Filed in Featured Destinations — December 18, 2024
10 Unforgettable Things to Do In Hawaii: From the Big Island to Beyond
Whether you are heading to Hawaii to relax, lounging poolside and on pristine sandy beaches, or are eager for active adventures, each island offers many options. This Central Pacific archipelago includes hundreds of islands and a diverse range of activities to pursue. With huge waves, volcanoes, and interesting culture, Hawaii will keep you busy and entertained.
Most visitors only have time to include one or two main islands on their trip. Your challenge will be how much or how little to do. These are ten top things to enjoy while visiting the beautiful Hawaiian Islands, whichever islands you chose to experience.
Whale Watching
The ‘Big Island’ is the most popular destination for whale watching in Hawaii. The peak season to catch a glimpse of Humpback whales is from January to March. In Maui, get an up-close look at whales guided by marine biologists from the Pacific Whale Foundation on their luxury catamaran.
Luaus
These traditional ceremonies are a major source of entertainment on all islands within Hawaii. Take the opportunity to enjoy live dancing, learn about Hawaiian and Polynesian culture, and enjoy delectable cuisines. Discover Hawaii’s most authentic luxury luau at Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort.
See a Lava Show or Tour a Lava Tube
Hop aboard a World-class catamaran to get up and close to the volcano fingers as they enter the sea. You will have thoroughly trained staff aboard, and safety is paramount. You can select from a tour in the morning, sunset, day, or twilight tour.
Or venture inside a 500-year-old Lava Tube within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Today, the tube is illuminated for visitors to venture inside.
Helicopter Tours
Various companies offer unique aerial journeys that allow you to view the breathtaking Hawaiian scenery from above. A helicopter tour is truly an ideal way to sightsee from volcanoes and waterfalls to hidden valleys and majestic coastlines. Whether you want to see the steam vents and fiery lava streams of Kilauea or sip champagne at sunset, there is a helicopter tour for you in Hawaii.
SUP (Stand-Up Paddle Boarding)
This activity originated in Hawaii and is a derivative of surfing. SUP is soothing and allows you to explore the waterways on your terms. An excellent paddle path to take is from Lanikai Beach to the Mokulua Islands. If you are new to this sport, take a lesson.
Horseback Riding Tours
Before the cowboys of the American West, there were the cowboys, paniolos, of Hawaii. Explore the coastline or venture to hidden trails on an exploratory horseback tour. Most companies offer private as well as group tours. Some countless ranches and stables accommodate tourists. In Maui, you can ride from predawn to sunset.
Mauna Kea
This dormant volcano is a unique wonder to explore and erupted over 4,000 years ago. You can hike the summit but be sure to stop by the Visitor Information Station to check for weather and safety tips. Mountain bike tours are also popular. For the adventurous, book Cycle to the Sea. Cycle from the top of Haleakala Volcano to the coast of Maui on this half-day cycling tour.
Kona Coffee Farm Tour
Kona coffee is some of the best gourmet coffee that you can find and is world-renowned. Kailua Kona, located on the ‘Big Island,’ is the heart of Kona coffee. When taking a tour, you will get to see processing facilities as well as the coffee fields. Don’t forget to take some time to indulge in the popular beverage. Or book a full-day tour including coffee and wine tasting and visits to waterfalls, beaches, and stunning viewpoints.
Snorkel with Manta Rays
Summon your courage and swim with the manta rays off Kailua-Kona. These enormous vegetarian animals, some with wingspans of 20 feet, swim gracefully around you while they feed on plankton for their evening meal. There are several tour operators in Kona. Most offer combined snorkel/dive trips. The best time to go is at sunset.
SCUBA Dive with Unique Creatures
25% of the marine species in Hawaii are endemic, can only be found in Hawaii, so SCUBA diving is the best way to see them. All of the islands have excellent dive operators catering to experienced divers and those who want to try the sport for the first time.
Pack your gear and make plans for your Hawaiian getaway with these great suggestions that will be sure to make your vacation memorable:
Click Here to Book Your Hawaiian Vacation or let’s get started planning your luxury vacation. Reserve your complimentary consultation call with me to begin!
Image credit: Whale Photo by Chase Emmons, lava photo by Buzz Andersen, SUP photo by Michael Henry, horse photo by Austin Neill, Mauna Kea photo by Micah Alameda, coffee photo by Katya Ross, manta photo by Sebastian Pena Lambarri, turtle photo by NEOM.
