Hawaii

Hey adventurous soul, are you looking for the best places to Snorkel in Maui? If yes, then this article is for you.

As we all know, Maui is one of the most beautiful islands to visit in Hawaii. Among travelers, Maui is a world-famous spot for Snorkel activity. Visitors from different regions, countries, and states come here to experience the most thrilling activities of Maui. 

Maui offers numerous options for snorkeling, and choosing the best snorkeling beaches in Maui becomes somewhere challenging for adventurous travelers. Being a lovely island of Hawaii, Maui is getting more fame day by day. Its exotic sandy beaches, clear crystal water, rich marine life, unique biodiversity, and tropical climate make it a most appropriate tourist spot.

Snorkeling is one of the best things to do in Maui. If you want to make your trip to Maui unforgettable, then you must add this activity to your bucket list. 

If you really want to experience the world’s best snorkeling, then we are sharing the 10 best spots for snorkeling in Maui. With the help of this, you can plan or choose an ideal destination in the following places:

Best Places to Snorkel in Maui

Molokini Crater

Molokini Crater is one of the most beautiful and popular places for snorkeling. Its submerged volcanic crater forms a small, inhabited islet, which makes Molokini one of the major spots for various adventurous water sports.

Apart from snorkeling, Molokini Crater is known for scuba diving and snuba. Molokini crater is home to around 260 marine species including a yellow tang, bluefin trevally, black triggerfish, Moorish idol, raccoon butterflyfish, and parrotfish.

Along with snorkeling and other water activities, visitors can get a chance to see these rare marine lives as well. 

• Best Time to Visit: April to May
• Approx Cost of Snorkel in Molokini Crater: $140
• Other Things to See and Do: Reef Sharks, Red Pencil Urchins, Moray Eels

Black Rock

Black Rock is situated at the northern tip of Ka’anapali Beach, famous for snorkeling and cliff jumping. It is one of the best places to Snorkel on Maui island. Due to its geographical location, Black rock is turning out to be the best place for water activities.

Nowadays this place is used by youngsters as a jumping-off point for fun in the ocean. Many resorts here sponsored sunset torch lighting that is also one of the major attractions of the Black Rock beach.

Underwater diving and snorkeling are also the best all-around at this point. Beginners are advised to avoid swimming during the high tide as strong currents can occur anytime here.  

• Best Time to Visit: April to May and September to November
• Approx Cost of Snorkel in Black Rock: $149
• Other Things to See and Do: Ka’anapali Beach, Kahekili Beach Park

La Perouse

La Perouse Bay is globally known as one of the best snorkel spots in Maui. It is located in the south of the town of Wailea, Hawaii.

La Perouse is also recently highlighted because of its frequent volcanic eruptions. Visitors can only allow swimming around the bay as it’s a natural preserve area, so limited options are available here. La Perouse bay has some rare marine life including spinner dolphins and green sea turtles. 

Tourists from different regions will love to be here, the exotic beaches and their exciting vibes are enough to make your day. 

• Best Time to Visit: March to May
• Approx Cost of Snorkel in La Perouse: $583
• Other Things to See and Do: Ahihi Kinau Natural Area Reserve, Haleakala 

Honolua Bay

Honolua Bay is located in the west of Maui country. It is one of the popular spots for snorkeling among both local and international tourists. Honolua Bay shares its area with Mokule’ia bay. Honolua and Mokule’ia Bay comprise the eighteen-hectare Honolua-Mokule’ia Marine Life Conservation District.   

If you want to dive with exotic sea turtles, fishes, and human-friendly dolphins, Honolua Bay is an ideal place for you. It is one of the largest bays in Maui and a pretty well-protected region. 

• Best Time to Visit: Winters (November-January) 
• Approx Cost of Snorkel in Honolua Bay: $186.64 $155.00 per adult
• Other Things to See and Do: Billabong Pipe Women’s Surf Competition (December)

Coral Gardens

Coral Gardens is yet another best snorkeling beach in Maui. Generally, all adventure lovers stop at this destination because of its exotic beaches and rich marine life. If you are the one who looks for a place that is full of rare marine species and wants to dive with them, Coral Gardens is the place for you.

As its name suggests, the area is full of coral cliffs that make it more beautiful than other places in Maui. Coral Gardens are many fantastic spots to snorkel such as Papalaua Beach, Lahaina, and Olowalu.

