4 Star Places To Visit in Hawaii, United States (50)
4.5USS Arizona Memorial(27.0k reviews)from $19.99 - USS Arizona and Pearl Harbor are a must do (but make a reservation) Saturday: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Cemeteries • Monuments & Statues • History Museums
The most visited spot in Hawaii, this majestic floating memorial honors those who died during the WWII Pearl Harbor attack.See more..
4.5Diamond Head State Monument(24.1k reviews) - Amazing views! Saturday: 6:00 AM - 4:30 PM Spent < 1 hour Hiking Trails • Scenic Walking Areas
This dormant volcano crater is one of Honolulu’s major natural landmarks, known for its history, amazing hikes, and stunning coastal views. The way to the summit is an easy-to-moderate hike up—though there's a steep flight of steps—and you'll be treated to some of the best views on the island. There are also many lookouts surrounding the crater. If you have limited mobility, don't worry, multiple other hikes within the park are accessibility friendly. It can get busy (and hot!) so try to reach early in the morning and bring sunscreen and plenty of water. Online reservations are required for non-residents but are often included in guided tours of Diamond Head. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.0Waikiki Beach(18.7k reviews) - Very busy but beautiful beaches Beaches
This iconic landmark in Waikiki is one of Hawaii’s most famous beaches, located on the south shore of Oahu. Waikiki Beach is the birthplace of modern surfing culture—look out for the statue of renowned waterman Duke Kahanamoku, who popularized the sport internationally. Once the playground of Hawaiian royals, today the beachfront is lined with resorts and some of Hawaii’s most historic hotels. Surfers, swimmers, and sunbathers flock to this beach all day long. Boat tours in Waikiki are a great way for admiring the coast away from the crowds. Neighboring Kalākaua Avenue has plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve(17.1k reviews) - Beautiful beach and waters Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water • Nature & Wildlife Areas
This protected marine life conservation area, named after its unique curved bay, is a popular snorkeling spot in Hawaii. Formed within a volcanic cone on the eastern side of Oahu, this marine sanctuary is home to vibrant marine life and well-preserved corals. There is a limited number of visitors allowed in the bay daily, so make a reservation in advance to secure your spot. It's also closed on certain days so remember to check before you go. You can rent snorkeling equipment here—all you have to do is remember to pack some reef-safe sunscreen. Some tours of the North Shore also stop by the bay for a quick photo opportunity. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Pearl Harbor National Memorial(13.7k reviews) - Every American should visit this site. Saturday: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Military Bases & Facilities • History Museums
A National Historic Landmark, this site consists of five memorials commemorating the events around WWII and the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.See more..
4.5Hana Highway - Road to Hana(9.998 reviews) - A MUST DO ! JUST REMEMBER THERE IS NO CELL PHONE RECEPTION !! Spent More than 3 hours Scenic Drives
This scenic road is an iconic drive that connects Kaluhui to Hana in east Maui. The 64-mile highway features narrow winding roads and over 50 bridges, taking you past gorgeous beaches, rugged coastlines, lush forests, waterfalls, pools, and hiking trails. It takes at least three hours to complete the Hana Highway, but you can make it a full-day trip, depending on how many stops you make. You can even spend the night at Waianapanapa State Park, where you can stay in a cabin or camp close to the shore. Don't miss all the best sights by joining a Road to Hana tour, which will have all transport sorted. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Ka'anapali Beach(9.406 reviews) - Kaanapali is the Best Ocean Beach in the World Spent 2-3 hours Beaches
This stunning three-mile stretch of sand is regarded as one of North America's best beaches, and it's easy to see why. This former Hawaiian royal getaway has crystal clear waters perfect for snorkeling and surfing, against a backdrop of lush mountains. Don't miss the daily cliff diving ceremony at Pu'u Keka'a (Black Rock), held on the northern end of the beach at sunset. For the best views of the beach, take a scenic flight at sunset. If you visit in winter, be sure to take a whale-watching tour. It gets busy, so visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and to snag a good spot on the sand. – TripadvisorSee more..
