Hawaii is probably the most unique place in the United States, a set of tropical islands in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. There is a wealth of things to do and attractions to visit in Hawaii, ranging from memorials to Pearl Harbor to some of the best volcanoes on Earth. With such a wide range of exciting activities on the island it is well worth your time to visit.
Read on for 10 of the best attractions Hawaii has to offer.
1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
The most visited attraction in Hawaii and for good reason. Within it is the most active volcano in the world – Kilauea and the largest – Mauna Lao. You can camp & hike, there are loads of fantastic viewing points and you can even view an active lava flow. A must visit.(image by LoveBigIsland ).
2. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Some of the best snorkeling and swimming in the state, this preserve has been restored over the years so it is one of the best nature reserves you will find. You need to get a pass to swim or snorkel but you will be rewarded with the best you have ever experienced.
3. Waimea Canyon
It has been called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. It is 10 miles long, a mile wide and 6000 feet deep. It is spectacular. There is a museum at the top which you should visit and there are loads of hiking trails throughout the canyon.
4. USS Arizona Memorial
This is located at Peal Harbor and you can learn all about the attacks, there is a short film about them and it is accessible by free shuttle boat, as it is in the middle of the harbor. The center actually is above the sunken wreck of the USS Arizona and you can see it from the center.
5. The Hana Highway
This fantastic road is well worth a drive, it is like being on a roller coaster! It goes into valleys, past waterfalls and across 51 bridges. There are pools to swim in and some fantastic scenery. Get a convertible and drive with the top down for the best experience.
6. Waikiki Beach
Very popular and very touristy, Hawaii’s number one beach. It has legendary surf during the day and hula parties at night. If you want the authentic (or what you consider to be authentic) Hawaii experience, then visit Waikiki Beach for a day and night.(image by Vernon Brown).
7. Whale Watching
See the majestic Humpback Whale in its natural environment on a whale watching cruise, see them play, see them splash and even launch their massive frames out of the water. Available all over the islands.
8. Play Golf
Hawaii is known for its world class golf courses, and if you enjoy picking up a club then you should give them a try. There are over 80 golf course in the state but the best are the ones overlooking the ocean.
9. Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
This is a historical site that used to be scared ground for the former Hawaiian royalty. You can see a wide range of archaeological sites and reconstructions – but there is also a lot of natural wildlife to see, such as green turtles.
10. Panaewa Rainforest Zoo
The only tropical zoo in the United States, with a huge range of animals indigenous to the rain forest, they have white tigers and hundreds of other tropical species that are endangered.
As you can see – you won’t be bored in Hawaii, whether you like kicking back on the beach or hiking through a canyon, they have it all. Whatever your reason for taking a vacation, you will find what you are looking for in the 50th state.
