non tourist places in hawaii

The 13 Least Touristy Destinations You Can Possibly Go To In Hawaii

Megan Shute

With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.

More by this Author

Whether you simply live in Hawaii – or worse, work at an establishment inundated with tourists from across the world – sometimes you just need an escape. While Hawaii’s most popular tourist destinations are visited for a reason, sometimes you want to get away from it all. Luckily, there are a few hidden beaches, hikes and destinations found across the Hawaiian Islands that have yet to become popular among tourists. Without further ado, here are 13 of the least touristy destinations you’ll find in Hawaii. We think these less touristy places in Hawaii are truly magical and need to be on your upcoming bucket list!

Related Stories

You’ll Fall In Love With The Tiny Waterfall Hiding Along This Breathtaking Hawaii Trail

Best Waterfalls in Hawaii: 12 Local Favorites & Hidden Gems

This Fairy Tale Campground In Hawaii Is Like Something From A Dream

Have you visited any of these less touristy places in Hawaii? What did you think? Was it amazing? Are there any others ones that we should add to the list? Let us know in the comments below!

Love exploring Hawaii, regardless of whether tourists know about it? Check out these 15 tourist destinations locals love . We think you’ll love them, too!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more Hawaii in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Hawaii!

Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!

An error occured.

More to Explore

Less touristy places in hawaii.

How much coastline does Hawaii have?

Hawaii has plenty of gorgeous coastline, considering it’s made up of a series of beautiful small islands. Combined together, you’ll find over 750 miles of jaw droppingly beautiful coastline to explore. That includes cliffs that fall into the ocean below, miles of sandy beaches, and more. If you love the beach, you’ll love the Hawaiian islands!

Which Hawaiian island has the most tourists?

Oahu easily outshines the other islands in terms of visitors. Oahu sees over 4.7 million visitors annually. Visitors primarily stay in Honolulu and visit Pearl Harbor. They also spend a good portion of their visit enjoying Waikiki Beach. You’ll see thousands of tourists at each of those spots every day.

Which island is the least touristy in the Hawaiian islands?

Lanai Island is considered the least touristy of all of the Hawaiian islands, having only a couple of small places to stay when you visit. It’s a great place to go if you love solitude and staying away from crowds.

Related Articles

• The Magnificent Waterfront Airbnb In Hawaii That Is Perfect For A Spring Retreat
• You'll Never Look At Donuts The Same Way After Trying Purvé Donut Stop In Hawaii
• It's An Epic Hawaiian Adventure Rafting Nā Pali In Hawaii
• Escape To The Countryside When You Stay At This Rural Airbnb In Hawaii
• We’re Dreaming Of A Waterfront Getaway And We Found 12 Perfect Spots In The Northeast
• Hand-Picked: May's Best-Selling Travel Must-Haves That Will Make Summer Travel A Breeze
• We’re Dreaming Of A Waterfront Getaway And We Found 14 Perfect Spots In The Southwest
• We’re Dreaming Of A Waterfront Getaway And We Found 14 Perfect Spots In The Pacific Northwest

Featured Addresses

• North America
• The Most Non Touristy Experiences...

The Most Non-Touristy Experiences in Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the most popular vacation hot spots in the Pacific, with over 8 million people flocking from all over the world to see its natural beauty and brimming culture annually. Although it’s easy to get sucked into the normal touristy destinations—like Waikīkī , luaus , and whale watching tours—adventure can be found around almost every corner if you are looking for it. From hiking, swimming, stargazing, getting involved in local events: here are the most non-touristy experiences to have in Hawaii. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Hike the stairway to heaven on oʻahu.

Those who love hiking have to climb the Hāʻiku stairs , more commonly known as the Stairway to Heaven. Located on eastern Oʻahu in a town called Kāneʻohe, the hike starts at the footsteps of the majestic Koʻolau mountain range. It is quite easy to get to, approximately 30 minutes by car from Honolulu . Although this trail is currently illegal to climb and has a security guard located at the bottom of it, many hikers still head here (starting the trail before 3a.m. to avoid the guard) to watch the sunrise from the top. Pack water and bring a special friend—this experience will forever be engraved into memory.

Hike to Hanakapiʻai Falls

Speaking of hiking, the Hanakapiʻai Falls, located along the Kalalau trail in Kauaʻi, are a must. It is two miles to get to Hanakapiʻai beach from the start of Kalalau trail to get to this 300-ft (91.44-m) waterfall, and it is worth every moment. The trail is not for the weak of heart, so make sure to pack plenty of water and good hiking shoes. Once there, don’t be afraid to take a refreshing swim in the water to cool off.

Drive along the scenic highways in Hawaiʻi

Whenever possible, take the highways in Hawaiʻi—the Hawaiʻi Belt Road literally circles the island—and be greeted by local stores, beautiful private beaches, lush jungle vegetation, and smiling faces while winding and curving with the highway coastline. It may take a little longer to get from A to B, but it is absolutely worth it.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $800 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Snorkel and free dive along Oʻahu’s west coast

Love wildlife and swimming? Snorkeling and free diving along the west side of Oʻahu is the perfect place. Numerous animals call this coastline their home, and it is fairly easy to swim alongside some of the oceans most lovable creatures straight from the beach. The western side is home to turtle cleaning stations, where turtles swim, feed, and sleep in just a few feet of water. Don’t ever harass them, though, since they are federally protected as endangered species.

Play with marine life

Marine mammals, such as the endangered Hawaiian monk seal and the Hawaiian spinner dolphin, also take advantage of the quiet west side. Find napping monk seals on the beach and playful dolphins splashing around at the surface. Feeling adventurous? Jump in the water to see the playful dolphins underwater, but please check the ocean currents and swell, and always swim with a buddy.

Eat at a local food truck

Food trucks are scattered all over the islands, each one is different and interesting. A local favorite are the shrimp trucks in Kahuku, where fresh shrimp and grown in local aquaculture ponds and served fresh daily.

Take a helicopter tour

See a different perspective with a birdʻs eye view of the beautiful islands from hundreds of feet above from a reputable helicopter tour operator. Get views of the untouched valleys, secret beaches, and waterfalls of cultural significance.

Go shelling

Take a nice, quiet walk along the beach or jump into the water to find colorful seashells that canʻt be found anywhere else in the world. Bring them home as souvenirs to give to friends or families, or decorate furniture with the new ocean treasures. Make sure to check if any critters are calling the shells home before taking them.

Trade the beach for the cooler eastern coasts

Not feeling up for lounging at the beach all day? Try cruising to the lush east side of any island to find a rainier, environment to take a nap, read a book, or just relax. Be sure to take advantage of the numerous botanical gardens in the Hawaiian Islands as well and and admire their beauty.

No, lei is not cheesy, and yes, even locals love to wear them. Not only because they smell good, but also because it symbolizes love and acceptance. String up a lei of any flowers that grab your attention. Plumeria flowers smell the best and bloom all year long, go find one and smell it, youʻll be glad you did.

Have a sunset BBQ

Instead of wasting money at a restaurant, finish off a perfect day on the west side of any Hawaiian island with a sunset and a BBQ. It is quite magical here on the islands watching the sun set right in front of your eyes. It seems like the sun literally sinks into the water as the orange and pink hues light up the sky. Pack a cooler filled with your favorite drinks and foods, bring a stereo, some friends, and enjoy the moments. Pure magic.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

Places to Stay

The best luxury resorts to book in oahu, hawaii.

Say Aloha to These Affordable Hotels in Oahu

The Best Villas to Book for Your Vacation in Hawaii

The Best All-Inclusive Hotels to Book in Hawaii

The Best Cheap Hotels to Book in Honolulu, Hawaii

The Most Romantic Hotels to Book in Honolulu, Hawaii

The Best Resorts to Book in Honolulu, Hawaii

The Best Beach Hotels to Book in Honolulu, Hawaii

Hip Rental Apartments in Oahu, Hawaii, You'll Want to Call Home

The Most Pet-Friendly Hotels in Oahu, Hawaii

The Best Wellness Retreats and Spas in Oahu, Hawaii

Where to Book a Stay in Oahu, Hawaii, for a Local Experience

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,656 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1396875
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Hawaii Top Things to Know Explore Now →

Kauai Guide

Big island guide, essential travel tips.

• Which Island to Visit? →
• Best Time to Visit →
• Hawaii Must See & Do →
• Hawaii Itineraries →

Travel Information

• Hawaii Weather →
• What to Pack? →
• Best Hawaii Island to Visit →
• Hawaii Safety Tips →

Hawaii Resources

• Hawaii Airports & Terminals →
• Hawaii Maps →
• Hawaii Travel News & Blog →
• Hawaii Visitor FAQ →

View our Hawaii Visitor Guides →

Hawaii Accommodations →

Lodging by island.

• Oahu Lodging
• Maui Lodging
• Big Island Lodging
• Kauai Lodging

Where to Stay

• Where to stay on Oahu →
• Where to stay on Maui →
• Where to stay on Big Island →
• Where to stay on Kauai →

When to Visit

• Best Time to Visit Oahu →
• Best Time to Visit Maui →
• Best Time to Visit the Big Island →
• Best Time to Visit Kauai →

Explore Hawaii Hotel Deals & Specials Search Now

• Hawaii Things to See & Do →

Tours by Island

• Big Island Tours
• Kauai Tours

Hawaii Attractions

• Oahu Attractions →
• Maui Attractions →
• Big Island Attractions →
• Kauai Attractions →

Hawaii Must See & Do

• Oahu Must See & Do →
• Maui Must See & Do →
• Big Island Must See & Do →
• Kauai Must See & Do →

Explore Hand-Picked Hawaii Tours Search Now

Visit Hawaii Like a Local: Hidden Spots and Locals' Highlights

2024 Hawaii Visitor Guides

Discount Hawaii Car Rentals

Are you planning a trip to Hawaii? In 2019 alone, tourists spent over 17 billion dollars visiting the islands, so you're certainly not alone.

But, if you're looking to make sure you're getting the true Hawaiian experience, rather than getting stuck in tourist traps, we can help. We've got the best places to visit in Hawaii that aren't for the average tourist.

— article continued below —

Visiting Hawaii soon? Be sure to grab a copy of one of our updated Hawaii Visitor Guides

Non-Tourist Spots: Starting to Plan Your Trip

You should start by deciding which Hawaiian island to visit . Different islands offer different local spots and different highlights. And, some may be more prone to heavy tourist traffic than others.

For example, tourists looking to enjoy a little bit of sun often visit Maui. But that doesn't mean that Maui doesn't still offer plenty of different local spots for you to check out.

Of course, you don't have to limit yourself to just one island! You can always plan your trip so that you'll be able to visit multiple islands, to get the most out of your trip. From O'ahu to Molokaʻi, each island will certainly have something to offer.

Local Areas on the Hawaiian Islands

Look out for some of the amazing natural sites in Hawaii you might not see in the average travel guide.

Try learning about some of the more unusual historical moments you may not have heard of. For example, Raëlian UFO Peace Park, located on the Big Island, commemorates the 1970s new religious movement Raëlianism, which wanted to build a galactic embassy in Hawaii.

If you love cats, you have to check out the Lanai Cat Sanctuary . Because Lanai is more remote, it's far less likely to be overrun by tourists. So, you'll be able to enjoy the hundreds of cats at the Sanctuary without bothering them or drawing a crowd!

Visitors to Maui should check out Lahaina Town , a funky place that will allow you to shop for unique handcrafted items and learn about the history of the area.

And, it's important to learn about the colonialist history of Hawaii while you're there. Check out the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum to learn about the Royal Family of Hawaii and the indigenous cultures of the region.

Hawaii is also an important part of the history of World War II. While you're there, you can visit the Battery Cooper Bunker, the outside of the Hickam Air Base, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, the U.S. Army Schofield Barracks and Tropic Lightning Museum, and many others.

Natural Sites in Hawaii

If you're fascinated by geology and the history of our planet, you should make sure you check out Makauwahi Cave in Kauai, so that you can admire amazing fossils and see how far our world has come.

The Kaumana Lava Tubes in Hilo, on the Big Island, are beautiful, free to enter, and away from mainstream attractions. Or, for one of the most beautiful waterfalls you'll ever see, go over to Waiānuenue.

Local Places to Eat in Hawaii

Hawaii offers delicious cuisine at restaurants throughout the state. Make sure you keep an eye out for local treats such as poke, poi, shaved ice, laulau, lomi salmon, and many others.

If you're headed to Oahu, check out the Giovanni Shrimp Truck for delicious shrimp scampi or Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha for shaved ice. For those who are planning on checking out Kauai, make sure you eat at Hukilau Lanai, which offers a delicious twist on traditional Hawaiian fare, or Mark's Place for some of the best lunches in the state.

Maui's delicious food options make it one of the top Hawaii places to visit. Consider visiting A Saigon Cafe if you love Vietnamese food, Tasty Crust if you're looking for breakfast food options, or Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop for classic bites.

Lanai's smaller size and population makes it less of a destination for restaurants, but there are still tasty treats for you. Go to Malibu Farm for upscale cocktails, or One Forty if you'd like to hit a buffet.

Local Events and Things Locals Do for Fun in Hawaii

There are also lots of different local events in Hawaii that you might want to plan your trip around.

Take a trip to the little town of Hilo for the Merrie Monarch Festival, which pays tribute to the rich culture of Hawaii in a weeklong event filled with crafts, performances, and so much more. Music lovers should make sure they plan their trip around Waikiki's Annual Ukelele Festival.

Art fans should make sure they overlap with an ARTafterDARK at the Honolulu Museum of Art.

For food, flowers, fresh fruit, local products and more, be sure to check out the local farmers markets on each island (links below).

For parade lovers, King Kamehameha Day in June is commemorated by a huge parade through Waikiki. Some other parades and events you might want to consider for your Hawaii visit include the following: 

• Prince Lot Hula Festival
• Lantern Floating Festival
• Waikiki Holiday Parade
• Parade of Farms
• Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival
• Made in Hawaii Festival
• The Ocean Arts Festival
• Honolulu Pride Parade
• Annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival
• Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival
• Hawaii Food and Wine Festival 
• Maui Film Festival
• Waikiki Spam Jam

Hopefully, knowing the best events in the area will help you choose the top places to visit in Hawaii for your needs.

Non-Tourist Places to Visit in Hawaii: Just the Start

Hawaii is chock-full of amazing sights and things to enjoy. Hopefully, these places to visit in Hawaii will get you started planning an amazing trip today.

Are you excited to visit Hawaii? Are you looking for more information on Hawaii and planning your vacation? Make sure you check out some of our Hawaii travel tips today.

Recommended Hawaii Tours

Terms of use & disclosures.

By using this website, you agree to our terms and conditions found on our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page. If you do not agree, please do not use the site. We earn small commissions from some travel partners, which helps us maintain the site. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. These links are at no extra cost to you. Mahalo!

Download our Hawaii Map Packet

Includes most major attractions, all major routes, airports, and a chart with estimated driving times for each respective island..

Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included.

Download your copy of our... 2024 Hawaii Travel Guide

Hawaii-Guide.com has been featured in...

Hawaii Visitor Information...

Try out our new AI Powered Search & Chatbot →

Plus & Premium Benefits

Donate and remove ALL the ads

Mahalo for your support!

By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms . Mahalo!

• HawaiiActivities.com
• Partner with Us

• Attractions
• Experiences
• Food & Drinks
• Family-friendly
• Private Charters
• Local Events
• Kama’aina/Military Discounts
• Special Deals
• Travel Agent Program
• Affiliate Marketing
• Content Creator Sponsorship

10 Non-Touristy Things to Do in Honolulu

Get ready to experience Honolulu like a local, where every turn reveals a new, unexpected delight. Venture beyond the well-trodden paths of Honolulu to uncover its hidden gems and authentic experiences with our guide to 10 non-touristy things to do in this vibrant city. Honolulu, known for its stunning beaches and bustling city life, holds secrets that are often overlooked by the typical visitor.

Jet Snorkel with Turtles at Electric Beach

Under the guidance of an expert, you’ll learn snorkeling basics before taking to the water with an underwater jet scooter, making swimming and exploring the vibrant coral reefs and marine life a breeze. As you glide effortlessly among fish and turtles, your guide will capture the moment with photos and videos, available to you for free.

Semi-Private Turtle Snorkel Tour - Island Splash Ocean Raft

Dive into the clear waters to encounter a diverse array of sea life, including turtles, reef fish, octopuses, and potentially even rays and dolphins. The intimate setting ensures close attention and care from our certified lifeguard team, enhancing your comfort and safety. With five convenient departures daily, fitting this experience into your schedule is easy, offering a streamlined way to explore one of Waikiki’s most beloved snorkeling spots without spending your whole day at sea.

Kailua Beach Experience with Lunch - Snorkel, Bike & Beach Gear

Lanikai Beach, with its calm waters and coral reefs close to shore, offers an ideal spot for first-timers, while Kailua Beach, a protected marine area, is a popular feeding ground for Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. This tour provides everything you need for a full day of sun and sea, including lunch at a local restaurant, beach gear (bodyboards, mats, chairs), and bike rentals for easy exploration of Kailua and Lanikai.

Oahu ATV Tour & Off-Road Adventure - North Shore Eco Tours

Combine thrilling adventure with enriching lessons on Hawaiian nature, history, and culture. The tour accommodates up to 18 guests in multi-passenger UTVs, with options to switch drivers at designated stops, ensuring everyone gets a turn at the wheel. Spanning 2 hours and 30 minutes, you’ll traverse over 20 miles of breathtaking landscapes, from Waiʻanae mountains to the North Shore coastline, making for an unforgettable journey through Hawaii’s natural beauty.

West Oahu Morning & Sunset Hiking Tour to Palehua Ridge

Led by an expert local guide, this journey to Waianae on the island’s west coast culminates atop Palehua Ridge. Choose between a day hike or a sunset expedition to the summit for one of Hawaii’s most magnificent afternoon treks. Suitable for hikers of all ages, ascend to an elevation of 2,400 ft for breathtaking panoramic views of both the east and west sides of Oahu.  Plus, it’s BYOB, allowing you to enjoy a sunset drink in non-glass containers.

North Shore Scenic Flights - Piloted Glider Tours

Experience the thrill of soaring above Oahu’s untouched Kaena Point with Honolulu Soaring, the island’s most reputable glider company. Marvel at the expansive views of the North Shore, Waimea Bay, the Kaena Point Satellite Tracking Station, and the vibrant windsurfing sails at Mokuleia Beach. With flights lasting 20 minutes and reaching altitudes of 3,000 feet or more, every moment promises breathtaking scenery.

Sunset Horseback Riding & Campfire Dinner - Gunstock Ranch

This tour offers panoramic views stretching from Kaneohe Bay to the North Shore, capped off with a Hawaiian sunset and a picnic dinner by a campfire.   This 90-minute ride welcomes riders of all skill levels and provides a peaceful escape to the pastoral beauty of the North Shore, complete with a warm, delicious meal enjoyed against the backdrop of a stunning Hawaiian sunset.

Chinaman's Hat Kayak Rental & Snorkeling Adventure

Paddle across Windward Oahu’s clear waters for 15 to 30 minutes to reach this pristine destination. Known for its tranquility and lack of crowds, Chinaman’s Hat offers the perfect escape to explore trails, enjoy panoramic views of the Koolau Mountains, or simply wander around the island. Ideal for adventurers seeking to venture off the beaten path, this tour combines kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking, allowing you to experience the serene beauty of Oahu’s windward side at your own pace.

The Magical Mystery Show

From the moment you enter and explore the Museum of Curiosities, a magician welcomes you with tales of Hawaii’s historical ties to English parlor performances, setting the stage for a mesmerizing evening. The show features two world-class magicians who promise an unforgettable journey through captivating magic, humor, and the nostalgic allure of a bygone era. Limited to 60 guests, this family-friendly experience ensures an up-close view of the magic, making it a perfect outing for all ages.

Honolulu Splatter Room & Paint Studio - Break'N Anger Hawaii

This 45-minute session offers a unique opportunity to unleash your creativity alone, with a partner, or in a group of up to ten people. Engage in an exhilarating art experience where you can throw paint on walls, canvases, and even friends, embracing a new form of expression and fun. Ideal for anyone seeking a creative outlet, stress relief, or a memorable group activity, Break’N Anger’s splatter room promises an unforgettable escape into color and creativity.

Venturing beyond the familiar sights and sounds of Honolulu to explore its less-trodden paths offers a unique opportunity to connect deeply with the heart and soul of this vibrant city. Each non-touristy activity we’ve highlighted opens a window to the rich cultural tapestry, hidden natural wonders, and the genuine spirit of Aloha that defines Honolulu.   So, we encourage you to step off the beaten path with an open heart and curious spirit.

A writer whose words flow where the mountains meet the sea.

Related Articles

Best luau in honolulu.

10 Best Restaurants in Honolulu

6 Best Summer Hikes in Oahu

Add comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.   Learn more

Privacy Preference Center

Privacy preferences.

7 Ways to Escape the Tourists on Oahu

Step off the beaten path and fall in love with a different side of oahu..

• Copy Link copied

Makapu‘u Beach is located on Oahu’s eastern end.

Photo by Daniel Ramirez/Flickr

With the number of travelers venturing to the Hawaiian Islands trending higher than ever, it’s become difficult to escape the onslaught of visitors and find locals to interact with. We have to wonder—is it even possible to immerse yourself in Oahu’s local vibes? There’s nothing wrong with enjoying the island’s most popular places, but for anyone who has visited more than a few times, living like a local is especially appealing. Here are seven of the best ways—from picking your own neighborhood to finding locally owned and locals-only spots—to meet people who live on the island and enjoy life off the tourist track.

1. Skip the Hotel

Yes, perks and amenities at Hawaii’s hotels are plentiful, but you won’t meet people who live on the island—unless of course, they work in the tourism industry. Instead, pick a Homeaway on the North Shore in Haleiwa town, Sunset Beach, or Pipeline. Homeaway accommodations are usually owned by locals and sit on uncongested blocks. Wake up for a morning walk or swim, and make sure to end up at one of the neighborhood fruit and banana bread stands, which are only open in the mornings. Then end your day right—just ask the neighbors where to buy your mahi mahi and swordfish, and grill it alongside fresh pineapple and enjoy dinner on the lanai.

2. Savor Uncrowded Seas

Even if you’ve been to the islands more times than you can count, surfing can still feel like an obligatory experience. Get away from the first-timers and take your surf lesson with former pro Ken Bradshaw and the Hawaiian Surf School . He teaches travelers and locals alike in beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes.

If you’re up for more of a challenge, stop at Sandy Beach and take on the storied shore break alongside Oahu teenagers—but only join them if you have experience body boarding. Go for a post-surf drive around the southern tip of the island and arrive in Kailua. Here, join the regulars for red curry grilled fish or a poke bowl with furikake rice at Uahi Island Grill.

3. Eat Small (and Often)

Small, fresh bites dot the island. If you have time to loop the island’s perimeter, here are the essential pit stops where you’ll find local surfers and hikers, doctors and construction workers alike: Diamond Head Cove Health Bar , which has great açaí bowls and smoothies; Sunrise Shack , owned by pro surfer Koa Smith; Pupukea Grill , where you should order the coconut quinoa curry with spicy ahi poke; Yama’s Fish Market , known for its lomi salmon and Kahlua pig; and of course, Leonard’s Bakery , famous for its sweet malasadas . And don’t leave Oahu without grabbing a musubi with classic Spam (or maybe avocado) at Musubi Cafe Iyasume .

4. Source Your Own Food

The best way to meet the storied farmers and environmentalists who call Oahu home is at the weekly growers’ markets. Luckily, there are several each week. You can stock up on all the local favorites—just get there early! Enjoy some ‘ulu (breadfruit) and limu (seaweed) on Thursdays at the Haleiwa Farmers’ Market . On Saturdays, the KCC Farmers’ Market offers fresh-brewed Koko Crater Coffee, as well as Hawaiian classics with a twist, from fresh taro and poi to taro hummus and mochi. On Sundays, the crop of vendors moves to the Mililani Farmers’ Market.

5. Ditch the Mai Tai; Try the Beer

Locals and transplants alike have kick-started Oahu’s craft beer scene and it’s growing fast. Ask the owners at Beer Lab for the best small-batch experiments that represent the citrusy flavors you’d expect in an island brew. To sip small-batch brews alongside university students and auntie and uncle, head to the open-air tap rooms at Honolulu BeerWorks or Waikiki Brewing Company .

6. Find the Right Beaches

Pack the picnic basket and juice for a secluded day at beaches that aren’t crawling with tourists. On the North Shore, set out toward Kaena Point and pick a stretch of sand just about anywhere along the road. (Note: The lush scenery behind you is where they filmed episodes of Lost .) Another North Shore option, where you’ll find local kite surfers on breezy days, is Aweoweo Beach Park. On the south side of the island, Halona Cove near Sandy Beach is not a locals-only secret, but it is worth visiting to explore the tide pools near the Halona blowhole (make sure to watch your step!). You can venture a few miles up the coast for a quiet swim at Makapu‘u Beach , a common beach day spot for Kailua locals making their way around the island.