Get up close and personal with a volcano at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Stop by the Kilauea Visitor Center to pick up a map and ask a ranger for their recommendation on the best route. Hike the Kilauea Iki lava field, check out the Nahuku Thurston lava tubes, and drive the Chain of Craters Road. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen, and don’t forget headlamps and binoculars if you’re planning to experience the molten lava’s glow at night. There’s so much to do at this experience of a lifetime—consider extending your visit by booking a stay at the Volcano House Hotel. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Battleship Missouri Memorial(8.285 reviews) - Great visit to the "Mighty Mo" Saturday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Ships
Since opening in January 1999, the Battleship Missouri Memorial has attracted more than 9-million visitors from around the world with a fascinating tour experience showcasing the USS Missouri’s unique place in history. Located a mere ship’s length from the USS Arizona Memorial, the Mighty Mo completes a historical visitor experience that begins with the “day of infamy” and sinking of the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, and ends with Japan’s formal surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945. The USS Missouri had an astounding career over five decades and three wars – World War II, the Korean War, and Desert Storm – after which it was decommissioned and donated to the USS Missouri Memorial Association, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The Association operates the Battleship Missouri Memorial as a historic attraction and oversees her care and preservation with the support of visitors, memberships, grants, and donations.See more..
4.5Haleakala Crater(8.072 reviews) - Sunset just as amazing Spent More than 3 hours Mountains • Geologic Formations • Volcanos
Part of the larger of the two volcanoes that make up Maui, this peak is more than 10,000 feet up and the highest point on the island.See more..
4.5Iolani Palace(7.676 reviews) - Iolani and history Saturday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums
Iolani Palace, the official residence of Hawaii’s monarchy, is a marvel of opulence, innovation and political intrigue. Meticulously restored to its former grandeur, this National Historic Landmark in downtown Honolulu tells of a time when their Majesties, King Kalakaua, who built the palace in 1882, and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, walked its celebrated halls. Today, you can enjoy one of the most spectacular living restorations in all of Polynesia and immerse yourself in Hawaii’s royal heritage. E komo mai! Welcome!See more..
4.5Lahaina Banyan Court Park(6.971 reviews) - Lovely spot in Lahaina Saturday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Parks
Once home to the old Lahaina Fort, the park now houses Hawaii's largest Banyan Tree, which is over 60 feet tall and spans almost two acres.See more..
4.5Akaka Falls State Park(6.332 reviews) - Falls - if you have time…make your way to it! Spent More than 3 hours State Parks • Waterfalls
The one thing we realized the park was helping with human foot traffic was posting a sign that said ONE WAY - you enter to the right and walk and enjoy the local trees and fauna. Follow the trail and it will lead you to the falls itself! There are two lookout points for photo ops. Easy walk.ONE VERY short trail. Parking was a bit of a challenge / park outside the park lines and it’s free. Park inside the very small lot it’s 5.00 and it’s entry fee is 5.00 as well. There’s a machine that takes credit card and local attendants are checking.See more..
4.5Maui Ocean Center(6.286 reviews) - Loved the aquariums! Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Aquariums
Named “Top 10 Aquariums in the World” by TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards, Maui Ocean Center is the premier destination to encounter and learn about Hawaii’s marine life. Home to one of the world’s largest displays of live Pacific corals, the Aquarium exhibits only marine life found in Hawaiian waters including tropical fish, sea turtles, sharks, stingrays, octopuses, sea jellies, and more. The Aquarium highlights the beauty of Hawaii’s undersea world while perpetuating the deep connection between the Hawaiian people and the sea. The Aquarium’s mission is to foster understanding, wonder, and respect for Hawaii’s marine life.See more..
4.0Spouting Horn(5.548 reviews) - Worth the short drive from the Poipu Beach area Geologic Formations
This blowhole on Kauai's south shore near Poipu shoots seawater through its natural lava tube up to 50 feet in the air.See more..
Hit Lahaina’s scenic seafront main street for endless shopping, eating, nightlife and people-watching amid historic buildings and scenic views of the neighboring islands. You can grab some shaved ice before snagging some artisanal local handicrafts, sweet deals at the Outlets of Maui or checking out the fine art galleries that line Front Street. Along the way, don’t miss the Banyan Court Park and Hawaii's largest banyan tree which spans 1.94 acres and is over 150 years old. During the winter season, you can consider a whale-watching tour that departs from Front Street too. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Poipu Beach Park(4.899 reviews) - Come a half hour before sunset to see turtles Beaches • Parks
Located on Kauai's sunny shores, this beach is particularly popular for swimming, bodyboarding, surfing, and snorkeling. (And if you're lucky, you can spot Hawaiian monk seals here, too.)See more..
