Hawaii, America’s 50th state, is also undoubtedly one of its most beautiful. Consisting of several islands, the majority of attractions are spread across the four main islands of Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the island of Hawaii (The Big Island). Each island offers a very unique experience, from the urban landscape of Honolulu to the green valleys of Kauai. These are some of the most notable locations across each of Hawaii’s main islands.
OAHU / HONOLULU
Diamond Head
This long-dormant volcano is an icon of the Waikiki skyline. Located to the far East-point of Waikiki Beach, visitors can actually enter the crater valley and hike to the summit. The relatively easy hike is well paved and offers amazing views of Waikiki, Honolulu and South Oahu from its 232 meter summit.
Waikiki Beach
Hawaii’s most famous beach – Waikiki Beach spans 3.2 kilometers of white sand, azure ocean and warm waters year-round. The beach is home to many of Oahu’s luxury hotels, offering beautiful ocean-front views as well as those of Diamond Head and Honolulu. This beach is the perfect location to relax or participate in several ocean sports including surfing and snorkelling for beginners and experts alike.
MAUI
Lahaina & Front Street
Lahaina is located on the West-side of Maui, approximately 45 minutes from Kahului Airport. The small town was once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii and has since been developed as the center of tourism for Maui. Art galleries, coffee shops and eateries dot the central boulevard of Front Street.
Ka’anapali
Ka’anapali is Maui’s most famous and densely developed tourism location, with luxury hotels and condos located among what many consider Maui’s most beautiful coastline. The beach is approximately 45 minutes from Kahului Airport or 15 minutes from the nearby commuter airport of Kapalua. Visitors can enjoy beachfront dining and live entertainment across the mile-long beach.
KAUAI
Waimea Canyon
Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, is one of Hawaii’s most stunning natural wonders. 16 kilometers long and over 900 meters deep, this canyon is located on the Western side of Kauai and offers visitors amazing hiking opportunities. Those looking for a unique view of the canyon may also consider helicopter tours that are on offer.
Na Pali Coast
Located on the northwest side of Kauai, the Na Pali Coast is 26 kilometers of coastline alongside of the Kalalau Valley. Most notable are the cliffs, which extend 1,200 meters high. Camping is very popular, although requires a permit in advance. Kayaking during the certain months of year is also possible.
ISLAND OF HAWAII (The Big Island)
Hawaii Volcanos National Park
This park includes two active volcanos – Kilauea and Mauna Loa, covering 1,308 square kilometres in total. The park includes a visitor center at the entrance which includes general information about the volcanos, as well as the Volcano Art Center located nearby. The Thomas A. Jagger Museum has recently been closed due to damage sustained during a previous volcanic eruption.
Akaka Falls State Park
This park is located 18 kilometers north of Hilo and includes Akaka Falls, a 135 meter tall waterfall as well as a view of Kahuna Falls, a 91 meter tall waterfall. The falls are accessed via Hawaii Belt Road, with a less than 1 kilometer hike to see them. Visitors should take note that while this is only one of Hawaii Islands many waterfalls, it is easily the most accessible for those with a rental car.