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Discover the most unforgettable experiences across Hawaii’s main islands — from sunrise on Haleakalā to snorkeling in Honolua Bay — and start planning your island holiday.
Hawaii’s eight main islands each carry their own personality, landscapes, and traditions. Volcanic summits rise above the clouds, coral reefs shelter marine life just offshore, and centuries-old cultural sites sit quietly along the coast. With so many remarkable places, choosing ‘the best’ is no small task.
Rather than highlighting one thing per island, we’ve curated the standout experiences across the state — the sunrise worth setting an alarm for, the beach that truly earns its reputation, the drive that turns into a full-day adventure, and more. These are our most beloved experiences in the Aloha State.
Where is the Best Sunrise and Sunset in Hawaii?
Haleakalā, Maui
Rising 3,055 metres (10,023 feet) above sea level within Haleakalā National Park, this dormant volcano offers one of the most dramatic vantage points in the Pacific. At sunrise, the crater fills with shifting colour as clouds drift below the summit. By sunset, the sky softens into layers of gold, orange, and violet. After dark, the elevation and minimal light pollution reveal a remarkably clear canopy of stars over Maui.
The winding road to the summit climbs steadily through ranchland and open landscape before reaching thinner air and panoramic views that feel almost otherworldly.
Key Highlights:
- Summit elevation of 3,055 metres
- Located within Haleakalā National Park
- Expansive crater views above the cloud line
- Clear night skies ideal for stargazing
What Is the Best Waterfall in Hawaii?
For Viewing: ʻAkaka Falls, Hawaiʻi Island
For Swimming: Waimea Falls, Oʻahu
On Hawaiʻi Island, ʻAkaka Falls plunges 135 metres (442 feet) into a gorge within ʻAkaka Falls State Park. A paved loop trail winds through dense tropical vegetation, offering changing perspectives before revealing the waterfall in full view. Swimming is not permitted here, preserving the surrounding ecosystem and keeping the focus on its sheer vertical beauty.
On Oʻahu’s North Shore, Waimea Falls in Waimea Valley offers a different experience. The waterfall measures approximately 14 metres (45 feet) in height, and visitors can swim in the pool below when conditions allow. The walk to it passes through botanical gardens and cultural sites, making the journey as memorable as the destination.
Key Highlights:
- ʻAkaka Falls: 135-metre cascade, no swimming permitted
- Waimea Falls: approximately 14 metres tall, swimming allowed with lifeguards
- Lush, walkable trails through tropical vegetation
- Located within protected park settings
Where Can You Experience the Most Meaningful Cultural Immersion in Hawaii?
Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, Hawaiʻi Island
Once a place of refuge in ancient Hawaiian society, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau was where those who broke kapu (sacred laws) could seek protection. Today, the site is preserved by the National Park Service and remains one of the most culturally and spiritually significant places in the state.
Wooden kiʻi (carved images) stand watch over restored temple platforms and fishponds, while the Great Wall — a massive lava rock structure — borders the shoreline. The setting invites quiet reflection and a deeper understanding of traditional Hawaiian life.
Key Highlights:
- Managed by the National Park Service
- Historically a place of refuge under the kapu system
- Features reconstructed kiʻi and temple platforms
- Coastal setting along Hōnaunau Bay
What Is the Best Golf Course in Hawaii?
The Plantation Course at Kapalua, Maui
Set along Maui’s northwest coastline, the Plantation Course at Kapalua is known for its wide fairways, elevation changes, and sweeping Pacific views. Designed by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, it hosts The Sentry, the PGA Tour’s season-opening tournament.
While professionals compete here each January, the course is open to visitors, offering the chance to play a layout shaped by ocean winds and dramatic terrain.
Key Highlights:
- Hosts The Sentry (PGA Tour season opener)
- Designed by Coore & Crenshaw
- Expansive ocean views from multiple holes
- Open to public play
Which Beach Is the Best in Hawaii?
Lanikai Beach, Oʻahu
On Oʻahu’s windward coast, Lanikai Beach is known for its fine white sand and ultra-clear turquoise water. Just offshore, the twin Mokulua Islands rise from the sea, creating one of Hawaii’s most recognisable coastal views.
The calm conditions often make it ideal for swimming and kayaking, particularly in the morning when trade winds are lighter.
Key Highlights:
- Powdery white sand shoreline
- Views of the Mokulua Islands
- Typically calm morning waters
- Located on Oʻahu’s southeastern coast
Where Is the Best Snorkeling in Hawaii?