4.5Mauna Kea Summit(4.611 reviews) - Star gazing experience of lifetime Mountains
At 13,796 feet, this peak offers an incredible view of lava, desert, the valley and Mauna Loa.See more..
4.5USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park(3.966 reviews) - Excellent tour of successful WWII Submarine Saturday: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
Visited the first Friday in December. I had limited time due to the time constraints of being on a bus tour. Admission for 1 adult is $21.99, plus $1.54 "service fee." They will ask to see your proof of vaccination card and ID. I visited the museum first and found it to be excellent and informative with many exhibits and displays honoring the service and role of many of the US subs in service during the war. The exhibits included many operational details of sub patrols and battle flags honoring the many subs that served. Next, I visited the submarine itself and found it to be in excellent condition and well worth visiting. Be careful walking on or in the sub because there are many places you (or children) can trip and fall or hit your head going through the smaller sub doors. I spent less than an hour going through the museum and about 20-30 minutes on the sub itself, but I could have stayed longer if my time wasn't limited.See more..
4.0Rainbow Falls(3.934 reviews) - Tour Of Hilo 2.5hr Waterfalls
Waterfalls located on the big island of Hawaii.See more..
We took Saddle road driving from Kona to Hilo. It is a nice easy drive. It was pretty at sunset with the sky changing colors around the volcanos. We did drive past the Mauna Kea entrance and the protest was going on at the time so we saw all the tents and people camped out. It is a pretty dark road at night tho, tho only light was the reflectors on the roads. See more..
4.5Manoa Falls(3.715 reviews) - Manoa Falls - worth the trip Saturday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Waterfalls
This scenic 150-foot-tall falls is only accessible via a hike through the rainforest. It's a 1.5-mile round trip, which takes about an hour or two from the trailhead. Wear good shoes as the path can get muddy and slippery, and bring bug repellent and plenty of water. Manoa Falls is a great photography spot, and the location has featured in movies and television shows like Jurassic Park and Lost. Cool off in the pool at the base of the falls and grab a snack and a refreshing pineapple smoothie for your walk back to civilization. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Wailua Falls(3.550 reviews) - Beautiful falls, but hard to get a good picture Waterfalls
This two-tiered 80-foot-tall waterfall located near Lihue is famous for being featured in the 1970s TV series, Fantasy Island. These spectacular falls are easily accessible—no hiking required—and can be seen from the nearby carpark. Visit after rainfall when the falls are exceptionally impressive, or in the morning for a chance to catch a rainbow when the light is just right. Be careful though—it's not recommended to hike to the base of the falls as it's steep and slippery. You can see the falls on a day trip or from up above on an air tour of Kauai. – TripadvisorSee more..
The resting place for more than 25,000 victims of three American Wars - World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War – this is truly the “Cemetery of Heroes.” Punchbowl was formed some 75,000 to 100,000 years ago during the Honolulu period of secondary volcanic activity. A crater resulted from the ejection of hot lava through cracks in the old coral reefs that, at the time, extended to the foot of the Koolau Mountain Range. Of special note is a monument honoring Hawaii-born astronaut Ellison Onizuka, who perished aboard the Challenger space shuttle in 1986. Also noteworthy are the Courts of the Missing, white stone tablets bearing the names of those missing in action from World War II.See more..
4.0Ala Moana Center(3.105 reviews) - Long long day Shopping Malls
Ala Moana Center currently features more than 290 stores, including 70 dining options, one of the largest collections of luxury retailers in the world, four major department stores and several only-in-Hawai'i retailers featuring locally-made products and souvenirs.See more..
4.5Lanikai Beach(3.066 reviews) - Best beach Beaches
Also known as Kaʻōhao Beach, Lanikai Beach is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in the world, and is famous for its stunning views of the Mokulua Islands. Book a kayak tour for a chance to see the green sea turtles that inhabit the 'The Mokes'. The beach is also a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to consistent and steady winds. Enjoy the beautiful colors of the sky as the sun rises and sets over the Pacific Ocean and admire the beautiful houses and gardens of the surrounding residential area of Kailu. Come prepared as there are no amenities at this beach. – TripadvisorSee more..
Located on the southeast end of Kailua Beach, this pristine shoreline on Oahu's Windward side is popular for water sports and scenic strolls.See more..
