This is a cool, short hike. Our group of diverse ages and walking ability all enjoyed it. There's a one-way path you take down, go through the tube (lots of drips, a few puddles), then come out and go back up. The lush rainforest on the way down and up is really lovely. The parking right at the tube site is limited; you're only allowed to park for 30 min. (just enough time) According to our NP app, the time we visited was "as busy as it gets" and we were able to slide into a parking spot without difficulty. The other option is to park at the overlook nearby and hike there.See more..
4.5Queen's Bath(1.619 reviews) - Worth the hike! Geologic Formations
Once a bathing spot for the royals, this stunning natural pool is now a popular summertime attraction. To get there, you'll need to take a 15-minute hike across slippery lava rocks, so wear a good pair of shoes. In summer, the pool resembles a large hot tub and the waters are calm and clear. During winter, however, the water can be treacherous, so avoid visiting during those months; the pool may even be closed. Before you go, be sure to check the surf report online, and only attempt the hike down if the waves are less than four feet high. – TripadvisorSee more..
This stretch of white sand beach on the north shore is the favorite of professional windsurfers. Visitors might even spot Hawaii's green sea turtles.See more..
4.5Greenwell Farms(1.472 reviews) - Fantastic private tour at a bargain price. Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality & Gift Shops • Farms
The four of us, two couples, took the private 2-hour tour with Kawena on Feb. 17, 2022. This was one of the most informative, pleasant tours we’ve ever taken. And, at a total cost of $75 (not per person), it was quite a bargain for what you experience. We got to see the coffee process from growing to bagging, and every step in between. The tour ends with a “cupping” — coffee-speak for tasting — of four different coffees. Kawena was highly personable and gracious, taking time to learn (and remember our names). The farm itself is picturesque and filled with many different fruit trees and exotic plants, plus black pepper and vanilla beans. Amazingly, Greenwell Farms — now run by the sixth generation — also offers a free, 1-hour public tour; but do yourself a favor and book the private tour. You won’t be disappointed. (Be sure to book a morning tour as it gets toasty on the farm.) Thank you, Kawena, for a highly informative and enjoyable morning. Dennis, Debbie, Jeff & VirginiaSee more..
Great beach, white sand, good facilities. Hot tip, go as early in the day as possible to avoid the crowds and get a park close to the beach. We got there around 930am and by the time we left at midday, the beach was absolutely packed (too full). @cwenzel_See more..
4.5Lydgate State Park(1.404 reviews) - Buy an Underwater Camera before your trip Parks
Situated near the mouth of the Wailua River in the east, the two protected bays are a favorite for snorkelers and windsurfers.See more..
This natural spout shoots up to 100 feet in the air—the view from the hilltop is impressive enough, but a hike down a rocky trail will let you get up close and personal. Approaching from the island’s west side is a lot easier than the drive from the east, and you may find the descent down to the geyser challenging. Wear appropriate footwear, as the area can be slippery and dangerous, and time your visit during high tide when the water spouts are at their most impressive. While you’re there, don’t miss checking out the Nakalele Point lighthouse, a short walk away. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Allerton Garden(1.290 reviews) - Allerton garden and luau Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens
NTBG’s Allerton Garden Garden is located on the south shore of Kauai in the picturesque Lawai Valley. Tours run daily and include a ride from the Visitors Center in Poipu along a scenic coastal route and continue along the valley rim on a former sugarcane train railbed. Visitors disembark on the valley floor to explore this former private estate, named by National Geographic Traveler magazine as one of the 50 places to see in a lifetime. Plants form the walls of outdoor rooms, the canopy of trees the ceiling. Housed within are elegant statuary and water features. A popular spot for photos is the ‘Jurassic trees’, with their massive curving roots.National Tropical Botanical Garden is a nonprofit institution, dedicated to saving and studying tropical plants.See more..
