re looking for some world-class stargazing, or a great view of the surrounding island, you can’t beat Mauna Kea.

Napali Coast State Wilderness Park

This park protects an incredible 16-mile stretch of some of Hawaii’s most beautiful scenery. Many visitors come for the Kalalau Trail, a 22-mile (roundtrip) trail featuring breathtaking waterfalls, beautiful beaches, and fascinating wildlife. The full hike is at least a 3-day trip, however, so a day hike along the first two miles of the trail might be a good bet for some. Either way, you’ll be surrounded by beauty in a rare ecosystem.

Kailua 

On the eastern coast of Oahu lies Kailua, a seaside town bustling with activity. The town itself boasts six golf courses, as well as unique boutiques and farmers markets on Thursdays. Lanakai beach is the perfect place to sunbathe, while the calm, protected waters of Kailua Bay are perfect for water sports. Strong swimmers and kayakers can also venture to the bay’s offshore islands. Here you’ll find hidden coves, beautiful views, and even a bird sanctuary.

Akaka Falls State Park

At the Big Island of Hawaii, you’ll find the Akaka Falls State Park, the perfect place for nature lovers who’ve had their fill of beaches. Follow the Akaka Falls Loop Trail through lush vegetation and you’ll wind up at the 442-foot high Akaka Falls themselves, a beautiful sight looming above the gorge below. You can also spot the cascading Kahuna Falls. If you want some great waterfall pics, Akaka is the park for you.

Maui’s Hana Road

The postcard-perfect town of Hana lies along Maui’s eastern coastline, and reaching this little town is an adventure. The 52-mile trek from Kahului provides one of the most scenic drives in the world, leading you through rainforests, waterfalls, and gorgeous coastal lookouts. Memorable stops along the way include Twin Falls, the Garden of Eden Arboretum, and Wai’anapanapa State Park.

Diamond Head State Monument  

Diamond Head is one of Hawaii’s most iconic landmarks. This volcanic tuft cone stretches 761 feet above sea level, towering over Honolulu and offering visitors breathtaking views of the city. The ancient crater rim is a short (but challenging) hike away, so bring your camera and revel in the beauty around you.

Grand Canyon of the Pacific

More than 10 miles in length, Waimean Canyon, named the Grand Canyon of the Pacific by Mark Twain, is a must see on the island of Kauai. Spectacular views of the 3600 ft. deep gorges and magnificent cliffs showcase nature at its best. Colorful hues of rocks and rich foliage, along with dramatic waterfalls, complete this glorious tropical setting. With a tremendous amount of rainfall, Waimean Canyon is well-known for gorgeous rainbows.

Enjoy this tropical paradise with lush scenic panoramas and take a moment to listen to the melodious songs of the brilliantly-clad native birds. For the adventurous person, wilderness trails for all levels of hiking skills make the trip to Kauai a close-up memory to be treasured. A stop at the Kakee Natural History Museum rounds out the incredible experience of Kauai.

Planning travel to a Hawaiian paradise?  Contact Gavel International for more information about travel incentives and meeting planning in Hawaii.

This article was last updated on April 5, 2023

Jeff Richards
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