4.5Bishop Museum(2.866 reviews)from $26.95 - Bishop Museum is great for kids and adults Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
Bishop Museum was founded in 1889 by Charles Reed Bishop in honor of his late wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, the last descendant of the royal Kamehameha family. The Museum was established to house the extensive collection of Hawaiian artifacts and royal family heirlooms of the Princess, and has expanded to include millions of artifacts, documents and photographs about Hawai'i and other Pacific island cultures. Today, Bishop Museum is the largest museum in the state and the premier natural and cultural history institution in the Pacific, recognized throughout the world for its cultural collections, research projects, consulting services and public educational programs. It also has one of the largest natural history specimen collections in the world. Serving and representing the interests of Native Hawaiians is a primary purpose of the Museum.See more..
4.5Maui Tropical Plantation(2.816 reviews) - Great Down Time! Saturday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Farms
The Village at Maui Tropical Plantation is open! Please join us Tuesday - Saturday from 9AM - 4PM. This includes The Rolling Mill Food Truck, Mill House Roasting Co., Soley Aloha Boutique and Gallery, Visitors Kiosk, and Kumu Farms Stand.See more..
4.5Napili Beach(2.742 reviews) - Married right on the beach :) Beaches
This crescent-shaped cove on Maui's northwest coast is a popular beach for families and great for blue sea snorkeling and spotting sea turtles.See more..
One of the nicest sand beaches on the Kohala coast.See more..
4.5Makapuu Lighthouse Trail(2.636 reviews) - Steep climb but the views are worth it! Saturday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Walking Areas • Hiking Trails
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail is one of Oahu's most popular coastal hiking trails on its southeastern coast, offering spectacular views of the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline. You'll get to see landmarks like Koko Crater, Makapuu Beach, and even the offshore islands Molokai and Lanai on a clear day. There's also the iconic red Makapuu Lighthouse built in 1909 which you can see along the way. Bring a pair of binoculars to spot seabirds and migrating humpback whales from November to May. This uphill trail is about two miles long and is well-paved throughout, making it a manageable trek for families with children. – TripadvisorSee more..
Also known as the "Koko Head Stairs," this abandoned WWII railway track is a steep and challenging hiking trail with over 1,000 steps (but worth it for the panoramic views).See more..
4.5Waimea Valley(2.530 reviews) - Hidden cultural and botanical gem Saturday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Valleys • Waterfalls
Also known as the Valley of the Priests, this lush region is home to various historical structures en route to a 45-foot-tall waterfall.See more..
4.5Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum(2.349 reviews) - Pay extra for the Top of the Tower Tour Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
One of the principal Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, our unique interactive museum is located in the battlefield hangers of historic Ford Island which were attacked by the Imperial Japanese Navy on December 7, 1941, the beginning of WWII. Aircraft, such as a Japanese Zero and the Stearman in which former President George H.W. Bush soloed as the war's youngest aviator, illustrate how aviation helped stem the war. You'll view historic videos, including a movie of the beginning of the war. Enjoy the authentic gift shop, 1940s themed Laniakea Cafe, and our state-of-the-art 360 degree combat flight simulators. The mission of Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is to steward America’s first aviation battlefield of World War II sharing the artifacts, personal stories, the impact and response to the December 7, 1941 attack and the Pacific region battles that followed, honoring those who have defended our freedom so we might educate and inspire future generations.See more..
This 182-acre park contains the Puuhonua, a sacred place of refuge, as well as other temples and coastal sites.See more..
4.5Maui Brewing Company(2.185 reviews) - Go for the Beers and the Experience, not necessarily the Food Saturday: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM Breweries
Maui Brewing Co is Hawaii's largest craft brewery! We make handcrafted ales & lagers brewed with aloha. Swing by and check us out, enjoy a pint on the lanai.See more..
4.5Iao Valley State Monument(2.171 reviews) - Beautiful stop on Maui Saturday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM State Parks
Located in Central Maui, the park is home to a historic battleground and is punctuated by the 1200 feet tall Iao Needle rising from the ground.See more..
The big island of Hawaii's southernmost point features the Green Sand Beach.See more..
4.5Kauai Coffee Company(2.084 reviews) - Stop by and grab a bag of fresh beans. Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Farms
This Hawaiian coffee estate is the largest coffee farm in the U.S. Enjoy guided tours with tastings and learn about the coffee production process.See more..