• Best Time to Visit: March to May
• Approx Cost of Snorkel in Coral Gardens: $86 per adult 
• Other Things to See and Do: Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, Octopus, Crabs, Eels

Ahihi Bay

Ahihi Bay is known for its water sport activities such as scuba diving, boat ride, jet rides boat, and snorkeling. Ahihi Bay’s Waiala Cove is the best place for a beginner to intermediate snorkeler, kayaking, and diving. It is near the last entrance of Makena beach and also a part of Ahihi Hinau Natural Area Reserve.

According to the locals, there are many vibrant coral reefs and fish here. Its rich diversity of marine life makes your diving experience more beautiful than you can ever imagine. 

• Best Time to Visit: March to May
• Approx Cost of Snorkel in Ahihi Bay: Around $150
• Other Things to See and Do: Wrasse, Tang, Moorish Idol, Convict, Lionfish

Kapalua & Napili Bays

Kapalua and Napili Bay are some of the best places to snorkel in Maui. It is also known as one of the best Hawaiin islands. Among enthusiastic travelers, Kapalua and Napili Bay are quite popular for their picturesque location and the best beaches for scuba diving and snorkeling.

It is home to Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles and many visitors come here just to dive with the rare green Hawaiian sea turtles. With astonishing island-like settings, Kapalua beautifully spans from the mountain to the sea with lovely bays, hiking trails, world-renowned golf resorts, spas, fine dining, and much more. 

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Approx Cost of Snorkel in Kapalua and Napili Bays: Starting from $159
• Other Things to See and Do: Molokai, Napili & Honokowai Farmers Markets, Honolua Bay & Marine Preserve

Turtle Town

Do you ever imagine how beautiful it is to dive with turtles? If you want to dive with the beautiful creature then, Turtle town is waiting for you. It is located on the south shore of Maui. It is known for the best experience of snorkeling.

Tourists from all over the globe come here to enjoy the thrilling activities and picturesque location of Turtle town.
This place is rich with marine life, especially green Hawaiin sea turtles. Its diverse culture and nature reserves attract millions of tourists annually. 

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Approx cost of Snorkel in Turtle Town: $130 per adult
• Other Things to See and Do: Parrotfish, Trumpetfish, Wrasse, Tang, Manta Rays

Lanai Island

Lanai Island is also known as The Pineapple Isle. It is the 6th largest Hawaiian island. For snorkeling and scuba diving, this is an absolutely ideal place where you can swim with many rare species of marine life. You can find various uncrowded spots to snorkel along the coast of Lanai island.

To reach the spot, you need to take a ferry to Lanai, or you can take a snorkel boat to the island. This island is best known for scuba diving, but its snorkeling is something exceptional. You can see hundreds of dolphins while snorkeling. There is a huge community of spinner dolphins that inhabit the edges of Lanai island. 

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Approx cost of Snorkel in Lanai Island: The starting price is $134
• Other Things to See and Do: Mountains on Lanai, Kaneapua Rock, Keahiakawelo

Ulua/Mokapu

Ulua is one of the best snorkel spots on Maui island. The north end of Ulua beach around the coral reef is best for snorkeling. Ulua Beach is best known for its sandy beaches and thrilling water sport activities.

Ulua is a training center for new scuba divers. Whether you are an experienced or beginner snorkeler, Ulua is the perfect location for you. 

To experience the thrill, you must visit this place at once in your life. 

• Best Time to Visit: April, May, August, September
• Approx cost of Snorkel in Ulua: $200 per adult 
• Other Things to See and Do: Good swimming, boogie boarding, excellent snorkeling, Keawakapu Beach

How to Reach Maui? 

Being a popular tourist destination in Hawaii, Maui is easily accessible by air mode. It is well connected to the rest of the world through Kahului Airport. All major airlines fly to Maui. It works for both domestic and international flights. 

Things to Remember Before Traveling to Maui

In the meantime, Maui is open to locals and international travelers. After the major restrictions, Hawaii opens its door to tourists. The detailed guidelines are published on the official websites, you can check their websites before visiting here.

