Oahu
Oahu is the most populous and popular island in Hawaii. His beautiful city Honolulu is the home of the state capital and has Waikiki – the most famous beach in the world with the area called Polynesian Manhattan. Some of the must-see attractions on Oahu include:
· Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial.
· Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head Volcano.
· North Shore and Haleiwa town with world-famous surf spots.
· Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States.
· Hanauma Bay, a stunning nature preserve with great snorkeling.
Maui
Maui is the second-largest island in Hawaii and is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. Some of the top attractions on Maui include:
· Haleakala National Park and its stunning sunrise views.
· Road to Hana, a scenic drive with many waterfalls and lookout points.
· Lahaina, a charming historic town with great shopping and dining.
· The beautiful beaches of Kaanapali and Wailea, both world-renowned seasides.
· Maui Ocean Center, a fantastic aquarium with an enormous shark tank.
Kauai
Kauai is known as the “Garden Island” because of its lush rainforests and dramatic waterfalls. Some of the top attractions on Kauai include:
· Waimea Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”.
· Na Pali Coast, a stunning coastal area with towering cliffs and waterfalls.
· Poipu Beach Park, a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.
· Wailua Falls, a beautiful waterfall that can be seen from a viewing platform.
· Hanalei Bay, a picturesque bay with stunning mountain views.
Big Island
The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and stunning natural beauty. Some of the must-see attractions on the Big Island include:
· Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and its active volcanoes.
· Mauna Kea Observatories, one of the best places in the world for stargazing
· Akaka Falls State Park, a scenic park with a 422-foot waterfall.
· The Waipio Valley historical place.
· Kona beaches and Coffee Living History Farm, where you can learn about the history and production of Kona coffee.
· Hapuna Beach, a beautiful white sand beach with great swimming and snorkeling.
Molokai
Molokai is known for its rural charm and is the least developed of the Hawaiian Islands. Some of the top attractions on Molokai include:
· Kalaupapa National Historical Park, a former leper colony with stunning views.
· Papohaku Beach, a remote and secluded beach with stunning sunsets.
· Halawa Valley, a beautiful and lush valley with waterfalls and hiking trails.
· Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove, a historic coconut grove with over 1,000 trees.
· Molokai Museum and Cultural Center, where you can learn about the island’s history and culture.
Lanai
Lanai is a small island that is known for its luxury resorts and secluded beaches. Some of the top attractions on Lanai include:
· Hulopoe Bay, a beautiful bay with crystal clear water and great snorkeling.
· Garden of the Gods, a unique landscape of rock formations and red soil.
· Shipwreck Beach, a stunning beach with a great view of a shipwreck.
· Munro Trail, a scenic drive through the island’s rugged landscape.
· Lanai Cat Sanctuary, where you can meet and play with hundreds of friendly cats.
Here are some special things you need to know before visiting these places:
Oahu:
- Be mindful of the high surf conditions in the North Shore during winter months.
- Respect the cultural significance of Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial.
- Be aware of traffic in and around Honolulu, especially during rush hour.
Maui:
- Bring a jacket or warm clothing if you plan on visiting Haleakala for sunrise or sunset, as it can be very cold at high elevations.
- Be aware of the narrow and winding roads on the Road to Hana and drive with caution.
- Respect the local communities and their traditions.
Kauai:
- Be aware of flash floods and sudden weather changes, especially when hiking in the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon areas.
- Respect the local environment and wildlife, and follow Leave No Trace principles.
- Be aware of limited dining and shopping options in some parts of the island.
Big Island:
- Be aware of volcanic activity and closures at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
- Respect the cultural significance of Mauna Kea and its observatories.
- Bring sunscreen and plenty of water, as the Big Island can be hot and sunny.
Molokai:
- Respect the privacy and traditions of the Kalaupapa National Historical Park and its residents.
- Bring snacks and water, as there are limited dining options on the island.
- Be prepared for a more remote and rugged island experience.
Lanai:
- Respect the local environment and wildlife and follow Leave No Trace principles.
- Be aware of limited dining and shopping options, especially outside of Lanai City. The cost of water on the island is higher than the cost of gasoline.
- Bring sunscreen and plenty of water, as the island can be hot and sunny.