7. Hike at the Golden Hour

In Hawaii, you should never be the only hiker on the trail, in case you get lost. But you won’t have to worry at Kuliouou Ridge Trail, where you’ll find clear ascents with local adventurers. The trail straddles the ridge between the east and west flanks of the island. On the North Shore, locals try to keep quiet about the idyllic and hidden sunset hike at the old war bunker above Sunset Beach Elementary School. It’s short (15 minutes) and steep, and it offers a sunset finale to round out a perfect, offbeat Hawaii adventure.

>>Next: After the Floods, Kauai Is Shining Again—and Ready for Your Visit

Waikiki alternatives: Where to avoid the crowds at O'ahu's beaches

Avoid the masses in favor of these less-crowded beaches..

With their turquoise water and sparkling white sand, O’ahu’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world—but they can also get packed with tourists. Even if popular Waikiki Beach is right around the corner from your hotel, it’s worth seeking out the island’s less-crowded stretches of sand for a more relaxing experience.

Below, we’ve rounded up eight of the best beaches on O’ahu that are away from major hotels to help you discover somewhere new and make your vacation extra memorable.

Near Kailua

Lanikai Beach

One of the most pristine beaches on O’ahu , Lanikai is known for its fine sand and quiet, shallow waters that are ideal for swimming. It’s only accessible via pathways between homes, however, and there’s a $200 penalty for parking in the neighborhood. Instead, find a legal spot in downtown Kailua and make the 20-minute walk to the beach or plan to get dropped off by a rideshare service. Remember, if you see any turtles, keep your distance—they’re endangered and it’s against the law to touch them. There isn’t a lifeguard on duty here, so keep an eye on any younger swimmers.

Kailua Beach

Close to Lanikai Beach, Kailua boasts clear water, soft sand, and mountain views in the distance. One of the largest and most beautiful beaches on O’ahu’s west coast, it’s a great spot for water sports like kayaking, bodyboarding, kite surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Spend some time in the ocean, then take to the volleyball courts, barbecue pits, or picnic tables. There are three separate parking lots nearby but there’s usually a wait for a spot, so get there early or consider taking a rideshare service or the public bus .

Near Haleiwa

Waimea Bay sits along O’ahu’s North Shore, where some of the world’s most famous surfers gather to compete on the massive waves in the winter season. Come summer, however, the water is much calmer, making the bay perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Arrive early to score parking, then spend the day lounging on the gorgeous white sand. Also on site are picnic tables, restrooms, showers, and lifeguards.

Sunset Beach

Another North Shore beach popular with surfers is Sunset Beach . Waves can reach up to 30 feet high in the winter months. Like at Waimea Bay, things settle down in the summer, and you can spend hours swimming and snorkeling in the placid water. True to its name, Sunset Beach is also an excellent spot to watch the sun go down over the ocean. There’s free parking across the street and next to the beach park, plus picnic tables, restrooms, showers, and lifeguards.

Near Kahuku

Although Kawela Bay is near the North Shore’s popular Turtle Bay Resort , it’s actually quite secluded and serene. You can park at the resort’s public beach stalls and walk to the bay, or drive via Kamehameha Highway and park across from the farm stands selling corn, bananas, and coconuts, where a trail opening nearby leads straight to the beach. Once there, you’ll find a crescent of brilliant sand with gentle waves that are just right for swimming, kayaking, or frolicking in the water.

Near Hawaii Kai

Hanauma bay.

Located within a marine life conservation area on the southeastern coast of O’ahu, Hanauma Bay is renowned for its snorkeling. Naturally formed within a volcanic cone, the bay is now home to a diverse ecosystem, including more than 400 species of fish, green turtles, and an abundance of coral. To access the bay, you’ll need to make a reservation , pay a $25 fee per person (kids under 12 are free), and watch a nine-minute orientation video upon arrival. You’ll also need to get there on your own, as the bay recently stopped allowing tour buses to combat overtourism. Note: Hanauma Bay is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Waimanalo Beach

Located on the east side of O’ahu, Waimanalo Beach may be far from most major hotels and resorts, but it’s worth the trip for the azure waters, miles of soft white sand, and views of Rabbit Island off the coast. The chill waves invite swimming, snorkeling, and bodyboarding, and you’re likely to have them mostly to yourself if you visit during the week. Parking is usually easy to find, but pack food and drinks as there aren’t any restaurants or concessions near the sand.

Kahala Beach

While Kahala Beach is a local favorite, it’s still much less crowded than Waikiki. Honolulu families flock here for the calm, kid-friendly water as well as the picturesque setting amid coconut trees (it’s a popular spot for wedding and graduation photo shoots). There’s also a covered picnic area as well as bathrooms and outdoor showers. The parking lot is limited, but there are some spots along the street. Note: The shore can be rocky, so consider bringing water shoes for swimming.

Non-Touristy Travel Guide to Hawaii

Unlike many other places that I have traveled to before, Hawaii has made a special & lasting imprint in my heart. After visiting the beautiful & enchanting island of O’ahu, I fully understand why two of my cousins have decided to make Hawaii their home state.

Apart from the breathtaking views, and the immense amount of lush greenery everywhere, the people-the Hawaiians, also impacted this lasting impression. Prior to visiting Hawaii, I spent time learning about the history behind the islands, and I was quickly angered and able to relate to some of the injustices that were brought upon Hawaiians. I was reminded of the injustices that my ancestors experienced as a both black and Cherokee people. I share all of this because I am a firm believer of learning about the culture and the history of any destination that you are traveling to. Choosing to watch a documentary, or planning to visit a museum that specifically teaches on the culture, is important to do as it’ll eliminate ignorant traveling.

If you’re desiring to adventure off to Hawaii, or hope to immerse yourself into one of the most beautiful locations within the U.S., then keep reading for a day by day ‘Four Day Travel Guide to O’ahu’.

Within this travel guide, I am going to share some popular must do things (I promise that they won’t be cheesy), and then a few activities that were shared by a local (my cousin).

Hawaii also has INCREDIBLE food, so if you’re a foodie like myself, then prepare to discover some of the best places to eat as well. If you’re hoping for more food images, check out my Instagram and review my ‘Oahu’ highlight for full plate pictures, and the tagged restaurants.

Where to Stay:

One of my least favorite things to do when exploring a popular place, is being amongst other tourists. I know- high risk of sounding ridiculous here- but I really do want to get a local’s lifestyle as much as I can. When traveling, I try to find a hotel that is not in a tourist hot spot, but visiting O’ahu made this a little difficult. Thankfully, I was able to stay one night in Kaneohe, which gave me the chance to be secluded from all of the tourism and immersed into life as a local. We spent the rest of our time in Waikiki, at the Aston Waikiki Beach hotel.

As you research the best accommodations for your budget & preference, you will quickly realize that most of the hotels are located in Honolulu, HI. From what I have been told, this has been done purposely, and there are limited option for Airbnb’s. Yet of course, there are some exceptions, and I stumbled across a few places away from all of the craziness in Waikiki (Honolulu).

Less crowded resorts & hotels-

Paradise Bay Resort in Kailua (I am planning to stay here next time)

Turtle Bay Resort in North Shore

Courtyard by Marriott in North Shore

If you’re patient or even desire to be amongst all of the other travelers on their vacation, here are a few locations in downtown O’ahu, also known as Waikiki-

Alohilani Resort

Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel (the pic below is featured on our Ocean King room balcony)

Another incredible idea is to find an Airbnb located on the north or the east side of the island.

What to Pack:

Hawaii is probably one of the easiest places to pack for when taking your four day vacation. If you have been to an island before, or the tropics, then you already know exactly what I am referring to. Here is exactly what I packed and what I recommend on this four day travel guide-

Beach Gear & Attire-

Swimsuits- Pack at least two to four swimsuits, and a few cover up’s to go with it.

Towels- Double check to see if your hotel will provide beach towels, and if they don’t bring some with you.

Swim shoes- This is important if you want to NOT step on random shit in the ocean. Most of the beaches have clear water, but there are a few that you’ll want swim shoes for.

Speaker- Of course pack your speaker for good music while on the beach.

Waterproof bag- We actually got rained on while in the ocean (it was MAGICAL), so bring a waterproof bag to protect your gear.

Sunglasses & goggles- If you want to be a little mermaid in the ocean, bring goggles. You will LOVE being able to see the beautiful ocean.

Sunscreen- Hawaii sun is no joke. Load up & bring the sunscreen with you.

Snacks- Yes, you will find food along the way or even afterwards, but I wish that I packed some snacks because I ended up leaving the beach due to being hungry 🙁

Toiletries- For after your quick beach shower, and while you’re in there, you will need toiletires Pack sanitizer, deodorant, baby wipes, a dry towel, and some body spray.

Change of clothes- Your adventure will not stop at the beach. Bring clothes to change into so that you don’t have to go back to the hotel.

Miraflora CBD – YES, please grab some Miraflora CBD Immunity gummies. I personally got thrown around in the waves and had I not brought these gummies with me, I would have been SO sore. It was also nice to have another source of immunity protector with me 🙂

Other Outfits & Things to Bring-

Camera gear- if you can buy a drone ahead of time, please do so. This is my major regret 🙁 I would also recommend a GoPro so that you can film underwater and on hikes. And of course, your vlogging camera 🙂 you will absolutely want to capture your memories here.

Dresses- bring at least 2-3 dresses with you, one being your cocktail (sexy) dress, and the other two being selections that you can easily dress up or down. You will have at least one night where you have a bougjie dinner, and need to match the vibe.

Athletic wear- PACK IT ALL. A lot of the activities are being spent outside. If you’re traveling to Hawaii and wanting indoor entertainment, book elsewhere. You will spend a majority of your trip outside, and most of that involves being active. So pack your cutest athletic fits and biker shorts.

Sneakers & sandals- Bringing both is crucial. When at the beach, you want sandals as they won’t capture a lot of the sand (a pain to clean out of your rental car btw). You will also want some sneakers and/or hiking shoes for the trails that are worth hiking.

Negative COVID test or vaccination card- Without either one of these, you will NOT be entering that plane to Hawaii. For more information on the travel requirements, visit https://hawaiicovid19.com/ and please follow every last instruction on it.

K ailua: Close to where my cousin lives, this is a residential area which means you will not see tons of tourists over here. I would recommend the following for day one, as they are all within this area.

Breakfast at Boots & Kimo’s – this is the best breakfast that I have had in a LONG time. Get here early as the wait can get long.

Leonard’s Bakery Malasada truck – You can’t say you went to O’ahu and not try Leonard’s Bakery. Rather than wait in Waikiki for Leonard’s bakery, stop by the truck to get the same options without the long line.

Morning Glass Coffee at Key Project – Grab coffee from this place but also their breakfast burrito. They have the BEST burrito.

Ho’Omaliuah Botanical Garden- Featured as the background in the picture above with myself and the pineapple, this place is MAGNIFICENT. You will be so in awe with how lush the mountains are, and the beauty of nature meets you as you’re driving by the garden.

Hike at Nu’uanu Pali State Park- After going through the botanical gardens, squeeze in a hike to soak in some of the best coastal cliff views.

Dinner in Waikiki: Head back to your hotel to change, and to get ready for a fun night in Waikiki. I would start off with dinner and then go for a walk or a drive in Waikiki for your first night in O’ahu.

Hula Grill- This is a perfect time to bring out one of your cute cocktail dresses, and ask for a waterfront table. We had the best sunset view of the ocean front, while eating really incredible food. I’d also try their Honey Nut Shrimp to start with- it was SO good.

For day two, you will drive around a bit, yet stay within a 20 min proximity to the areas listed below.

Honolulu Coffee- Start your morning by grabbing coffee and an almond croissant (SO GOOD) from Honolulu Coffee. I’d also grab a water bottle, because a quick hike is next 🙂

Lanikai beach & pillbox hike – While we weren’t able to hike the 1.6 mile pillbox trail, we recommend that you try to do so if you can. From what I have seen, the views are amazing, yet this is a well known hike so you can anticipate crowds. The beach is also a popular area, with many people choosing this beach to relax at.

Makapu’u tide-pools and beach- Surprisingly, a lot of people weren’t at this beach or the tide-pools. This made me SO happy. I was also so intrigued by the ocean, that I didn’t want to leave. The picture above was taken from my iPhone, and it is unedited. Gorgeous right!? Another must do thing is to take a swim in the tide-pools. Just know that you will need to be safe, as the current from the waves can be strong.

Waimanalo Bay- While I wasn’t really a fan of this area (the waves were so crazy), it is perfect if you want to bring your family as there are a TON of families around. This is also a local area as well. We didn’t see a ton of tourists and my cousin suggested this beach for that very reason.

Evening in Honolulu After spending time on this side of the island, head back for a bougjie dinner in Honolulu.

Dinner at Chef Chai- If you travel like myself and my bff, then you want at least one fancy dinner while on vacation. If you have that desire, Chef Chai is exactly what you need. Wear a nice dress, bring out the heels, and order a bottle to celebrate your time in Hawaii. They also have a 3 course meal for $75 that you will absolutely enjoy.

North Shore: You will want to get up early for an hour drive to the North Shore. We packed our beach gear and athletic wear to change into after the beach. You can plan to spend your entire day on this side of the island and you can also expect to LOVE it.

Sunrise Shack – The mouthwatering acai bowls that you see in the picture above were from the Sunrise Shack. THE BEST ACAI BOWLS THAT YOU WILL EVER TASTE IN YOUR LIFE. Also, this place is SO cute and perfect for your IG pic (you can see mine below).

Sunset Beach – Also known as the “surfer mecca”, Sunset Beach is a MUST when visiting Hawaii. To start with, the water is beyond beautiful. It’s clear, warm, and the sun hits you just right. You can also expect few crowds here- which makes this area even better.

Halewia : Near the North Shore with tons of shops and restaurants as well.

Uncle Bo’s – Take advantage of their happy hour if you can- Mai Thai’s were only $7 and I was not mad about it 🙂 As far as the food is concerned, this restaurant wasn’t super impressive (yet not disgusting either).

Heading back to Honolulu : take the scenic route on the west side of the island for coastline views and because you have a few stops to make on the way.

Coconut Girl & Guys LLC- THE BEST SHAVED ICE you will ever get in your entire life. I’d also recommend getting the ice cream in it as well. Please stop by here and support local 🙂 Tracy is the owner and she is so sweet!

Order online and pickup your food from Bob’s BBQ . By the time that you have spent the entire day out, grabbing this food to go will be perfect. You’ll also get to say that you experienced Hawaiian BBQ 🙂

If you’re able to, I would recommend getting a flight that departs after 2pm, so that you can enjoy Hawaii for a few more hours before returning to your reality. If you’re able to make this happen, I suggest getting up and checking out of your room by 8am, so that you have enough time to say goodbye.

Farewell views at Diamond Head- If you’re ambitious and able to do so, wake up early enough to watch the sunrise at Diamond Head. You can drive up to the top, but expect a minor hike for the best views.

Panya Bistro in Honolulu – After saying goodbye by soaking in the views at Diamond Head, grab a quick and tasty bite at Panya Bistro. The food is so flavorful, and the perfect way to end your trip in Oahu.

Transportation: Please get a rental car to full experience all of Hawaii. If you’re planning to book a rental, use Turo as they have less expensive options. We were able to rent a BMW for 4 days and it was cheaper than going through a rental car company.

Friendliness: We experienced the most welcoming natives while we were visiting. As you should when traveling anywhere, be respectful of the locals and always remember that you are only visiting. Don’t expect for people to hand you the moon & the stars because you’re on vacation.

Solo Travel Safety: I would totally come back and do solo trip to Hawaii! Yet I also see myself always coming back with a friend, because experiencing this with my bff made it more fantastic.

Final Thoughts: Have you ever traveled somewhere and thought “omg I could totally live here” the entire time? That is what happened while we were in Oahu. Hawaii is one of the most peaceful, serene and beautiful places that I have ever been to. I see why both of my cousins are living on two of the islands in this mesmerizing state.

I’m Imani , a Texas native who decided to wander off to California. I am the Author of , “Breaking up with the Bad Girl”, a book that I wrote with the intention to heal myself and other women through sharing my story. I believe that my overall life purpose is to empower others to share their own unique story and to live a life full of wonder.

Explore the Blog

Worth Another Read

Travel Guide to Brooklyn & Manhattan

How to spend four days in Manhattan and Brooklyn, featuring the best restaurants, rooftops, outfits, and must do activities when visiting NYC!

A Local’s Guide to a Weekend in San Diego

A local’s guide to San Diego. Read to discover some of the non-touristy, best places to eat and explore when visiting San Diego!

How to Travel with a Full-Time Job

Lifestyle , Travel

Use your PTO & book that trip by applying practical tips to help you plan your next trip while working a full time job!

Privacy Overview

Unveiling Hidden Gems: Discovering Non-Touristy Activities In Hawaii

• Last updated Jul 04, 2023
• Difficulty Intemediate

• Category United States

When most people think of Hawaii, they envision pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and crowded tourist attractions. But beyond the well-known hotspots lies a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. In this guide, we will delve into the lesser-known, non-touristy activities that will take you off the beaten path and allow you to truly experience the authentic beauty and culture of Hawaii. From secret hiking trails to hidden local eateries, get ready to uncover the hidden wonders that make Hawaii truly special. So grab your sense of adventure and let's start unveiling these hidden gems in paradise.

What You'll Learn

Hiking kaena point trail, exploring the pu'uhonua o honaunau national historical park, snorkeling at molokini crater, visiting the kona coffee living history farm, taking a scenic drive on the road to hana in maui, witnessing the sunrise at haleakala national park, exploring the waimea canyon on kauai, discovering the hidden beaches of lanai, visiting the iao valley state park in maui, exploring the botanical gardens on the big island.

Hawaii, often considered a top tourist destination, is filled with beautiful landscapes and stunning vistas. While many visitors flock to the popular attractions and tourist hotspots, there are still plenty of hidden gems to discover on the islands. One such hidden gem is the Kaena Point Trail, a hiking trail that offers a unique and less crowded experience for those looking to explore Hawaii's natural beauty.

Located on the island of Oahu, the Kaena Point Trail is a 3.5-mile hike that takes you along the westernmost point of the island. The trail features breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged coastline, providing hikers with a truly immersive experience in Hawaii's natural landscapes.

What sets the Kaena Point Trail apart from other hiking trails in Hawaii is its relative lack of tourists. While other trails may be crowded with visitors, Kaena Point offers a more peaceful and secluded experience. The trailhead can be found at both the Mokuleia side and the Waianae side, and each entrance provides a different perspective of the natural scenery.

The Mokuleia side of the trail starts at the end of Farrington Highway and takes you along a sandy path that winds through coastal shrubbery and dunes. This section of the trail is known for its birdwatching opportunities, as the area is home to a variety of native bird species. Hikers may spot endangered species such as the Laysan albatross or the Hawaiian monk seal during their journey.

On the other hand, the Waianae side of the trail can be accessed from the end of Waianae Valley Road. This section of the trail showcases stunning views of the Waianae Mountains and offers a chance to see the native flora and fauna of Hawaii up close. Keep an eye out for colorful wildflowers and unique plant species as you make your way towards Kaena Point.

Once you reach the end of the trail, you'll be rewarded with the sight of Kaena Point itself. This rocky, windswept peninsula is a protected natural area that serves as a nesting ground for endangered seabirds and a sanctuary for native plant species. Take a moment to soak in the breathtaking views and listen to the sounds of crashing waves and chirping birds. You may even spot a Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin or a humpback whale in the distance during certain times of the year.

Before embarking on your hike, it's important to come prepared. The Kaena Point Trail can be challenging at times, with uneven terrain and rocky sections. Make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and a hat. It's also essential to respect the natural environment and follow any posted signs or guidelines to help preserve the area for future generations.

In conclusion, if you're looking to experience the natural beauty of Hawaii without the crowds and touristy atmosphere, look no further than the Kaena Point Trail. This hidden gem offers a unique hiking experience with stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and a genuine connection to Hawaii's natural heritage. Lace up your hiking boots, hit the trail, and prepare to be amazed by the beauty that awaits you on this non-touristy adventure in Hawaii.

14 Fun Things to Do in Foley, Alabama

You may want to see also

When most people think of Hawaii, images of sandy beaches, hula dancers, and crowded tourist attractions come to mind. However, there is so much more to this beautiful state than what meets the eye. If you're looking to experience the true essence of Hawaii without the crowds, then a visit to the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park is a must.

Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Hawaiian people. This sacred site was once a place of refuge for those who had broken a law or had fallen out of favor with the ruling chief. By seeking sanctuary within its walls, individuals were able to avoid punishment and seek redemption.

One of the highlights of the park is the Great Wall, which was built in the 1500s. This massive stone wall stretches over 1,000 feet long and stands at a height of 10 feet. It served as a barrier between the sanctuary and the outside world, providing a sense of protection and security to those seeking refuge.

Inside the park, visitors can explore a variety of historical structures and artifacts. The Hale o Keawe Heiau is a sacred temple where the bones of Hawaiian chiefs were once housed. The Royal Grounds feature a series of ancient buildings and platforms that were used for ceremonial purposes. And the Kiakeakua (God images) trail offers a scenic walk through a lush forest, dotted with replicas of ancient Hawaiian gods.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park is also home to an abundance of wildlife. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the park are teeming with marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors may also be lucky enough to spot the endangered Hawaiian green sea turtle, which often comes ashore to bask in the sun.

To truly appreciate the park and its rich history, it is recommended to take a guided tour or participate in one of the cultural demonstrations offered by the park rangers. These knowledgeable guides will provide insight into the significance of each structure and share fascinating stories from Hawaiian folklore.

So, if you're looking to escape the tourist crowds and immerse yourself in the true spirit of Hawaii, a visit to the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park is a must. From its ancient structures and artifacts to its stunning natural beauty, this hidden gem offers a unique and authentic glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Hawaiian people.

14 Fun Things to Do in Pescadero, California

When it comes to visiting Hawaii, most people think of crowded beaches, packed resorts, and long lines at tourist attractions. But what if I told you that there is a way to experience the beauty of Hawaii without the crowds? One of the best-kept secrets of the islands is snorkeling at Molokini Crater.

Located off the coast of Maui, Molokini Crater is a volcanic crater that is only accessible by boat. Its crescent shape provides a natural protection from currents and waves, creating an ideal snorkeling environment. The crystal-clear waters of Molokini offer visibility of up to 150 feet, allowing snorkelers to see vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and even the occasional sea turtle or manta ray.

Unlike popular tourist destinations like Waikiki Beach or Hanauma Bay, Molokini Crater is not overrun with visitors. This secluded spot offers a more peaceful and less crowded snorkeling experience, allowing you to truly connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of Hawaii at your own pace.

To get to Molokini Crater, you can book a snorkeling tour from Maui. These tours typically depart in the early morning to avoid the crowds and give you the best chance of spotting marine life. Most tours also provide all the necessary snorkeling gear, so you don't have to worry about bringing your own.

Once you reach Molokini Crater, you'll be amazed by the underwater world that awaits you. The vibrant coral reefs are home to a myriad of fish species, including parrotfish, butterflyfish, and surgeonfish. Snorkelers can spend hours exploring the nooks and crannies of the crater, discovering hidden caves and encountering unique marine life.

One of the highlights of snorkeling at Molokini Crater is the chance to see the beautiful manta rays. These graceful creatures can often be found gliding through the water, their large wingspans creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Swimming alongside a manta ray is an experience you won't soon forget.

If you're lucky, you might also spot a sea turtle during your snorkeling adventure. These gentle giants are known to frequent the area, making Molokini Crater a popular destination for turtle enthusiasts. Just be sure to maintain a safe distance and avoid touching or harassing these protected animals.

After a day of snorkeling at Molokini Crater, you can relax on the boat ride back to Maui, basking in the sun and reminiscing about the incredible sights you witnessed. As you gaze out at the sparkling blue waters, you'll feel a sense of gratitude for being able to experience the beauty of Hawaii in a non-touristy and authentic way.

So, if you're looking to escape the crowds and have a truly immersive snorkeling experience, be sure to add Molokini Crater to your Hawaii itinerary. With its secluded location, abundant marine life, and crystal-clear waters, this hidden gem is a snorkeler's paradise. Discover the beauty of Hawaii without the touristy crowds and create memories that will last a lifetime.

12 Fun Activities to Experience in Torquay

When people think of Hawaii, they often picture beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. While these are undoubtedly some of the main attractions in the state, there is so much more to discover beyond the typical touristy spots. One hidden gem that should be on every traveler's itinerary is the Kona Coffee Living History Farm.

Located on the western slopes of the Big Island of Hawaii, the Kona Coffee Living History Farm offers visitors a unique experience that combines history, culture, and of course, coffee. This living museum takes you back in time to the early 20th century when coffee farming was at its peak in the region.

As you step onto the farm, you are transported to a bygone era. You will be greeted by costumed interpreters who play the roles of Japanese immigrant coffee workers, taking you on a tour of the property and sharing their stories. These workers were an integral part of the coffee industry in Hawaii, and their contributions are celebrated and honored at the farm.

During the tour, you will learn about the entire coffee-making process, from planting and harvesting the beans to roasting and grinding them to make the perfect cup of coffee. You will have the opportunity to see the traditional tools and equipment used by the farmers, and even try your hand at some of the tasks they had to complete on a daily basis.