4.5Waimea Bay(1.287 reviews) - Beach is Great...Finding Parking is Not Bodies of Water
Waimea Bay is the deepest bay on Oahu’s North Shore and the birthplace of big-wave surfing, especially in winter. Between November to February, waves reach up to 40 feet in height, challenging even the most expert surfers. Even if you're not a fan of riding the waves, watching these pro surfers in action will get your heart racing too. Otherwise, visit during summer for the soft sand, arresting seaside views, and calmer waters—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, diving and even cliff-jumping. The wave conditions here fluctuate quickly, so look out for the colored flags before diving in. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Honolulu Museum of Art(1.283 reviews) - Excellent offerings especially Shangri La Thursday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Art Museums
One of the world’s premier art museums presents international caliber special exhibitions and features a collection that includes Hokusai, van Gogh, Gauguin, Monet, Picasso and Warhol, as well as traditional Asian and Hawaiian art. Located in two of Honolulu’s most beautiful buildings, visitors enjoy two cafés, gardens, and films and concerts at the theater. Other location: Honolulu Museum of Art Spalding HouseSee more..
4.5North Shore(1.273 reviews) - Friendly, professional Tiho Thursday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks
The northern region of Oahu is a destination in itself, offering a wide variety of natural wonders and resort activities.See more..
Nicknamed Turtle Beach, this unique location is home to a population of Hawaiian green turtles that bask on its sandy shores during the day. Observe these gentle creatures from a safe distance, and watch them make their way through the rough waves that hit the beach. Volunteers are on hand to ensure that the turtles are not disturbed, and there are signs with information and rules. Laniakea Beach is understandably popular with tourists and locals alike—visiting in the morning when the turtles are active and for fewer crowds. You'll have a better chance of seeing turtles in the summer. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Shipwreck Beach(1.214 reviews) - Take the long trail hike! Beaches
Shipwreck is beautiful but can be dangerous for swimming. We'd recommend taking the Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail starting at Shipwreck Beach to the Makawehi Bluff to see the Waiopili Heiau Historic Site. Bring water as you'll get thirsty along the trek.See more..
This serene cove on the northwestern tip of Maui is known as one of the most beautiful spots in Hawaii. Sunbathe on the soft white sand and snorkel in the warm, calm, crystal-clear waters. The area is teaming with marine life, and you can easily spot fish, eels, and sea turtles swimming amongst the coral. This small beach can get crowded—arrive early to get a good spot, or come later in the afternoon for a vibrant sunset. There are restrooms and showers by the parking lot, and the walk along Kapalua Coastal Trail is a great way to take in the view. – TripadvisorSee more..
A two-mile walk along Maui's northwest coast, the trail begins and ends on a beach. In between, you'll see spactacular oceanfront and bountiful greenery on the dramatic coastline.See more..
The gardens were really beautiful and were a great place for taking pictures. The bridges, trees, water and mountain views, sculptures and plants were all so gorgeous. Driving through was peaceful, but it was so inviting that we also got out and took a little walk. It was easy to park and free to enter. What a treasure to Hilo! See more..
We loved this tour! Jim was a great guide, and it was fun to hear from a biologist about the research being done. He was very knowledgeable in his field. It was so fun to be able to hold a seahorse- only place in the world!! (according to Jim) It is a bit steep pricewise for what it is, but I felt okay about spending money to further the research and breeding being done at the facility. Unfortunately the sea dragons were under quarantine while we were there, so we couldn’t see them!See more..
4.5Waipi'o Valley(1.053 reviews) - Fantastic tour of Valley, Waterfalls and Lava Tube Thursday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Historic Walking Areas • Valleys
A scenic area of waterfalls and thousand foot cliffs.See more..
We loved Kamaole Beach II, it was such a lovely beach to swim and boogie board at and each fish and chips at sunset at the nearby tables and seats (be sure to try Coconuts Fish Cafe or Maui Fish and Chips at Dolphin Plaza one night during your Maui stay). I also appreciated the fact that there was a lifeguard on duty and, outdoor showers, toilets and parking nearby too. I love this part of Maui and highly recommend going to Kamaole Beach II (or any of the three Kamaole beaches)!!See more..
One of the largest undeveloped beaches in southern Maui located away from the resorts. This white sandy beach is sandwiched between black lava outcroppings.See more..
This two-mile coastal trail across the cliffs of southern Kauai starts from Shipwreck Beach on Keoneloa Bay to the quiet Mahaulepu Beach near Kawailoa Bay.See more..
