top 10 tourist attractions in hawaii

Hawaii’s warm weather and the tranquil environment of its Pacific islands make the state truly special. These islands, located atop massive volcanoes rising from the sea, feature diverse and stunning natural landscapes, ranging from the dry lunar surface of Kilauea volcano to lush forests filled with exotic flowers.

Waterfalls cascade down the slopes of the mountains along the Napali Coast like tears, and ancient rivers have carved deep into the rock of Kauai Island to create Waimea Canyon. The Big Island boasts an active volcano, while Oahu is home to Pearl Harbor and its rich history.

Surrounded by the vast Pacific Ocean, which is home to abundant marine life, Hawaii offers endless opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, or swimming after basking in the sun. However, the most special part of these islands is the people, whose warm hospitality truly makes you feel like you’re in paradise.

On This Page:

• 1. Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head State Monument, Oahu
• 2. Papohaku Beach Park, Molokai
• 3. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Oahu
• 4. Iao Valley State Monument, Maui
• 5. Maui Ocean Center, Maui
• 6. Haleakala National Park, Maui
• 7. Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kauai
• 8. Mauna Kea, Hawaii
• 9. Waipio Valley Lookout, Hawaii
• 10. Hamakua Heritage Corridor, Hawaii

1.Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head State Monument, Oahu

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Waikiki, with its picturesque beaches, is Hawaii’s most significant tourist attraction. A suburb of Honolulu, Waikiki is popular for its large resorts, dining, entertainment, and shopping.

The Waikiki Historic Trail features historical markers inspired by Duke Kahanamoku, Waikiki’s own Olympic gold medalist swimmer and skilled surfer.

The boardwalk known as Waikiki Beach Walk is lined with cafes and entertainment centers, while most of the area’s restaurants and boutiques are found on Kuhio and Kalakaua Avenues.

The Diamond Head State Monument is located at the end of the crescent-shaped beach, creating a unique coastal silhouette. Once an important observation point for island coastal defense, climbing the steep path to the summit reveals old bunkers and cannon control stations, rewarding your effort with stunning panoramic views.

2. Papohaku Beach Park, Molokai

On Hawaii’s main islands, it’s nearly impossible to find a sandy beach without other sunbathers, swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts. But on Molokai, those seeking solitude can find it at Papohaku Beach: a three-mile stretch of white sand with a width of 100 yards, usually with only a few people scattered along the shore.

This beach spans over 10 acres on the island’s west side, and visitors will find amenities at Papohaku Beach Park at the northern end of the beach. Although there are no lifeguards, public restrooms, showers, and picnic sites are available.

Those planning to swim or play in the water should exercise caution and pay attention to signage and current conditions. Additionally, it’s best to avoid going into the water during the winter months as it can be dangerous.

3. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Oahu

Formed within the crater of a volcano on Oahu Island, Hanauma Bay is a unique protected cove that has long been popular for snorkeling. Due to overuse, pollution, and damage to its delicate reef ecosystem, the cove suffered, but through restoration efforts, it has regained much of its original beauty and is once again open to visitors.

The Hanauma Bay Education Center is an excellent place to learn about the cove, and there are several snorkeling rental shops that offer lessons so visitors can view the amazing reef system and its inhabitants up close.

Once popular for feeding tropical fish with frozen peas, this practice is no longer allowed. Additionally, to protect the area for future generations, all first-time visitors are required to watch a nine-minute video on marine life, safety rules, and conservation.

Equipment rentals, such as life jackets and snorkeling gear, are available at the park’s kiosk. Securing a spot in the parking lot can be challenging as the 300-car lot fills up quickly, especially in winter. There is an entrance fee for visitors aged 12 and older, though Hawaii residents can enter for free.

4. Iao Valley State Monument, Maui

The centerpiece of this renowned sanctuary is a 2,215-foot rock on Maui Island, known as the Iao Needle. Visitors will find well-preserved trails leading to the Needle and the nearby dramatic black cliffs of Pali’ale’ale’.