One of the highlights of the Kona Coffee Living History Farm is the chance to pick and taste coffee cherries right from the trees. This hands-on experience allows you to truly connect with the land and understand the hard work that goes into producing this beloved beverage. You will also have the opportunity to sample freshly brewed coffee made from the farm's own beans, giving you a taste of the unique flavor that has made Kona coffee world-famous.

Beyond the coffee-related activities, the farm also offers insights into the daily life of the coffee workers and their families. You will get a glimpse into their living quarters, kitchens, and even witness the process of making traditional Japanese tea. The farm showcases the cultural heritage of the early Japanese immigrants and their impact on the local community.

If you're looking for a non-touristy experience in Hawaii, a visit to the Kona Coffee Living History Farm is a must. It offers a chance to learn about the history and culture of the islands while immersing yourself in the world of coffee farming. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the farm and taking part in the various activities and demonstrations offered.

Whether you are a coffee lover or simply curious about the unique history of Hawaii, the Kona Coffee Living History Farm is a place worth visiting. It provides an authentic and educational experience that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions, allowing you to truly connect with the soul of the Hawaiian islands. So, if you find yourself in the Kona area, don't miss the opportunity to step back in time and discover the rich heritage of Kona coffee.

12 Fun and Affordable Things to Do in Orange County, NY

Hawaii is a dream destination for many travelers, and while popular tourist spots like Waikiki Beach and the Pearl Harbor memorials attract millions of visitors each year, there are also plenty of hidden gems to be discovered. One such hidden gem is the scenic drive on the Road to Hana in Maui.

The Road to Hana is a 64-mile highway that winds along Maui's northeastern coastline, offering breathtaking views of the island's lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches. While the road itself can be challenging with its narrow lanes and hairpin turns, the journey is well worth it for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

To embark on the Road to Hana, it's best to start early in the morning to beat the crowds and allow plenty of time for stops along the way. The drive can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours depending on how often you stop, so be prepared for a leisurely journey filled with photo opportunities and exploration.

One of the highlights of the Road to Hana is the abundance of waterfalls. Along the way, you'll come across beautiful falls such as the Twin Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters. Further down the road, you'll find the enchanting Garden of Eden Arboretum, home to a picturesque waterfall surrounded by vibrant tropical plants and flowers.

Another must-see stop on the Road to Hana is the Wai'anapanapa State Park. This stunning black sand beach is famous for its volcanic rocks and rugged coastline. Take a walk along the beach, explore the sea caves, or simply relax and soak in the beauty of this unique spot.

As you continue along the road, make sure to stop at the Seven Sacred Pools or 'Ohe'o Gulch in the Haleakala National Park. Here, you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pools and marvel at the cascading waterfalls that flow into the ocean. This area is also a great spot for hiking and exploring the surrounding bamboo forest.

For those looking for a taste of local culture, make a detour to the historic town of Hana. Here, you can visit the Hana Cultural Center and Museum to learn about the history and traditions of the island's native Hawaiian people. You can also sample traditional Hawaiian cuisine at one of the local restaurants or food trucks.

Lastly, make sure to take advantage of the many lookout points along the way. From panoramic views of the coastline to hidden coves and valleys, these lookout points offer some of the best photo opportunities on the island. Don't forget to bring your camera and capture the beauty of this scenic drive.

Overall, the Road to Hana is a must-do experience for those seeking a non-touristy adventure in Hawaii. With its stunning natural beauty, cascading waterfalls, and hidden beaches, this scenic drive offers a unique glimpse into the beauty of Maui's northeastern coastline. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through paradise.

14 Fun Things to Do in Oxnard, California

When most people think of Hawaii, images of beautiful beaches, lush forests, and vibrant tourist hotspots come to mind. However, there is so much more to this island paradise than what meets the eye. If you're in search of a unique and non-touristy experience in Hawaii, look no further than witnessing the breathtaking sunrise at Haleakala National Park.

Located on the island of Maui, Haleakala National Park is a place of awe-inspiring beauty and natural wonder. Its name, which means "house of the sun" in Hawaiian, perfectly captures the essence of what makes this place so special. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to the park to witness one of nature's most stunning displays: the sunrise from atop Haleakala's summit.

To truly appreciate the magic of this experience, it's recommended to arrive at the park well before dawn. As you make your way up the winding road to the summit, you'll notice the air becoming cooler and the stars becoming brighter. Once you reach the summit, which stands at an impressive 10,023 feet above sea level, you'll find yourself above the clouds, feeling as if you're on top of the world.

As the first rays of sunlight begin to peek above the horizon, a sense of anticipation fills the air. The sky gradually transitions from dark blue to shades of pink, orange, and gold, casting a warm glow over the surreal landscape. At this moment, you'll understand why so many people consider this sunrise to be a spiritual experience.

Aside from the incredible views, witnessing the sunrise at Haleakala National Park offers other unique opportunities. For instance, if you're interested in photography, this is the perfect time to capture some truly remarkable shots. The lighting conditions are ideal, and the ethereal atmosphere creates a dreamlike backdrop for your pictures.

After the sunrise, take some time to explore the park and its surrounding trails. Haleakala National Park offers a variety of hiking options, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and with a bit of luck, you might even spot some native wildlife such as the endangered nene goose or the silversword plant.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider embarking on a bike ride down the volcano. Many tour companies offer guided bike tours that take you from the summit all the way down to the park's entrance. This exhilarating experience allows you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning natural surroundings while enjoying an adrenaline rush.

While the sunrise at Haleakala National Park may not be a hidden gem, it's certainly a non-touristy experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So, if you're looking to escape the crowds and connect with the raw beauty of Hawaii, make sure to include this extraordinary experience on your itinerary. Witnessing the sunrise at Haleakala is a reminder of the sheer magic and wonder that the Hawaiian islands have to offer.

12 Exciting Activities to Experience at Night in Albuquerque

If you are looking for a non-touristy experience in Hawaii, look no further than the stunning Waimea Canyon on the island of Kauai. Known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," this scenic wonder is the perfect destination for those seeking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Hawaiian islands.

Located on the western side of Kauai, Waimea Canyon offers breathtaking views of deep gorges, towering cliffs, and lush valleys. Unlike the more popular tourist spots on the island, this hidden gem remains relatively untouched, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful and tranquil experience.

To fully explore the beauty of Waimea Canyon, embark on a scenic drive along Waimea Canyon Drive. This approximately 18-mile road takes you through the heart of the canyon, offering numerous lookout points and photo opportunities along the way. Keep in mind that the weather can change rapidly in the canyon, so be prepared for sudden showers or foggy conditions.

For those who prefer a more active adventure, hiking is the way to go. Waimea Canyon is home to a variety of hiking trails catering to different skill levels. One popular trail is the Waimea Canyon Trail, which takes you to the canyon floor and offers stunning views of waterfalls and rock formations along the way. For a more challenging experience, tackle the Awa'awapuhi Trail, which offers sweeping vistas of the Na Pali Coast.

If hiking isn't your thing, there are other ways to explore the canyon. Consider taking a helicopter tour for a bird's-eye view of the spectacular landscape. Or, if you prefer a more leisurely experience, take a scenic boat tour along the coast, which often includes a stop near the mouth of the Waimea River, where you can witness the confluence of freshwater and saltwater.

To truly immerse yourself in the non-touristy experience, consider staying in the nearby town of Waimea. This small, charming town offers a glimpse into the local way of life and provides easy access to the canyon. Be sure to sample some of the local cuisine and explore the quaint shops and art galleries that line the streets.

When visiting Waimea Canyon, it's important to respect the environment and be mindful of the fragile ecosystem. Stick to designated trails, pack out any trash, and leave only footprints behind.

In conclusion, if you're seeking a non-touristy experience in Hawaii, make sure to explore the Waimea Canyon on the island of Kauai. With its stunning vistas, numerous hiking opportunities, and charming nearby town, you're sure to have an unforgettable adventure while avoiding the crowds. So, grab your camera, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Hawaii's hidden gem.

14 Fun-filled activities for kids in Hudson Valley

With its sun-soaked beaches, lush green landscapes, and crystal-clear waters, Hawaii is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. However, if you're looking to escape the crowds and discover a more secluded side of the islands, a visit to Lanai is a must. This small, less-visited island is home to some of the most pristine and hidden beaches in Hawaii.

Lanai, also known as the Pineapple Island, is located just nine miles west of Maui. Despite its proximity to the more popular tourist destinations, Lanai remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. With only a handful of hotels and limited infrastructure, the island offers a serene and peaceful getaway for those seeking escape from the hustle and bustle.

One of the main attractions of Lanai is its secret beaches. While the island is home to several well-known beaches, such as Hulopoe Beach and Shipwreck Beach, it is the hidden gems that truly capture the essence of Lanai. These secluded beaches offer pristine stretches of sand, turquoise waters, and an abundance of natural beauty.

One such hidden beach is Polihua Beach. Located on the northwest coast of Lanai, Polihua Beach is a secluded paradise accessible only by a rough dirt road. The journey to get there is part of the adventure, as you navigate through rugged terrain and stunning landscapes. Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by a vast expanse of golden sand, backed by dramatic cliffs and crashing waves. The beach is known for its strong currents, making it less suitable for swimming, but it's a perfect spot for picnicking, beachcombing, and experiencing the untamed beauty of Lanai.

Another hidden gem on Lanai is Kaiolohia Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach. Located on the northeastern shore of the island, this beach gets its name from the decaying remains of a World War II-era shipwreck that can still be seen on the shoreline. Kaiolohia Beach is known for its rugged beauty, with rocky outcrops, strong waves, and a sense of wildness. The beach is popular among surfers and beachcombers, and it offers stunning views of the nearby island of Molokai.

When visiting Lanai's hidden beaches, it's important to remember that these areas are less developed and have limited facilities. There are no lifeguards or facilities such as restrooms or showers, so it's essential to come prepared with food, water, sunscreen, and any other necessities. Additionally, it's important to respect the natural environment and leave no trace of your visit.

While Lanai's hidden beaches may require a bit more effort to reach, the rewards are well worth it. These hidden gems offer a chance to experience the untouched beauty of Hawaii, away from the crowds and commercialization. So, if you're looking to discover the true essence of Hawaii's natural wonders, make sure to explore the hidden beaches of Lanai.

12 Exciting Activities to Experience in Gdynia

When most people think of Hawaii, they envision white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and luxurious resorts. While these things are certainly a part of the Hawaiian experience, there is so much more to explore beyond the tourist hotspots. One place that is often overlooked by tourists is the Iao Valley State Park in Maui.

Located in central Maui, the park is a lush, tropical paradise that offers a unique and immersive experience into the island's natural beauty. The park is home to the iconic Iao Needle, a towering peak that rises 1,200 feet above the valley floor. This geological marvel is a must-see for anyone visiting Maui.

To reach the park, visitors can take a short drive from the town of Wailuku. The road to the park winds through the dense rainforest, offering breathtaking views of the valley and its surrounding mountains. Along the way, you may even spot native wildlife such as the Hawaiian honeycreeper or the Kamehameha butterfly.

Once you arrive at the park, there are several activities to enjoy. One of the most popular is hiking the trails that take you through the valley and up to the Iao Needle. The trails range in difficulty, so there is something for everyone, from casual walkers to experienced hikers. As you hike, you will be surrounded by vibrant greenery, cascading waterfalls, and ancient lava flows. The beauty of the landscape is truly awe-inspiring.

If hiking isn't your thing, there are also picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy a meal amidst the natural beauty of the park. Pack a lunch and find a shady spot under the towering palm trees or in the lush bamboo groves. It's the perfect way to unwind and soak in the serenity of the place.

Another highlight of the Iao Valley State Park is the educational aspect. There is a visitors' center where you can learn more about the cultural and historical significance of the valley. The park is considered a sacred place by the native Hawaiians, and they have left their mark in the form of ancient stone carvings and petroglyphs. Take some time to explore and learn about the rich history of the area.

Visiting the Iao Valley State Park is a truly enriching experience that allows you to step away from the touristy side of Hawaii and immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty. The park offers something for everyone, whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful escape. So, the next time you find yourself in Maui, take a break from the beaches and explore the hidden gem of the Iao Valley State Park. You won't be disappointed.

12 Exciting Activities to Experience in Devil's Lake, WI

When most people think of Hawaii, they envision pristine beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and lush tropical landscapes. While these tourist hotspots certainly have their appeal, there are also hidden gems to be discovered on the islands that offer a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience. One such hidden gem is the botanical gardens on the Big Island.

The Big Island of Hawaii is home to a variety of botanical gardens that showcase the unique flora and fauna of the island. These gardens offer visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse plant life that thrives in this tropical paradise. Unlike the crowded tourist attractions, these botanical gardens are often less crowded and provide a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

One of the most renowned botanical gardens on the Big Island is the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Located on the Hamakua Coast, this garden is a stunning display of the island's natural beauty. Visitors can wander along meandering paths that wind through lush greenery, colorful flowers, and cascading waterfalls. With over 2,000 species of tropical plants, including rare and endangered species, this garden is a paradise for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Another lesser-known botanical garden on the Big Island is the Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden. This 15-acre garden is dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural and botanical heritage of Hawaii. Visitors can explore traditional Hawaiian plants, learn about their uses in Hawaiian culture, and even take part in hands-on workshops and activities. This garden offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history and traditions of the islands.

For those looking for a more adventurous botanical experience, the Pua Mau Place Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a must-visit. Situated on the slopes of Hualalai Volcano, this garden offers stunning panoramic views of the Kona coastline and a chance to explore a variety of ecosystems, from dryland forests to lava fields. Visitors can hike through the garden's trails, marveling at the diverse range of plant life and experiencing the raw beauty of the island.

In addition to these three botanical gardens, the Big Island is also home to several smaller, lesser-known gardens that are worth a visit. The Sadie Seymour Botanical Garden, for example, showcases a collection of native and exotic plants, including orchids and palms. The World Botanical Gardens and Waterfalls is another hidden gem, offering not only beautiful gardens but also opportunities for horseback riding, ziplining, and swimming under waterfalls.

Exploring Galilee: A Guide to Enchanting Adventures

Frequently asked questions.

If you want to experience the true local culture of Hawaii, there are plenty of non-touristy activities to try. One popular option is to visit the local farmers markets, where you can sample fresh produce and homemade goods while mingling with the locals. Another unique experience is to explore the local art scene by visiting galleries and attending art classes or workshops. You can also venture off the beaten path and hike through lesser-known trails to discover hidden waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.

Yes, there are several hidden beaches in Hawaii that are less crowded compared to the popular tourist spots. One example is Makalawena Beach, located on the Big Island. To access this secluded beach, you'll need to hike for about 20 minutes, which helps keep the crowds away. Another hidden gem is Secret Beach, located on Kauai. This beach is tucked away behind residential areas, requiring a short hike to reach it. These hidden beaches offer a more secluded and peaceful experience compared to the busy tourist hotspots.

Absolutely! If you're looking for authentic local cuisine, be sure to check out some of the local restaurants and eateries in Hawaii. On Oahu, you can visit Helena's Hawaiian Food in Honolulu, which has been serving traditional Hawaiian dishes for over 70 years. For delicious plate lunches, head to Rainbow Drive-In, also in Honolulu. On Maui, you can try Da Kitchen, known for its hearty Hawaiian-style meals. And if you're on the Big Island, visit Tex Drive-In for their famous malasadas (Portuguese donuts) and other local treats.

In addition to hiking and exploring hidden beaches, there are plenty of non-touristy outdoor activities to enjoy in Hawaii. One option is to go snorkeling or diving in less frequented spots. Places like Hanauma Bay on Oahu tend to get crowded, so consider exploring lesser-known reefs or off-the-beaten-path dive sites. Another activity is to go kayaking or paddleboarding in quieter locations, away from the main tourist areas. You can also try your hand at surfing in less crowded breaks, as Hawaii offers a variety of surf spots suited for different skill levels.

• Jose Ramos Author Editor Reviewer Traveller

• Michaela Krajanova Author Reviewer Traveller

It is awesome. Thank you for your feedback!

We are sorry. Plesae let us know what went wrong?

We will update our content. Thank you for your feedback!

Georgie Rubio

Cagri Burak

Leave a comment

United states photos, related posts.

Exploring British Columbia: Navigating Travel Restrictions in Canada's Stunning Province

• Jul 31, 2023

Navigating South Florida Travel Restrictions: What You Need to Know

• Oct 09, 2023

10 Best Things to Do to Celebrate in Florida

• May 16, 2023

10 Epic Things to Do in Olu Deniz for an Unforgettable Vacation

• May 28, 2023

Understanding the Travel Restrictions from Belfast to London: What You Need to Know

• Aug 14, 2023

Essential Beach Packing Checklist for Your One-Year-Old

• Dec 23, 2023

denny and nikki

What to do in oahu | 11 non touristy things to do.

• Share on Twitter
• Share on Facebook
• Share on Pinterest
• Share on Reddit

Disclosure: Many of the links below are affiliate links and we may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links. We highly recommend these products (as we use them ourselves!) and would greatly appreciate any use of the links. These small commissions help us with the continuation of our blog!

There is so much to do in Oahu that most tourists don’t know about. Places that offer a more authentic experience, but also, less crowds. Don’t we all love that? Get to know the cultures of Oahu and the people who live there better. Experience Oahu through their eyes and see why Hawaii is a special place. Nikki and I have lived in Oahu for 1 year, so we got to explore the local areas of Oahu. The places that residents mostly know and tourists might visit after their third or fourth trip. Oahu has many of these unique things to do and we’ve compiled a list to get you started exploring. So, what to do in Oahu? Here is 11 non-touristy things to do!

What to do in Oahu for culture

Find authentic souvenirs at na mea hawaii.

Na Mea Hawaii is a shop that showcases local artist’s paintings, authentic Hawaiian crafts and much more. We really enjoyed looking over the numerous books about Hawaiian history and culture.

You won’t find a selection like this outside of Hawaii. We picked up some hand sewn bags and soaps to take home to our families. You’ll soon notice that most hand-made products are natural and made with flowers and fruits from the island.

The best part of shopping here is that you’ll give back to small businesses and local artists. Most items are made in Hawaii and directly help the community. Go beyond coffee cups and coconut bras and take home some Ni’ihau leis, Hawaiian history books, handmade soaps and much more. We really enjoyed our time here and recommend it over the common ABC stores and swap meets!

Learn some history at Plantation Village

A guided tour of the plantation workers’ houses was an eye-opening experience . Hawaii has a long history of plantation workers from around the world, such as China, Japan and Puerto Rico. They came to the islands to work on farms and many stayed and built lives in Hawaii. This is why you see many different cultures in Oahu today.

Our favorite part of the tour was viewing the old houses where the workers used to live. The organization maintains it well and displays original household items, such as Chinese clothing or paintings. Everything you spend at the plantation goes to support the organization and further help their education programs.

There are many touristy tours you can do on Oahu, such as the Dole Plantation. We didn’t really enjoy that, since it was really crowded and had an amusement park feel. That’s why we recommend doing this tour instead. A perfect activity to do when you ask yourself… What to do in Oahu that’s not touristy?

Find peace at Mu-Ryang-Sa Korean Buddhist Temple

It’s free to enter and tucked away in a neighborhood in Honolulu. You’ll find temples on Oahu, but the Mu-Ryang-Sa temple will give you a different experience. This temple is the definition of tranquil and you will have this place all to yourself. It’s the largest Korean temple outside of Korea and focuses on sharing the teachings of Buddha. You don’t have to be Buddhist or Korean though to explore this temple.

When we visited, we were the only people there and got to explore it’s architecture alone. There are rooms, gardens and statues to explore. We especially enjoyed the garden of Ji Jang Bosal, which shows over a thousand little statues peaking over a ledge. Some other rooms not to miss is the Gate of the Heavenly Kings and the Great Hero Hall.

Mu-Ryang-Sa is a perfect place to spend time meditating and contemplating. You can arrive to meditate independently or take classes to learn about the practice. Check their website for new classes.

What to do in Oahu for adventure

Explore your own private island.

Any list on what to do in Oahu needs an island adventure! The two most popular islands on Oahu are Mokoli’i (Chinaman’s Hat) and Moku Nui (Mokes). They are amazing islands to explore, but both can get crowded anytime of the year.

If you want an island all to yourself, head up the windward coast to visit Goat Island (Moku’auia). This island is a bird sanctuary just off the coast of Malaekahana Bay. It’s an easy swim over to the island. Make sure to swim though, as walking can damage the reef (and your feet!).

The outer edges of the island are easily walkable, but the middle is for nesting seabirds. The best thing about this island is that you will have it all to yourself!

Nikki and I have only seen a few fisherman on the island, not a lot of people make it out there. But what if you get there, and you’re not sure if you want to make the swim over? No worries, you can just relax on the gorgeous beach instead of swimming over to Goat Island. While you’re relaxing on the sandy beach, you have the view of Goat Island and the birds flying above it.

Snorkel the clear waters of Sharks Cove

This snorkeling paradise is your best alternative to Hanauma Bay , which has recently been very difficult to get tickets for. You will see much of Oahu’s sea life here. Expect to see sea turtles, eels and the state fish: Humuhumunukunukuapua’a. We know, it’s a mouthful!

The area is made-up of reef and volcanic rock , which means there will be an endless amount of tunnels and rock formations to explore underwater. Smaller tide pools make up the first few feet of Sharks Cove, but it gets deeper as you swim closer to the reef wall. Experienced scuba divers might enjoy swimming outside the reef wall to explore more tunnels and wildlife.

Make sure to get to Sharks Cove early to beat the crowds and find parking. There isn’t much of a beach at Sharks Cove, so expect to lay out on the grass. Not to worry though, as North Shore is filled with amazing beaches that you can enjoy after your snorkeling adventure. Sharks Cove is a must-do for snorkeling on the island.

Test yourself with the Olomana hike (3 Peaks)

Everyone is interested in hiking the Stairway to Heaven when they visit Oahu, until you find out it’s illegal to climb the stairs. A great alternative is the Olomana trail, also known as the Three Peaks hike. We have only hiked to the first peak, but that view is the most beautiful on the island (in our opinion, and the other hikers’ opinions that we spoke to on the trail!). You have a great view of the entire windward coast (Kaneohe Bay, Kailua, Waimanalo).

But why does this hike have the most beautiful view? Because you are just high enough to see everything, but not so high that everything beneath you looks extremely small (this is the case on the Stairway to Heaven hike). In other words, it’s the perfect height! Many adventurers take on the second and third peak, but then it becomes more dangerous. We aren’t ready to play with our lives (I don’t think we ever will be), so we play it safe and only hike to peak #1.

For more adventures, check out the best hikes on Oahu!

Find a secluded beach on the westside.

Okay, this one is a bit different. But the westside beaches are completely overlooked by many visitors. We think the most beautiful beaches on the island are on the westside. These include beaches like Yokohama Bay, Makua beach, and Makaha’a beach. They have a wide and huge sandy beach, so you can find your own private spot for the day. During the summer months the waters are calm, while the ocean gets rougher during the winter months. And…. the best part is that there are no crowds!  

The westside has gotten a bad reputation over the years for crime and homelessness. While we do see the homelessness problem on the westside, we have never had any issues ourselves. Always be smart and leave nothing visible in your car.

What to do in Oahu for relaxation

Spend an afternoon at the spitting caves  .

This is one of our favorite places on the island. During our first visit, we saw a mother whale and her calf jumping and playing offshore. That view combined with the spraying water of spitting caves was surreal. We spent a few hours just taking in the moment on the rocks.

The volcanic coastline is large and again, with barely any people. So you can enjoy this spot in peace. Spitting caves is also a spot for some of the best pictures on the island. If you’re lucky, a rainbow will appear over the cave entrance, which makes for amazing photographs. We’d recommend bringing lunch and spending a few hours on this beautiful volcanic coastline.

China walls is close to spitting caves, which is another one of our favorite places. We just can’t get enough of the dark volcanic rock and deep blue ocean views. The water is so clear and deep, turtles are swimming around and even monk seals! Wow, wow, wow, we cannot get enough of this place.

Enjoy a stroll in Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

This is a huge garden built by the US Army Corps of Engineers to protects against flooding. There are plants from all over the world, from countries such as Sri Lanka, Brazil and the Philippines. The best part about the park is that it’s free! You could spend days exploring the 400 acres of plants. Because of the size of this garden, you can have certain spots and hikes all to yourself.

The garden is in front of the majestic Ko’olau mountain range, which makes it extremely picturesque . For the best pictures, visit just before the sun sets behind the mountains. If you are really adventurous, you can take the hiking trails all the way to Likeke falls. We enjoy the garden for picnics and walking around the pond, which is filled with koi fish. This garden is a great alternative to Waimea Valley, which can be crowded and charges an entrance fee.

Enjoy a beach day at Ala Moana beach park

Waikiki beaches are beautiful, but extremely busy which can make it stressful to lay there for an entire week. Instead, try out Ala Moana beach park in Honolulu. It’s a perfect place for swimming, paddleboarding and relaxing. The beach is protected by a small reef, which means that you don’t really have to worry about sharks (even though Nikki stays worried)! Apart from the calm waters, the park has banyan trees and palms to relax under and many families spend the day barbecuing and chilling. This is one of our favorite beaches on the island. The vibe is amazing. Check it our for yourself.