Some main points you should remember before traveling to Maui are:- 

• Carry your vaccination documents 
• RTPCR report is mandatory for International tourists
• In public places wear your mask
• Avoid traveling if you have felt any symptoms related to covid

FAQ’s Related to Snorkeling in Maui

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Hawaii has been a popular component of every travel enthusiast’s bucket list. The scenic views, diverse Polynesian culture, vibrant flora and fauna, geographic beauty, exotic cuisines, and tropical vibes make it an easy favorite for people from around the globe.

But what many people do not know is that going to Hawaii is a little complicated as it is a collection of islands and not a single unit.

So here are a few things you need to know before you plan your trip:

10 Things to Know About Hawaii

1. Hawaii is nicknamed the Aloha State. The Hawaiian state is a collection of 8 major islands.
   
   • Hawai’i – The Big Island
   • Maui – The Valley Isle 
   • Oahu – The Gathering Place 
   • Kaui  – The Garden Isle 
   • Moloka’I – The Friendly Isle 
   • Lana’I – The Pineapple Isle 
   • Ni’iahu – The Forbidden Isle
   • Kaho’olawe – The Target Isle 
     
2. Only 7 major Hawaiian islands are properly inhabited, and only 6 islands are open for tourism. 
3. Apart from the 8 major islands in Hawaii, there are 132 smaller Islets or Archipelagos, which are groups of closely cluttered tiny island pieces. 
4. Hawaiian Airlines provides the best way to reach the island state as it is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, 3,758 miles from the American mainland, more than 4,000 miles from the Asian mainland, and 5,600 miles from the Australian mainland. 
5. Inter-island travel is easier through as there are ferries, boats, helicopters, and private seaplanes. CoVid test protocols or documentation are not required for traveling within Hawaiian islands.
6. With the help of Hawaiian Airlines, you can reach any of the 3 International Airports in Hawaii-
   
   • Honolulu International Airport (HNL)
   • Hilo International Airport (ITO) 
   • Kona International Airport (KOA)
     
7. Hawaii is a state, and Hawai’i or the big island is a part of Hawaii state. 
8. Hawaii follows the Hawaiian Standard Time (HST), which is 10 hours behind the Universally Coordinated Time (UTC), 5 hours behind Eastern Standard Time (EST), and 2 hours behind the Pacific Standard Time (PST). Hawaii does not follow daylight savings time.
9. Hawaii is the 50^th state of the USA and hence does not require a visa for American citizens to enter.
10. There are 6 active volcanoes in the Islands of Hawai’i and Maui.

Best Way to Travel to Hawaii

• Reaching Honolulu is the easiest way to get into Hawaii. It is one of the top 30 busiest airports in the USA and is considered the primary gateway to Hawaii.
• The HNL is conveniently at the capital of the state, Honolulu, making it the most modern, accessible, and comfortable city in Hawaii, which is perfect for recovering from the jetlag and long flight to Hawaii.
• Honolulu airport accommodates more than 21 airlines, networking with more than 60 countries across the globe, making it the most accessible of the 3 international airports in Hawaii.
• Flights to Honolulu can arrive through one of its 4 runways across 4520 acres. Most International Hawaiian Flights reach Honolulu airport making its annual passenger count exceed 21 million.

Best Time to Visit Hawaii

The culinary delights, the sceneries, hiking trails, water sport activities, volcano sightings, beach resorts, cultural heritage sites, historical sites, festivals, spas, shopping, and luxury hotels distributed in the Hawaiian islands makes it difficult to plan an itinerary that accommodates the maximum of what Hawaii has to offer.

Here are a few tips to help you plan your vacation to Hawaii:

• For trips as short as a week, try to limit your itinerary to one island. 
• Do not try to limit your vacation in Hawaii to a mere 3 or 4 days. Plan leisurely around a minimum period of 7 to 10 days and more. Hawaii keeps getting better with the more exploration you do.
• Choose your island according to your preferences. For a more active nightlife, Oahu is a better option. If nature retreat is what you need, the big island Hawai’i is the better option. 
• Road traffic can be a little hectic in the urban areas in all the islands. Be prepared to handle delays.
• Opting for car rentals are a necessity if you wish to get around the island as most destinations are spaced out.
• Traveling between islands is only possible through boats, ferries, helicopters, or private gliders, or seaplanes. 
• Plan your tickets to Hawaii in advance for the best deals.
• Do your research on the tourist attractions on each island before fixating on choice. Find the list of fun things to do in Hawaii before you plan your trip.
• Hawaii has banned the use of plastic bags for a few years now. So bring your own bags and avoid plastic bags. Everything except Reef-safe sunscreen is prohibited in Hawaii. 
• Assume that a minimum of 7 to 10 days is perfect for covering the maximum number of tourist destinations in Hawaii. 
• Plan a budget-friendly trip by scheduling it in the off-seasons. Find the best time to visit Hawaii below.

