Hawaii attractions

Within Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline on Oahu’s Windward Coast, the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a popular hike ending at the historical red-roofed Makapu’u Lighthouse, built in 1909. Though the lighthouse is not open to the public, the moderately challenging hike attracts travelers and locals alike for its stunning coastal views.

It’s no wonder Kauai is nicknamed the Garden Isle. In the center of the island sits Mt. Waialeale, one of the wettest places on Earth. Beautiful jungle expanses characterize this emerald mountain and a massive cliffside dubbed the Weeping Wall, where countless waterfalls rush to their depths. Movie buffs, take note: Areas near the mountain were used as a backdrop for some of the scenes in Jurassic Park.

Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers visitors a front-row seat to the region’s striking natural beauty. Home to everything from lush rainforest and the Halemaumau Crater to lava tubes and rolling black lava fields—where hot steam still rises from fissures and rifts that dot the rugged landscape—Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must on the Big Island.

Hanauma Bay's clear waters, surrounded by volcanic rock, are home to a vast array of tropical fish and coral reefs. Once used by the Hawaiian royal family for fishing and entertaining, the bay is now part of Hanauma Bay State Park, one of Oahu’s top attractions. In addition to snorkeling, visitors to the bay can sunbathe and relax on its wide sandy beach.

Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Banzai Pipeline, also known as Pipeline or Pipe, is one of the most famous surf reef breaks in the world, known for its massive barreling waves that break over shallow reefs. Every winter, visitors flock here to watch some of the best surfers in the world ride and compete on Pipeline.

Constructed in 1963 to commemorate the centenary of the first Japanese arrivals, Byodo-In Temple is a popular place for Buddhist communities from both Hawaii and Japan to celebrate together. A replica of a temple in Uji, Japan, the landmark is a testament to the island’s strong Japanese community. The temple is also a peaceful place to meditate or just wander its manicured grounds.

Located on the east coast of Oahu, Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts is set in the shadow of the Koʻolau Range. Having started as a roadside stand, today you’ll find a family-owned shop that sells locally grown macadamia nuts and products. A regular stop along many circle-island tours, and equally popular among locals, a visit here offers a unique and delicious taste of Hawaii.

The USS Arizona Memorial floats above the wreckage of the USS Arizona—a United States battleship that was attacked in Pearl Harbor during World War II. Today, the memorial commemorates the final resting place of those who perished there and features a marble wall etched with the names of those who served onboard. It also has openings looking down through the water to the sunken battleship below.

Situated on the northern end of Hawaii’s Big Island, Waimea (aka Kamuela) is the center of Hawaiian cowboy (paniolo) country. This historic area is filled with rolling green hills, endless open pastures, and spectacular valleys. With its fabulous scenery, bucolic vibes, and great local food, Waimea is one of the Big Island’s top tourist towns—it’s also the island’s north side hub.

Waikiki, where most vacations in Hawaii begin, is everything all at once: white sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, high-rise resorts, world-class shopping, top-notch dining, Native Hawaiian culture, and excellent surfing. The center of Hawaiian hospitality and full of aloha spirit, it’s no wonder this one-time retreat for Hawaiian royalty continues to be an oasis for visitors from across the globe.

Renowned for its powerful shore breaks, Sandy Beach Park is one of Oahu’s most popular bodyboarding destinations. However, it is colloquially known as “Break Neck Beach” for good reason, so novices should avoid the beach’s treacherous waters and soak up the sun on its long stretch of fine white sand.

Kauai’s impressive Waimea Canyon—at 14 miles (22.5 kilometers) long, 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) wide, and 3,600 feet (1,097 meters) deep—is Hawaii’s version of the Grand Canyon. Stop along the scenic drive on its winding rim road for panoramic views of a far-below river, awe-inspiring drop-offs, and waterfall-lined crevasses, all a short distance from the Garden Isle’s legendary Na Pali Coast.

Home to hidden sea caves and the volcanic black-sand Paʻiloa Beach, Waiʻanapanapa State Park is one of the jewels of Maui’s Road to Hana. Located just outside of Hana at the end of the extraordinarily scenic Hana Highway, the park’s lava tubes, coastal hiking trails, and ancient burial sites are a welcome reward for those who make the long and winding drive.

At first glance, Paia might seem like nothing more than a stop along the famous Road to Hana (Hana Highway), but for keen surfers (and those who like to watch them), it’s a major destination—the central hub of the North Shore and its world-renowned surf breaks. The town is filled with all the amenities that go along with the surfer lifestyle, from health food markets and homely burger joints to yoga studios and art galleries.

One of the most popular waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii, Rainbow Falls is loved for its easy access and the rainbows that frequently hang over the falls on misty mornings. The Wailuku River, which powers the falls, varies dramatically based on rain, but this 80-foot (24-meter) cascade and its uber-lush environs wow visitors whether it’s a thundering torrent or delicate trickle.

The marine sanctuary of Kealakekua Bay ranks among Hawaii’s most scenic spots for snorkeling, swimming, hiking, and more. But you’ll also find it in history books: The beautiful bay, home to spinner dolphins and backed by lush-green mountain slopes, was the site where Captain James Cook landed—and was later killed—on the Big Island in 1779, forever altering the future of the Hawaiian archipelago.

