Visiting the Hawaiian Islands is something many people wish to do in their lifetime. On one side of an island, you might encounter active volcanoes or roaring waterfalls tucked beneath dense jungle canopies. On the other side, you can see snow-capped mountains in contrast with cerulean waves crashing against the sandy white shores.
Continue reading for some of the best things to include in your Hawai’i bucket list. Then, check out our comprehensive Vacation Guide for even more ideas for things to do on O’ahu and the Big Island!
O’ahu
1. Discover the World’s Best Beaches for Surfing
Looking to catch the perfect wave at the best surf spots on the globe? O’ahu is where you’ll find them.
On Waikiki Beach, the calm waters create a perfect environment to learn or practice your skills. Thanks to the various reef breaks, you’ll find waves that are appropriate for all skill levels. Plus, there are plenty of places to take lessons along the shore.
In your surfing lesson, your instructor will go over paddling out and how to pop up into your stance. After practicing on sand, you’ll head out into the water, where they’ll help you catch your first wave. The remainder of your lesson will consist of you putting your new skills to work, making for an incredible bucket list activity you’ll remember forever.
For the BIG waves, you’ll want to visit North Shore. With swells that sometimes reach 40 feet, these dangerous waves are appropriate only for professionals. But they’re quite the sight to see. If you’re visiting during peak season, be sure to take a trip to Waimea Bay and watch the experts at work.
2. Take in Views of Honolulu on the Diamond Head Crater Hike
A visit to O’ahu isn’t complete without hiking Diamond Head! Once you reach the summit, you can soak in views of the vibrant streets of Honolulu, the beautiful blue waters of the Pacific, and fluffy white clouds painting the horizon. If you’re lucky, you might even spot breaching humpback whales!
After hiking Diamond Head Crater, head over to J Dolans at Kahala for a Spinach Garlic Pizza, a must on a Hawai’i food bucket list.
3. Visit Thundering O’ahu Waterfalls
Throughout O’ahu you’ll discover many exquisite waterfalls, and taking time to get up close to some of them should top any Hawai’i bucket list. Some of the top waterfall hikes include Manoa Falls, Likeke, and Waimano Falls.
The first two offer scenic, easy trails perfect for families traveling with children, while Waimano Falls is a bit more challenging. However, if you can make it to the top of this steep trek, you’ll be rewarded with excellent views and a refreshing swimming hole.
4. Scope Out Makapu’u Point Lighthouse
For an exciting day outdoors, hike the Makapu’u Point Trail on the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline. There, you’ll see extraordinary views of Koko Head, Koko Crater, Makapuʻu, and Waimanalo Bay. This is a must for your Hawai’i bucket list!
After your hike, visit Kalapawai Café and Deli in Waimanalo for delicious Hawaiian items like their lunch bento boxes or simple specialties like burgers and deli sandwiches. They also have freshly pressed, locally made juices that will quench your thirst after your hike and get you ready for your next adventure.
5. Visit Pearl Harbor
History buffs won’t want to miss out on touring Pearl Harbor’s aviation museum and WWII battleships such as the USS Arizona Memorial and the USS Bowfin Submarine. While the experience can be heavy, hearing the history of this national historic landmark is an experience you don’t want to miss.
Depending on when you visit, you can enjoy lunch or dinner at nearby Restaurant 604, a fantastic fusion restaurant right on the water. Try their Kalua Pork plate lunch or the Loco Moco!
6. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is undoubtedly one of the best spots on O’ahu for snorkeling! Because of the dense population of colorful fish, it’s the perfect place to explore what lies beneath the waves.
In an effort to protect the delicate ecosystem at the bay, reservations are needed to visit, and only 1,400 people are allowed to visit each day. Tickets are $25.00, and the bay is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
When you’re ready for a break from the sun, head to Kona Brewing Co. for excellent local drafts and classic pub fare.
The Big Island
1. Experience a Black Sand Beach
Have you ever seen a black sand beach? It’s a real thing in Hawai’i! You HAVE to visit one of the black sand beaches on the Big Island. These unique shores came about after thousands of years of volcanic eruptions.
If you want to cross this natural beauty off your Hawai’i bucket list, add Polulu Beach, Kehena Black sand Beach, or Punalu’u Beach to your Big Island itinerary.
2. Fly Over Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
If you’ve never seen a volcano before, then a visit to the Big Island is a must! The national park is home to one of the most active volcanoes on earth. In fact, you’ll likely encounter volcanic rock across the entire island! Take a helicopter tour over an active volcano for one of the most unique Hawai’i bucket list experiences!
3. Swim with Manta Rays at Night
The Manta Ray Night Dive with Big Island Divers is one of the top-rated dives in the world. It allows you to get up close and personal with these majestic sea creatures. There’s truly nothing like it!
4. Stargaze Like Never Before at Mauna Kea Summit
Seeing the night sky aglow with stars in the Hawaiian sky is a humbling experience. You suddenly become aware of how bright and brilliant the universe can be while gazing from the Mauna Kea Summit.
Recharge Your Energy in the Best Vacation Rental in Hawai’i
Regardless of whether you choose to stay on the Big Island or O’ahu, making a Private Homes Hawai’i vacation rental your home away from home should be on your Hawai’i bucket list! Our properties uphold a standard of quality that is unparalleled in the industry. Just imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing along the shore just steps away from your covered lanai in one of our exceptional homes.
What are you waiting for?