Hawaii is an equatorial island, where the Tropic of Cancer passes right through the state. It is blessed with a perennial tropical climate throughout the year. It has approximately a consistent temperature all year round. There are occasional downpours depending on the low-pressure formations.

The seasons in Hawaii are mostly dry and wet seasons. The wet seasons are at their peak during November to January and can ruin your beach weather if that is your primary reason to visit Hawaii. 

Apart from the seasons, the USA National Holidays and vacations also influence the crowd flux in Hawaii and hence the Hawaii flight ticket fares and the hotel rates. The prices tend to peak in the USA during summer and spring breaks.

The best months to visit Hawaii are as follows: 

• March to October – These months are the most comfortable to visit Hawaii as they have been recorded to comparatively have the least amount of rain. It is sort of a dry season. Most of the Hawaiian festivals are scheduled in the months of June to September. 
• November to January – These are the wettest months in Hawaii. This can also be considered to be an off-season as there are price drops during these periods. In Hawaii, January has recorded the lowest temperature at 23°C. 
• The shoulder season can also be between September to mid-December, where the crowds and prices are moderate. 
• Golden week is a concept in a Japanese work culture where employees are given 4 consecutive paid holidays during the months of March, April, or May. Hawaii attracts crowds from Japan during these periods and can be crowded.
• Tickets from Japan or passing through Japan need to be scheduled while avoiding the Golden week.
  
  

Best Islands to Visit in Hawaii 

The most visited islands of Hawaii are

• Oahu
• Maui
• Hawai’i
• Kaui

All islands of Hawaii are unique and mesmerizing in their own ways. But the facilities that each Hawaiian island entails and the experiences they offer are different.

Depending on your preferences, consider the following list of things to do in Hawaii on each of the islands before confirming which Hawaiian island to visit. 

OAHU – The Gathering Place 

Oahu is the best Hawaii island for vacation and is the hub of all the best features of the state. It is also the most visited island in Hawaii, with over 10 million annual tourists counted.

It is the perfect combination of city and country, urban and tropic consisting of all the modern facilities but also the serenity of the scenic beaches, rivers, mountains, fields, and waterfalls. It is also most convenient to visit for a quick getaway as the HNL airport is located on Oahu island.

The capital of Hawaii, which is the city of Honolulu, is also situated in Oahu. The mountains and beaches are both only a few minutes drive from Honolulu. Waikiki in Oahu has more than 100 hotels, Kualoa ranch is the infamous mountain range that is found in the ‘Jurassic Park’ movie.

The Aloha stadium hosted the NFL pro bowl series multiple times.

Features

• Nightlife
• Beachside
• Parties
• Beaches
• Shopping
• Surfing
• Watersports
• Trekking

Things to Do in Oahu, Hawaii

• Monoa Falls Hike 
• Hanauma Bay Beach 
• Pearl Harbor National Memorial 
• Makapu’u Point Lighthouse 
• Kualoa Ranch Ziplining 
• Waianae Whales and Dolphin Watching 
• Koko Crater Railway Trail Hike  
• Diamond Head Crater Hike 
• Ho’omoluhai Botanical Gardens 
• Waikiki Beach Water Sports and Surfing 
• China Supermarket
• Chinaman’s Hat Island in Kualoa Regional Park 
• Lanikai Pillbox Hike 
• Lulumahu Waterfall Hike 
• Halona Blowhole 

Hawai’i – The Big Island 

Another popular choice for Hawaii vacations is the big island. The volcano national park on the big island is a primary tourist magnet. It has great shopping sites and beaches.

The big island is the largest geographical unit of Hawaii. It has all the best geographic features of Hawaii, from Snow-capped mountains and volcanic sites to lush grasslands, fields, plantations, and serene beaches. 