4.5Polihale State Park(964 reviews) - Stunning empty white sand beach on the Napali Coast State Parks • Beaches
A historical state beach park with breathtaking views and landscape.See more..
4.5Shangri La(944 reviews) - Be Swept Away to Shangri La! Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Art Museums
Shangri La is a museum for learning about the global cultures of Islamic art and design through exhibitions, digital and educational initiatives, public tours and programs, and community partnerships.See more..
4.5Tunnels Beach(941 reviews) - Great beach…Difficult access Beaches
Also known as Makua Beach, Tunnels Beach gets its nickname from the maze of lava tubes found throughout its expansive reef. Here, you'll find lots of marine life—large schools of reef fish, turtles and even wild dolphins—making it one of the best spots for snorkeling in Kauai. Visit during summer for calm waters or during winter when it becomes a surfer's paradise. You can also simply stroll down the white sand beach and enjoy views of the scenic green peaks of Mount Makana to the west. Tours of Kauai often include a stop here; you can even fly over the beach on a helicopter tour. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Honolua Bay(940 reviews) - Snorkeling with Sea Turtles Nature & Wildlife Areas
At Honolua Bay, you can snorkel among coral reefs, sea turtles, and puffer fish in the summer and surf in the winter. You can also tour the rocky coast on a boat year-round. Park off the highway and head to the shore through a short trail along the forest. From the beach, you’ll spot the islands of Molokai and Lanai. If you choose to take a dip in the water, watch out for the slippery rocks below the surface. A few wild chickens roaming around complement the natural scenery. Try to get to the bay early to find a parking spot. – TripadvisorSee more..
***Plan ahead and get your reservation online*** If you have a National Park Pass, be sure to bring it with you and use for your reservation (it only costs $1 for up to 4-people). You currently cannot go in the Lighthouse, but they have done a great job to make the grounds accessible and safe. There were so many sea birds and a few seals in the cove. If it's a sunny day, bring a hat or wear sunblock, as everything is pretty much unshaded. Binoculars would be great for those who want to check out the shoreline for animals and the nearby cliffs for birds. I didn't go during whale season, but I heard you can see a lot of them in the winter/spring.See more..
4.5Anini Beach(929 reviews) - Xmas holiday- have the Anini Beach to ourselves Beaches
This well-shaded, sinuous beach is home to one of the largest fringing reefs in Hawaii, and an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling. It’s one of the safest beaches on Kauai, making it especially popular amongst families with kids. Green sea turtles, Hawaii’s state fish (triggerfish), and tropical reef fish are examples of common marine life you can spot in the area. For those keen on trying watersports, windsurfing is exceptionally popular due to the steady winds. Otherwise, roll out your beach gear on one of the tranquil sandy inlets and enjoy the privacy. Come early and score a picnic pavilion for splendid views. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Sunset Beach Park(917 reviews) - Beautiful if you don't want to swim! Beaches
Beautiful place for watching the sunset and surfers. NOT a place to really get in the water unless you are surfing - maybe it is calmer in the summer. The sand here will have you sinking a bit as you walk around, so get ready for some exercise if you plan on doing that. Parking is along the road in most access places, I am not sure if we missed an actual parking lot, but plan ahead for spotty parking. We got dinner after this nearby at Seven Brothers Burgers, but it would have been extra nice to have takeout on the beach itself during the sunset.See more..
4.5Koloa Rum Company(889 reviews) - Enjoyable tasting experience! Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Distilleries
For the first time in history, Rum is being distilled legally on the island of Kauai. Visit Koloa Rum's Premier Tasting Room and Company Store at Kilohana Plantation in Puhi, Kaua`i where our award winning Premium Hawaiian Rums are available. Also popular are our rum cakes, rum fudge sauce, Kukui Brand Mai Tai Mix, jams, jellies, syrups, Koloa Rum logo wear and other unique Hawaiian made products. Open daily at 10:00am. All tastings and alcohol sales require a valid photo ID and all individuals must be 21 years or older to enter the tasting room. Please enjoy responsibly!See more..
4.5Kilauea(883 reviews) - Must visit place in Big Island! Volcanos
Active volcano built on the southeastern slope of Mauna Loa features a caldera approximately 4 by 3.2 kilometers wide and walls from zero to 120 meters high.See more..