Do you want to travel for free? Check out our beginners guide to travel hacking !

Enjoy a calm day of swimming at magic island .

Close to Ala Moana Beach Park is Magic Island. It’s a perfect alternative to the crowded and touristy Ko’olina lagoons, which is known for terrible parking! Magic Island is a calm lagoon with stunning views of Diamond Head. It is attached to a large green park with many picnic tables and facilities. The sea walls also make it a great place for swimming and snorkeling (even for children). The lagoon is close to Waikiki (about 2 miles), which means you can get there quite easily from any hotel if you are staying in the resort area.

Let yourself be heard!

Have you been to any of these spots? Let us know what your experience was, or even better, if you know more spots that are not so touristy. We can’t wait to hear from you!

3 thoughts on “What to do in Oahu | 11 non touristy things to do”

I have seen quite a few of your videos and read this blog (without knowing it was you at first) and just by the tone of your writing I know it had to be you! My husband planned this trip to Oahu and I wasn’t too excited but after taking all this inspiration from you guys I cannot wait! Thanks for everything!

Ah how nice! So glad that our videos and posts have helped you find inspiration and excitement for your trip. Enjoy your trip to the beautiful islands, it will truly be amazing. Thanks for leaving us this wonderful comment!

Hi Guys, We are looking for non-touristy bars and shops, where the Hawaiians go. We aren’t going there for the hype. We like to experience the true people. When in Ireland, we spent days, not in Dublin but in Kilkenney… where we experienced no tourism.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Least Touristy Island In Hawaii For A True Hawaiian Escape

Save money on your next flight

Skyscanner is the world’s leading flight search engine, helping you find the cheapest flights to destinations all over the world.

With over 130 islands that make up the Hawaiian archipelago, picking the right Hawaiian island for your next vacation can be overwhelming. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience authentic Hawaiian culture, finding the least touristy island in Hawaii is key.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Molokai is widely regarded as the least touristy of the inhabited Hawaiian islands, offering pristine nature, quiet towns, and intact cultural traditions well off the beaten tourist track .

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore in detail the factors that make Molokai the best bet for avoiding other travelers in Hawaii. We’ll compare visitor statistics across the islands, highlight what makes Molokai so untouristed, and provide travel tips to help you plan the ultimate off-the-grid Hawaiian adventure.

What Makes an Island Touristy in Hawaii?

When it comes to choosing the perfect Hawaiian island for a true escape, it’s essential to consider the level of tourism. Some islands in Hawaii are known for their bustling tourist scene, while others offer a more secluded and authentic experience. Here are a few factors that contribute to an island being considered “touristy” in Hawaii:

Visitor Arrivals and Occupancy Rates

One of the key indicators of a touristy island in Hawaii is the number of visitor arrivals and occupancy rates.

Islands like Oahu and Maui tend to attract larger crowds due to their popularity and accessibility. They have a higher concentration of hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals, resulting in higher occupancy rates.

In contrast, less touristy islands such as Molokai or Lanai have fewer accommodations and lower visitor numbers, providing a more serene atmosphere.

Development and Commercialization

The level of development and commercialization also plays a significant role in determining how touristy an island is.

Islands with extensive resort complexes, shopping centers, and entertainment venues are more likely to draw large numbers of tourists. These developments often cater to the needs and preferences of visitors, offering a wide range of amenities and activities.

On the other hand, islands with limited development and a focus on preserving their natural beauty, such as Kauai or the Big Island, provide a more genuine Hawaiian experience.

Accessibility

Another factor that contributes to an island being touristy is its accessibility. Islands that have direct flights from major cities or frequent ferry services tend to attract more tourists. For instance, Oahu, with its international airport and the capital city of Honolulu, is easily accessible for travelers from around the world.

In contrast, islands that require multiple flights or have limited transportation options, like Molokai or Niihau, tend to have fewer visitors and a more off-the-beaten-path feel.

Molokai: The Least Visited Hawaiian Island

If you are looking for a true Hawaiian escape, Molokai is the perfect destination. With its minimal visitor numbers, limited resorts and attractions, and hard-to-reach location, Molokai offers a unique experience that is far from the typical touristy hustle and bustle.

Minimal Visitor Numbers

Unlike the popular islands of Oahu and Maui, Molokai sees significantly fewer tourists. This means you can enjoy a peaceful and serene vacation without the crowds . With fewer people around, you can truly immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty and experience the authentic Hawaiian culture.

According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, Molokai has consistently had the lowest number of visitor arrivals compared to other Hawaiian islands . In fact, in recent years, Molokai has only received a fraction of the total tourist arrivals to Hawaii. This makes it the perfect choice for those seeking a more secluded and tranquil getaway.

Also read:   Would Hawaii Survive Without Tourism?

Limited Resorts and Attractions

Molokai is known for its limited resorts and attractions, which adds to its charm as the least touristy island in Hawaii. Unlike other islands that are filled with high-rise hotels and commercialized attractions, Molokai offers a more rustic and untouched experience .

Don’t expect to find large resorts or fancy amenities here. Instead, you’ll find a handful of smaller accommodations, such as bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals , which blend in harmoniously with the island’s natural surroundings. This allows you to truly connect with the island’s rich history and culture.

When it comes to attractions, Molokai offers a different kind of experience. Instead of bustling tourist hotspots, you can explore the island’s stunning landscapes, including the majestic sea cliffs of Kalaupapa National Historical Park and the pristine beaches of Papohaku Beach . You can also immerse yourself in the local community by visiting the quaint towns and participating in cultural activities.

Hard to Reach

Molokai’s remote location adds to its allure as the least visited Hawaiian island. Getting to Molokai requires a bit more effort compared to other more accessible islands.

There are no direct international flights to Molokai, so most visitors arrive via connecting flights from Honolulu or Maui . Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Maui to Molokai, which offers a scenic journey across the ocean.

This remoteness means that Molokai remains largely untouched by mass tourism. The island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage have been preserved, allowing you to experience the true essence of Hawaii.

If you’re looking for a true Hawaiian escape away from the tourist crowds, Molokai is the perfect choice. Its minimal visitor numbers, limited resorts and attractions, and hard-to-reach location make it a hidden gem in the Pacific . So pack your bags and get ready to discover the untouched beauty of Molokai!

What to Expect by Visiting Molokai

If you’re seeking a true Hawaiian escape away from the crowds, Molokai is the perfect destination for you. Known as the “Friendly Isle,” this hidden gem offers a unique and authentic experience that is unlike any other in Hawaii.

When you visit Molokai, you can expect pristine and secluded beaches, untouched nature and wildlife, authentic Hawaiian small towns, and an abundance of outdoor activities to keep you entertained throughout your stay.

Pristine and Secluded Beaches

Molokai is home to some of the most pristine and secluded beaches in all of Hawaii. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax and soak up the sun or an adventurous beach for snorkeling and surfing, Molokai has it all.

One of the must-visit beaches on the island is Papohaku Beach, which stretches for three miles and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean . With its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s no wonder why Molokai’s beaches are considered some of the best-kept secrets in Hawaii.

Also read:   Hawaiian Beaches – A Comprehensive Overview

Untouched Nature and Wildlife

Molokai is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The island is home to pristine rainforests, dramatic sea cliffs, and stunning waterfalls that will leave you in awe of its natural beauty.

As you explore the island, you may come across native Hawaiian plants and animals that are found nowhere else in the world. Keep an eye out for the rare and endangered Hawaiian monk seal , which can often be spotted lounging on the beaches of Molokai.

The untouched nature and abundant wildlife make Molokai a haven for those seeking a true connection with the natural world.

Authentic Hawaiian Small Towns

One of the highlights of visiting Molokai is experiencing its authentic Hawaiian small towns. Unlike the bustling tourist hubs on the other Hawaiian islands, Molokai’s towns offer a glimpse into the traditional Hawaiian way of life.

Kaunakakai , the island’s main town, is a charming and laid-back community where you can find local shops, restaurants, and markets. Stroll through the streets and immerse yourself in the warm and welcoming atmosphere that is characteristic of Molokai’s small towns.

An Abundance of Outdoor Activities

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do on Molokai. From hiking to biking, fishing to kayaking, the island offers a wide range of activities for every adventurer.

Explore the scenic trails of the Halawa Valley and discover hidden waterfalls along the way. Take a boat tour and witness the majestic sea cliffs that tower over the ocean. Go snorkeling or diving and discover the vibrant marine life that thrives in Molokai’s crystal-clear waters.

With so many outdoor activities to choose from, you’ll never have a dull moment on this captivating island.

So, if you’re looking for a true Hawaiian escape that offers pristine beaches, untouched nature, authentic small towns, and a plethora of outdoor activities, look no further than Molokai.

Plan your trip to this hidden gem and experience the beauty and tranquility that can only be found on the least touristy island in Hawaii.

Travel Tips for Visiting Molokai

Getting to molokai.

Molokai is often referred to as the “Most Hawaiian Island” due to its untouched beauty and rich cultural heritage . To get to Molokai, you can take a short flight from the neighboring islands of Oahu or Maui.

Hawaiian Airlines and Mokulele Airlines offer regular flights to Molokai’s Kalaupapa Airport and Molokai Airport. Alternatively, you can also take a ferry from Maui’s Lahaina Harbor . The ferry ride provides stunning views of the Maui Channel and the chance to spot dolphins and whales.

For more information on flights and ferry schedules, you can visit the official websites of Hawaiian Airlines and Mokulele Airlines .

Where to Stay on Molokai

Molokai offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s preferences. From luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals, you’ll find something that fits your needs.

One popular option is the Molokai Shores , a beachfront condominium complex that offers stunning ocean views and easy access to nearby attractions. If you prefer a more secluded experience, consider staying at the Pu’u O Hoku Ranch , which offers charming cottages nestled amidst lush greenery.

For a complete list of accommodation options on Molokai, you can visit the official website of the Hawaii Tourism Authority .

Getting Around the Island

While visiting Molokai, it is recommended to rent a car to explore the island at your own pace. Several car rental agencies are available at both the Kalaupapa Airport and Molokai Airport.

However, if you prefer a more eco-friendly option, you can also rent a bicycle or take advantage of the island’s public transportation system. Molokai’s shuttle service, known as the “Molokai MEO Bus,” provides affordable transportation to various destinations around the island.

Best Time to Visit Molokai

Molokai enjoys a pleasant tropical climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for a Hawaiian escape.

The island experiences less rainfall compared to other parts of Hawaii, with the driest months being May through September. This period also coincides with the peak tourist season, so if you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder months of April or October.

Regardless of when you choose to visit, Molokai’s natural beauty and cultural richness will surely leave you in awe.

Also read:  The Worst Hawaiian Island For Tourists – Why You Should Avoid Molokai

If you’re searching for an authentic Hawaiian experience away from mass tourism, Molokai delivers. With the island’s tiny population, lack of resort development, and remoteness, you’ll be immersed in natural splendor, local culture, and tranquility.

Just be sure to respect the land and people by following proper etiquette as an outsider. By visiting Molokai, you can enjoy Hawaii’s stunning beauty without the crowds on this least touristy island paradise.

Sharing is caring!

Jane Smith is a Hawaii resident and author born and raised on the island of Oahu. Her Hawaiian heritage shines through in her writing, infusing it with the Aloha spirit and local flavor.

Jane draws inspiration from the tropical island lifestyle - outrigger canoeing at sunrise, beach picnics, hiking to hidden waterfalls. Her works immerse readers in the beauty and culture of Hawaii.

An avid surfer since childhood, Jane often wakes early to catch waves along the North Shore. She also enjoys practicing Hawaiian crafts like lei-making, lauhala weaving, and kapa cloth printing.

When not writing or adventuring outdoors, you can find Jane sipping mai tais at the local tiki bar, listening to ukulele music at the night market, or cooking up a big pot of stew at home.

Similar Posts

The Hawaiian Word For Food: Breaking Down ‘Ai’

Aloha! If you’ve ever wondered what the Hawaiian word for food is, you’ve come to the right place….

Magnum Firearms In Hawaii: Can You Legally Own And Carry Them?

The islands of Hawaii are home to stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and strict gun laws. For those interested…

How The Hawaiian Islands Were Formed By Undersea Volcanoes

The Hawaiian Islands are a chain of volcanic islands in the central Pacific Ocean that have become one…

Is Hawaii An Exclave? A Detailed Look At Hawaii’S Geographic Classification

Hawaii’s isolated location in the Pacific Ocean raises an interesting geographic question – is it an exclave of…

What Does Koa Mean In Hawaiian?

The islands of Hawaii are known for their lush greenery, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. An integral part…

The Hawaii State Motto In English

The Hawaiian islands are known for their natural beauty, vibrant culture, and welcoming spirit of ‘aloha’. This spirit…

19 of the best places to visit in Hawaii

Mar 5, 2024 • 13 min read

Narrow down your Hawaii hit list with these top places to visit © Fly View Productions / Getty Images

No matter what you're looking for in a vacation – adventure, relaxation, romance, cultural experiences, food – Hawaii has it all.

Every island has its own kind of vibe, from the laid-back serenity of Kauaʻi to the bustling beach towns of Maui. There are so many unique experiences , too, like hiking to an active volcano on Hawaiʻi Island and watching monster surf crash on Oʻahu's North Shore.

With so many options, here's a shortcut to the best experiences you can have in the Aloha State.

1. Waikiki, Oʻahu

Waikiki on Oʻahu's sunny south shore is the state's most famous resort town. Over the years, the neighborhood has evolved to be less kitschy and more authentic. Hotels offer lei-making classes in their open-air lobbies, and traditional hula is showcased on the tiki torch-lit hula mound on Kuhio Beach . Take surfing lessons from modern-day beach boys or indulge in afternoon tea at the historic Moana Surfrider . Some of the island's best restaurants are located in Waikiki, too.

Planning tip : The Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort has been putting on a fireworks show every Friday night since 1988 (bar the pandemic years). Bring a picnic dinner and find a spot on the beach to watch the skies light up. The show starts at 7:45pm during the winter and 8pm in the summer.

Explore more of O'ahu with this ultimate long weekend itinerary

2. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Hawaiʻi Island

The 323,431-acre Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Hawaiʻi Island is a place unlike anywhere else in Hawaii (or the US). This is one of the few places in the world where you can drive up to safely view an active volcano. Kilauea , an active shield volcano, had been, up until 2018, continuously erupting and altering the landscape since 1983. It's currently not active , but that can change any day. The national park – one of five on the Big Island – stretches from sea level to the summit of the 13,679ft Mauna Loa , one of the largest volcanoes in the world. Trek along one of dozens of hiking routes in the park and see old lava flows and tubes, steam vents, and native trees and birds.

Detour : Stop at Volcano Village, a rustic town in the middle of a lush rainforest filled with native hapuʻu fern and 'ōhiʻa trees just outside the park. You can find quaint vacation rentals here, a handful of restaurants, a farmers market on Sundays, a small winery that sells locally produced wine, an orchid farm and the Volcano Art Center , a working arts studio and gallery.

Save our complete first-timer's guide to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

3. The Island of Molokaʻi

Undeveloped and often overlooked, Molokaʻi offers some of the most unique experiences of any of the Hawaiian Islands. Spanning 38 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest point, this island – the fifth largest in Hawaii – is home to the world's tallest sea cliffs, the longest waterfall in the Islands and one of the state's largest white-sand beaches, Papohaku Beach . 

There are no big resorts or traffic lights here; instead, you'll find the windswept Moʻomomi Dunes, the 2744-acre Kamakou Preserve with its unique montane bog, and the secluded Kalaupapa Peninsula, once an isolated community of patients with Hansen's disease. Stop at Kanemitsu Bakery in Kaunakakai for freshly made Molokaʻi sweet bread right out of the oven.

4. Hana, Maui

The 53-mile Hana Highway – also known as the Road to Hana – is as scenic as it is winding. The road twists across 59 mostly one-lane bridges, along plunging cliffs, past waterfalls and around 620 turns to the unspoiled town of Hana on Maui's northeast coast. The drive itself – which can take several hours – is part of the journey. Once in Hana, enjoy hala tree-lined Hamoa Beach , sunbathe at Waiʻānapanapa State Park's black-sand beach, or hike to the 400ft Waimoku Falls in the Kīpahulu end of Haleakalā National Park . 

Planning tip : If you're planning to visit Waiʻānapanapa State Park,  you'll have to book reservations , which can be made up to 30 days in advance. It costs $5 per person and $10 for parking per non-commercial vehicle.

5. Nāpali Coast, Kauaʻi

The towering green cliffs of the fabled Nāpali Coast rise 2000ft from the ocean and stretch 15 miles along Kauaʻi's rugged northern coastline. You can experience these verdant valleys and razor-edged cliffs aboard a catamaran, on a kayak, from a helicopter or along the 11-mile Kalalau Trail.

Planning tip : To get to Keʻe Beach , the start of the Kalalau Trail, you'll need to make advance reservations to enter Hāʻena State Park. It costs $5 for out-of-state visitors to enter the park, $10 for each car.

6. North Shore, Oʻahu

In winter – from November to February – some of the world's best surfers (and thousands of spectators) flock to Oʻahu's North Shore and its 7 miles of famous breaks, from Banzai Pipeline to Sunset Beach . Once in a while, the waves are big enough (consistently larger than 40ft, measured from the front of the wave) at Waimea Bay to hold the prestigious, invite-only Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitation. Summer brings calmer ocean conditions, great for swimming and snorkeling. The colorful beach town of Haleʻiwa features cute boutiques, eateries and the famous Matsumoto Shave Ice shop.

Detour : To get a bird's-eye view of this famous coastline, take the 2-mile ʻEhukai Pillbox hike. The trail climbs the side of the northern Koʻolau Mountains to WWII bunkers that offer panoramic views of the entire North Shore coastline.

7. Haleakalā National Park, Maui

Catching the sunrise at the top of Haleakalā, a dormant volcano that rises to 10,023ft above sea level, is one of the most popular activities on Maui. Reservations are required for sunrise – and the fee doesn't include entrance into the national park – and can be hard to get. Consider viewing the sunset instead and staying for the night sky. The park also has numerous hiking trails through otherworldly landscapes and the chance to see the endangered ʻāhinahina (silversword) and nēnē (Hawaiian goose), the state bird.

Planning tip : The park offers pristine dark skies – with minimal light pollution – perfect for stargazing. Temperatures can drop quickly at the summit, so dress warmly and bring layers. You'll also want to bring your own snacks, as there are no food or drinks available in the park.

8. Hanalei, Kauaʻi

On Kauaʻi's quiet north shore is the sleepy town of Hanalei , marked by emerald green mountains, kalo loʻi (flooded taro fields) and some of the island's best beaches, including the breathtaking Hanalei Bay with its historic pier. Browse art galleries and boutiques, eat fresh poke from Hanalei Poke and plant-based taro doughnuts from Holey Grail, and walk around a farmers market.

Detour : About 2 miles west of Hanalei Bay is Lumahaʻi Beach , made famous by the 1958 classic film South Pacific . This is where Mitzi Gaynor spent her time "washing that man right out of her hair."

9. Maunakea, Hawaiʻi Island

Maunakea , or "white mountain," is, at 13,802ft above sea level, the world's tallest mountain when measured from its base. (More than half, or 19,698ft, of Maunakea lies underwater, making it 33,500ft from base to summit.) It's considered one of the most sacred of all Hawaiʻi volcanoes and is known by Native Hawaiians as a region of the gods. It's also a hub of astronomical observation with more than a dozen massive telescopes from around the world. You can book guided stargazing tours with outfitters like Hawaiʻi Forest & Trail .

Detour : In April,  Hilo , which is about 30 minutes west of Maunakea, hosts the annual Merrie Monarch Festival , a competitive hula festival featuring some of the state's best dancers and performers. You have to book tickets in advance to attend the event, but the craft show, which is a huge draw, is open to the public.

10. Pearl Harbor, Oʻahu

Known for the 1941 attack on the USS Arizona , which launched the US into WWII, Pearl Harbor draws millions of visitors each year to the memorial erected in honor of the 1102 men who are still entombed in the metal hull of the battleship. You can catch a boat to the USS Arizona Memorial , tour the aircraft hangars of the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum , and stand on the decks of the "Mighty Mo" battleship where Imperial Japan formally surrendered in 1945. Pearl Harbor was once known as Wai Momi, or pearl waters, because of its abundant oyster beds.

11. Upcountry Maui, Maui

On the slopes of Haleakalā are the quaint towns of Kula and Makawao, collectively known as Upcountry Maui. Up here, the air is crispier, and the vibe is slower. Pick fresh strawberries in season at Kula Country Farms , wander around the fragrant Aliʻi Kula Lavender Farm , or feed goats at Surfing Goat Dairy. This area is famous for its paniolo , or Hawaiian cowboys.

Detour : Not many visitors know that grapes are grown here. Open since 1974, MauiWine produces wines made from estate-grown grapes, pineapples and raspberries. Visit its tasting room at the picturesque ʻUlupalakua Ranch.

12. Waimea Canyon, Kauaʻi

Called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon, with its buttes, crags and earthen colors, stretches 10 miles long, is 1 mile wide and is more than 3600ft deep. Stop at the Waimea Canyon Lookout for sweeping views of the canyon and the 800ft Waipoʻo Falls . But you can also experience the canyon via numerous hiking trails, on horseback and from a helicopter. Any way you see it, it's breathtaking.

Detour : The best trails are located within the 4345-acre Kōkeʻe State Park . The cost is $5 per person (nonresident) and $10 per car. From the park, you can stop at the Kalalau Lookout at 4120ft above the Nāpali Coast, with commanding views of the lush, amphitheater-headed Kalalau Valley. Camping is available, and the restaurant is worth a stop (but note: it only serves breakfast and lunch.)

13. South Kona, Hawaiʻi Island

Head south from Kailua-Kona, and you'll be in coffee country. This area – Kaʻawaloa (Captain Cook), Hōnaunau, Kāʻu – is known for its high-quality coffee grown exclusively in this high elevation and volcanic soils on the slopes of Hualālai Volcano. There are hundreds of farms here, and many offer guided tours and free tastings. Hōlualoa is a small artsy town with cute shops. Kealakekua Bay in the region of Captain Cook provides some of the island's best snorkeling. And Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is a sacred place of refuge that you wander on a half-mile walking tour.

Detour : In Keauhou, you can dive at night with the gentle manta rays that swim along this coastline. Seeing these graceful giants glide and twirl in the water with you is an experience you won't likely forget.

14. ʻIolani Palace, Oʻahu

Built in 1882 under King David Kalākaua, ʻIolani Palace in Downtown Honolulu is the only royal residence in the US. It took three years to complete at a cost of $343,595, with Hawaiʻi's first electric light system, flush toilets and intra-house telephones. The last two monarchs of the Hawaiian Kingdom – King Kalākaua and his sister and successor, Queen Liliʻuokalani – resided here until the overthrow of the kingdom in 1893. You can tour this American Florentine-style palace and see its throne rooms, dining rooms and the private living quarters of the royal family.

Detour : Walk to nearby Chinatown and browse the markets or eat at one of the many restaurants – ranging from Korean takeout to poke bowls to restaurants run by James Beard Award-winners and nominees – in this neighborhood.

15. Molokini, Maui

Three miles off shore from Wailea on Maui is Molokini Crater, known for its deep, crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. This crescent-shaped islet is a marine preserve, home to more than 250 species of tropical fish. The only way to get to this popular snorkeling and diving site is by boat.

Planning tip : While the boat ride out to Molokini is typically smooth, the journey back can be tumultuous. If you're prone to seasickness, either sit in the center of the boat where it's more stable or take some motion-sickness remedies.

16. Kailua, Oʻahu

A quick 15-minute drive from Honolulu, Kailua seems like a world away. The beach town is built around Kailua Beach , a powdery-white stretch of sand that runs 2.5 miles long. People fish, surf, kayak, swim and paddle canoes in these waters. Nearby Lanikai Beach , with its unobstructed views of the Mokulua Islands, is another popular stop for beach lovers. It's smaller and more secluded than Kailua Beach, but often more crowded because of its reputation for calm waters and gorgeous vistas. The town itself boasts popular restaurants, boutiques, local breweries and a great locally-owned independent bookshop called Bookends.

Planning tip : Consider exploring Kailua town by bike. You can rent one from The Bike Shop . (There's no city-run bike-sharing on this side of the island.) The shop has a range of cruisers, mountain bikes and road bikes for rent, complete with helmets and bike locks. Electra cruises – the most popular bikes – start at $18 for up to four hours. You can book online and pick it up at the shop.

17. Old Lahaina Lūʻau, Maui

Open in 1986, the locally owned Old Lahaina Lūʻau on Maui has been a favorite lūʻau for decades, showcasing traditional hula , music and food. It's located right on the ocean off Front Street in Lahaina with great sunset views. Tickets include live entertainment, an open bar, historical storytelling and chanting, and an all-you-can-eat buffet with Hawaiian staples like lau lau, kālua pig, poi and poke .

