Top 10 Things To Do In Hawaii This Year

Offering a sweet blend of thrilling city life, pleasant ocean-side bliss, and unrivaled water sports opportunities, the world fabled Waikiki understandably claims a spot in most Hawaii itineraries.

This 2-mile stretch situated on the South Shore of Oahu flaunts an impressive backdrop of some of the finest resorts on the island and offers an epic view of the Diamond Head State Monument.

In addition, the main street, Kalakaua Avenue is lined with world-class shopping, entertainment as well as lots of restaurants where you can sample local delicacies.

If you enjoy people-watching, this is the best place to hang around as you marvel at surfers both avid and amateurs chase enormous waves. Sunsets here are magical too!

Located approximately 45 minutes’ drive south of Hilo, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a great place to visit for a taste of nature’s most brutal forces and otherworldly landscape.

This park is home to two striking volcanoes; Mauna Loa and Kīlauea both of which have constantly altered the topography of this area for centuries.

With over 60 eruptions in the last 245 years (most recent being 3 May 2018) Kilauea is considered the world’s most active volcano.

The opportunity to witness the primeval process of destruction and creation makes a visit to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park a once in a lifetime experience.

With an unfading surge in attention thanks to social media popularity, this magical garden is better visited now than later! Spanning across 400 acres, the garden is engulfed with native Hawaiian vegetation and offers sweeping views of the majestic Koʻolau Mountains.

If you’re a nature enthusiast, you should spare a day to enjoy a moment of tranquillity and beauty in this garden.

You’ll find an art gallery and an informative visitor’s center where you can learn more about the native plants. Aside from picnic areas, there is a campground where you can reserve a spot for the weekend.

For history buffs, Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum gives you a glimpse into Hawaiian history and culture. Established in 1889 by Reed Bishop in honor of his wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi after her demise this museum is the largest in the state of Hawaii.

Originally, this massive structure was built to house the sizeable collection of Hawaiian artifacts as well as the heirlooms from Princess Bernice’s family.

Today, however, the museum hosts innumerable documents, photos, and objects that tell tales of ancient Hawaii plus some other pacific islands.

Also, spread over 3 floors and divided into two sections (Hawaiian and Polynesian artifacts) Bishop Museum is believed to house the largest display of Polynesian Exhibits in the globe.

For most people who visit Honolulu, Pearl Harbour is a top priority probably due to the historical significance of the place. The Arizona Memorial was built to honor the lives of over 1000 servicemen and civilians who lost their lives during December 7, 1941, Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbour.

Before accessing the memorial, you’ll have a chance to watch the real footage of the attack which will give you a deeper understanding of the events that led up to US involvement in WWII.

Despite the somber memories, the Memorial is a unique structure that floats above the sunken battleship which remains as the resting place of the fallen crewmen.

If you’re a coffee lover it’s interesting to hear the backstory and have an overview of what happens to your coffee before it lands on your table!

While there are hundreds of restaurants and café spread across the island, a tour around a Kona Coffee farm gives you an opportunity to enjoy fresh-brewed coffee.

You’ll find lots of small family coffee plantations but you can get the best tours from Greenwell Farms and Kona Joe.

Formed over 300 000 years ago as a result of a volcano eruption, this breath-taking crater offers one of the most scenic hiking trails on the island.

Located in Oahu, It’s one of the most popular attractions in Hawaii state, so it can get a little bit crowded but you can always dodge the masses by vising early in the morning.

As long as you’re in reasonable shape, you can get to the top of this trail. Although the journey might be taxing you’ll be rewarded with astounding views of Waikiki Beach and the surrounding areas.

Hawaii is an outdoor fanatic's playground but nothing prepares you enough for what this geological gem has to offer. It’s an incredible contrast to other parts of Kauai especially because it’s dubbed as ‘Garden Island’.

The views of the rugged landscape from the rim of the canyon which boasts different hues of green and orange are a sight to behold.

There are a couple of fantastic lookouts that showcases the beauty of the canyon from different angles but the most famous (and the easiest to access) is Waimea Canyon Lookout (mile marker 10).

Situated roughly 10 miles from Waikiki, this breath-taking bays is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Hanauma Bay is a protected area that has been popular among snorkelers for years thanks to its crystal clear waters.

It’s one of the best places to visit if you want to come up close with the Hawaiian coral and marine life. Before you get access to the bay, you’ll have to stop by the educational center where you’ll watch a short clip about this nature reserve.

For a more secluded beach option, Lanikai is a great candidate. In addition to blue turquoise waters and white sand, the highlight of the visit to this beach is the twin islands that rise from the ocean just a few meters from the shoreline.

You can paddle your way to the feet of the Mokes, especially the larger island, Moku Nui, and appreciate their majesty from the bottom.