Immerse yourself in the diverse cultures of the islands of Polynesia at the Polynesian Cultural Center, located on the North Shore of Oahu. Here, you can embark on a journey across the Pacific. Paddle a canoe, throw a spear, and marvel at the thrilling talents of a cast of traditional dancers and musicians while savoring island cuisine—all without leaving Hawaii.

Puaʻa Kaʻa State Wayside Park, nestled just off the famed Hana Highway (around mile marker 22.5), offers travelers a refreshing rainforest stop on the Road to Hana. This compact rest area features a paved trail that leads to a scenic waterfall and plunge pool framed by lush tropical foliage. With picnic tables and restrooms, it’s a convenient and relaxing stop for those seeking a break in nature without straying far from their journey.

Kualoa Ranch is an adventure playground and highlight for Oahu travelers. Stretching from the Koolau Mountains to the sea, the 4,000-acre (1,619-hectare) cattle ranch is one of the largest tracts of accessible nature on Oahu. The property spans several verdant valleys and offers everything from ATV rides and zipline adventures to film-location tours.

Stretching into the calm waters of Kailua Bay, this expansive pier is a launch point for ocean tours and a scenic place to take in the coast. It also offers some of the best views of Kamakahonu, the former seaside residence of King Kamehameha I, located just a short distance away. Whether you’re heading out on the water or enjoying a sunset stroll, Kailua Pier is a natural gateway to Kona’s history and beauty.

Iolani Palace is the United States’ only official royal residence, located in the heart of Honolulu. Restored to its 19th-century grandeur, the palace showcases richly furnished staterooms, private suites, and the room where Queen Liliʻuokalani was once imprisoned. Whether you're interested in Hawaiian history or exploring Oʻahu’s cultural landmarks, it’s one of the most immersive and meaningful sites on the island.

The Mauna Kea Summit and Observatory is a top destination for stargazing. Located on Hawaii’s tallest mountain at 13,796 feet (4,138 meters), the observatory information center is a highlight of many visitors’ trips to the Big Island of Hawaii. Here, you can see some of the world’s largest telescopes, including equipment from Canada, France, and the University of Hawaii.

Located on the north shore of Oahu, Waimea Bay is one of the most iconic spots on the island. The birthplace of big wave surfing still draws expert surfers chasing epic surf in the winter. Over the summer, Waimea Bay is a popular and family-friendly beach with calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Standing before Ali’iolani Hale (home to the Hawaii State Supreme Court), the King Kamehameha Statue is one of Oahu's most photographed landmarks. This 18-foot (5.4-meter) bronze statue honors Kamehameha I, the first ruler of the Hawaiian Kingdom who united the islands in 1810 after years of conflict.

Lush bamboo forests, a massive banyan tree, and a 400-foot (122-meter) waterfall are the highlights along Pipiwai Trail, a scenic hiking route and worthwhile detour off Maui’s Road to Hana (Hana Highway). Set in the remote Kipahulu District of Haleakalā National Park, the moderately challenging trail takes you about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) round-trip to the base of Waimoku Falls.

One of Maui’s first resort towns, Kaʻanapali offers high-rise hotels lining idyllic white-sand beaches—the most famous among them being Kaʻanapali Beach. While not as remote as other West Maui beaches, this long stretch of coastline is a hub for activities on both water and land. Most visitors come for swimming and cliff-diving, though you can also stay busy with shopping, golfing, and ziplining—plus whale-watching and a host of water sports.

Kauai’s capital city and gateway to all island adventures, Lihue is located on the eastern coastline and is home to both the main cruise port and the only commercial airport. The city is also Kauai’s primary shopping destination and boasts several historic spots, such as the Kilohana Plantation and the Kauai Museum. Kalapaki Beach, located just north of Lihue, is one of the island’s top sunbathing spots.

Oahu’s Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout offers panoramic views of the Ko‘olau Mountains. The windy perch, more than 1,000 feet (300 meters) above Oahu’s Windward (northeast) coastline, also overlooks Kaneohe, Kaneohe Bay, Kailua, and the island of Mokoli‘i. In the late 1700s, the viewpoint was the scene of a bloody battle won by King Kamehameha I.

Tucked inside the lush Kipahulu district of Haleakalā National Park, ʻOheʻo Gulch is a scenic series of tiered waterfalls and freshwater pools fed by mountain streams. Also known as the Seven Sacred Pools, this remote valley is a favorite stop on the Road to Hana for its natural beauty and cultural significance. Surrounded by bamboo forests and rugged cliffs, it offers a chance to stretch your legs and experience Maui’s rugged, unspoiled landscape.

The untouched, white-sand beach and crystal clear waters found at Lanikai Beach are renowned for their beauty. Away from the crowds of Waikiki and Hawaii’s North Shore, Lanikai (known locally as Kaʻōhao Beach) sits on Oahu’s eastern shore. Locals frequent this hidden paradise that features striking turquoise waters and picture-perfect views. It consistently ranks among the world’s most beautiful beaches.