Hawaii is arguably the best beach vacation destination that doesn’t require a passport for US citizens.
With lush rainforests, remote hiking trails, world class scuba diving, charming villages, and otherworldly lava fields, there is a lot more to do in Hawaii than just sitting on the beach.
Whether you’re interested in having a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, indulging in all the best foods, learning about the complex history of this island state, immersing yourself in Hawaiian culture, or completing a bucket list hike, this chain of volcanic islands is sure to wow just about every type of traveler.
Top Attractions
Here are the attractions in Hawaii you don’t want to miss!
- Waikiki Beach, Oahu
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Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
- Haleakalā National Park
- Nāpali Coast
- Pearl Harbor
- Diamond Head
- Road to Hana
-
Polynesian Cultural Center
Featured Articles
Best Time to Visit Hawaii
The best time to visit Hawaii is any time between late March and late October. These months bring the warmest weather, calmest water conditions, and lowest chances of rain.
There is one notable exception: if you’re serious about surfing, you may actually want to visit Hawaii in the winter, when swells are generally much larger.
However, the best month depends on which island(s) you plan to visit and how you want to spend your time. Conditions differ slightly from island to island, so activities vary accordingly – the best time to swim or snorkel isn’t necessarily the best time to go whale-watching.
For an in-depth guide on the regional seasons, weather patterns and other factors, check out our complete guide to the best time to visit Hawaii.
Things to do
There are endless adventures to be had in Hawaii. Here are just a handful of the incredible bucket list experiences that you can have on just about any island.
- Go snorkeling
- Take a scenic helicopter flight
- Eat authentic Hawaiian food
- Learn about how cacao is turned into a chocolate bar on a farm tour
- Attend a luau
- Go on an epic hike (there are many hiking opportunities on the islands!)
- Visit one of Hawaii’s National Parks (Big Island, Maui)
- Chase waterfalls
Hawaii Travel Resources
Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkeling: Read Before You Book!
Kona manta ray snorkeling is one of the best wildlife experiences not only in Hawaii, but the entire world! Since it’s a nighttime activity only accessible on a tour, it’s helpful to know some details before diving in. This guide will help you plan your manta ray night snorkel!...
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35 Best Things to do in Hawaii: Ultimate Bucket List + Tips
With endless bucket list-worthy sites stretched across a small archipelago, it can be a little overwhelming to narrow down the best things to do in Hawaii. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the absolute must-sees and experiences for you to plan the ultimate trip to the Aloha state....
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Papakōlea Beach: Ultimate Guide to Hawaii’s Green Sand Beach
Papakolea green sand beach is a breathtaking and unique slice of paradise. The only green sand beach in Hawaii, and one of just a few in the entire world, it’s a truly unforgettable place. We put together this guide with everything you need to know to visit Papakolea Beach....
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Hawaii Trip Planner: Your Dream Hawaiian Vacation Guide
Planning a trip to Hawaii tops many travelers’ bucket lists. But with several islands and SO much to do and see, where do you start? In this comprehensive Hawaii trip planner, we cover pros and cons of each island, the best time to visit, travel tips, and much more! ...
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Best Snorkeling in Kauai: 9 Spots + Which to Choose
From calm, family-friendly spots with natural coves to adventurous locations requiring a swim or hike, the best snorkeling in Kauai offers something for every type of water enthusiast. This guide covers some of the best snorkeling sites, plus tips to help you enjoy the experience!...
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How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost in 2023? (+Tips to Save)
There's no getting around it, Hawaii is an expensive destination. In this article, we share the exact breakdown of a Hawaii trip cost — from food and hotels to transportation and entertainment. Plus, we’re sharing some of our best money-saving tips so you can travel to Hawaii on a budget!...
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Kalalau Trail: Ultimate Guide to Kauai’s Best Hike
This info-packed guide to the Kalalau Trail has everything you need. Find insider tips, what to pack, & transportation info all in one place....
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Best Time to Visit Hawaii: When to Go & When to Avoid
Hawaii is known for its pristine beaches, rugged volcanic landscapes, world-class surf, and welcoming aloha culture. With so much to see and do, deciding on the best time to visit Hawaii can be tricky. This guide can help, offering details on weather and activities in each season....
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