4.5Sleeping Giant Trail(870 reviews) - Sleeping Giant will wake you up Lookouts • Hiking Trails
Named for its unusual shape, this Nounou Mountain trail in east Kauai is a challenging 3.4 mile trek—but the views at the top? Worth it.See more..
4.5Kealakekua Bay(827 reviews) - Kealakekua Bay kayak rental Thursday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Historic Sites • Bodies of Water • Nature & Wildlife Areas
We rented a double kayak from Rocky at Bay Side Adventures. We paid $50.00 for use with unlimited time. They set you up with a dry bag for your cell phone and other valuable items that you don't want wet! We packed a lunch and paddled about 30 minutes over to Capt Cook's monument. You are not allowed to tie the kayak up to anything so they give you a long lead line that you tie around your wrist and drag the boat along as you snorkel. We brought our own snorkeling gear and easily got in and out of the boat. The color of the water is so pretty. It's a fun day to paddle, swim, snorkel, and eat on the water! Give Rocky a call 808-896-0610, you won't be disappointed!See more..
My family of four visited there on a recent day and found a snorkeling site (two steps) near the park extremely enjoyable. Easy access from the shore and the waters there offered a big variety of marine life. Corals are sadly dead, though. If you travel with young children or elderly, they can also chill there by staying in tidal pools which are safe and fun. There is a paid parking lot for $5 per car, but I also saw people parking on the street. I actually didn’t go to the park itself. See more..
NTBG’s McBryde Garden and Allerton Garden are located on the south shore of Kauai in the picturesque Lawai Valley. Individual tours of each garden run daily and include a ride from the Visitors Center in Poipu along a scenic coastal route and continue along the valley rim on a former sugarcane train railbed. Visitors disembark on the valley floor to explore these outstanding gardens. McBryde, NTBG’s flagship garden, is home to the world’s largest collection of native Hawaiian flora, many endangered or having gone extinct in the wild. It is a “botanical ark”, filled with palms, flowering trees, ornamental flowers, and unusual plants from the tropical world. Allerton is a former private estate, named by National Geographic Traveler magazine as one of the 50 places to see in a lifetime. Plants form the walls of outdoor rooms, the canopy of trees the ceiling. Housed within are elegant statuary and water features. A popular spot for photos is the ‘Jurassic trees’, with their massive curving roots.National Tropical Botanical Garden is a nonprofit institution, dedicated to saving and studying tropical plants.See more..
4.5Shark's Cove(786 reviews) - My favorite thing we did on Oahu Beaches
These rocky tidal pools in Pupukea’s Marine Life Conservation District on Oahu’s north shore are famous for snorkeling and scuba diving. Despite its name, there are no sharks to be found here, but the cove boasts an impressive variety of marine life, including schools of fish, octopuses, sea turtles, and thriving coral. Visit in summer when the waters are calm, as the winter’s waves make for dangerous conditions. There are restrooms and limited parking but no lifeguards on duty. Also, wear water shoes as it’s easy to lose footing on the sharp and slippery rocks. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Hanalei Valley Lookout(765 reviews) - Early morning Rainbow Thursday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Lookouts • Scenic Drives
Early in the morning, I stopped at the Hanalei Valley lookout on my way to the Okolehao Trail. I was in no rush to leave the area, so I fed the hen and her chicks a banana. A rainbow appeared to compliment the view of Hanalei Valley.See more..
4.5Waimanalo Beach(740 reviews) - Best Beach Beaches • Parks
Located on the windward side of Oahu, this gorgeous and secluded beach has the majestic Koolau Mountains as a backdrop. It's great for sunbathing under the ironwood trees on the soft white sand and swimming in its clear waters—the waters are calmer in the morning and kick up in the afternoon when it’s breezier. The beach is a quiet refuge on weekdays but is a popular spot for locals on the weekend who gather for all-day barbecues and beach fun. You'll also see anglers chartering boats to fish at sea. Check out this beach on a tour or helicopter ride over Oahu, which often passes by Waimanalo Beach. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Limahuli Garden and Preserve(718 reviews) - Worth the time and money Thursday: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Gardens
If you love nature, you will appreciate this preserve. They provide a booklet that describes the items along the path. I especially appreciated learning about how they have preserved native plants from the interior of the island that are near extinction and impact of immigration to the island. A reservation is a must, as parking and access is limited.See more..