18. Hanauma Bay, Oʻahu

This protected nature preserve in East Honolulu is one of the best spots to snorkel on Oʻahu . About 400 species of fish inhabit this bay, along with honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) and the occasional endangered Hawaiian monk seal. There are restrictions for access to this popular bay: online reservations are required , and it costs $25 per person for non-Hawaii residents 13 years and older. Parking is another US$3 per car. The bay is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Planning tip : You can rent snorkel gear at the bay, so you don't have to lug your own. While you can walk down the steep road to the beach, you can also opt to take the free tram (we recommend that on the way back to your car).

Least known of all the Hawaiian Islands – and the smallest inhabited island – Lanaʻi is an ideal escape. Stay in luxurious resorts with world-class amenities fronting the beautiful and secluded Hulopoʻe Beach , a designated marine preserve filled with colorful fish and sometimes spinner dolphins. Or explore the rest of the island – the wild and windswept 8-mile Shipwreck Beach (complete with an actual shipwreck), the ancient fishing village of Kaunolū , or visit the strange landscape of Keahikawelo (Garden of the Gods).

Planning tip : If you want to venture outside the resorts of Lanaʻi City, you'll need to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle. There's no public transportation or ride-sharing on the island.

This article was first published Jun 18, 2021 and updated Mar 5, 2024.

Explore related stories

Sustainable Travel

May 16, 2024 • 12 min read

Get inspired to travel off the beaten path at these eight top destinations in North America.

May 3, 2024 • 12 min read

Apr 18, 2024 • 11 min read

Mar 28, 2024 • 19 min read

Feb 15, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 2, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 27, 2024 • 15 min read

Dec 27, 2023 • 8 min read

Nov 17, 2023 • 10 min read

Your Friend the Nomad

United States , Favorites , Featured , Hawaii , O'ahu · December 12, 2023

Oahu Off The Beaten Path: 21 Hidden Gems + Secret Spots

Searching for Ohau hidden gems? Even though millions of people visit this breathtaking island each year, it is still very possible to explore Oahu off the beaten path. Keep reading for 21 unique hidden gems and secret spots on Oahu for your next Hawaii trip.

Note : This article may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases through these links, at no cost to you. But don’t worry, I only share products I’d truly recommend to a friend.

☀️ My Oahu Favorites 🌺

🐬 Swimming With Sharks or Dolphins : Ever dreamt of swimming with a pod of wild dolphins… or diving with sharks? Check out my favorite shark tour and dolphin tour .

🐠 Lanikai Beach & Byodo In Temple : Lanikai is Oahu’s most beautiful beach and Byodo-In , a stunning Japanese style temple is just thirty minutes away. Visit both in one day if you’re pressed for time.

🌺 North Shore Day Trip : No Oahu vacation is complete without a visit to the quintessential North Shore . Go snorkeling at Shark’s Cove, sign up for surf lessons , and enjoy acai bowls at Haleʻiwa Bowls .

🚁 Scenic Helicopter Ride : On this 45-minute ride you’ll get to fly over Hanauma Bay, Lanikai, Diamond Head, and Sacred Falls, one of Oahu’s most breathtaking sites that can only be seen from above. Browse all Oahu helicopter rides .

🌴 Where to Stay : An oceanfront suite at The Kahala , a secluded Honolulu resort, a luxe ocean bungalow at Turtle Bay , one of the only resorts on Oahu’s North Shore, an ocean terrace suite at Halekulani in the heart of Waikiki, or a vibrant colorful budget-friendly room at trendy Wayfinder Waikiki .

Find more of my Oahu favorites and Hawaii travel tips at the bottom of this article!

Oahu Hidden Gems

If you’re looking to explore the Oahu beyond Waikiki and the island’s major tourist destinations (Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, the Dole Plantation, etc), you’ve come to the right place.

I’ve been lucky enough to spend several weeks exploring the hidden gems of Oahu throughout my five Hawaii trips. I’ve gotten plenty of wonderful recommendations from local Oahu friends, and found a few more hidden gems along the way.

This guide to Oahu secret spots and hidden gems includes a diversity of places and activities, ranging from freediving with sharks and wandering through Japanese-style temples to exploring sea caves and tasting local rum.

As a disclaimer, some of these places used to be secret spots on Oahu and have grown in popularity over the past few years. You might see other tourists at some of these places, and might not at others. Either way, you’ll be exploring Oahu off the beaten path as you journey to unique destinations that the majority of tourists miss.

A Note on Responsible Travel & Oahu Hidden Gems

Practicing responsible travel is essential when visiting hidden gems and local spots on Oahu. These places are locals’ stomping grounds and backyards, and many are home to a diversity of wildlife as well.

Approach your off the beaten path explorations with humility and respect.

Cleaning up after yourself is just the beginning—consider leaving a place better than you found it . If there is trash left on the beach, pack it out.

Respect locals you encounter and any signs that warn you about trespassing or other dangers. There are some dangerous (but legal) places to visit on this list, but my list Oahu hidden gem list does not include places that require trespassing .

However, there are plenty of controversial but beautiful Oahu hikes (not on this list) that pass onto private land or have been closed to the public. Avoid those hikes as a respect to local community and authority.

When swimming anywhere on Oahu, only wear reef-safe sunscreen, and avoid touching or standing on coral —it is a living organism that tourists are killing by contact!

Now onto my list of hidden gems and secret things to do on Oahu, Hawaii!

21 ‘Secret’ Things to do in Oahu Off The Beaten Path

1. mermaid caves.

My favorite secret spot on Oahu has to be the Mermaid Caves . These majestic sea caves are situated on the island’s leeward (western) side, just 40 minutes away from Honolulu.

Turquoise blue water glistens in these volcanic rock caves as sunlight streams in through natural openings in the cave ceiling. Depending on the tides and waves, you can swim in the water and explore the gorgeous grottos alongside sea turtles and other marine wildlife.

The sea cave system quite literally qualifies as a hidden gem because the entrance can be a little challenging to find, but thankfully, I have entire blog post on how to visit the Mermaid Caves .

If you do visit the Mermaid Caves, be sure to follow all the safety tips in my article, avoid caving alone, and respect the local community that calls this beautiful area of Oahu home.

2. Halona Beach Cove (Eternity Beach)

All the way on the other side of Oahu you’ll find a small, picturesque cove just off the coastal highway. It is right next to the Halona Blowhole, which is a popular 5-minute stop on island tours and road trips, but few visitors venture down to the stunning beach below.

Halona Beach Cove, also called Eternity Beach, has been featured in a handful of iconic Hollywood scenes including a scene out of the 1953 film From Here to Eternity (hence the name Eternity Beach), the first kiss scene in 50 First Dates, and even in the Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.

This breathtaking beach is a wonderful place to sunbathe and swim. When the tides are right, you can even find a small sea cave on the edge of the beach, and peek in some tide pools.

If you decide to visit Hanauma Bay (a very popular place for snorkeling) or the China Walls (later on this list!), you’ll find Halona Beach Cove just down the road.

3. Kawainui Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary

If you read my guide on the best things to do in Kailua , you know that the unassuming 1.4-mile-long trail along the edge of the Kawainui Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary was one of my favorite local recommendations I got while housesitting in Oahu. The marsh is beautiful, as is the unobstructed view of towering lush mountains.

Walking on the town’s well-maintained, flat pathway through the marshland is definitely one of the most underrated things to do on Oahu. The walk is easy, close to the center of Kailua, and frequented by locals, yet very few tourists find this spot.

I highly recommend checking out this trail during sunset, perhaps after a day of other adventures in lovely Kailua. Park at  Kaha Park  near the corner of Kaha St and Kaipii St. From there, you can walk the full length of the trial (1.4 miles) to Kailua Rd (Highway 61) and head back, or just walk part of it. Either way, you’ll be in for a treat!

4. China Walls

Rugged volcanic cliff sides and the roaring Pacific Ocean meet, making one of Oahu’s best cliff jumping spots. China Walls technically refers to the surf break right near the sea cliffs, but most people associate the volcanic rock formations with the name.

It is worth mentioning that ocean rescues are common here because it is difficult to get out of the water, and powerful swells can come unexpectedly. You also have to be careful when standing on the rocks because the waves can sweep you in, bashing you on the rocks along the way.

Even still, I loved swimming here and would definitely visit again. I recommend checking out my guide to Oahu’s China Walls to get a better idea of how to stay safe and still have fun with this unique Oahu experience.

5. Shark Freediving on Oahu’s North Shore

While Oahu’s North Shore is a hot spot for shark cage diving , few vacationers know that you can actually go freediving with sharks here, alongside a professional guide.

Trust me when I say this is an experience you’ll never forget! There are only a few local companies that take visitors on these cage-free diving experiences, so be sure to check out my guide to the best tours if you want to give shark diving a try.

6. Electric Beach

Electric Beach is probably Oahu’s most unique snorkeling spot. Located across the street from a power plant, this beach isn’t particularly appealing until you get in the water and swim several hundred feet out into the open ocean.

The nearby power plant releases warm water into the ocean here, which naturally attracts an abundance of marine life. The water is clear and around 30 feet deep, making it a lovely spot to freedive down (or scuba dive).

Bring your own snorkel gear (there isn’t anywhere to rent or buy it within 20-30 minutes of here) and ideally some fins, and then go on the snorkeling adventure of a lifetime!

Since the best snorkeling is several hundred feet from the shore, you should be a strong swimmer, and you should always go with a friend. Thankfully, given the area’s increase in popularity, Oahu has hired lifeguards at this small beach.

7. Kailua Farmers Market

Back in Kailua, you’ll find another hidden gem—the town’s lively Sunday farmers market at 640 Ulukahiki St.

Although there are several farmers markets in Kailua, this one stands out with a diversity of food and non-food vendors, fresh local produce, stunning mountain views, and a local vibe.

Since this Sunday market is such a fun thing to do on Oahu, I recommend visiting Kailua on a Sunday. There are plenty of other things to do in Kailua on this Oahu hidden gems guide, as well as in my other Oahu guides .

8. Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout

The Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout is a breathtaking viewpoint right off of Hawaii Route 61, which is also called the Pali Highway.

It is so easy to drive right by this viewpoint on your way to or from Kailua, which is why I added it to this list of secret places in Oahu—it is hidden in plain sight! I highly recommend you stop for some amazing views of the Koʻolau mountains, Pacific Ocean, Kailua, and Kaneohe.

To ensure you don’t miss this viewpoint, and other roadside attractions on Oahu, download the Shaka Guide audio tour . It syncs with your GPS location and tells you about hidden gems and stories about historical spots along the way as you drive around the island.

9. Swimming with Dolphins in the Wild

Most Hawaii travel guides will not mention that you can (ethically) swim with wild dolphins off of the coast of Oahu. But yes, you can!

I was fortunate enough to go on a similar dolphin watching tour in Mexico , and it was one of my most magical travel experiences ever.

This Oahu dolphin watching day trip leaves from Honolulu and includes a boat ride out to the West Coast line, where you encounter several pods of wild dolphins. The playful dolphins swim and jump beside your boat and after a briefing you can jump in the water with them.

As with any other sea animals, you should keep a respectful distance and never touch them. Curious about this unique Oahu activity? Check out the tour details and read reviews here .

10. Puaʻena Point Beach Park

Experience off the beaten path Oahu at Puaʻena Point Beach Park, a hidden cove on the North Shore.

This beautiful small beach is popular amongst local surfers, but virtually unknown to vacationers. If you’re looking for a beach to relax or surf on the North Shore beyond the most popular beaches, Puaena Point is a great place to go.

The trees and bushes along the shore create natural shade, and depending on the conditions, this can be a great place to learn how to surf. In fact, you can book surfing lessons here ahead of time .

11. Haleʻiwa Bowls

Once a local favorite and Oahu secret spot, Haleʻiwa Bowls’ delicious smoothie bowls have made this place a well-known acai joint on the North Shore.

I didn’t realize acai bowls could taste so good until I tried Mana Bowl, which features perfectly thick, creamy acai, delicious granola, fresh fruit, and peanut butter (which I added). Whatever you do, make sure you add this spot to your North Shore itinerary .

Haleʻiwa Bowls’ menu features a diversity of acai bowls, as well as other smoothie bowls, smoothies, and coffee. It is located right by the Haleiwa marina and its a great place to fuel up after an early morning surf, shark diving , or a day at the beach.

12. Shark’s Cove

I hesitated to include Shark’s Cove on this list as it is overflowing with tourists. Even still, it is easy to visit Oahu and completely miss this incredible snorkeling spot.

Located at Pūpūkea Beach Park on Oahu’s North Shore, this calm, protected cove is one of the best places to snorkel in Oahu. The majority of the cove is only a few feet deep, making it an easy place to snorkel with kids. My favorite spot, however, is the 20-30 foot deep area near the cove’s main opening.

This area is less crowded, and has incredible coral formations you can dive through alongside a diversity of vibrant fish and sea life.

Keep in mind that the conditions here change based on the surf. One day, you’ll find calm, gentle waves and clear conditions perfect for snorkeling, and another day you’ll find rough water and low visibility.

13. Ko Hana Distillers

Visit Oahu’s first and only rum tasting room to learn about how sweet sugarcane is transformed from from an infamous plant to Captain Jack Sparrow’s favorite drink.

If you sign up for Ko Hana’s rum tour , you’ll get to taste fresh sugarcane juice, see several types of sugarcane plant, tour the barrel rooms and distillery, and of course taste Ko Hana’s incredible rum.

Ko Hana Distilleries is located halfway between the North Shore and Honolulu, so it is a great place to visit on your way between the two. If you’re thinking about taking a day trip to the North Shore, be sure to check out my Oahu North Shore itinerary .

Be sure to book your rum tour ahead of time. Although this is one of the hidden gems of Oahu, space is limited for tours and Ko Hana is growing in popularity.

14. The Mokulua Islands & Popoia Island

While the Mokulua Islands are certainly the type of place you’ll see on an Oahu postcard, few vacations know that they can actually visit these tiny uninhabited island, as well as the nearby Popoia Island (also called Flat Island).

If you visit Kailua Beach Park or Lanikai Beach, you’ll see people kayaking to these islands and wish that you knew and booked a kayak tour ahead of time .

After a 2.5-mile kayak to the Mokulua Islands you’ll be rewarded with swim in lava tube pool at the Queen’s Bath and a moment to relax on a secluded beach before you have to journey back to the main island.

The kayak to Popoia Island is a much shorter .25-mile journey from shore, but you still get to tick ‘kayak to a Hawaiian island’ off your bucket list.

15. Kailua Boat Launch

Arguably the most underrated place in Kailua, the town’s small boat launch is a great spot to see sea turtles that love to feed nearby. Out of all the places I’ve visited on Oahu, this is where I saw the most sea turtles, yet I haven’t seen it mentioned anywhere in Oahu travel guides.

You can either walk along the road above the boat launch and spot turtles from up there, or get in the water and swim with them. Of course, remember to stay 10 feet away from sea turtles and never touch them.

As with all of the other hidden gem snorkeling spots on Oahu, you will need to bring your own snorkel set and fins . Thankfully, both are easy to find online !

16. Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden

This free-to-visit botanical garden on Oahu’s windward side has significantly grown in popularity due to social media. And for good reason! The garden’s mountainous backdrop makes you feel like you’re in Jurassic Park, and the garden’s 400 acres are filled with lush foliage from Hawaii and many other tropical destinations around the world.

Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden is open daily from 9-4pm and is always free to visit.

17. Manoa Chocolate Factory

You won’t see chocolate tasting on most Oahu itineraries, but the free chocolate tastings and reasonably priced tours at the Manoa Chocolate Factory are a great add to any Oahu trip!

My local friend from Honolulu recommended this place to me, and I was so glad she did. The factory and tasting room is located in downtown Kailua, but is deceptively difficult to find without Google Maps, so it does feel like a true Oahu secret spot.

18. Kaʻena Point State Park (Oahu’s Northwest Corner)

Oahu’s Northwest point might be less of a hidden gem if it was easier to get to, but few visitors make the long journey out to this part of the island.

Those who do drive to this remote area are in for a treat! Kaʻena Point State Park features rugged coastline, picture-perfect beaches, and beautiful hiking trails.

19. Lanikai Brewing Co.

Lanikai Brewing Co. is a thriving local brewery serving “Island Inspired” beer in downtown Kailua. Beer drinkers will love this place, and anyone who isn’t a big fan of beer (like me) will find plenty of other options on their menu.

I recommend Lanikai Brewing Co’s Mai Tai, which of course is a drink created in Hawaii! They make their beer with local Hawaiian ingredients, too, which I love.

20. Byodo-In Temple

Oahu’s Byodo In Temple is a striking replica of the a Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. With sky-scraping verdant mountains set behind the temple, this place is picturesque to say the least. And if you’re looking for a unique cultural experience in a peaceful setting, this is the place to go!

I debated whether or not to add the Byodo In Temple of my list of secret spots on Oahu, because honestly, there is nothing secret about it. It is a popular tourist attraction, yet I hadn’t heard about it until my second trip of Oahu, so I thought I’d highlight it here.

I have a full guide to the Byodo In Temple with important details on what to wear if you want more information about this special place.

21. Goat Island (Mokuauia)

Goat Island is a small islet a short walk or swim’s distance from Oahu’s northeast coast. Despite the name, there are no goats on Goat Island, but you will find native plant species and sea birds.

Depending on the tide, the island is about 720 feet from the shore. You can check the tides ahead of time, and try to visit at low tide, when it is easiest to walk to the island. Otherwise, you can swim or kayak, which are both fun!

To get to Goat Island, head toward Laie along the eastern coast of Oahu. Just after leaving the city of Laie, stop at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, which is where you will park to access Goat Island.

Oahu Off The Beaten Path FAQs

What are the best touristy things do on oahu.

Where you draw the line between touristy and non-touristy things on Oahu is a little difficult. With that in mind, here are some things I excluded from this Oahu hidden gems list because they are more popular, but still worth doing!

★ Hiking the Lanikai Pillbox Trail : Wake up early and see the sunrise over the ocean on this incredible, short hike. Read my full guide to the Lanikai Pillboxes here.

★ Spending some time in Waikiki : Sure, it is filled with tourists, but did you really visit Oahu if you didn’t see Waikiki?

★ Taking a surfing lesson in Waikiki or on the North Shore : Oahu has surfing classes for people of all experience levels! Browse the best Oahu surfing lessons here .

★ Exploring the North Shore’s best beaches : See where the pro surf competitions take place at Sunset Beach and the Banzai Pipeline, see sea turtles at Laniakea Beach, or go cliff jumping at Waimea Bay Beach.

★ Relaxing at Lanikai Beach : Oahu’s most beautiful beach is not one to be missed! I share more about this special place in my Kailua travel guide .

★ Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay : If your expectations are properly set, you can have an incredible time snorkeling at one of the most touristy places on Oahu, Hanauma Bay. You’ll need to make reservations two day ahead of time and sit (well, stand) through a length presentation before heading to the beach. All things considered, the bay is stunning and it definitely is a great place to see lots of tropical fish!

★ Going on a Pearl Harbor tour : There are over a hundred tours of Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Choose the tour that interests you most here .

★ Seeing where Jurassic Park was filmed at Kualoa Ranch : If you ask me, all of Oahu looks like its straight out of Jurassic Park, but at Kualoa Ranch you can see the actual filming sites. Keep in mind that it is a bit of a tourist trap, but families and Jurassic Park fans will love it. Browse Kualoa Ranch tours here .

★ Doing an Oahu waterfall hike : As long as its not too dry, waterfall hikes are totally worth doing in Oahu. A few of the best ones include Manoa Falls , Waimea Falls , and the Kaʻau Crater Trail.

What are the best nontouristy things to do on Oahu (hidden gems)?

Some of the best Oahu non-touristy things things to do from my list of Oahu hidden gems include:

★ Exploring the Mermaid Caves ★ Going on a walk at the Kawainui Marsh in Kailua ★ Cliff jumping at China Walls ★ Visiting the Sunday Kailua Town Farmers Market ★ Tasting local craft beer at Lanikai Brewing Co.

Can you visit hidden gems in Oahu on a guided tour?

Yes! While I do recommend renting your own car so you can truly see Oahu off the beaten path, there are a few guided tours that will take you to some of Oahu’s hidden gems:

★ Private South Shore of Oahu Tour : Includes stops at Byodo-In Temple, the Nu’uanu Pali, the Halona Blowhole (next to Halona Beach Cove), and several other scenic spots on Oahu. Since it is a private tour, you may even be able to make special requests for additional places to visit!

★ Honolulu Sea-Cliff Sunset Photo Adventure : This afternoon tour includes a visit to the China Walls at sunset, and a short stop at the Halona Blowhole (next to Halona Beach Cove), as well as Koko Crater Botanical Gardens (another Oahu hidden gems that didn’t make the list), and several stunning viewpoints.

★ Swim with Dolphins in the West Coast line of Oahu : This is the same incredible dolphin tour I recommended earlier in the article!

★ Pelagic Shark Dive Tour : This is the same thrilling shark freediving tour I recommended earlier in the article!

Where to Stay on Oahu

🌺 The Kahala : My top choice . This secluded oceanfront resort is tucked away and private yet close to everything Honolulu has to offer.

🐢 Turtle Bay : One of the most iconic resorts on Oahu, situated on Turtle Bay on Oahu’s North Shore.

🌇 Halekulani : A luxurious resort in the heart of Waikiki with breathtaking mountain and ocean views.

🏄🏽‍♀️ Wayfinder Waikiki : A vibrant budget-friendly hotel in Waikiki.

Getting Around Oahu

If you want to experience all Oahu has to offer, you should probably rent a car. You can compare rental prices from various rental companies here , but I usually end up renting from locally-owned Lucky Owl when I’m on Oahu.

If you do rent a car on Oahu, be aware that parking in Waikiki (where most Oahu hotels are located) is very pricey, and many of Oahu’s most beautiful beaches and hiking trails don’t have official parking lots. What’s more, car break in’s are common so never leave anything visible in a parked car.

If you choose not to rent a car, you can explore the island via Uber, bus, or even by foot! Waikiki is very walkable, and you can reach almost anywhere via Uber. Buses will take you to many parts of the island, too!

Another way to experience more difficult to reach places on Oahu without a car is to take an island circle tour . Offered by many local tour companies, these full-day tours include roundtrip transportation around the island with several stops along the way. Browse Oahu island circle tours here .

My Favorite Things to do on Oahu

More oahu travel guides.

🎒 A Complete Hawaii Packing List from an Expert Traveler

🦈 What to Know BEFORE Swimming with Sharks in Oahu

🐾 How to do Housesitting in Hawaii and Get Free Accommodations

🌺 21 Fun Things to do in Kailua, Oahu (And Nearby!)

☀️ 4 Day Oahu Itinerary Full of Sunshine, Aloha, and Adventure

🥾 Oahu Off The Beaten Path: 21 Hidden Gems + Secret Spots

Final Thoughts: Oahu Off The Beaten Path

Teeming with breathtaking beauty, Oahu is one of my favorite places in the United States. I hope this Oahu hidden gems guide helped you identify some fun things to do on your Hawaii vacation.

About Annie

Annie is the founder of Your Friend the Nomad and an expert in the digital nomad lifestyle and vegan travel. She's lived abroad in Mexico, Italy, and Palestine, and traveled extensively in Latin America, Europe, and Asia.

You’ll Also Love

March 12, 2024 at 10:07 am

Very informative 🤙🏾beautiful photos 🤙🏾🩷

March 12, 2024 at 7:16 pm

Thanks, Shea! Wishing you a lovely vacation!

How to Visit the Mermaid Caves in Oahu, Hawaii

Get exclusive travel tips.

• US Virgin Islands
• Virgin Voyages Travel Guides
• Let’s Work Together
• Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2024 Your Friend the Nomad · Theme by 17th Avenue

Why You Should Check Out Hawaii's Smaller Islands In June

Hawaii's smaller islands offer a respite from the busier hot spots in summer — especially in June.

• Don't overlook smaller Hawaiian islands — they offer a unique, cultural experience different from the big 3.
• Lānaʻi, the "Pineapple Island", is an underrated gem perfect for a June visit. Enjoy serene beaches and local traditions.
• Molokaʻi, the "Friendly Isle", offers a quiet, cultural hub with preserved Hawaiian heritage and laid-back lifestyle experience.

You've definitely heard of the one-of-a-kind islands of Oahu and Maui and know why you should visit these special islands, but when it comes to the smaller islands in the chain of Hawaiian islands, have you heard of Kauai or Lānaʻi?

That's right, although there are more than 130 islands that make up the Aloha state of Hawaii, the millions of visitors from around the world that add Hawaii to their bucket list typically go for one of the three largest islands: Oahu, Maui, and The Big Island, and forget about the rest of the alternative islands to visit . Although the big three are loved for good reason, the smaller islands offer world travelers, like you, an opportunity to enjoy Hawaii in a unique way.

Underrated, But Worth A Visit: Hawaii's Least-Visited Island

Hawaii is known for its pristine beaches, luscious native fauna, and the backdrop for some of the most famous movies and TV shows, like Jurassic Park and LOST, but what's often overlooked is the cultural significance and local heritage that visitors want to experience, but don't always have the chance to fully indulge in, especially on the bigger islands where tourists typically venture to.