Features

• Beaches
• Trekking
• Water Sports
• Whale Watching
• Volcano Sites
• Helicopter Tours
• Boating
• Shopping 

Things to Do on the Big Island, Hawaii

• Mauna Kea – Trekking, Biking, and Stargazing 
• Volcanic National Park 
• Waipio Valley 
• Manta Ray Diving in Kona 
• Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden 
• Na Pali Coast Sailing 
• Punalu’u Beach 
• Waipi’o Valley 
• Akaka Fall States
• Rainbow Falls
• Nahu’ku Hiking

KAUI – The Garden Isle 

Kaui is known for its serene and less crowded beaches. The brilliant mountain ranges brought it the nickname ‘The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.’ Kaui welcomes anyone who is drawn to nature.

Waterfall tours, hiking trails, and helicopter tours are a must-go in Kaui. Mountain tubing is also a popular activity through the rainforest.

Kaui coffee plantations are the largest in America. Connecting with Hawaii’s lush landscapes and local culture is easiest in Kaui. 

Features

• Trekking
• Watersports
• Beaches
• Helicopter Tours
• Meadery 

Things to Do in Kaui, Hawaii

• Mountain Tubing 
• Kipu Ranch Adventures
• Poipu Zipline Tours 
• Puakea Golf Course 
• Ocean Course at Hokuala 
• Wailua Falls 
• Hanakoa Falls 
• Hanakaipiai Falls 
• Kalihiwai Falls 
• Kipu Falls
• Napali Coast Sailing 
• Kaui Helicopter Tours 
• Waimea Canyon 
• Poipu Beach 
• Koke State Park 
• Mahaulepu Heritage Trail
• Spouting Horn Blowhole 

MAUI – The Valley Isle 

Maui is Hawaii’s version of the ‘playground of the wealthy.’ It has a vast collection of resorts and spas with organized water sports and beach activities, events, and more. It is a perfect honeymoon destination. Apart from the posh resorts, Maui also has several national parks, trekking trails, waterfalls, and beaches that cost little to nothing and are accessible for everyone.

The Hana highway or the road to Hana is another favorite picture spot. Another prominent feature of Maui is its active volcanos, helicopter tours, and volcano exploration trips.

Features

• Resorts
• Spas
• Beaches
• Watersports
• Trekking
• Waterfalls
• Volcano Sightings

Things to Do in Maui, Hawaii

• Halaeakala National Park – Makahika and Waimoku Waterfalls 
• Iao Valley Tate Monument 
• Maui Ocean Center
• Lahaina Beach 
• Kaanapali Beach and Zipline Adventure 
• Road to Hana 
• Hana Tropical Gardens 
• Kauhamina National Park 
• Honolua Bay 
• Maui Golf Course 
• Molokini Sail and Snorkeling Adventures 
• Wainapanapa State Park 
• Payola Bay’s Black Lava Beach 
• Wailea Beach 
• Polo Beach 
• Molokai Helicopter Tours
• Pipwai Trail
• Acid War Zone Trail 

Wrapping Up

Although Hawaii has more islands than the above-discussed islands, these are some most spectacular Hawaiian islands. So before planning your trip to Hawaii, you must add these islands to your bucket list. It will surely be the best choice for your upcoming vacations.
So, forget about everything, just pack your bag and be ready to explore the best island of Hawaii.

Hawaii is known as a mythical place of serene beauty, pristine beaches, active volcanoes, and fantastic hospitality from the original inhabitants of these islands.

The United States’ 50th state is an archipelago of eight big islands and smaller islands. The six main islands are Hawaii island, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, and  Oahu, which tourists can visit where the islands of Niihau and Kahoolawe are forbidden.

The State of Hawaii is a perfect winter destination for its tropical climate and unique ambiance and vibe. There is growing interest in the culture and heritage of the indigenous people of these islands too, and the tourists are flocking to explore and soak in origin.

At the same time, there is something very luxurious and private about this place which has always attracted people from all walks of life. There is a lot to do and a lot to explore, sample the local cuisine and immerse in the culture of this rich place. You can have a jam-packed itinerary when you decide or relax on the beaches with a glass of your favorite spirits and let the gentle lapping of the waves relax you.

As you know, there is something for everyone to do, allowing a comprehensive list of the adventures and thrills you can seek in Hawaii

Things to Do on the Big Island (Hawaii Island)

Hawaii Volcanos National Park

Hawaii is known for its many active volcanoes, miles of lava tubes, and ancient petroglyphs. It is one of the main attractions of the big island. The Big Island is one of the state’s youngest islands and the biggest, as the name suggests.

