10 Best Things to Do in Hawaii

Looking for what to do on the Hawaiian Islands? Hawaii is one of the world’s most diverse and awe-inspiring destinations — where volcanic landscapes meet lush rainforests, golden beaches meet dramatic cliffs, and centuries of Polynesian heritage shape a unique and welcoming culture. Each island has its own identity: Oʻahu pulses with surf and city energy, Maui is defined by waterfalls and scenic roads, Kauaʻi delivers cinematic landscapes, and the Big Island showcases raw volcanic power and untamed nature.

From world-famous beaches and crater summits to sacred cultural sites, ocean adventures, wildlife encounters and panoramic coastal lookouts, here are the 10 best things to do in the Hawaiian Islands to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

1. Explore Waikīkī Beach & Diamond Head (Oʻahu)

Waikīkī is the most iconic stretch of sand in Hawaii — a lively beachfront with calm swimming waters, surf-friendly waves, upscale resorts, open-air shopping and nightly entertainment. Visitors can try beginner surf lessons, dine in oceanfront restaurants, join sunset catamaran cruises or simply relax under the palms with views of the Pacific. The atmosphere blends old-Hawaii charm with modern energy, making Waikīkī one of the most visited beach districts in the world.

Just above the shoreline rises Diamond Head Crater, one of Oʻahu’s most recognisable landmarks. The hike to the summit takes visitors through tunnels, bunkers and switchbacks before opening to panoramic views over Honolulu and the turquoise ocean. Sunrise light over the crater and city skyline is especially breathtaking, making this a must-do experience on the island.

2. Visit Pearl Harbor National Memorial (Oʻahu)

Pearl Harbor is one of the United States’ most significant historic sites, offering a powerful look into the events of December 7, 1941. The memorial includes the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Visitors can view preserved ships, artifacts, wartime exhibits and interactive displays that bring history to life.

Walking through the various memorials provides a meaningful experience that blends education, remembrance and storytelling. From standing aboard the “Mighty Mo,” where World War II officially ended, to viewing the sunken remains of the USS Arizona, Pearl Harbor offers one of Hawaii’s most impactful cultural and historic journeys.

3. Drive the Road to Hāna (Maui)

The Road to Hāna is one of the world’s most scenic drives — a dramatic journey through rainforests, waterfalls, sea cliffs, bamboo groves and coastal overlooks. With more than 600 curves and dozens of bridges, the route is an adventure filled with natural beauty at every turn. Popular stops include the Keʻanae Peninsula, Upper Waikani Falls, lush overlooks and quiet beaches far from the crowds.

The highlight for many is Waiʻānapanapa State Park, home to the famous black-sand beach, sea caves and rugged volcanic coastline. The full-day trip reveals a side of Maui that feels untouched and authentically Hawaiian. Whether self-driving or joining a guided tour, the Road to Hāna delivers unforgettable scenery from start to finish.

4. Watch Sunrise at Haleakalā National Park (Maui)

Haleakalā, the massive dormant volcano that shapes much of Maui, reaches more than 10,000 feet above sea level. Watching sunrise from the summit is one of Hawaii’s most unforgettable experiences — the sky slowly fills with colour as clouds drift through the crater, illuminating its lunar-like terrain. Due to its popularity, reservations are required for sunrise viewings.

During the day, visitors can hike trails that descend into the crater, revealing red rock deserts, cinder cones and shifting volcanic landscapes. The Sliding Sands Trail is especially dramatic, offering vast open views unlike anywhere else in Hawaii. Stargazing here is equally awe-inspiring, thanks to the elevation and clear mountain skies.

5. Cruise the Nā Pali Coast (Kauaʻi)

The Nā Pali Coast on Kauaʻi is considered one of the most breathtaking shorelines on Earth. Towering emerald cliffs rise sharply from the ocean, while waterfalls, sea caves and remote beaches create a landscape that feels almost mythical. Because the area is inaccessible by car, boat tours, sunset cruises and helicopter flights offer the best views of this iconic coastline.

For hikers, the legendary Kalalau Trail provides a challenging but rewarding trek along the cliffs, offering dramatic vistas at nearly every turn. Whether seen by sea, air or foot, the Nā Pali Coast is one of Hawaii’s most unforgettable natural wonders and a shining example of Kauaʻi’s wild beauty.

6. Explore Waimea Canyon — “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific” (Kauaʻi)

Waimea Canyon stretches for 14 miles and plunges up to 3,600 feet deep, showcasing layered red rock, lush greenery, ridges and dramatic geological formations. Lookout points along the canyon drive offer sweeping panoramas that reveal colours and textures shaped over millions of years. It’s a photographer’s paradise and one of Kauaʻi’s most iconic landscapes.

Nearby Kōkeʻe State Park provides hiking trails that wind along ridges, through forests and toward viewpoints overlooking the Nā Pali cliffs. Visitors often pair Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe into a full-day trip to experience both rugged canyon scenery and coastal vistas in one unforgettable outing.

7. Discover Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (Big Island)

The Big Island’s Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes — Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can explore lava tubes, walk across cooled lava fields, hike crater rims, view steam vents and learn about the island’s volcanic history. Chain of Craters Road leads past ancient flows and dramatic sea cliffs carved by lava meeting the ocean.

When conditions permit, active lava viewing offers an awe-inspiring glimpse into the raw power of nature. Even without visible lava, the park’s landscapes — from lush rainforests to stark volcanic deserts — illustrate the ongoing geological forces that continue to shape Hawaii today.

8. Stargaze on Mauna Kea (Big Island)

Mauna Kea rises nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, making it one of the best stargazing locations on the planet. The summit’s altitude, dry air and minimal light pollution create incredibly clear night skies. Guided stargazing tours use powerful telescopes to reveal planets, star clusters, nebulae and galaxies in extraordinary detail.

Sunset from the mountain is equally spectacular, with colours reflecting off the volcanic landscape and clouds far below. While the summit is sacred to Native Hawaiians and requires respectful visitation, Mauna Kea remains one of the most magical natural experiences in Hawaii.

9. Swim with Manta Rays in Kona (Big Island)

Kona’s manta ray night snorkel is one of Hawaii’s most unique wildlife encounters. As underwater lights attract plankton, giant manta rays glide gracefully around snorkelers and divers, performing slow loops and circles as they feed. These gentle creatures, with wingspans that can reach over 12 feet, create a mesmerizing ballet beneath the water’s surface.

Tours depart from Kona’s harbour areas and are available for all experience levels. Watching manta rays move so close — often within inches — is an unforgettable and peaceful encounter that many travellers consider the highlight of their Hawaii trip.

10. Relax on Lanikai Beach (Oʻahu)

Lanikai Beach is consistently ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world thanks to its powder-soft sand, calm turquoise water and postcard-perfect views of the Mokulua Islands. Ideal for swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding, the beach offers a serene escape from the busier shores of Waikīkī.

Above the beach, the Lanikai Pillbox Hike provides elevated views of the coastline and is especially popular at sunrise. With its tranquil waters, gentle waves and vibrant colours, Lanikai is the perfect place to unwind and experience the calm beauty of Oʻahu’s windward coast.