There's plenty to see when it comes to popular attractions and experiences like the Dole Plantation or Jurassic Adventure Tours, but there's something extra special about living like the locals do and immersing yourself in Hawaiian culture, especially during the peak of summer in the beautiful month of June.

After all, there's no better time to visit an island oasis than when the weather's at its best, the sky glistens with stars, and schools are officially out.

These Are The Small Hawaiian Islands You Should Add To Your Bucket List

If you're searching for tranquility, serenity, and peace, you're bound to find it here, lānaʻi offers pineapples, blissful getaways, and more, lānaʻi is underrated and perfect to visit in june.

Referred to as the "Pineapple Island" due to its history of pineapple production and vast plantations, and one of the best pineapple farms to visit in Hawaii , owned by the Dole Corporation, Lānaʻi is the sixth-largest island in Hawaii. It is one of the best islands to book a blissful island getaway on, despite having a small population of nearly 3,000 residents and only 140 square miles.

Roughly nine miles from the island of Maui, Lānaʻi is known for its out-of-this-world beaches that'll leave you in awe and luxury resorts like the Four Season Resort Lānaʻi and Montage Kapalua Bay, but the island really comes to life in June, which is the ideal time to enjoy true island life among the locals.

Did you know that there are things that don't exist in Hawaii — like native snakes or billboards?

In true island fashion, you'll find the most spirited activities are centered on the water at beaches like Hulopoʻe Beach Park in South Lānaʻi, which is where you'll find the Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi, and Polihua Beach in North Lānaʻi, which is an hour northwest of Lānaʻi City.

A four-wheel drive is suggested to access Polihua Beach. Also, due to strong winds and currents, this makes the ocean too dangerous to swim in, but suitable for sightseeing.

You may find yourself wanting to sit back and relax on the beautiful beaches all day long or explore the depths of the ocean where you can snorkel through colorful coral reefs and underwater caves, but you may want to try out some activities centered around adventure to get a sense of everything the island has to offer.

Unique Adventures to Enjoy on Lānaʻi

• 4x4 Treckker Tour
• Lānaʻi Cat Sanctuary
• Lānaʻi Adventure Park
• Keahiakawelo - Garden of The Gods

If you do visit the rock garden, Keahiakawelo, also known as "The Fire of Kawelo", remember that removing rocks is forbidden.

Molokaʻi Is A Quiet, Cultural Hub

It's less visited, but molokaʻi is still exciting in summer.

Situated perfectly between the islands of Oahu and Maui, next on the list is Molokaʻi, also referred to as the "Friendly Isle" due to the warmth and hospitality of its residents. It is the ultimate opportunity to feel the island spirit and to be immersed in preserved Hawaiian culture.

Compared to other islands in the Hawaiian archipelago, Molokaʻi is known and appreciated for its dedication to preserving Hawai'i's rich cultural heritage by its 7,500 residents. It's also the least visited island in Hawaii , which is ideal for a secluded, intimate island experience.

In addition to its cultural relevance, it's an island meant to embrace Hawaii wholesomely in its natural beauty. Also, a fun fact when visiting Molokaʻi, it's considered to be the birthplace of Hula, a sacred Hawaiian dance and ritual.

If you're in search of a laid-back, chilled-out, cultural immersion experience, Molokaʻi may be a destination just up your alley. Just a short 30-minute flight from Maui or Honolulu, or a 90-minute ferry ride from Lahaina Harbor in Maui.

After a day well spent by the water or exploring the island, it's a must that you visit one of the many cultural events and festivals happening in June, like The King's Gala , which features traditional food, music, and dance.

Since Molokaʻi holds an abundance of cultural significance for Hawaiian heritage and culture, always stay mindful and respectful of local customs, traditions, and the land.

What To Know About Molokaʻi

Now that you've gotten to know the lay of the land on two of Hawaii's less-known islands, for your upcoming island adventure in June, you can consider adding these smaller islands to your travel bucket list.

Have you traveled to any Hawaiian Islands that are off the beaten path? Tell us all about your adventures in the comments!

50 Best Places to Visit in Hawaii with your Family

D reaming of traveling to hawaii find out our top 50 best places to visit in hawaii with your family, including best places to eat, top hawaii attractions , gorgeous beaches, and more.

Whether you are planning a trip to Hawaii or just wanderlusting, we can all agree that Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places in the world.

From stunning beaches and cascading waterfalls to volcanoes and amazing attractions , Hawaii has it all!

Since Hawaii is our 50th State, I thought it would be appropriate to highlight 50 of the coolest places to visit in Hawaii.

Some of these places to visit in Hawaii are for adventurers , some for budget travelers , and many of them are kid-friendly.

So, if you’re wondering where to go in Hawaii , keep scrolling for some of the most popular (and the most underrated) Hawaii vacation spots!

Get my 50 fun facts about Hawaii for kids !

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Hawaii Itineraries complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

50 best places to visit in hawaii with your family.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Hawaii for families:

1. Road to Hana

I had to start this list with one of my favorite places in Hawaii. The Road to Hana is way more about the journey than the destination.

On this famous winding road, you’ll see gorgeous gardens, beautiful waterfalls, and taste some of the best banana bread in Maui!

You can easily rent a car and drive it yourself, or there are tons of Road to Hana tours you can sign up for. This Maui day trip is very popular with families, budget travelers, hikers, couples, and solo travelers.

It is easily one of the top places to visit in Hawaii.

Read my full Road to Hana guide

2. Diamond Head

If you look up from Waikiki Beach , you can’t miss Diamond Head. This iconic mountain is the backdrop of many Hawaiian postcards.

Hiking Diamond Head is a popular thing to do near Waikiki. The hike itself isn’t very strenuous (there are a ton of stairs) and it provides an unbelievable view.

Pro tip: Get there early to beat the heat (and the crowds!)

As of May 12th, 2022, all out-of-state visitors must have an advanced reservation to enter Diamond Head State Monument. Make your reservations HERE .

One of the most gorgeous parts of Kauai is the North Shore . Hanalei is a cute North Shore surf town that is packed with incredible food, shave ice , boutiques, and more.

But, one of the best things to do in Hanalei is hang out at Hanalei Bay. The water is super calm and it’s perfect for Stand Up Paddling or for families looking for a kid-friendly Kauai beach.

Hanalei is one of the best places to vacation in Hawaii during the summer.

Click here for step-by-step Kauai travel planning help

4. Polynesian Cultural Center

If you’re looking for one of the top attractions on Oahu, look no further than the Polynesian Cultural Center up in Laie on the North Shore .

Here, you’ll get to explore 6 different Polynesian Villages, participate in hands-on activities (like crafts and dancing), watch incredible performances, ride on a canoe, and more.

Plus, they offer a fun luau and the most beautiful theatrical presentation called Ha: Breath of Life .

It’s one of my top things to do in Hawaii with kids!

Book your Polynesian Cultural Center tickets

5. Haleakala National Park

One of the most unique places in Hawaii is Haleakala National Park on Maui. Here, the landscape resembles Mars more than your typical Hawaiian landscape.

The drive up takes you through Upcountry Maui (which is stunning) and people like to spend the day h iking and checking out their cool visitor center.

But, one of the most popular things to do in Maui is to see the sunrise from Haleakala Crater. You can drive up yourself or hop on a Haleakala Sunrise tour . Find the best prices here .

And if you are a cyclist, Haleakala is the most famous mountain to bike down in Hawaii. Check out the latest prices and more details .

If you’re heading to Maui, you’ll definitely one to check out Haleakala. It’s one of the top tourist attractions in Hawaii.

Pro tip: Bring a warm coat or blanket as it gets VERY chilly!

Click here for step-by-step Maui travel planning help

6. Pali Lookout

There are tons of fantastic scenic lookouts in Hawaii, but the one that is the most fun is Nu’uanu Pali Lookout on Oahu. It’s one of the windiest places and it literally feels like you could blow away!

It also has a big Hawaiian historical significance. This is where King Kamehameha I won the Battle of Nu’uanu and united the island of Oahu under his rule of Hawaii.

Hundreds of Hawaiian soldiers were forced off the sheer cliffs surrounding this area. There are plaques around this lookout explaining more about the battle.

It’s another one of the cool Hawaii places to visit.

Click here for step-by-step Oahu travel planning help

7. Wishing Well Shave Ice

One of the top things to eat in Hawaii is shave ice. But, not all shave ice places are the same.

Wishing Well Shave Ice in Hanalei, Kauai features all-natural, organic fresh fruit syrups and delectable toppings.

Their products are locally sourced and sustainable and they offer some of the best shave ice on Kauai .

It’s by far one of my favorite things to do on Kauai for under $10 !

One of the most well-known places in Hawaii is Waikiki ! This is where you’ll find some of the top hotels, restaurants, and shopping on Oahu.

But, Waikiki is most famous for its beach. The waves are pretty calm and the water is clear, which makes Waikiki perfect for families and beginner surfers.

Plus, there are tons of beachfront restaurants where you can listen to live music while sipping a tropical drink and enjoying the sunset.

It’s no wonder that many people claim Oahu as the best Hawaiian island for a family vacation.

Waikiki is one of the best places to stay in Hawaii if you don’t want to rent a car. There are tons of tours with Waikiki shuttles and there are a bunch of open-air trolleys that go around the area.

You’ll definitely want to explore Waikiki at least once as it is easily one of the best vacation spots in Hawaii.

Read my top 25 things to do in Waikiki with kids

9. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hoping to see lava in Hawaii? Your best bet is at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii.

You’ll actually find several Hawaii tourist attractions here. You can explore on your own or join a Big Island lava tour.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site has tons of hiking trails, an awesome museum, lava tubes, camping spots, tons of special ranger programs, and more. It’s one of the most Instagrammable spots on the Big Island.

Read my full guide to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

10. I’ao Needle

One of the coolest things to see on Maui is just minutes from the airport. I’ao Needle is located in I’ao Valley State Park.

There is an easy trail you can walk to get up to a viewing platform. The trail is kid-friendly and has cool things to see along the way.

Advance reservations to enter the I’ao Valley State Monument are now available online . The parking fee is $10 per vehicle. The additional non-resident entrance fee is $5 per person with no charge for children under three years old.

Pro tip: Don’t forget bug spray!

11. Pearl Harbor

One of the most famous historical sites in Hawaii is Pearl Harbor. This is where the Japanese attacked the United States and brought the United States into World War II.

Today, it’s one of the top tourist attractions in Honolulu.

Most people come to Pearl Harbor to pay their respects at the U.S.S. Arizona. There’s also a riveting aviation museum , a submarine, the Battleship Missouri and so many other things to see at Pearl Harbor .

You can visit on your own or join a Pearl Harbor tour . Check out the latest prices and more details.

Visiting Pearl Harbor is one of the best things to do in Hawaii!

Pro Tip: There are 1300 free tickets for the U.S.S. Arizona available each morning, but you have to get there early to snag one!

Get My FREE Hawaii e-Book!

Our exclusive Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly Activities in Hawaii is your treasure map to the most exciting, kid-approved adventures across the islands.

If you are looking for a great waterfront restaurant in Hawaii, head to Duke’s . Named after legendary Hawaiian surfer Duke Kahanamoku, Duke’s serves great meals with an island twist.

They are most famous for their decadent Hula Pie. Hula Pie is made with rich macadamia nut ice cream piled high on a chocolate cookie crust and topped with chocolate fudge, whipped cream, and a bunch more macadamia nuts.

It’s enormous and can easily be shared with an entire family.

What’s extra cool is that you can find Duke’s locations in Waikiki, Maui, and Kauai!

It’s one of the places in Hawaii to visit for a delicious meal during your trip.

13. Waimea Canyon

Did you know Hawaii has its own Grand Canyon? Dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon is on Kauai and is absolutely spectacular.

Visitors love coming here to hike the many trails or take a helicopter ride to see secret waterfalls.

But, families can easily park and take a short walk to the viewing platform for epic views of this natural wonder.

Plus, there’s usually a booth in the parking lot selling fresh fruit and yummy snacks!

Waimea Canyon is another one of the top Hawaii travel spots to enjoy on Kauai!

14. Ala Moana Center

With more than 350 shops and restaurants, Ala Moana Center on Oahu is the world’s largest open-air shopping center. They have department stores, luxury retailers, local boutiques, and more.

Visiting Ala Moana Center is one of the easiest things to do in Honolulu with kids.

They have some incredible free programming, including a fantastic hula show on their stage. Plus, they just opened an awesome play area for kids.

15. Molokini Crater

If you’re looking to do some snorkeling in Hawaii, Molokini Crater is one of the top Maui snorkeling spots .

This crescent-shaped island is located just off the coast of Maui and can only be accessed by boat. People love coming here to see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and other amazing tropical sea life.

There are lots of Molokini Snorkeling Tours you can sign up for to get the full experience. Check out the latest prices and more details .

Because of Molokini Crater, Maui could be considered the best Hawaiian island for kids who love snorkeling.

It is the perfect place to go snorkeling during your Hawaii family vacation.

Read my full post about Molokini Crater .

16. Leonard’s Malasadas

One of the most popular pastries in Hawaii is Portuguese malasadas and the most famous Hawaiian bakery to find them is Leonard’s Bakery on Oahu.

Basically, malasadas are giant donut holes that are rolled in cinnamon and sugar. But, Leonard’s also fills them with yummy tropical fillings like haupia (coconut cream), lilikoi (passion fruit), guava, and more!

They are perfect as a quick breakfast or a tasty after-dinner treat. Because it is one of the most popular places in Hawaii for malasadas, be sure to arrive early!

Want to make your own malasadas? Try my coconut-filled malasadas recipe !

17. Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

Located on the Big Island, this national park was once a place of refuge for lawbreakers and where many powerful chiefs once lived.

Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park is immersed in Hawaiian culture and is also one of the most sacred historic places in all of Hawaii.

Make sure you check out the Royal Grounds, Keoneele Cove , and the Heiau while you are there.

Read my full Guide to Kona .

18. Poipu Beach

The South Shore of Kauai has some pretty fabulous beaches, but one of the best ones is Poipu Beach .

Not only does it feature lots of sandy beach and shallow water perfect for little kids, but it’s also one of the best locations in Hawaii to see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles as well as Monk Seals.

Read my top 25 things to do in Poipu, Kauai

Book a Family Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

19. Iolani Palace

Did you know the only royal palace in the United States is located on Oahu? Yep, Iolani Palace was once home to King Kalakaua, the last king of Hawaii.

They have self-guided and small group tours and they are absolutely fascinating.

Visitors get to see how the palace was set up in the late 1800s, and hear all about why Queen Liliuokalani wrote the haunting song “Aloha Oe.” It’s definitely one of the cool places in Hawaii to explore.

Read my full guide to Iolani Palace in Hawaii .

20. Maui Swap Meet

While Oahu has the popular Aloha Swap Meet, I actually prefer the smaller Maui Swap Meet in Kahului. It has a great mix of local designers and small Maui businesses.

It’s located at the community college and you can easily walk around the entire Swap Meet in about an hour, making it a fun stop while you are exploring Maui.

It’s one of the best places for Maui shopping .

21. Lanikai Beach

When you think of Hawaii, chances are you’re picturing Lanikai Beach on Oahu without even realizing it.

That’s because it’s been named one of the best beaches in the world and has been heavily photographed.

What’s awesome about Lanikai Beach is that the sand is super soft and the water is calm enough for beginner swimmers.

Plus, it’s one of the best kayaking spots on Oahu , specifically because you can paddle out to these little islands off the coast!

It is one of the top Hawaii places to go you’ll want to enjoy during your Oahu vacation.

22. Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is located on the Big Island and is a spiritual and historical place to visit.

Etched on lava rock by ancient Hawaiians, hundreds of petroglyphs can be found in this park. There are also two popular fishponds and great hiking trails in the park.

Chances are, you’ll come across Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and other wildlife while on the beach too.

23. Dole Plantation

While this is a very touristy spot on Oahu, it’s also one of the tastiest.

Dole Plantation is located on the iconic North Shore of Oahu and has lots of fun things to do like navigate a pineapple maze and ride a little train around the plantation.

This is also one of the few places in Hawaii where you can get Dole Whip. Yes, it’s the same tasty treat you’ll find at Disneyland and Walt Disney World.

They have lots of fun toppings and it’s worth stopping just to enjoy this refreshing treat!

24. Glass Beach

One of the most unique beaches in Hawaii is Glass Beach in Ele Ele on Kauai. Here, visitors will find millions of little glass pebbles in colors like blue, brown, aqua, and clear.

The pebbles have been thoroughly washed and polished in the ocean for years and years and come out super smooth.

It’s a fun place to bring kids and let them collect the pebbles and sort them by color. But, be respectful and leave the glass for others to enjoy.

Glass Beach is one of the prettiest places in Hawaii to visit!

25. Da Kitchen

Hawaiian cuisine is blowing up all over the Mainland because it’s so delicious! One of the best places to eat Hawaiian food on Maui is Da Kitchen.

One of the best things to try here is their deep-fried Spam musubi. It’s a traditional Spam musubi that has been coated with panko and deep-fried for a crunchy, salty, slightly sweet snack.

They also make incredible kalbi ribs and amazing desserts. They have a location in Kihei.

26. Bishop Museum

While you might not necessarily be thinking of going to a museum in Hawaii, you’ll definitely want to check out the Bishop Museum on Oahu.

This is where you’ll find more than 24 million historical, cultural, and natural treasures of Hawaii. They have a ton of Hawaiian cultural exhibits and programs as well as an incredible planetarium.

It’s perfect for rainy days in Hawaii or those days when you need to get out of the sun.

The Bishop Museum is just one of the reasons that Oahu is often considered the best Hawaiian island for families who love activities and attractions. Read our full guide to the Bishop Museum on Oahu HERE .

27. Kalaupapa National Park

Another unique place to go in Hawaii is Kalaupala National Park on Molokai.

This is where King Kamehameha V sent people with leprosy (also called Hansen’s disease) to live out the rest of their lives in isolation.

Today, visitors can go to Kalaupapa (via mule ride) to learn about the people, places, and stories of the people who lived there.

There is a living community, cemeteries, archeological artifacts, and a museum. It’s another one of the great places to visit in Hawaii with family.

It’s really easy to do a Maui to Moloka’i day trip or you can check out our full Hotel Moloka’i review .

28. Haleiwa Town

Haleiwa is located on the North Shore of Oahu and is well-known as the surfing capital of the world. It’s part of Hawaii’s Seven-Mile Miracle.

It offers some of the best surfing in Hawaii and people travel from all over the globe to participate in surfing competitions here.

Even if you aren’t a surfer, you’ll want to head to Haleiwa to soak up the chill surf town vibe.

From boutique shopping and incredible food trucks to stunning beaches and waterfalls , the North Shore attracts families, adventurers, hipsters, and more.

It’s one of the top Hawaii destinations on Oahu, so be sure to visit!

Read about the Best Things to do in Haleiwa

29. Coconut’s Fish Cafe

Hawaii has some of the freshest seafood and it should come as no surprise that they also have some of the best fish tacos.

Coconut’s Fish Cafe has the best fish tacos I’ve ever had in Hawaii. The tortillas are piled high with 17 ingredients, including fresh fish, vegetables, and an amazing mango slaw.

Their original location is in Kihei, Maui but they recently opened one on Kauai. It’s one of the top places to go in Hawaii for some ono fish tacos!

30. Toa Luau

One of the top things to do on a Hawaiian vacation is attend a luau. But, not all luaus are the same.

Toa Luau is one of the most authentic and intimate luau experiences on Oahu. It’s located inside Waimea Valley and your luau ticket gets you access to the park where you can swim at the base of a waterfall. Find the best prices here.

And the luau itself is incredible! Tons of hands-on activities, great food, and a wonderful family vibe. You can read my full Toa Luau review to see why it is Hawaii best places to visit for a luau.

Book your Toa Luau tickets

31. Akaka Falls

‘Akaka Falls is located inside the ‘Akaka Falls State Park in Hawaii. The state park is located along the northeastern Hilo Coast on the Big Island and is an awesome waterfall for families.

You can follow a paved, uphill path towards the waterfall, which is about half a mile long. It’s super easy to hike with kids .

It will take you about an hour to reach the end of the path, which is lined with lush greenery and beautiful scenery. Hiking is one of the fun Hawaii things to do with kids, and this hike is totally doable with kids of all ages!

Read my full post on Big Island Waterfalls

32. Honolulu Museum of Art

With tons of impressive art from Hawaii and Asia, the Honolulu Museum of Art is not to be missed.

Not only does the Honolulu Museum of Art have an extensive collection, but it’s also home to  Hawaii’s largest independent arthouse theatre.

And they offer educational programs and art classes for all levels of budding artists, gallery hunts for children, and special events like ARTafterDARK and Family Sunday which happen once a month throughout the year.

Read my full post on the Honolulu Museum of Art

33. Laniakea Beach (aka Turtle Beach)

Laniakea Beach , typically known as Turtle Beach, is along the North Shore of Oahu . It is famous for seeing the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles sunbathing along the sand and swimming in the ocean, making it another one of the best places to go in Hawaii for families.

You can also go snorkeling at the beach and watch the turtles in the water, along with other tropical fish. Turtles like the area because it has a lot of coral and rocks.

And there are volunteers on the beach who can tell you more about the turtles and answer any questions you might have.

Read my full post on Turtle Beach on Oahu

34. The Shops at Kukui’ula

One of the newest places to shop on Kauai is The Shops at Kukui’ula in Poipu.

It’s an open-air shopping center with local boutiques (like SoHa Living, Malie Organics, and Mahina) as well as incredible restaurants (like Kiawe Roots, Eating House 1849, and Merriman’s Fish House.)

What’s extra cool is they have great community events like the Kauai Culinary Market, Kanikapila at Kukui’ula, and a fabulous Happy Hour.

35. Koke’e State Park

Just up the mountain from Waimea Canyon on Kauai is picturesque Kokee State Park. There are tons of hiking trails and it’s a beautiful place to camp in Hawaii .

Many amateurs and rookie bird watchers will also tell you that Kokee State Park is a top bird-watching spot on Kauai .

36. Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa

If you are looking for a touch of Disney on your Hawaiian vacation, head straight for Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa . It’s a fabulous (but pricey) place to stay on Oahu.

If you don’t want to pay to stay there, you can still make reservations for their Disney Character Breakfast and get your photo with Disney characters as you enjoy Mickey waffles.

It’s one of the best places in Hawaii to vacation if you love Disney!

Read my full post about how to Maximize 2 Nights at Aulani Resort

37. Ted’s Bakery

Hands down, one of the most popular Haleiwa restaurants is Ted’s Bakery .

This is where you can get delicious full breakfasts and authentic Hawaiian-style Plate Lunch, perfect for taking to the beach.

But, they are most famous for their pies. The most popular flavors include Haupia (coconut cream), Chocolate Haupia, Macadamia Nut, and Pineapple Cheese.

You can get a slice to eat there or grab an entire pie to bring back to your hotel.

Want to make your own Hawaiian cream pie? Try my recipe for Chocolate Haupia pie !

38. Maui Tropical Plantation

Want to visit a real, working plantation in Hawaii? The Maui Tropical Plantation is set on 500 acres of farmland on Maui.

It used to be a sugar cane plantation, but now it grows more than 40 different crops.

They have a little tram ride through the plantation where families can taste different tropical fruit and learn more about Hawaii’s agricultural past.

Visiting here is another one of the fun things to do in Hawaii with your kids.

39. Lanai Cat Sanctuary

Did you know there’s a place in Hawaii where you can hang out with cats? The Lanai Cat Sanctuary has become a quirky tourist attraction.

Here, visitors are invited to volunteer for a few hours or a few days. It’s an easy day trip from Maui (and you can get transportation straight from the ferry terminal .)

40. Warehouse 3540

One of the coolest places to shop locally on Kauai is Warehouse 3540 . It’s located inside a warehouse in Lawai on Kauai’s South Shore and features some of the coolest local designers and food vendors.

This is where you can find adorable baby clothes, upcycled fashion, organic skincare products, home decor and so much more.

Plus, they have an incredible burger food truck and shave ice stand out front. And they offer story time for kids.

Read my full post about Warehouse 3540 on Kauai

41. Ulupalakua Ranch

Located at the base of Mt. Haleakala, Ulupalakua Ranch is one of the most beautiful places on Maui. The drive itself through Upcountry Maui is just breathtaking and unlike any other place in Hawaii.

Once you get there, stop off at the Ulupalakua Ranch Store & Grill for tasty, locally-grown food. Or walk across the street for wine tasting at Maui Wine.

This ranch is one of the fun locations in Hawaii to visit with your family.

42. Sea Life Park

Dreaming of swimming with dolphins? Head to Sea Life Park on Oahu for unbelievable dolphin, stingray, shark, and sea lion experiences.

This is perfect for families who want to learn more about Hawaiian sea life and make some once-in-a-lifetime memories!

Plus, they even have their own luau !

Read my full guide to Sea Life Park HERE . It is easily one of the best places to visit in Hawaii with family who love seeing the dolphins.

43. Haena State Park

Up at the very end of the Road on the North Shore of Kauai sits Haena State Park. Due to frequent flooding, it’s not always accessible, but when it is, it’s totally worth the drive.

