The 15 Best Places to Visit in Hawaii in 2023

From Waikiki Beach and Haleakala National Park to Kilauea Volcano and Mauna Kea Summit Observatory Tour, there are countless places to soak in Hawaii’s natural beauty.

With places like Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park, the Wailuku River State Park, or the Waimea Canyon State Park, the Hawaiian archipelago has something to offer everyone; from thrill-seekers to those looking for pure relaxation.

So, whether you’re planning a trip or just dreaming up ideas for future travels, our travel experts have found a must-see place for you. Let us be your guide!

15 of the Best Places to Visit in Hawaii

Hawaii is undoubtedly one of the most popular vacation spots for US citizens. That means that you probably have heard about some of the places we will discuss in our list, but be sure to keep your eye out for some hidden gems!

1. Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kauai

Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kauai, is a stunningly beautiful place to visit. Located on the northwest shore of Kauai, it’s one of Hawaii’s most remote and pristine areas. An absolute gem.

The park offers breathtaking views of towering sea cliffs, cascading waterfalls, lush valleys, and secluded beaches. It’s also home to an array of wildlife including dolphins, whales, and monk seals.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there are plenty of activities to choose from. Hiking is popular here with trails ranging from easy strolls along the beach to challenging treks up steep mountainsides.

2. Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii, is a must-see destination for any traveler. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, this park offers an incredible array of activities and sights to explore.

Hiking trails range from easy walks through lush rainforest terrain to more challenging hikes up steep slopes or along ridges overlooking craters and steam vents. From beginners to advanced adventurers, there are options for all.

Visitors can also participate in ranger-led programs such as night hikes or star gazing sessions at Halemaumau Crater Observatory, unique experiences that cannot be replicated anywhere.

3. Haleakala National Park, Maui

Haleakala National Park, Maui, is a must-see destination for any traveler. Located on the island’s eastern side, this park offers breathtaking views and a variety of activities to enjoy.

One of the most popular attractions in the park is watching the sunrise from its summit. The view from 10,000 feet above sea level is one that you won’t soon forget!

For those who don’t want to make it up to the summit, there are plenty of great lookout points along your journey up or down from Haleakala’s peak.

4. Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head State Monument, Oahu

Waikiki Beach, and Diamond Head State Monument, Oahu, are two of the most popular attractions in Hawaii. Located on the south shore of Oahu, Waikiki Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand beach that has drawn visitors for decades.

At Waikiki Beach, you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, surfing or just relaxing on the beach with a good book. Just east of Waikiki lies Diamond Head State Monument – one of Hawaii’s most iconic landmarks.

This extinct volcano crater is home to some incredible views and trails leading up to its summit where hikers can take in panoramic views stretching out to the Honolulu cityscape below.

5. Kona Coffee Living History Farm, Hawaii

Kona Coffee Living History Farm, Hawaii is an incredible place to visit for any tourist. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, this farm offers a unique educational experience that will make your trip unforgettable.

The Kona Coffee Living History Farm was established in 1997 by local farmers who wanted to preserve their heritage and share it with visitors worldwide.

The farm is home to some of the oldest coffee trees in Hawaii and other historic buildings like a traditional Hawaiian hale (house). Visitors can explore these structures while learning about how coffee was grown and processed in olden times.

6. Hana Road, Maui

Hana Road, Maui is one of the most popular destinations for tourists visiting Hawaii. This winding road stretches over 50 miles and offers breathtaking views of lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning beaches.

Along the way, you can find plenty of places to stop and explore including Haleakala National Park, Waianapanapa State Park, Oheo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools), Hana Town, and more!

You can also stroll through Waianapanapa State Park where you’ll find black sand beaches or take a dip in the Seven Sacred Pools at Oheo Gulch.

7. Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial, Oahu, is one of Hawaii’s most popular tourist destinations. Located on the island of Oahu, this historic site serves as a reminder of the tragic events during World War II.

The USS Arizona Memorial is located at Pearl Harbor and offers visitors a unique experience.

Visitors can explore the wreckage from the sunken battleship and view artifacts from its time in service, offering an opportunity to pay respects to those who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

8. Waipio Valley Lookout, Hawaii

Waipio Valley Lookout, Hawaii is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. Located on the Big Island, this stunning valley overlooks a lush green landscape and offers spectacular views of Waipio Valley below.

One of the best things to do at Waipio Valley Lookout is take in its breathtaking views. From here, you can see down into Waipio Valley where numerous waterfalls cascade down from high cliffs.

There are also plenty of trails that lead through dense forests and along rivers for those looking to explore deeply nature’s beauty, it’s a hike that you won’t forget.

9. Polynesian Cultural Center, Oahu

One of the most visited tourist attractions in Hawaii is the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu. It is situated on Oahu’s North Shor and provides tourists with a distinctive and comprehensive understanding of Polynesian culture.

The complex has seven towns that depict various Polynesian civilizations, including Samoa, Tahiti, Fiji, and others. Activities including canoe excursions, cultural demonstrations, and traditional dance performances are available in each community.

Take part in the culture of the area! Visitors can participate in the center’s programs, including practical classes where they can learn how to make Hawaiian crafts like leis or weave lauhala mats.

10. Mauna Kea, Hawaii

Hawaii’s Mauna Kea is a must-visit location for tourists who want to take in the natural splendor of the Hawaiian Islands. Mauna Kea is a majestic mountain on the Big Island that rises impressively 13,796 feet above sea level.