4.5Hula Daddy Kona Coffee(704 reviews) - Farm to tongue coffee Thursday: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Farms
This truly is a family farm with husband and wife running every aspect. They grow a handful of different types of beans on different parcels and pick, wash, roast and package on site. They have won several international awards with their product and because their house roaster takes copious notes of every batch, they can duplicate the winning formula for us mere humans to buy and brew at home. We bought one each of a handful of bags and will see how well our notes match theirs.See more..
4.5Maui Swap Meet(684 reviews) - Fun way to spend a few hours Thursday: Flea & Street Markets
This open-air flea market is the largest in Maui and takes place every Saturday morning. Hunt for the best local food and shopping bargains.See more..
4.5Ulua Beach(671 reviews) - Lovely beach for a chill day Beaches
This crescent-shaped bay in Kauai is the largest bay on the north shore, with stunning views and gorgeous beaches. Start at Black Pot Beach and head towards Hanalei Pier—an unmistakable landmark jetty made famous by the classic film, South Pacific—before walking towards Hanalei Pavilion Beach Park. Find a good spot along the bay to set down your towels—you can have a picnic, kayak, sunbathe, and even snorkel if the waters are calm (the waves can be rough during winter). Stay until sunset for exceptionally amazing views of Mount Makana in the distance. Hanalei Bay is a featured stop on many Kauai boat tours; some even help you to look for green sea turtles. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Little Beach(519 reviews) - Same as ever Beaches
We visited twice in November on Monday and Friday ( sign says closes at 7 on weekdays and 4 pm on sat and sun so we didn’t go on the weekend). It was the same as ever except for more oppressive signs stating no nudity an no several other things as well as a large open but lockable gate as you go up the lava path to cross from big to little beach. Signs say $10 to park and $5 per person to visit. We parked on the road outside the lot and never paid either. There are machines to pay for parking but no idea how to pay entry per person. No officials ever in sight. Very one was nude and chill at the beach and it was wonderful as in the past which was a relief. Everyone was respectful and friendly.See more..
The "Morning Oceanfront Trail Ride" begins at the Mendes Ranch Corral and will take you down the edge of the scenic valley to the coastline where you will have an opportunity to view the magnificent waters of the Pacific Ocean before heading back up to the corral. At the coastline, our trail guides will take photos of you with the majestic seascape in the background. RIDE LENGTH: 1.5 hours CHECK-IN: 8:45 am (Departs at 9:00 am) We take the safety of our riders and horses very seriously and will therefore strictly enforce our weight limit of 230#. Due to our terrain of going up & down the mountain, if the horse slips, we face serious injury to both. If you show up on sight with questionable weight, we will take you to the scale. No refund will be available if you are denied as we are booked to capacity and could have sold your space. Please respect our animals, be honest, and we look forward to meeting you at the ranch! * Closed toe shoes are required for this ride *See more..
This is not a tourist destination so much as a deliberate choice to be within a working monastery where beauty and reflection reward you deeply. Not to be rushed but truly savored. It is wise to submit a request to sit/meditate in the small temple in the last hour the grounds are open to the public each day. You will be amply rewarded in quietude.See more..
The round trip takes about 2 hours depending on how fast you drive or the other cars drive. There is no food, water, car gas or anything so plan ahead!! The trip is under 40 miles but depending on how often you stop to hike or take pictures, will determine just how long of a trip that you have. If you have not been here before then it is an awesome trip to take!See more..
Take a serene walk through the Bamboo Forest in Haleakala National Park along the two-mile Pipiwai Trail. You'll be led to Waimoku Falls, a gorgeous waterfall that cascades down a lava rock wall. The Bamboo Forest is often a stop on tours along the Road to Hana. If you want to experience all of the park's trails and numerous waterfalls, consider spending the night at the Kipahulu Campground by the seaside. Don't forget to issue your three-day passes by the entrance of Oheo Gulch, a requirement for visitors. It's best to arrive early in the morning for fewer crowds, especially during summer, and remember to bring enough water and bug repellent. – TripadvisorSee more..