This is the starting point for the extensive Kalalau Trail (and the less intimidating Hanakapiai Trail) on the Napali Coast. It’s one of the cool things to see in Hawaii if you get the chance!

Pro Tip: On the drive up to Haena State Park, you can stop off at the wet and dry caves, which is pretty cool.

44. Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice

For the best shave ice on Maui , look no further than Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice . They pride themselves on using real cane sugar and fresh fruit in their syrups, making it the best place to visit in Hawaii with family if you want some shave ice.

They have tons of great combinations and sometimes you can get your shave ice topped with fresh mochi!

Read more about Maui Shave Ice Spots

45. Kualoa Ranch

Are you a big fan of Jurassic Park or Lost ? Those are just a couple of things filmed right at Kualoa Ranch on Oahu . You can check them out on their movie tour .

But, that’s not all. They also offer zip lining , a jungle tour , horseback riding , an ATV tour , and more!

One of their most popular Oahu tours is the Kualoa Ranch ATV Raptor tour. You can read my full review HERE .

Plus, Kualoa Ranch is one of the prettiest places on Oahu and it’s a popular photo spot. If you like adventure, Kualoa Ranch is one of the best places to go in Hawaii.

46. Maui Ocean Center

If you are looking for a fun, half-day adventure on Maui, the Maui Ocean Center is perfect for families. They have lots of fish tanks, touch tanks, and one of the coolest walk-through aquariums.

This 3-acre marine park offers the largest tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere. It’s a great place to see indigenous fish, sharks, turtles, stingrays, and more!

They also offer amazing cultural demonstrations throughout the week. It’s the perfect place to go on a family trip to Hawaii.

47. Punaluu Black Sand Beach

Something high on most travelers’ Hawaii bucket lists is to see a black sand beach in Hawaii.

Punaluu Beach is located on the Big Island and is one of the best places in Hawaii to experience this natural phenomenon.

The black sand is made of basalt and it’s created when the lava flows into the ocean and explodes as it cools down.

It’s worth stopping, even if it’s just to snap a quick Instagram photo of your family in Hawaii.

48. Lahaina Town

Due to the fires in 2023, Lahaina is not going to be open and is definitely not like it used to be. Be respectful and wait as Lahaina Town rebuilds.

One of the most popular towns on Maui is Lahaina. It’s located on the West Shore and this is where you’ll find tons of boutiques, restaurants, and even some luaus.

It’s also full of historical and cultural sites. Plus, several incredible banyan trees.

And if you’d like to take a boat ride (either to snorkel at Molokini or for a romantic sunset cruise) Lahaina has one of the top marinas.

Read my Top Things to do in Lahaina

49. Duke Kahanamoku Statue

One of the most famous surfers in the world is Duke Kahanamoku. There is an enormous statue that stands right at Waikiki Beach.

What makes this statue extra special is that this is where people leave their fresh flower leis before they fly home. People are always adding leis and taking photos with Duke.

This is one of the most iconic spots in Waikiki and definitely one of the most popular places to go in Hawaii.

50. Merriman’s

And I have to end this list with the very best place to get a mai tai in Hawaii: Merriman’s .

My description won’t do it justice, but basically it’s an incredibly well-made mai tai that is topped with a lilikoi foam that takes it to the next level.

Thankfully, there are Merriman’s locations on Oahu, Maui, the Big Island and Kauai. So, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to try one for yourself!

And they also serve them at their sister restaurant the Monkeypod Kitchen. There’s one conveniently across the street from Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa!

Want to make it at home? Try my amazing Hawaiian Mai Tai recipe !

FAQs about the Best Places to Visit in Hawaii

It really depends on what you like to do. Oahu is full of tourist attractions and sights, Kauai is great for outdoor adventures, Maui has awesome luxury resorts , and the Big Island has cool volcanoes.

Anything you like! I suggest snorkeling , scuba diving , shopping, eating local food, surfing, relaxing on the beach, zip-lining, hiking, boat trips, etc.

Yes, Hawaii is one of the most expensive U.S. states and you will either need to fly or book a cruise to get there. But, we have lots of ways to visit Hawaii on a budget !

Usually, Oahu is the best island in Hawaii for kids, mainly because it is filled with tourist attractions and tons of fun things to do with kids in Oahu . However, Maui , Kauai , and the Big Island also offer tons of kid-friendly activities too!

Best Places to Visit Hawaii Wrap-Up

Now you know where to go in Hawaii with family for your next vacation! From the best cities to visit in Hawaii to the unique places to visit in Hawaii, you will find it all here in this guide.

I hope you enjoy these best places for families in Hawaii next time you go on your family trip.

Try to see how many Hawaii sites you can explore!

More Hawaii Travel Resources

There are SO many more cool places to visit in Hawaii and we cover a bunch of them on this website. Head to our pages on Oahu , Maui , Kauai , and the Big Island for the best things to do , places to eat , and places to stay in Hawaii.

The post 50 Best Places to Visit in Hawaii with your Family appeared first on Hawaii Travel with Kids .

The 59 Best Things to Do in Hawaii: Your Ultimate Bucket List (2024)

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

You’re ready for a trip to Hawaii and I can’t blame you! As you start piecing together your plan, you’re probably wondering exactly what there is to do in Hawaii. Lucky for you, there is so much to choose from! Hawaii is more than just amazing beaches (though it does have plenty of those).

Here we give you our top Hawaii bucket list items, broken down by island, so you can make sure you see it all.

Things to do in Hawaii: an overview

Hawaii is an archipelago of islands that stretch over 1,500 miles. There are eight main Hawaiian islands, but five that are most visited: Oahu, Maui, Hawai’i (the Big Island), Kauai, and Lana’i. We’ll cover the most popular things to do on each of these islands, but there are some themes for the most popular things to do in Hawaii:

The most popular attractions and things to do in Hawaii:

Visit the beaches.

Each island has spectacular beaches and you can find a range of beachgoing options. Shallow, protected beaches, black sand beaches, famous surfing beaches, Hawaii has it all. Check out the best beaches in Hawaii by island:

• Best Beaches Oahu
• Best Beaches Maui
• Best Beaches Big Island
• Best Beaches Kauai

Take in the waterfalls

In almost every advertisement for Hawaii, you’ll find picturesque waterfalls (and often, someone swimming in them). You can find accessible waterfalls on each island, though be sure to heed warning signs and only swim in them if you can determine they are safe. A number of waterfalls make this list below, our favorite being Twin Falls on Maui. 

See the sea life

The tropical fish, spinner dolphins, humpback whales, and manta rays offer a diverse range of sealife to discover and explore while on the island. Make sure to bring reef safe sunscreen to keep the coral reefs vibrant and safe. We have a number of amazing snorkeling tours listed below, including a tour to Molokini Crater , off the coast of Maui. 

Marvel at a volcano

The Hawaiian islands are volcanic islands, so one of the very unique things to do in Hawaii is to visit a volcano. Whether you are heading up for sunrise atop Haleakala Volcano, seeing the eruption at Kilauea on the Big Island, or star gazing from Mauna Kea, visiting a volcano will probably top your Hawaii bucket list. We have island-specific recommendations in the list below. 

Before you plan a trip to Hawaii, make sure you check out our Hawaii Trip Planning Tips . We keep this updated and it will give you the best, need to know information from people who have lived on both Oahu and Maui. We love Hawaii and we hope that we can help you love it as well. 

Things to do on Oahu

The Gathering Place. Oahu is not the largest island geographically, but it is home to the majority of the state’s population. While the skyscraper and traffic may not initially scream vacation mode, there is a reason most people choose to visit Oahu. From famous Waikiki Beach to the country living on the North Shore, Oahu has much to discover .  

1. Surf Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is well known for its surf break. The long, slow rolling waves are perfect to learn how to surf. You can take surf lessons ( check out our lesson video here! ) or grab a board for $20 for three hours from guys on the beach.

The surf breaks, starting on the Diamond Head side, are Publics, Queen’s, Canoes, Populars, Threes, Fours, Kaisers, and Rockpiles. You will easily see where everyone is surfing once you are on Waikiki Beach. 

If you have never surfed before then a surf lesson ( our favorite surf school is at Publics ) is highly recommended to get you started safely.

A good surfboard rental location is between the banyan tree and the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound and the Duke Kahanamoku statue. You will find local vendors renting out surfboards. Bring cash and look for the surf racks. 

Directions: Kuhio Beach Hula Mound, Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI

Grab our favorite reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreens before you head into the water for surfing and swimming at the beaches below.

2. Hike Diamond Head Crater

Diamond Head Crater Hike starts inside a 300,00-year-old volcano, about a 15-minute drive from Waikiki. A reservation for the Diamond Head hike is now required. The moderate 0.8-mile hike rises up 560 feet to an observation deck overlooking Waikiki and the east coast of Oahu.

Explore an old military bunker inside the volcano and take amazing photos of Waikiki. Rainbow views are possible with a morning hike. The gates open at 6:00 AM so come on over for those jetlagged travelers. We strongly prefer a morning reservation slot as you get fewer crowds and you beat the heat of the day.

Directions: Diamond Head Crater Trailhead

Diamond Head Crater Hike made our list of the 7 best easy hikes on Oahu .

3. Visit ‘Iolani Palace

The ‘Iolani Palace was the royal residence of the Kingdom of Hawaii. The palace had electricity and running water before the White House. Come to learn about the royal family, the forced overthrow of the kingdom, and Hawaiian history in this well-preserved, stately palace in the heart of Honolulu.

‘Iolani Palace is located in Historic Downtown Honolulu. Across from the palace, you will find Ali’iolani Hale, home to the state supreme court and the famous King Kamehameha The Great Statue. You can take a historical bike tour of this area or our favorite Pearl Harbor guided tour includes a tour of historic Honolulu.

Historic Downtown Honolulu gets bedazzled for Christmas. From parades to Christmas craft festivals, you will love Honolulu in December. See our Things to Do in Hawaii During Christmas . 

If you’re thinking of visiting Hawaii for a Christmas vacation, then you gotta read our 19 Tips to Plan Your Hawaii Christmas Vacation .

Directions: 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813

4. Enjoy the beautiful sunsets

Tantalus Look is the place to come for the sunset and amazing views of Waikiki and Diamond Head. Located 25 minutes (6 miles) from Waikiki, drive up a windy road to Pu’u Ualakaa State Park. Bring a picnic and a picnic blanket to sit on the lawn overlooking the grandeur of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. 

The sunset view is best during the winter but even during the summer, this is worth visiting.

Directions: Nutridge St, Honolulu, HI 96822

5. Learn more about Hawai’i at the Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum showcases exhibits on Polynesian culture and natural history. This is our favorite museum in Hawaii. Our kids love the science center where they can go inside a volcano and get hands-on with science. I enjoy the Polynesian voyaging exhibits and then heading to Highway Inn Cafe for a Hawaii plate lunch.

The Hawaii Hall alone is worth checking out with three wood floors featuring Hawaiian history. It reminds me of the great museums in London.

Directions: 1525 Bernice St, Honolulu, HI 96817

6. Pay your respects at Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Welcome to one of the most popular sites on Oahu ( this is the other one ). Pearl Harbor National Memorial brings thousands of visitors a day to pay their respects, learn about the air raid, and visit the historical sites. 

Pearl Harbor is 25-minutes away from Waikiki so it isn’t in Honolulu but I’ll keep it simple for this list. 

Hop in an Uber, Taxi, Lyft, or drive yourself to the visitor center. But, before you arrive make sure you make a reservation for t he USS Arizona Memorial. Reservations can be tough to get, especially during the busy holiday season and summer.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial is also handicap accessible. See our Handicap Accessible Hawaii Guide for more Oahu things to do!

You can skip the hassle of driving and getting a reservation by booking a guided Pearl Harbor and Historic Honolulu City Tour with our favorite local tour group. They will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel.

You can see a list of all of the best Pearl Harbor tours .

Bags are not allowed in the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Also, make sure to hop on the free shuttle to take you to Ford Island. Home of the Battleship Missouri Memorial and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum .

Directions: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818

7. Snorkel on the Waianae Coast

Head into the water and snorkel off the Waianae Coast. Leaving from Ko Olina, the Ko Olina Ocean Adventures team offers snorkeling tours two times per day and one sunset sail. We did the morning snorkeling adventure and it was great! We left from Ko Olina harbor first thing in the morning (it was an early wakeup for us since we were staying in Waikiki) and enjoyed the ride as we cruised up the coast. The water was calm and it was a great experience — even our four year old jumped in and snorkeled with us!

Check out their morning or mid-day snorkeling tours or their sunset sail .

If you happen to come during whale season , check out this s mall group whale watching tour up the Waianae Coast.

8. Visit charming Haleiwa Town

Haleiwa Town is the unofficial home base for the North Shore. We love this town for the food trucks, shave ice, and coffee shops. The art galleries and kayak and SUP in the river are also worth checking out.

Leave Waikiki in the morning so you can stop in Haleiwa for coffee at Haleiwa Cafe, Coffee Gallery, or Island Vintage Coffee (a chain but they have Kona coffee and good food). Then continue up the coast to do the things below. Come back to Haleiwa for lunch or dinner at a shrimp truck or food truck.

Stop at Kaimana Shave Ice and say, “ The Hawaii Vacation Guide brought you here .” You will save 10% on the freshest shave ice in Haleiwa. See our full list of coupon codes here .

Directions: Haleiwa, Oahu

9. Spend the day at Waimea Bay

Waimea Bay is hard to miss as you drive up the North Shore on Kamehameha Highway. The road turns to present the beautiful bay with the bell tower in the background. 

Waimea Bay is probably the best beach on the North Shore. The bay has two drawbacks. Parking is limited in the public parking lot and along the road. Waimea Valley and the church charge for parking which I’ve found very helpful. The other drawback is the bay is calm from May to September but should be avoided during the winter. Big waves and strong currents make it a dangerous place to swim.

Pack a lunch and enjoy a day of swimming and relaxing on the beach at Waimea Bay. You will find lifeguards on duty, showers, and restroom facilities.

If you’re looking for a waterfall swim while you’re on Oahu’s North Shore, go across the road from Waimea Bay to Waimea Valley for a waterfall swim in a botanical garden.

Directions: Waimea Bay Beach, North Shore, HI 96712

10. Go off-road at Kualoa Ranch

When we lived in Oahu, the Polynesian Cultural Center and Kualoa Ranch felt too touristy to be worth my time. I regret that decision because they offer such great tours. They are both good places to learn the history of the islands. 

Kualoa Ranch is known as the Jurassic Valley as Jurassic Park and Lost World movies were filmed in part here, plus dozens of other movies. The ranch is a working cattle ranch and farm full of wonderful employees who like to share their stories. 

Visitors to Hawaii make the drive to Kualoa Ranch for the popular tours below, but they have so many more to offer.

• Kualoa Ranch ATV tours
• Kualoa Ranch Zipline
• Malama Aina Tour
• Explore all Kuoloa Ranch Tours here

Directions: 49-560 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744

11. Hike Mokapu’u Beach and Lighthouse

Located on the far eastern tip of Oahu, Makapuu Beach and Lighthouse make for a nice morning out with the family. 

Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail is a paved walking path that takes you up to the top of the point, with views of Makapuu Beach, Manana Island Seabird Sanctuary, and coastal views of Oahu. 

If you have time, head down to Makapuu Beach. It is a tucked-in beach that is nice for relaxing. It is known for bodysurfing so be careful of the surf break.

Directions: Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail, Waimanalo, HI 96795

Want more? Check out all of our Oahu Things to Do articles: 

• 40 Things to do on Oahu (we will surprise you!)
• 23 of the Best Things to do on Oahu with Kids (from the Hawaii Vacation Guide Mom and Dad)
• Free Things to do on the North Shore of Oahu

Our 21 Things to do on Oahu Video

While we love writing about our experiences, some things are just better in video. Watch the video to see the best things to do on Oahu.

Planning an Oahu Trip?

Don’t waste your time — get our itinerary. 

We are going to Oahu, Maui, and Big Island over the course of 21 days, so I have loved your itineraries–seriously they are a must-have lifeline for planning a trip to Hawaii! I’m thankful for the opportunity to give a little back to your family through the itineraries and tour suggestions. Kim S.

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the oahu itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Oahu.

Things to do on Maui

Maui is a special place, and is my favorite island to recommend visiting. With the most swimmable beaches, great snorkeling, and the epicenter of whale watching in the winter, Maui is truly a special place to discover . 

12. Stroll through historic Lahaina

Lahaina Town was destroyed on August 8th, 2023 by a wildfire. The town is closed as it rebuilds but we are keeping this on our Best Things to Do in Hawaii list as we love Lahaina. It was our home for three years. See our Maui Travel Updates for travel advice on visiting West Maui.

Well known for the largest banyan tree in America at about 2 acres in size with 16 trunks, Lahaina also has shopping, restaurants, and a historic walking tour. The banyan tree survived the fire but lost some trunks in the process! Hawaii has the best arborists on the islands working on it.

Our full Lahaina Guide will show you where to eat, what to do, Lahaina’s best beaches , and where to stay .

13. Take a day trip to Lana’i

One of the great things about visiting Maui is its proximity to Lanai. After a quick 45-minute ferry ride, you can find yourself landing on a different island. A private island owned by a billionaire.

Explore Hulopoe Beach (one of the best in Hawaii), head to Lanai City for galleries and lunch, or hop in a Jeep to get to Shipwreck Beach. Lanai is worth a day trip . Our favorite 21 things to do Lanai will show you how to explore the island.

The ferry to Lanai currently leaves from Maalaea Harbor ( click for directions ). Get a round-trip ticket and off you go!

Currently, the ferry to Lanai is the only operating ferry between Hawaiian islands. See our Hawaii Island-Hopping Guide for tips on exploring more islands during your trip.

14. Go whale watching

Each winter, upwards of 10,000 humpback whales migrate from the waters of Alaska to Hawaii to mate, birth, and nurture their young. And the best island to visit for whale watching? Maui! The whales love the warm, shallow waters of the ‘Au ‘au channel, which is between Maui and Lana’i. 

If you’re visiting Maui between December and April, you’re in luck! This is the perfect time to see whales . While you can see them from the shore, it’s a special experience to be out on the water and enjoy seeing them from a boat. 

There are so many whale watching tours to choose from: a power raft, a catamaran, a big boat, or a kayak. We prefer the smaller boats. When it’s just Jordan and I, we head out on a power raft ( this is our favorite raft whale watching tour ), and when we take the kids, we choose a catamaran ( this is our favorite catamaran whale watching tour! ). 

Check our our full list of our favorite whale watching tours on Maui to find the best one for you. 

And don’t forget to read our full Maui whale watching guide before you go. 

15. Snorkel Molokini

Molokini Crater is a 200,000-year-old, crescent-shaped, p artially submerged volcanic crater that is located just 3 miles off the coast of Maui. It is a premier destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. The visibility in this crater is outstanding and it is one of our favorite places to snorkel on Maui. 

While you’re visiting Maui, there are several excellent snorkeling trips you can take, here are the 5 Best Molokini Snorkeling Tours . But one that is always at the top of our list is a snorkeling trip to Molokini. We have two favorite trips, depending on your boat preference. 

Our favorite trip to do as a family is a catamaran boat trip to Molokini with Kai Kanani . Their boat leaves directly from Maluaka Beach just south of Wailea. And their early morning trip gets you out there before any other boats, so you beat the crowds!

When it’s just Jordan and I out snorkeling, we love going out with Redline Rafting. This tour leaves from the Kihei Small Boat Harbor and they offer a 2 hour or 5 hour tour. Their 5-hour tour also does the back wall of Molokini, which is pretty special. Check out our full write-up and video on our Molokini snorkeling trip with Redline Rafting . 

16. Watch the sunset at Makena Cove

Secret Cove is the place to go for sunset, engagements, and wedding vow renewal in South Maui. This picture-perfect cove can be found through a narrow opening in a lava rock wall. 

We like to visit for sunset, family pictures, and whale watching in the winter. Find a reason to go to Makena Cove during your Maui vacation.

Directions: Makena Cove off Makena Road

17. Visit one of the best beaches in America

Kapalua Beach at Kapalua Bay is our favorite beach on Maui. The small, crescent-shaped bay has excellent snorkeling, standup paddleboard rentals at the beach, and a coastal walking trail. And we’re not the only people who think it’s amazing. Dr Beach named Kapalua Bay Beach the best beach in America in 2018.

Kapalua Bay is a good spot to see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles from shore or when snorkeling around the edges of the bay. The bay has gotten more popular in recent years so the public parking lot fills up fast. There is some street parking and paid parking at the tennis club.

Want more Maui snorkel spots with turtles? See our 11 Best Snorkel Spots on Maui .

Get everything you need to know about Kapalua Bay, including directions and parking . 

18. Eat at the food trucks

All of the islands have a good food truck scene, but the food truck options on Maui are by far the best. The variety is outstanding: local cuisine, seafood, thai food, gourmet food, it’s all here. While there are excellent restaurants on the island that are worth the work to get into (looking at you Mama’s), make sure you eat at least a couple of meals at a food truck. 

A few favorites you should prioritize going to: 

• Kitoko in Kihei (South Maui Gardens)
• South Maui Gardens in Kihei

Check out our favorite food trucks on Maui.  

19. Visit ‘Iao Valley State Monument

‘Iao Valley State Monument is home to the ‘Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot erosion feature in a magnificent valley. Come to walk the 0.6 miles to the observation deck, see waterfalls, explore the botanical garden, and learn the history of the decisive Hawaiian battle that made the river turn red. Confirm their opening hours and entrance fees here .

‘Iao Valley made our list of the best easy hikes on Maui .

20. Hike the Waihe’e Ridge Trail

Waihe’e Ridge Trail is one of our favorite moderate hikes on Maui. The 4 mile out and back hike takes you up a steep ridgeline to 1,600 feet. The trail can get muddy and slippery as you are now on the wet side of the island.

Enjoy the impressive views of the West Maui Mountains and the ocean as you make the climb. 

After your hike, take a break at ‘Ula ‘ula cafe. 

21. See the sea turtles and windsurfers at Ho’okipa Beach Park

Famous for sea turtles and windsurfing, Ho’okipa Beach Park makes for a nice day at the beach or come at sunset to see the sea turtles. After a long day on the Road to Hana, this is the place to unwind at sunset.

There is also Ho’okipa Lookout at the park. The lookout has sweeping views of the North Shore coastline, surfers down below, and windsurfers out on the deeper break.

22. Enjoy at waterfall swim

Twin Falls at Wailele Farms is a private waterfall hike along a stream. The stream has three major waterfalls that are all great swimming holes. The famous Twin Falls is the last one on the short hike. 

Wailele Farms manages and maintains the property. They also host a fruit stand with the best banana bread on Maui. To care for the ‘aina (land), they charge $10 for parking. The parking gets full quickly, so plan to either visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. This is a special spot, so make sure to treat it and it’s carers with respect. 

23. Tour a local farm

Possibly our favorite activity on Maui (or in Hawaii in general) is going on a farm tour. The agricultural diversity that you find here is amazing and there are so many small farms that are doing wonderful things with regenerative farming and taking care of the ‘aina (land). This might not be the first thing you think of when planning a trip to Hawaii, but make sure to put a farm tour somewhere on your list. 

Whether you want to see how coffee is grown and produced or you want to see a pineapple farm (one of two left in the US!), we have a list of our favorite farm tours on Maui . 

24. Visit Haleakala National Park

Maui erupted out of the sea from two volcanoes over a million years ago. Today, no trip to Maui is complete without seeing the summit of the dormant volcano Haleakala (House of the Sun). 

Haleakala National Park is best known for its sunrise tour (which lives up to the hype) but the National Park is also worth a day trip to see the endangered state bird the Nene, stand on the 10,023-foot summit, or hike into the crater for the adventurous travelers. 

We’ve enjoyed Haleakala at sunrise, sunset, and during the day and no matter when we go, we always have a wonderful time. You can see our sunrise experience in the video below and decide if a 2:30 am wakeup time is worth it for you! (and yes, we have a 10% discount code you can use on this same exact sunrise tour .)

Haleakala Sunrise or Sunset: When Should I Go?

25. Sip Maui Wine

MauiWine started making wine on the Ulupalakua Ranch in 1974. As the vines were ripening, they started making sparkling pineapple wine. It was a hit and today you can taste a selection of wines from The King’s Cottage tasting room.

Located at the end of Upcountry, we like to pair MauiWine with the farm-to-table cafe at the Ulupalakua Ranch Store. After a long day of exploring Upcountry Maui , grab a burger or sandwich from the ranch store and then head across the street for wine tasting.

26. Drive the Road to Hana

I hope I haven’t kept you waiting. The Road to Hana is one of the most popular things to do on Maui. We share our perfect day for exploring the Road to Hana in our Maui itineraries . But, we can’t help but share some of our favorite stops below. 

You can do the Road to Hana in one day with our tips , stay the night in Hana , drive straight to Hana and then do the stops on the way back, or drive the backway to Hana (video) . 

The only wrong way to do the Road to Hana is to park illegally, swim on private property, and not let locals pass. Yes, there is a Road to Hana etiquette as the road gets busy. We want this beautiful drive to stay open for years to come so stay safe out there.

Here is another one of our Road to Hana videos, this one showcases eight stops.