There is something for everyone here, from hiking routes that provide beautiful views of the island’s verdant scenery to stargazing chances in one of the top locations in the world for astronomy.

Lake Waiau is located on Mauna Kea’s summit at a height of 13,020 feet above sea level and serves as a holy location for native Hawaiians. Locals believe their goddess Poliahu created it, one of the mountain’s most well-known attractions.

11. Papohaku Beach Park, Molokai

Papohaku Beach Park, Molokai is a stunningly beautiful and serene beach park located on the western side of Molokai. This three-mile-long white sand beach is one of the longest in Hawaii and provides an ideal setting for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing or simply relaxing under the sun.

Swimming is popular here due to its crystal clear waters and gentle waves. Snorkelers can explore the coral reefs just offshore while kayakers can paddle along the shoreline looking for sea turtles or dolphins that frequent this area.

Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities here as well with several species of fish available in these waters including Mahimahi and Ono (Wahoo). An adventure to remember.

On the western side of Molokai sits Papohaku Beach Park, a breathtakingly lovely and tranquil beach park. One of the longest beaches in Hawaii, this three-mile stretch of white sand is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, or just lounging in the sun.

Because of this area’s clean waters and mild waves, swimming is very popular. While kayakers paddle along the shore seeking sea turtles or dolphins that frequent this area, snorkelers can explore the coral reefs offshore.

Numerous fish species exist in these waters, including Mahimahi and Ono (Wahoo), so anglers will also have many options here. Certainly, a memorable experience.

12. Kauai’s Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens on Kauai are one of Hawaii’s most visited tourist destinations. It’s no surprise that so many people visit this paradise every year given its luxuriant tropical vegetation, beautiful views, and rare species of plants and animals.

You can partake in several activities, such as guided tours examining the history and culture of Kauai’s native flora and wildlife, bird-watching excursions, or simply enjoying a stroll through the grounds.

Educational programs are also offered for people interested in learning more about Kauai’s natural environment, gardening methods, and plant care seminars.

13. Halawa Valley, Molokai

Halawa Valley, Molokai, is a must-see destination for any traveler looking to experience the beauty of Hawaii. Located on the eastern side of Molokai, Halawa Valley offers breathtaking views and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.

From snorkeling in crystal clear waters to hiking up ancient trails, plenty of outdoor activities are available at Halawa Valley.

The valley is home to numerous points of interest including ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs, an old fishpond that dates back centuries, and two spectacular waterfalls – Moaula Falls and Hiilawe Falls – which offer stunning views from above or below, depending on your preference.

14. Maui Ocean Center, Maui

Maui Ocean Center, Maui is a must-see destination for any traveler exploring Hawaii’s beauty. Located on Maalaea Bay, this center offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its incredible marine life exhibits and interactive activities.

From snorkeling in the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium to swimming with sharks and stingrays, there’s something for everyone at the Maui Ocean Center.

Visitors can take part in educational programs such as “Meet The Sharks” or “Snorkel With Stingrays” where they can learn about different species of sea creatures up close and personal.

Guided tours also provide an overview of the various habitats within the center and fun facts about each.

15. Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauai

Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauai is one of Hawaii’s most beautiful and awe-inspiring places. Located on the western side of Kauai, it offers breathtaking views of deep valleys, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls.

For those looking for an adventure, there are plenty of activities to choose from at Waimea Canyon State Park. Hiking trails range from easy strolls along the rim to more challenging hikes down into the canyon’s depths.

The main attraction at Waimea Canyon State Park is its namesake – Waimea Canyon itself! It’s filled with unique geological features such as spires, cliffs, and crevices that make for incredible photo opportunities.

Things to Consider

When planning a trip to Hawaii, there are many things to consider. From the type of accommodation and the activities, you’ll do while there, to what time of year is best for your visit and how much money you should budget.

Here are some tips to ensure your Hawaiian vacation is one to remember:

• Accommodation: Hotels offer luxurious amenities like pools, spas, restaurants, gyms, and most other things you’d come to expect from a modern facility; however, they can be expensive. Vacation rentals provide an affordable alternative with all the comforts of home including kitchens and living rooms.
• Activities: With its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, Hawaii offers plenty of activities for visitors looking for adventure or relaxation.
• Safety: Hawaii is very safe, but you should always do your own research about the regions you plan on visiting!
• Time Of Year: April-June sees fewer tourists and less predictable weather patterns such as showers or high winds that could disrupt outdoor plans so check forecasts before booking flights during this period just in case!
• Budgeting: When traveling anywhere it’s important not only to know how much money will need but also where it will go once arriving at the destination point – especially true when visiting Hawaii since the cost of living tends to be a bit higher than in mainland states (especially food drink).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are our answers to the most asked questions about visiting Hawaii:

So, Which Place Will You Visit in Hawaii?

Hawaii is an amazing place to visit and explore. With its stunning beaches, majestic mountains, lush rainforests, and incredible volcanoes, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure.

From Waikiki Beach to Haleakala National Park to Kilauea Volcano and Mauna Kea Summit Observatory Tour to Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, there’s a place to visit in Hawaii for every type of traveler and budget.

So, with so much to see and do, what are you waiting for — book your trip to Hawaii today!