Honolua Bay, Maui
Honolua Bay in West Maui is designated as a Marine Life Conservation District, a status intended to protect its reef ecosystem. In calm summer conditions, visibility is excellent, revealing coral formations, reef fish, and green sea turtles. On occasion, larger marine life, such as manta rays, may also be spotted.
Access requires a short walk along a forested trail, and entry is from a rocky shoreline rather than a sandy beach. Water shoes are recommended.
Key Highlights:
- Official Marine Life Conservation District
- Vibrant coral reefs and abundant fish
- Frequent green sea turtle sightings
- Best during calm summer mornings
Where Is the Best Whale Watching in Hawaii?
Maui
Each winter, North Pacific humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters. Maui is widely regarded as one of the best islands for sightings, particularly due to the shallow Auʻau Channel between Maui, Molokaʻi, and Lānaʻi, where mothers and calves are often observed.
Prime shore viewing locations include McGregor Point along Highway 30 and elevated stretches of the Lahaina Pali Trail.
Key Highlights:
- Seasonal humpback whale migration (typically winter months)
- Shallow channel waters ideal for mother and calf pairs
- Strong shore-based viewing opportunities
- Boat excursions available from multiple harbours
Where Is the Best Place to View Sea Turtles in Hawaii?
Poʻipū Beach Park and Brennecke’s Beach, Kauaʻi
On Kauaʻi’s south shore, green sea turtles are frequently seen cruising through the shallows and resting on the sand. Late afternoon often brings higher chances of spotting them as they haul out to bask.
These encounters happen at a respectful distance — still close enough for pictures and to observe the details of each animal — and visitors are reminded that Hawaiian green sea turtles are protected under US federal law.
Key Highlights:
- Frequent green sea turtle sightings
- Shoreline and in-water viewing opportunities
- Protected species under federal law
- Located on Kauaʻi’s south shore
What Is the Most Scenic Drive in Hawaii?
The Road to Hāna, Maui
Stretching along Maui’s northeastern coastline, the Road to Hāna is known for its winding curves, narrow bridges, and changing landscapes. Waterfalls spill from cliffs, rainforest lines the roadside, and dazzling ocean views appear around almost every bend.
Popular stops include the legendary Halfway to Hāna stand for banana bread and shaved ice, and Waiʻānapanapa State Park, home to a black sand beach formed by volcanic activity.
Key Highlights:
- Over 600 curves and dozens of bridges
- Waterfalls and rainforest scenery
- Waiʻānapanapa State Park’s black sand beach
- Local roadside food stands
Where Is the Best Nightlife in Hawaii?
Waikīkī, Oʻahu
Waikīkī is Hawaii’s most concentrated nightlife district, offering rooftop lounges, cocktail bars, live music venues, karaoke spots, and late-night dining. The neighbourhood’s walkability makes it easy to move between venues, with Diamond Head silhouetted in the distance.
The energy here contrasts with the quiet retreat of other islands, offering a lively evening option within steps of the beach.
Key Highlights:
- Rooftop lounges and cocktail bars
- Live music and karaoke venues
- Walkable nightlife district
- Beachfront setting
What Is the Best Hike in Hawaii?
The Kalalau Trail, Kauaʻi
Tracing the Nā Pali Coast along Kauaʻi’s north shore, the Kalalau Trail is approximately 35 kilometres (22 miles) round trip and is considered one of the most challenging hikes in the state. The route crosses streams, climbs steep, muddy sections, and passes through deep valleys before reaching Kalalau Beach.
The dramatic emerald cliffs and remote coastline have made this stretch of shore one of Hawaii’s most photographed landscapes.
Key Highlights:
- Approximately 35 kilometres round trip
- Traverses the Nā Pali Coast
- Steep, rugged, and often muddy terrain
- Expansive views of cliffs and secluded beaches
Where Should I Go in Hawaii?
Hawaii may be a single state, but each of its islands is home to distinct landscapes, traditions, and adventures. Pairing a sunrise above the clouds on Maui with cultural immersion on Hawaiʻi Island, snorkelling in a protected marine district, and a coastal hike along the Nā Pali Coast takes more than a simple flight and hotel booking. It requires local insight and careful timing.
At Hayes & Jarvis, we design fully customised Hawaii journeys built around the experiences that matter most to you. From securing national park reservations and tee times to recommending the right season for whale watching or the calmest mornings for snorkelling, we curate every detail. The result is not just a holiday filled with mai tais and sun, but a journey into the heart and soul of Hawaii.
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Written by: The Hayes & Jarvis Team
Posted in: United States
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