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I’ve been to Hawaii twice—first with friends in September 2017 for 14 days, and later with my husband in April 2024 for 3 days. On my first trip, I explored Oʻahu, the Big Island, and Maui. On my second trip, my husband had planned to propose in Kauai, but rainstorms kept us indoors watching Miyazaki movies instead. Thankfully, we also visited Oʻahu where the skies were clear, and he proposed at the end of the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail with sweeping views of the coastline. Both trips were filled with unforgettable moments, but here are my top picks:
1. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (Big Island)
Why Visit:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes—Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.
Highlights:
- Kīlauea Caldera → if conditions allow, you might catch glowing lava or dramatic steam vents.
- Nāhuku Lava Tube → walk through a massive tunnel carved by ancient lava flow.
How to visit:
My friend and I joined a small group day tour, which included hiking trails, lava fields, and a native forest walk. Our guide also explained the history and native plants of the island—something we would have missed exploring on our own.
2. Pipiwai Trail (Maui)
Why Visit:
This 3.4-mile roundtrip hike inside Haleakalā National Park takes you past lush greenery, into a surreal bamboo forest, and ends at the stunning 400-foot Waimoku Falls.
Highlights:
- See the giant banyan tree early on the trail.
- Stroll through towering bamboo stalks.
How to Go:
The trail is part of Haleakalā National Park. You can pay at the entrance or use a National Park Pass.
3. Waipiʻo Valley (Big Island)
Why Visit:
Known as the “Valley of the Kings”, Waipiʻo was once the political and religious center of Hawaiʻi Island and home to many Hawaiian chiefs. It also offers one of the most dramatic landscapes in Hawaiʻi.
Highlights:
- Waipiʻo Valley Lookout → sweeping views of the valley and coastline.
- Waipiʻo Black Sand Beach → made from volcanic sand and where the Wailoa River meets the ocean.
- Hiʻilawe Falls → one of Hawaiʻi’s tallest waterfalls, visible only from the valley floor.
How to Go:
The lookout is easy to access by car. However, the steep hike into the valley is now closed for safety reasons. To access the valley floor for the beach / trails, you’ll need to join a permitted guided tour.
4. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (Oʻahu)
Why Visit:
Formed in a volcanic crater, Hanauma Bay is a protected marine sanctuary famous for snorkeling. Its calm, clear waters are filled with vibrant coral and colorful tropical fish.
Highlights:
- Snorkel among schools of fish in shallow reef waters.
- Stop at the crater rim for a panoramic view before heading down.
How to Go:
To protect the reef, Hanauma Bay is closed Monday and Tuesday and you’ll need to reserve tickets in advance. Reservations open 2 days before and sell out quickly. We did this as part of a north shore day tour (no longer offered) for easier logistics, but there are other tours on Viator that offer guaranteed entry.
5. Explore Different Beaches
Why Visit:
Each island has its own gorgeous beaches. Whether you’re after relaxation, adventure, or unique scenery, there will be a great option for you.
Highlights:
- Wailea Beach (Maui) → golden sand and calm waters, perfect for sand castles and swimming.
- Waimea Bay (Oʻahu) → legendary big-wave surfing spot.
- Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach (Big Island) → iconic black sand beach with green sea turtles basking on shore.
How to Go:
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, as it’s required by Hawaiian law to protect the coral reefs. I discovered this Hawaiian Tropic sunscreen the first time I went to Hawaii and have been using it ever since!
Planning a trip to Hawaii? Check out my top 5 tips to make the most of your visit.