In addition to its unique shape and geological features, the site is rich in cultural and spiritual significance. Legend has it that the demi-god Maui created the Needle while turning his lover into stone. The legend also warns that Iao Valley is the residence of spirits and gods.

Due to the valley’s location, paths may become obstructed after rainfall, so it’s advisable to check local conditions before heading to the monument.

5. Maui Ocean Center, Maui

The Maui Ocean Center offers visitors a chance to get an up-close view of what lies beneath the ocean’s surface and learn about the unique marine life and ecosystems around Hawaii.

The centerpiece of the aquarium is the massive Living Reef, which houses over 40 species of Pacific corals and thousands of fish. The 750,000-gallon Open Ocean Exhibit allows guests to walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and other marine creatures.

The center’s Turtle Lagoon is also a popular spot, and visitors can book backstage experiences to feed the turtles.

6. Haleakala National Park, Maui

Haleakalā National Park on Maui offers access to the dormant Haleakalā Volcano, which rises to over 10,000 feet. The views from the summit are expansive across the island and are particularly stunning at sunrise.

The crater itself is a barren landscape, resembling a lunar surface, while other areas of the park are covered with sub-tropical rainforests, serving as habitats for endangered species. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails independently or sign up for guided ranger-led tours. For the more adventurous, the park also offers opportunities to camp overnight, surrounded by some of Hawaii’s most breathtaking scenery.

7. Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kauai

Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park features some of the world’s most dramatic landscapes. These views were famously showcased in the “Jurassic Park” film, highlighting a rugged coastline with wave-sculpted cliffs and the “Wall of Tears” on Mount Waiʻaleʻale, named for the hundreds of waterfalls cascading down its slopes.

One of the best ways to experience the scenery is by taking a boat tour or a helicopter tour, which provides breathtaking views from above. Experienced hikers might want to tackle the Kalalau Trail, an eleven-mile trek that crosses five valleys and typically takes a full day in each direction.

8. Mauna Kea, Hawaii

Mauna Kea, the highest mountain in Hawaii, stands apart from the tropical paradise of the islands. Access to the summit is only possible with a 4WD vehicle, and temperatures can be very cold, with snow sometimes occurring in winter.

The Mauna Kea Observatory is an active research facility that welcomes tourists during the day. The six-mile trail to the summit is suitable only for expert hikers, as it ascends to 13,800 feet from the Visitor Information Station.

The evening stargazing program, held at the Visitor Center located at about 9,200 feet, is popular among both tourists and locals.

9. Waipio Valley Lookout, Hawaii

One of the most beautiful spots on Hawaii’s Big Island is the scenic overlook of Waipio Valley. Surrounded by lush greenery, this land extends towards the Pacific Ocean, where the black sand beach blends with the white waves and blue waters.

Hiking in Waipio Valley is considered one of the best hiking experiences in the state, with many trails suitable for beginners. For a special experience, local guides offer horseback riding tours of the valley, allowing you to enjoy the views from a different perspective.

10. Hamakua Heritage Corridor, Hawaii

The scenic drive along the Hamakua Coast from Hilo to the Waipio Valley Lookout on the Big Island is truly spectacular. This drive offers expansive views of the coastline and the lush green landscape of the area, making it an ideal sightseeing trip.

Travelers from Hilo journey along the Onomea Scenic Drive, passing by Onomea Bay and the renowned Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, which houses over 2,000 species of tropical plants. The route heads north, showcasing the 442-foot Akaka Falls and its sibling, Kahuna Falls, before reaching the World Botanical Gardens, where you can view the Umauma Falls and also see Mauna Kea in the distance.

Other attractions along the way include a scenic viewpoint at Laupahoehoe Point, hiking at Kalopa State Recreation Area, and the charming town of Honokaa. The drive concludes at the Waipio Valley Lookout, once the residence of King Kamehameha.