4.5Wai'anapanapa State Park(2.027 reviews) - Early Morning Coast Trail North State Parks • Beaches
Best known for its volcanic black pebble coast and panoramic coastal views, this park is one of the most popular sites along the famous Hana Highway.See more..
4.5Ala Moana Beach Park(1.999 reviews) - Once a Bog Saturday: 4:00 AM - 10:00 PM Beaches • Parks • Jogging Paths & Tracks
This gentle, protected beach has coarse sand and is ideal for swimming and water play.See more..
4.5Wailea Beach(1.942 reviews) - All you need for a day at the beach Beaches
Bookended by the Four Seasons and Grand Wailea Resorts, this popular beach has good facilities and is a favorite for swimmers, snorkelers, and boogie-boarders.See more..
4.5Byodo-In Temple(1.901 reviews) - Cool place to visit Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Religious Sites
This replica of an ancient Japanese temple in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park is a hidden gem along the Windward Coast of Oahu.See more..
This beach is a 5 to 10 minute walk north of the famed Waikiki beach. The beach area is pretty long but not probably as wide as Waikiki. Beautiful and enjoyable nevertheless. In fact we spent most of the time at this beach. We rented the chair and umbrella combo (2 of them) for 60$ total and relaxed on the beach, ate and drank for hours. Lots of fun and not as crowded as the other beaches. You can walk to beach walk to get your grub/drinks or just get it from Shake Shack which is right on the beach and enjoy your day. Loved it loved it loved it :-) .Very highly recommended.See more..
Located in the center of the bay and at the mouth of the Hanalei River, this beach is popular for swimming and water sports.See more..
4.5Ko Olina Lagoons(1.773 reviews) - Scenic and Enjoyable Spent More than 3 hours Bodies of Water
Travelers flock to these artificial lagoons along the western coast of Oahu to swim, snorkel, and paddleboard in the calm, crystal clear, turquoise waters and bask in the Hawaiian sun. Book a boat tour of the lagoons to learn more about the area's history and marine life, and take in the beautiful Hawaiian sunset with a stroll along the beach. The lagoons are a 30-minute drive from the city—arrive early to secure a parking spot or get a shuttle bus in. Stay at one of the seaside resorts to make the most of it, and visit during the warmer months from April to October. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Punalu'u Black Sand beach(1.763 reviews) - Giant turtles, black sand, ancient art and giant turtles! Saturday: 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours State Parks • Beaches • Parks
This easily accessible beach lies between the towns of Pahala and Naalehu, and is a popular detour when visiting the Volcanoes National Park. It draws both locals and travelers to its shores for its gorgeous black sand—a result of underwater volcanic activity—and for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive and endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles. If you're lucky, you might spot these creatures resting on the warm, black sand. Hawaiian monk seals sometimes make a rare appearance, too. Tours of the Big Island often include a stop at this black sand beach, along with Akaka and Rainbow Falls. – TripadvisorSee more..
Situated on 80-acres of breathtaking views from the slopes of Haleakala, is Hawaii Sea Spirit Organic Farm and Distillery, the home of Ocean Organic Vodka. Centrally located between the north and south shores of Maui, it’s an easy drive from Maui’s International Kahului Airport, as well as the island’s world-famous resorts. Come visit us where you can learn about company’s commitment to social and environmentally conscious business practices, visit our Farm Store for our local products and apparel, stop by our Cocktail Café where you can enjoy a snack and cocktails made with our amazing spirits and fresh produce. We also offer a guided personal tasting experience which includes a brief history of Hawaii Sea Spirits, and the unique processes that go into producing our award-winning spirits. Tastings will be offered every hour from 12pm to 5pm and will include our lineup of all 5 of our spirits for $15 and for an additional $10 you can add on Brum a limited release aged Rum.See more..
Absolutely spectacular to watch the sunset from the top. But I’m writing this review mostly because we had a very stressful time with our fuel. We got to the visitor center with half a tank. The guys that assess you for driving to the top advised against it since the nearest gas station is over 30 miles away. But we are idiots on vacation so we went! The remaining range went down pretty quickly, but then really plummeted on the way down, with an indicated 22 miles of range left when we got back to the visitor center. Yikes! Put the Jeep in 2 wheel drive and started to limp to the closest station, only to find that the range just kept going up and up. We drove the 50 miles back to Waikaloa and STILL had 120 miles of range! Lesson: if you have half a tank of gas at the visitor center you are totally fine to go up. The top itself is other-worldly. Do it!See more..