You can drive to the Crater Rim, part of the National Park, an 11-mile road trip giving you a great view of the volcanoes. The trip follows on the erdge of Kilauea caldera. 

This drive also offers some spots where you can park and go on a short hike to check the otherworldly landscape. On your exploits, you can see steam vents, sulfur banks that remind you of the active caldera beneath your feet.

From here, you can visit Thurston Lava tubes. You can also explore the complete park on foot 

Dive with Manta Rays

Snorkeling and scuba diving are the most awaited activities that every tourist wants to try at the Big Island, especially during the night when you can do so with Manta Rays.

On the Hawaii island just north of Kailua-Kona is a bay where these fascinating creatures come for nightly feed time. Local dive and snorkel operators have set huge underwater spotlights to attract planktons, the leading food for manta rays.

Pro Packing Tip for Hawaii

• Carry a good quality camera phone or a Go Pro to capture the beauty of this place
• Have an extra Turkish Beach towel with you at all times, and you never know where you like to jump into the sea.
• Always wear comfortable and sturdy shoes so that you can walk on any surface and for a longer duration too

Related Read: Best Island To Visit In Hawaii – Things to Know About Hawaii

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden 

Do not miss this opportunity to check this beautiful island’s local flora and fauna by not visiting the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden on the Big Island. It makes for a lovely day trip, especially around monsoons with many waterfalls to explore and trek to—about 2000 species of tropical plants spread over 40 acres of nature preserve to enjoy and learn.

Remember to check the mighty Onomea waterfalls while you visit the orchid garden and enjoy the panoramic view of the coastline too. 

Bike Mauna Kea 

If biking is your favorite activity or you enjoy a leisurely ride down some gentle slopes, this is the perfect sport for you. At Kilauea Volcano, you can indulge in biking and gliding down the smooth slope of Volcanoes National Park.

You can start at the summit at 4000 feet and ride down towards the Pacific ocean. You can rent a bike here and have a day to explore this region on your own. 

Things to Do on Kauai

Sail the Na Pali Coast

The small island of Kauai has many things; unique things to offer in terms of gorgeous location and natural beauty-filled days. The Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park is one of the nine areas protected by the protected by government is a designated state park. This park is spread over 6000 acres and has 16 miles coast, which is unexplored yet.

Kauai is often called the Garden Isle because of its natural beauty, and it is also the oldest inhabited island of Hawaii. 

Na Pali means high cliffs where the original inhabitants of Hawaii settled first. Since there is not much road access to this park, you can hike or take a boat tour. 

Drive Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon, called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, is a must-visit place and must-do adventure on this tiny island. The canyon is 16 km long and 3000 feet deep, and you can mostly drive through it to visit all viewpoints.

Remember to carry your camera or Go Pro to record the most fantastic views from here. The park offers helicopter rides, too, if you intend to stay on the island for a couple of days. With the heli ride, you can enjoy the view of the Waipoo Falls.

You can also explore the trails by hiking down into the canyon. 

Hiking at the Kalalau Trail

To enjoy the breathtaking views of Kauai’s valleys and coastline, hiking is the best way for a thrill seeker who is a seasoned or an amateur trekker.

You can start your hike from Kee Beach early in the morning and then continue along two miles to reach Hanakapiai Beach.

Most people turn around, but it is highly recommended that you continue further from here. Make sure to have the necessary hiking permits and gears to make your trek easy and enjoyable. 

Sea Turtles at Tunnels

Tunnels beach is the place to be in Kauai. If you are staying for a week, make sure to stay on this island for 2 – 3 days. You can beach hop in the northern region, where the sand is a gorgeous yellow gold color and swaying palm trees are welcoming. Right from the Beach, you can enter a lush green tropical forest with various trails to hike.

Offshore there are lava tubes that create underwater tunnels and caves and therefore the name Tunnel Beach.

Snorkeling here will introduce you to several tropical fishes and marine creatures, including sea turtles. 

Kayaking and Hiking in Wailua Canyon

Hawaii is the place to be if you are a fan of the outdoors and seek adventures everywhere you go. You can indulge in a full day of Kayaking and hiking along the fabulous valley Wailua River.