We have driven the Road to Hana numerous times but my favorite time was when someone else did the driving for me. 

A guided tour will secure the reservations at the black sand beach, take you for a waterfall swim, and stop at the best stops based on the time of year. Save 10% on our recommended, local Road to Hana tour guide .

27. Hike the Pipiwai Trail (with a bamboo forest)

The Pipiwai Trail is famous on social media for the pictures of the boardwalk through the bamboo forest. The trail is part of the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park. 

Located 10 miles (35 minutes) past Hana, the park is home to the Pipiwai Trail, Waimoku Falls, ‘Ohe’o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools), and camping. Plan about 2 hours to hike the easy to moderate Pipiwai Trail. The waterfall views and the walks through the bamboo forest are out of this world.

If you visited Haleakala National Park then keep your receipt as you can visit the Kipahulu District within three days without purchasing another ticket. 

Want more? Check out all of our Maui Things to Do articles: 

• 33 Things to do on Maui — leave the crowds behind
• 15 Amazing things to do in Upcountry Maui
• 68 Things to do on Maui with Kids
• Things to do on Maui on a budget

Our 21 Things to do on Maui Video

While we love writing about our experiences, some things are just better in video. Watch the video to see the best things to do on Maui. It’s our most popular video to date!

Planning a Maui Trip?

Our itinerary is all you need for a great trip. 

Our family thanks you and Erica for your itineraries and videos that we used on our recent trip to Maui and Kauai. They were most helpful for deciding what to see and how to schedule our time. Keep up the good work! Jeff and Debby M.

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the maui itinerary.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Maui.

Things to do on the Island of Hawai’i (the Big Island)

The largest, and youngest, of the Hawaiian islands, the Big Island offers some truly unique experiences. Whether you want to see an erupting volcano or sip coffee in Kona, there is something for everyone here. 

28. Visit Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

If you are looking for a unique experience that you’re only able to enjoy on the Big Island, a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is it. Encompassing two of the world’s most active volcanoes — Kilauea and Mauna Loa — the park is a UNESCO world heritage site with hiking trails, crater views, lava tubes, and sometimes, lava viewing. You could spend days exploring the park with scenic drives, wilderness adventures, and learning from the robust education at the visitors center. 

If you’re staying on the Kona side, it is possible to visit the park on a day trip, but for an even more immersive experience, consider staying overnight at Volcano House . Waking up to a view of Halema’uma’u Crater is an experience you won’t soon forget. 

Visiting an active volcano and the next item made our 12 Things You Can Only Do in Hawaii (intrigued?).

29. Night snorkel or dive with Manta Rays

If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure that you can’t get on any other island, head out for a night snorkel or dive with Manta Rays. Imagine jumping into the ocean when it’s pitch black and then having a “gentle giant” with a wingspan of up to 16 feet roll past you, inches from your face. It’s one of our favorite activities and something we do each time we head to the Big Island. 

Read our full Manta Ray Night Snorkeling guide and also check out our favorite Big Island tour operators , like Sea Paradise . 

30. Sample Kona Coffee

Coffee enthusiasts will love exploring the famous Kona coffee country. There are hundreds of coffee farms located around the island, and many of them offer public tours. Head into the hills above Kailua-Kona to take a farm tour, watch beans get roasted, and sample a fresh cup of coffee straight from the farm. Tours are usually free (and come with free samples) and you can take back a bag of your favorite roast to enjoy. 

Check out a full list of our favorite coffee farm tours on the Big Island . We’ve done so many, and these really stand out above the rest!

Not sure how to fit a coffee farm tour into your day? Our Big Island itinerary has an excursion day that combines a day of snorkeling with a trip to Kona Coffee Country. It leads you step-by-step through six carefully planned excursion days around the island — all you have to do is download and go! 

31. Go to Punalu’u black sand beach

The best black sand beach in Hawaii (in our opinion) is Punaluu Black Sand Beach . Located in the Puna District, it’s a great place to stop on the way to or from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. 

While this isn’t a great beach for swimming, the black sand is absolutely stunning, and you can often find Hawaiian green sea turtles hanging out on the sand. Enjoy the beach with food that you’ve picked up from Punalu’u Bake Shop . 

32. Snorkel Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook Monument

The Big Island has some spectacular snorkeling, but the best spot, in our opinion, is snorkeling near the Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay. There’s no sandy beach to relax on here, which adds to the great visibility (no sand means higher visibility). But this spectacular snorkeling spot isn’t easy to reach. To get there you need to take a boat tour, kayak, or hike. It’s well worth the journey, in our opinion.

Yes, Kealakekua Bay made our #1 spot in our top 5 snorkel spots on the Big Island . See the full list if you plan to snorkel during your visit.

Here are some of our favorite tours to help you reach this special snorkeling spot: 

• Catamaran snorkel in Kealakekua Bay
• Power Raft snorkel tour to Kealakekua Bay
• Guided kayaking and snorkeling to Kealakekua Bay

When you visit the bay, consider reading up on the historical significance of the bay and the resulting Captain Cook Monument. We share our favorite Hawaii history books in our 9 Ways to Have an Authentic Hawaii Experience .

33. See ‘Akaka Falls

Just 11 miles north of Hilo is the famous ‘Akaka Falls . The waterfall plunges 442 feet and is viewable from an easy to navigate 0.4 mile walking trail. The trail itself is beautiful as well, winding you through lush scenery and you make your way to the main event.  ‘Akaka Falls draws the crowds — it’s one of the most visited sites on the windward side of the island. But there’s a good reason for it: it’s a stunning sight that is easy to get to and view. 

34. Learn About the History at Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Located on the south Kona coast, Pu’uhonua O Honauanau is a spiritual sanctuary and was a place of refuge for Hawaiian lawbreakers. Until the 19th century, Hawaiians who broke the law (kapu) would be punished by death. The only way to avoid this fate was to make their way to Pu’uhonua, where their actions would be absolved by a priest. 

Learn about Hawaiian history at this 180 acre park that has been beautifully restored. Walk the self-guided trail (0.5 miles) or watch a cultural demonstration. You can also snorkel at the popular snorkeling spot “Two Steps” located just outside of the park. Plan your visit with the park’s website. 

35. Visit Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden

While you’re enjoying the beauty of the Hamakua Coast, soak in a little more nature and visit the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden. With over 1800 species of tropical plants, this is a wonderful spot for nature lovers. Take a walk through the gardens and enjoy waterfalls, ocean views, and the lovely sound of birds chirping. It’s pretty much a tropical paradise. 

Learn more about Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden . 

36. Go Ziplining at Umauma Falls

If you’re looking for a fun day out, get a view from above of waterfalls, suspension bridges, and a river while you zipline at Umauma Falls. While the zipline is incredibly fun (9 lines!), the scenery makes this spot so enjoyable. Stroll the gardens, kayak the river, or grab a coffee and just take in your surroundings. 

If you want to see more of the beautiful spot, check out a full review and video of the Umauma Zipline experience . 

37. Enjoy a hike and waterfall swim

When Jordan and I had a day to ourselves (thank, grandparents!), we headed straight for this tour. A guided tour to North Kohala, we were able to head onto private land for a hike and waterfall swim. It was stunning. Not only was it so nice to be legally off the beaten path, but we also learned so much from our guide. 

And the day ended with a beautiful, private, scenic lunch spot overlooking Pololu Valley. It was an experience for the memory book. 

See our full review of this waterfall swim and hike on the Big Island . 

Want more? Check out all of our Big Island Things to Do articles: 

• 21 Incredible Things to Do on the Big Island
• Thing to do in Kona with kids

Our 21 Things to do on the Big Island Video

While we love writing about our experiences, some things are just better in video. Watch the video to see the best things to do on the Big Island

Planning a trip to the Big Island?

I can’t tell you how much we have appreciated your effort with the guidebook.  We saw things this past week we would never have known to look for.  These hidden gems were amazing Chris P

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the big island itinerary.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Hawai’i (Big Island).

Things to do on Kauai

As the Garden Isle, Kauai gets the most rain. But with that rain comes rainbows, and some of the most lush rainforest landscapes you could ever dream of. When you step off the plane, and look up at those mountains, it’s hard to not feel as though you’ve been truly transported. Kauai is truly a tropical paradise . 

38. See the Napali Coast Wilderness Area

When you see pictures of Hawaii, they’re usually showing the Napali Coast. Napali Coast State Wilderness Park covers the northwest coast of Kauai. The cathedral cliffs along the ocean are remote, rugged, and romantic for honeymooners to hikers.

The coast is full of sea caves, waterfalls, and ancient Hawaiian villages. While most people explore this area via boat (see our favorite tours here ), you can hike into the wilderness area with a permit .

Directions: Napali Coast State Wilderness Park

I was fortunate to hike the Kalalau Trail (11 miles), swim to the Honopu Arch, and sleep on Kalalau Beach with friends years ago. It was one of my most memorable Kauai vacations. But exhausting. 

39. Visit Ha’ena State Park

Ke’e Beach is our favorite beach on Kauai. Located at the end of the Kuhio Highway, Ha’ena State Park is home to working lo’i kalo (taro patches), heiau (temple), trailheads for the Kalalau Trail and Hanakapi’ai Beach and waterfall, and the popular Ke’e Beach.

Ke’e Beach is a small bay tucked under towering cliffs. With a lifeguard on duty, showers, and restrooms, the beach is great for kids. The reef makes for a natural lagoon for snorkeling and swimming. But, during the winter the high surf makes this beach a no-go. 

Due to the popularity of Ke’e Beach, entry and parking reservations are required for access to the state park. Shuttle reservations are available.

You can hike a portion of the Kalalau Trail with your Ha’ena State Park entry fee. Hiking from Ke’e Beach to Hanakapi’ai Beach is 2-miles. You will be rewarded with amazing views of the coast and a sandy beach during the summer (not a good swimming beach due to strong currents). The waterfall hike is 8-miles roundtrip. 

40. Enjoy Hanalei Bay

Hanalei Bay has nearly two miles of beach and in the summer the water is as calm as can be. 

To swim at Hanalei Beach, we prefer to park on the east side of Hanalei Bay, near the Hanalei Pier and Black Pot Beach. From here you can get a great view of the bay and play on the pier. Directions below are to the public parking lot.

Beware in the winter, waves here get rough. There may be some days that the beach is closed and swimming here (especially with kids) is really only ideal in the summer. 

Hanalei Bay made our 7 Best Kid-Friendly Beaches on Kauai and 9 Best Beaches on Kauai for Swimming .

41. Take in the view from Hanalei Lookout

A quick stop when passing through Princeville on the way to Hanalei is Hanalei Valley Lookout. Pullover across the street from the Foodland grocery store to take in the grandeur of Kauai. 

The lookout is a panoramic view of the Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge and Kawaikini mountain range. The taro field patchwork with the mountains in the background is my favorite view on Kauai.

42. Visit the Kilauea Point Lighthouse

Located past the village of Kilauea is the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Many come for the short walk to the historic Kilauea Point Lighthouse built in 1913. As you are perched on 180-foot high cliffs, the views of the coast are wonderful but this place is really about the wildlife. 

Watch blue-footed boobies. The birds soar along the cliffs for a stunning experience. Hopefully get to see Hawaii’s state bird, the nene. Reservations are required to enter the refuge.

Directions: 3580 Kilauea Rd, Kilauea, HI 96754

43. Bike the Kapa’a Beach Bike Trail

Don’t miss the multi-use path that follows the coast along Kapa’a Town. Explore the beaches, enjoy views of the coast, and just take in the sun. You can rent beach cruisers and e-bikes in Kapa’a for a few hours to enjoy a relaxing ride.

We rented our bikes from Hele on Kauai in central Kapa’a. They are located 30-seconds off the beach path.

44. Kayak to Secret Falls

Perhaps no longer a secret waterfall, Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls) is only accessible via a kayak tour down the Wailua River. First, enjoy a leisurely kayak down the class 0 Wailua River. Then land the kayaks to go on a 3 mile round trip hike to the large waterfall. The hike was slippery and slightly challenging at times, but it was well worth it when we made it to the falls. We took our four year old with us on the long day trip (6 hour tour!) and he loved it. Our proud parents’ moment was he did almost the entire hike on his own. 

Learn more about the Wailua kayak and waterfall hike tour .

This easy kayak and hike tour is a great way to explore the Wailua River. Perhaps stay the evening to see the Fern Grotto and one of the best luaus on Kauai – Smith’s Family Luau .

45. Visit kid-friendly Lydgate Beach and Pond

This is one of our favorite beaches on Kauai for swimming . Lydgate Beach Park is a long beach that can have rough surf for swimming, especially during the winter, but there is the Lydgate Pond, which is a great option for everyone, including kids. 

The pond on the north end of the beach are protected from the waves by a large stone wall. The water is calm, there are large fish inside the pools for easy snorkeling, and the beach is sandy. There are lifeguards on duty, picnic tables, and lots of parking.

There is also a large, community playground called Kamalani Playground across from the pools. 

46. View Wailua Falls

Another Kauai waterfall that is easily accessible by car, Wailua Falls is located off the road on the south end of the Wailua River. The falls cascade into two streams that drop over 80 feet into a pool.

The best viewing is along the road, just before the parking lot for the falls. The size of the stream is dictated by the rainfall uphill. During our last visit, Kauai was hit by a tropical storm so the waterfall was roaring. 

Wailua Falls is known in pop culture as the opening scene in the television show Fantasy Island. Kauai is famous for most of the filming of Jurassic Park and other movies. You can go on a guided tour of Kauai’s famous movie and TV scenes, pickup is available at your hotel.

Directions: Wailua Falls Hawaii 96746

47. Go on a mountain tubing adventure

After a 4WD ride through a jungle, hop on a tube to float down a 100-year-old, hand-dug plantation canal system that will take you through caves and small waterfalls. This was an easy, leisurely tour that takes you into backcountry. You get to enjoy the nature in Kauai off the beaten path, legally. We really enjoyed this laid back tour. Get wet and have a blast!

This tour is Kauai’s only tubing adventure through irrigation canals. Read more about the Mountain Tubing Adventure here .

48. Stroll through historic Koloa Town

Established in 1835, the old plantation town is a walk down memory lane. Visit the Old Koloa Town Shops in plantation-era style, see the Old Sugar Mill Memorial, and have a local plate lunch.

We visit Koloa Town to grab food before hitting Poipu Beach to the south. Grab a plate lunch at Koloa Fish Market or one of the many food trucks. There are two food truck parks with award-winning food trucks in Koloa, see our Kauai Food Truck Guide for details.

Shave ice! South Shore Kauai is full of the best shave ice on Kauai. Visit The Fresh Shave or explore our other favorite shave ice on Kauai .

49. Hike the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail

The Maha’ulepu Heritage Trailhead starts at Shipwreck Beach. The easy-to-moderate hiking trail follows the coast along dunes, under kiawe trees (wear closed-toed shoes), and cliffs.

The trail is significant for being one of the last undeveloped spots along the South Shore. Also, this is a sacred place so leave only footprints behind.

50. Spend the day at Poipu Beach

If you’re looking for a thing to do on Kauai, this is more than a beach. 

Not only does the beach have calm waters (heavier surf during the summer) and is beautiful with two crescent-shaped bays, it has a playground that kept our son entertained when he was done playing in the sand. 

There are lifeguards on duty, picnic tables, limited shade, showers, and restrooms at the beach.

Plus, there’s a deli right across the street so whatever food or drink you need is easily accessible.

Poipu Beach does get busy so don’t expect a secluded beach day. Walk over to Brenneck’s Beach as that is less busy and known for bodyboarding. 

Quick Tip: Never turn your back on the Pacific. While the waters may look calm, don’t let your guard down. Keep your body facing the waves so one doesn’t sneak up on you.

If you stay for sunset, expect serious crowds. Not only is this a great place to take in the sunset, you’ll also find monk seals and sea turtles coming ashore during this time. Remember that these are both federally protected animals, so giving them space on the beach or in the water is important. 

51. Take a Napali Coast Boat Tour

Finally, let’s talk about Napali Coast tours. The most popular thing to do on Kauai and for good reason. We included this in our 3-can’t-miss Kauai activities video . 

Best viewed from a boat, the Napali Coast is a stretch of sea cliffs full of waterfalls, ancient Hawaiian fishing villages, sea arches, sea caves, and stories told by captains and crews. 

Go on a snorkel tour , power raft and snorkel tour , helicopter tour , or a sunset dinner cruise . Just make sure you get out there to see the coast. 

Most tours leave from Port Allen in Eleele on the West Side. Only a select few, like this power raft and snorkel tour , leave from Hanalei Bay during the summer (when the waves aren’t quite as big and strong).

52. Waimea Canyon State Park

Another popular thing to do on Kauai is Waimea Canyon State Park . Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, incorrectly attributed to Mark Twain, the stunning canyon is full of waterfalls, lookouts, hiking trails, views of Ni’ihau island, a scenic drive. 

Parking and entrance fees are now required, and paid on site. Enjoy half a day to a full day here to explore the area.

We like to drive up the canyon to stop at Red Dirt Waterfall, lookouts, and finally to the top which turns into Koke’e State Park with Kalalau Valley Lookout. 

Want more? Check out all of our things to do on Kauai articles: 

• 35 of the best things to do on Kauai
• 24 things to do on Kauai with kids

Our 21 Things to do on the Kauai Video

While we love writing about our experiences, some things are just better in video. Watch the video to see the best things to do on the Kauai

Planning a trip to the Kauai?

We returned home from our family vacation to Kauai on Monday, and wanted you to know how helpful your Wayfinder Itinerary was.  We used it throughout the trip and it never failed us – thank you for providing such a thorough and thoughtful guide.   We are certain to return – hopefully to other islands – and will once again rely upon your insights and advice. Mary B.

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the kauai itinerary.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Kauai.

Things to do on Lana’i

Famous for its billionaire owner , Lana’i is quiet, yet far from boring. 

53. Snorkel Hulopoe Beach

Located on the Manele-Hulopoe Marine Life Conservation Area, you will find one of the best beaches in America, as ranked by Dr. Beach . We love this beach for the lack of crowds, amazing and large marine life, and things to do around the beach itself.

Hulopoe Beach is well known for snorkeling. The pristine reef and protected bay make for great visibility. Always check ocean conditions before you venture out as there can be strong currents and high surf. 

We find Lanai to be better than Molokai for secluded snorkeling.

The gold sand beach is excellent for walking or just relaxing under the sun. 

Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins rest in the bay so encounters are common. Per NOAA law, you can’t swim or approach the dolphins within 50 yards. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy watching their acrobatic spins. 

• Restroom facilities
• Picnic tables and BBQ grills
• No lifeguard on duty

54. Walk to Sweetheart Rock

​​A short 10-minute walk past the Keiki Tide Pool is Sweet Heart Rock. The landmark is a beautiful addition to the coast. It is named Sweet Heart Rock as it is in the shape of a heart and legend says a heartbroken warrior jumped from this 80-foot summit, rising from the sea, overcome with grief after his princess wife’s passing. 

55. Visit Lana’i City

No trip to Lanai is complete without exploring the historic plantation town of Lanai City. Located 17-minutes from Manele Small Boat Harbor, the planned community is home to Lanai’s 3,000 residents. 

While a shuttle is required to get to Lanai City, once you arrive you will find a walkable town village. The quaint town has the large Dole Park with a playground at its center.

While the bowling alley has been converted into a community center, you will find restaurants, cafes, and art galleries surrounding the park.

Lanai City is a small town so check operating hours if you’re set on having lunch or dinner. Many places close in the afternoon.

We like to go to Lanai City for the local restaurants, coffee, and a little shopping. Below are our favorite places.

Lanai City Restaurants

• Blue Ginger Cafe: a great no-frills breakfast and lunch spot for local eats and fresh baked goods.
• Pele’s Other Garden Deli: Italian fare set in a retro diner, this mom and pop deli is open for lunch and gets more lively at night.
• Coffee Works: located a block from Dole Park, enjoy excellent coffee and pastries in this bohemian cafe.
• Ganotisi’s Pacific Rim: Opened in 2022, they offer plate lunches, burgers, fish and chips, and sandwiches. This is the new, popular place to eat in town.
• Richard’s Market: one of two grocery stores in town, you can find picnic supplies here, fresh poke, and drinks for wherever you plan to explore.

Lanai City Shops

• The Local Gentry: full of cute Lanai souvenirs, clothing, and artwork.
• Mike Carroll Gallery: the local art gallery and artist is known for its art and hospitality
• Lanai Hula Hut: a little blue shop featuring Lanai clothing and souvenirs

Lanai City Attractions

• Lanai Culture & Heritage Center (temporarily closed): at the top of Dole Park, explore Lanai displays and find events that showcase the local community.
• Lanai Theater: derelict since the 70s, Larry Ellison transformed this movie theater into a state-of-the-art venue with luxury seating. He planned to start a film festival but local residents now get to enjoy it!

Explore the Town! Sit in Dole Park, walk amongst the historical churches, check out the old courthouse and jail, and walk the neighborhoods to appreciate the plantation architecture. Lanai City is a little city lost in time.

56. Drive to Shipwreck Beach

Located over 30-minutes (9 miles) northeast of Lanai City is one of Lanai’s most interesting things to do. Travel time varies based on road conditions. 

The scenic and windy drive down the side of Lanai’s extinct volcano will land you on the edge of Shipwreck Beach. Park the car and walk the 8-mile beach and rocky coastline to explore more shipwrecks. 

At least a dozen vessels have been intentionally stranded or accidentally sunk on along the hazardous north shore coast of Lanai. 

The prominent rusting hulk of a YOGN-42 navy fuel barge can be seen beached on the reef. It isn’t a Liberty Ship, but a fuel tanker made of concrete and steel. The concrete hull is why it is still there today.

I wouldn’t recommend swimming here as strong currents and high surf make this a dangerous place to enter the water. You will feel the remoteness of Lanai when you visit this beach.

57. Visit the Lana’i Cat Sanctuary

Some would say this is the most popular attraction on Lanai. The Lanai Cat Sanctuary is a well-designed and well-run cat sanctuary built to shelter the large homeless cat population that was on Lanai. 

Since opening in 2006, they have saved over 3,000 cats. By sheltering feral cats, they have saved countless native and endangered ground-nesting sea birds on the island. 

Open daily, come over to frolic and play with some of the 600+ cats. Admission is free but donations are welcomed!

They are located 5 minutes from Lanai Airport. 

58. See a Volcanic Rock Garden

Take a rough ride 45-minutes from Lanai City to see a volcanic rock garden. 

As the Hawaiian Tourism Authority explains the legend of this area:

“According to Hawaiian lore, this windswept landscape is the result of a contest between two kahuna (priests) from Lanai and Molokai. Each was challenged to keep a fire burning on their respective island longer than the other, and the winner’s island would be rewarded with great abundance. The Lanai kahuna, Kawelo, used every piece of vegetation in Keahiakawelo to keep his fire burning. The landscape is the way it is due to the introduction of ungulates and subsequent erosion.” – Hawaii Tourism Authority

Located on the top of a hill, you can see Oahu and Molokai on a clear day.

59. Take a snorkeling trip to Lana’i

If you’re not up for a full Lana’i trip, head to the island on a snorkeling trip. We have loved our snorkeling tours out to the island. While these tours don’t let you explore the island, you still get to experience the marine life out there. We’ve seen a pod of spinner dolphins on our way out, and have enjoyed a few different snorkeling spots off the coast. 

Watch our experience on our Lana’i snorkeling trip: 

Don’t Leave Home Without These

Coming to Hawaii is an expensive trip — don’t leave it to chance. We’ve done all the hard research for you and compiled it all into a concise itinerary . For less than the cost of a round of Mai Tai’s, you’ll get your trip planning done for you. 

Cruising Hawaii Guide

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

Similar Posts

Which Hawaiian Island Should I Visit?

The 15 Best Things to do in Kapalua and Napili

Best 40 Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii (the list + map you need)

11 Best Big Island Beaches You Need to Visit (+ map!)

8 Must-Know Details on Visiting Maui After the Fires

How Dangerous is Driving on Maui? 13 Tips to Drive with Aloha

This is the most comprehensive Hawaii vacation planning resource on the internet!

TOP RESOURCES

• Join Our Newsletter
• Hawaii Itineraries
• Tours & Activities
• Top Travel Gear
• Discount Car Rentals

ISLAND GUIDES

• Planning A Trip To Hawaii
• Oahu Island Guide
• Maui Island Guide
• Hawai’i (Big Island) Guide
• Kauai Island Guide

Your use of the information provided in our Content, Itineraries, Site, and Services is for your informational purposes only and is subject to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. Your use of the information described in, your participation in activities presented in, and/or your engagement of any Travel Service Providers presented in our Content, Itineraries, Site, and/or Services may carry the risk of illness, bodily injury, disability, death, or property damage. You voluntarily and freely assume all risks and dangers that may occur pursuant to your access, use, purchase, or participation in any information, activity, good, or service described in our Content, Itineraries, Site, and Services or provided by any Travel Service Providers.

Don’t start planning without our cheat sheets

You’ll get:

• 4 can’t-miss activities on each island,
• a map with the main sights in town,
• and famous local grindz (eats)!

Review Cart

No products in the cart.