Hawaii is celebrating 55 years of statehood this year giving you yet another reason to visit this gorgeous state. Yes, it’s easy to forget that you’re actually still in the United States when you’re surrounded by gorgeous beaches, breathtaking mountains, and lush rainforests – but that’s the main reason this state is such a popular tourist destination. There really is nothing else like it in the United States.
Hawaii is the only U.S. state located in Oceania and it’s in the northernmost island group of Polynesia. This gives the state a unique natural scenery and warm tropical climate, making it a popular destination for tourists. But in addition to the plethora of shoreline (750 miles), you have active volcanoes, a mix of Asian, American, and Native Hawaiian culture that set the islands apart from other places.
Since Hawaii is celebrating an anniversary this year, it only seems right to learn a bit about its history while enjoying those stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and tropical gardens, right? But don’t worry, no matter what type of trip you enjoy, there’s something for everyone here in the Aloha state. Check out these 13 fun things to do in Hawaii:
#1 Sea Life Park
Have you always dreamed of swimming with dolphins? Who hasn’t, right? Well, forget admiring them from afar, at Sea Life Park you’re able to experience them like you probably thought you’d never get to experience them before. You’re able to get up close and personal with the marine life. You can also swim with sea lions, feed sea turtles, and dive with the rays.
For the truly adventurous, you can also go under water with nothing but thin mesh separating you from at least 10 sharks. And if you’re looking to make this an authentic Hawaiian vacation, they have one of the highest rated luau’s in Oahu where you can interact with the dancers, learn hula, and dance under the moonlight beside the Pacific Ocean.
#2 Dole Plantation
Yes, the Dole Plantation is a tourist trap. But, if you’re the type who likes to see and do touristy type things, then this place can’t be missed. Oh, and if you happen to love pineapples, then you better put this place on your bucket list.
Not only do you get a tour of a pineapple plantation, while learning the history of this delightful fruit, you can also try a variety of pineapple foods. Oh, and by the way, you’ll want to grab a Dole Whip for a truly refreshing experience.
Oh, and if you’re a child at heart, you won’t want to miss the pineapple-shaped maze that just so happens to be the world’s largest maze.
#3 Hanauma Bay Snorkel
Hanauma Bay is tucked inside of an ancient volcanic crater that also opens up to the Pacific Ocean. Under water, there is a wide variety of beautiful sea life that you won’t want to miss, and thankfully, you don’t have to.
Whether you want to dive beneath the surface for a closer look or you’re content just peering down at it from the surface, it’s easy to see everything this clear, beautiful bay has to offer. And the good news is, even if you’ve never snorkeled before in your life, it’s easy to learn. Even beginners are able to have a wonderful experience here, so it’s a great place to get your snorkeling fins wet (pun intended).
#4 Kualoa Ranch
If you’re looking for the essence of Hawaii in one place, look no further than Kualoa Ranch, which has a little something for everyone. In addition to jungle tours, ancient Hawaiian fishponds, and tropical garden tours, you can also tour movie sites here.
Say what? Yep, Kualoa Ranch is actually the setting for several big Hollywood movies like Jurassic Park, and you’re able to take a tour of what’s known as the Backlot of Hawaii. You hop aboard a vintage school bus and tour the sets of Jurassic Park, Godzilla, 50 First Dates and many others.
Oh, and if you’re not into guided tours, the secret beach might, perhaps, be of more interest to you. At Kualoa Ranch, you can escape to Hawaii’s most private beach for an afternoon under the sun with a good book or that special someone in your life.
#5 Hike Diamond Head
Possibly Hawaii’s most famous landmark, so how could you not visit without hiking it, right? Diamond Head is known for its unique shape, historic hiking trail, and amazing views of the coast. The park is made up of 475 acres, which include the interior and outer slopes of the volcano’s crater.
The crater was formed about 300,000 years ago during a highly explosive eruption that sent ash and other particles up high into the sky. They eventually settled and cemented together creating the crater we see today.
The hike is strenuous and steep, but well worth it for the hikers up for the task. Once you reach the top, you are rewarded with an amazing view of Koko Head to Wai’anae, and if you’re there at the right time, you may get to see some humpback whales as well.
#6 Drive the Hana Highway
If you’re looking for waterfalls and happen to be in Maui, then look no further than the Hana Highway. Along the road, you can stop and visit a variety of waterfalls. Some of them are big, some are small, some may even be dried up, but there’s no shortage of waterfalls for you to see out here.
Some of them may require a hike, and of course you need to know how to find them, so pick up a Hana Highway Guide Book and then hit the road for some stunning views!
#7 Standup Paddleboarding
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, chances are good that you’ve heard about standup paddle-boarding. It’s the newest sport to break into the surfing scene in the last few years, and what better place to do it than where it originated – Hawaii. While similar to surfing, a paddleboard allows you to go further out into the ocean, and it’s also a bit easier for first-timers to pick up. However, if you’re balance challenged, you are going to need some practice.