While Kayaking, soak into the natural beauty of mountains scenery and a variety of birds. After which you will be off for a hike which is not strenuous and has some neat river crossing and climbing some old trees. 

This trek will lead you to a secret waterfall where you can have a picnic and dip the icy waters.

This spot is not possible to reach by road, so please plan accordingly. 

Things to Do in Maui

Go On a Scenic Ride Towards Hana

Maui is called the Valley Isle of Hawaii. And over here, the most indulgent drive is on the road to Hana. The road stretches for 50+ miles with a series of hairpin bends and many one-lane bridges which can match your sense of adventure any day. It is one of the most scenic routes you will ever take.

On the road, do check Ho’okipa Bay Park, which is surfers delight, followed by Ke’anae Peninsula, where the waves break on hard black lava rocks.

It would be best if you visited Wai’anapanapa State Park. You can take a stroll on the black sand beach and tropical coastline. 

Helicopter Ride

You can indulge in a birds-eye view of the island at Maui with a helicopter gliding over lush green valleys here.

Hawaii has many opportunities for you to take a heli ride, but don’t miss this one for sure. 

Snorkel Molokini Crater 

As per Hawaiian mythology, Molokini is a beautiful woman fighter with the powerful Goddess Pele for the same name.

Molokini crater is the destination for snorkeling and diving. Just make sure to book a morning session as the sea is calmer and the water is more clearer. 

Humpback Whales

If you are visiting Hawaii for whale spotting, then the best time to do it is in November to April, and the best islands to do are Big Island, Maui, and Kaui. 

More than 10,000 humpback whales migrated from Alaska to Hawaii as it is their summertime feeding ground.

In Maui, you can visit the Auau channel for whale watching. 

Mount Haleakala

Haleakala National Park is the region the crater and mountain peak covers, and it is considered a US National Park treasure.

Watching the sunrise is one of the best experiences you will have in your life.

Plan to reach early morning so that you get the best spot to click some pictures. 

Things to Do in Molokai

Leper Colony Kalaupapa National Historic Site

This is a special place to visit which was once a leper’s colony made for the victims of Hansen’s Disease and operational for more than a century between 1865 – 1966.

The territory has some survivors even though the disease is completely eradicated.

It is one of the saddest places to visit to understand the history of Hawaii. 

Things to Do in Oahu

The Honolulu Marathon

This event has gained international popularity among avid marathoners, newbies, and audiences.

The race happens on the second Sunday of December and has over 25000 runners participating in the event worldwide.

The course starts from Ala Moana Boulevard, continues with the hilly Diamond Head, calming ocean and palm trees, and ends at the Kapiolani Park.

Diamond Head 

Along with the popularity of the sand and surf of Oahu, hiking at Diamond Head is famous and much-indulged activity.

It is one of the best summits to visit for the views from there. The impressive volcanic crater is 450 acres long is known for its sparkling summit.

You can start hiking from the beach itself.

Polynesian Culture Centre

The perfect place to learn and immerse yourself in the Polynesian culture.

Operational for more than 50 years now, the area has preserved and shown the unique culture of the state of Hawaii.

Must visit attraction is a trip to villages of six islands where you can indulge in some activities and fun. You can enjoy the traditional cuisine and local dishes here too. 

Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve is formed in a volcanic crater in the southeast of Oahu. It was declared a protected sanctuary in 1967.

It is one of the best beaches to visit in Hawaii.

Snorkeling is a must-do activity with beautiful coral and over 400 species of tropical fish, and the famous Hawaiian sea turtle.

Skydiving at North Shore

Skydiving in Hawaii is one activity that’s on everyone’s bucket list.

You can enjoy this daring activity here with well-trained and qualified instructors who can help you tackle your fear and smoothen the diving processes. 

Pearl Harbor

No visit to Hawaii is complete without visiting this World War II monument called Pacific National Museum. This National Historic Landmark is a memorable and emotional experience for many.

You can visit Memorial in USS Arizona, which is free entry along with other memorial sites like the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum—require paid ticket entry.

Wrapping Up

This is brief activity and things to do list on Hawaii, and you can explore more and make an itinerary as per your wishes.

Hawaii is not just an archipelago of islands with natural beauty and great food. It is more of an experience and immersion into the culture of Polynesian people.