It’s certainly harder than it looks, and if you’ve never tried it, it couldn’t hurt to take a lesson or two before embarking on your own solo paddleboarding adventure. Don’t worry, Hawaii has plenty of opportunities for that as well. And guess what? In addition to being fun, it’s also a killer workout.
#8 Makapuu Lighthouse Hike
As with most places in Hawaii, the views from this trail are utterly amazing. The hike itself is fairly easy, on a mostly paved road, and it’s absolutely worth it, too. No, you don’t get to walk right up to the lighthouse, but you are above it with a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean below. If you’re lucky, you may be able to see migrating humpback whales passing through the area.
If you’re an early riser, why not catch a sunset from the top? It’s well worth getting up a few hours early and making the trek. Trust us! Bring binoculars if you’re there between November and May, and look for water spouts since whales are known to travel between Oahu, Moloka’I, and Lana’i. In fact, on a clear day, you can see all the way to Moloka’i and Lana’i.
#9 Iolani Palace
Royal palaces are often something we don’t associate with the U.S, but believe it or not, you can see exactly that in downtown Honolulu. The Iolani Palace is the only royal palace in the United States and it’s certainly one worth visiting.
Two different monarchs ruled from the palace: King Kalakaua and Queen Lili’uokalani. After the monarchy was overthrown in 893, however, the building was used for a variety of different purposes. The most recent use was that of the state capitol building until 1969. It was restored and opened as a museum in 1978, and well, the rest is history.
When you tour the palace, you can see the king and queen suites where the royals slept, and the throne room where Queen Lili’uokalani was tried when her government was overthrown. There’s also the Imprisonment Room where the Queen was housed during her five months under house arrest. If you’re truly interested in the history of Hawaii, including what it was like before it became a state, this is a place that can’t be missed.
#10 Byodo-In Temple
The Byodo-In Temple is a replica of a 900-year old Buddhist temple, and thousands of people from all religious denominations freely worship here. But in addition to the religious experience, the temple and the grounds are also stunning to visit. T
here are, of course, Buddhist statues throughout the grounds, but there is also a three-ton, brass peace bell as well. Outside, there are koi ponds that cover two acres, and lush Japanese gardens.
All of this is set against the backdrop of the Ko’olau mountains. There are sparrows and peacocks that can be seen around the property, and there’s little wonder why this location is often used for weddings as well as worship.
#11 Kilauea Iki Trail
One thing you’ve probably noticed about Hawaii is that it’s a hiker’s paradise. There are so many trails in the state that it can be hard to pick just a few you must visit while you’re there. But this one is rated #1 on Trip Advisor for the Island of Hawaii, and it’s one you should definitely check out if you’re up for it.
It’s a moderate 4-mile hike, so you should be aware of that. The trail takes you into an old volcanic crater, and you experience a number of different landscapes throughout your 2-4 hour long hike (more or less depending on how often you stop for photos). From rainforests to barren crater floor, this hike has it all.
Tip: Also check out the lava tube at the end of the hike for a truly unique experience!
#12 Mauna Kea Summit
If you want to rise above the clouds, you can do just that in Hawaii. Just bring a jacket because it gets cold up there! You can either hike to the summit or drive, but if you drive, you must have 4-wheel drive and stop part-way up to acclimate to the altitude. It’s one of few places in the world where you can go from sea level to 14,000 feet in about two hours, which means altitude sickness if a very real possibility if you’re not careful.
If you do plan to hike it, it’ll take you about 10 hours and it’s a tough climb, so you’ll want to be prepared for that. But if you stop at the visitor center on your way up, you can use their telescopes to star gaze – which is magnificent and well worth the time. And once you make it to the top, above the clouds, you’ll have views of Hawaii and the universe unlike any you’ve ever seen before. Oh and don’t be surprised if there’s snow at the top – Yes, it does get cold in Hawaii. At least at the top of Mauna Kea, it does.
#13 Te ‘E’a O Te Turama Hula Halau
Finally, no trip to Hawaii would be complete without seeing hula dancers in action. If you’re interested in watching traditional Polynesian dancing mixed with the thrilling art of fire dancing, then check out this show in Waikola on the Island of Hawaii. It’s a free show with passionate, talented dancers that will enchant the entire family.
Shows run every Monday and Thursday evening, and if you’re unable to catch the show in Waikola, there are no shortage of hula shows in other parts of Hawaii. Look up others nearby where you’re staying. Many are free and it’s a perfect way to experience traditional Hawaii culture at its finest.
This list only skims the surface of the amazing adventures that await you in Hawaii. So instead of asking what fun things there are for you to see and do in the islands, maybe you should just head over there and experience the Aloha state for yourself. There’s nothing else in the world like it!
Cover photo: 365.com.mk
Add Comment