Hawaii 2025: Some of the Amazing Things to Do in Hawaii

Close your eyes and imagine this: warm trade winds brushing your skin, the scent of plumeria in the air, and the rhythmic crash of waves echoing across volcanic shores. Welcome to Hawaii—a place where time slows, hearts open, and nature sings in every direction. Whether you're drawn by the thrill of adventure or the serenity of island life, there are countless things to do in Hawaii that will leave you breathless, inspired, and deeply connected to the spirit of aloha.

🌋 A Glimpse into Hawaii’s Past

Long before surfboards and sunsets became postcards, Hawaii was a sacred land born of fire and sea. The islands emerged from the ocean floor through volcanic eruptions, forming a chain of lush, isolated paradises. Polynesian voyagers arrived over a thousand years ago, navigating by stars and swells, bringing with them a rich culture of storytelling, dance, and reverence for nature. Later came kings, missionaries, and explorers—each leaving their mark. Today, Hawaii is a vibrant blend of ancient tradition and modern charm, where the past whispers through chants, hula, and the very soil beneath your feet.

🏝️ Things to Do in Maui

Maui Hawaii is the kind of place that feels like a dream you never want to wake from. Known as the “Valley Isle,” it’s a tapestry of misty mountains, golden beaches, and winding roads that lead to wonder. Start your day with the sunrise at Haleakalā, where the sky blushes in colors you didn’t know existed. Then drive the Road to Hana, a lush journey of waterfalls, bamboo forests, and roadside banana bread stands that feel like secrets shared only with you.

Want to dive into the best beach in Maui? Head to Kaanapali Beach, where cliff divers leap into turquoise waters at sunset, and the sand feels like silk beneath your feet. Snorkel with sea turtles in Molokini Crater, sip cocktails in Lahaina’s historic harbor, or simply let the island cradle you in its rhythm. There are endless things to do in Maui Hawaii, and each one feels like a love letter to the senses.

Ready to stay somewhere that matches the magic? Explore our Maui hotel picks.

🏨 Hotels in Maui

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🌆 Things to Do in Waikiki

Waikiki is where the pulse of Hawaii beats loudest—surfboards stacked against palm trees, ukulele melodies drifting through the breeze, and sunsets that stop you in your tracks. Located in Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, this iconic beachfront neighborhood is a playground for dreamers and explorers alike. Whether you're catching your first wave or sipping cocktails with Diamond Head in view, there are endless things to do in Waikiki Hawaii that blend relaxation with excitement.

Stroll Kalakaua Avenue for designer shops and street performers, visit the Honolulu Zoo, or hike up Diamond Head for panoramic views that stretch across the Pacific. Things to do in Honolulu go beyond the beach—explore Pearl Harbor, tour the Iolani Palace, or dive into the vibrant food scene. And if you're traveling on a budget, the Hawaii beach hostel scene offers affordable stays with unbeatable locations.

Let Waikiki welcome you with open arms. Browse our Waikiki hotel picks to find your perfect island base.

🏨 Hotels in Waikiki

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🌿 Things to Do in Kauai

If Maui is a dream and Waikiki is a heartbeat, then Kauai is a whisper—gentle, wild, and deeply soulful. Known as the “Garden Isle,” Kauai is where nature reigns supreme. Think emerald cliffs plunging into sapphire seas, waterfalls tumbling through jungle canopies, and beaches so quiet you can hear your own breath.

Things to do in Kauai Hawaii include hiking the legendary Kalalau Trail along the Nā Pali Coast, kayaking the sacred Wailua River, and exploring Waimea Canyon, often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. The beaches on Kauai Hawaii are less crowded, more intimate, and perfect for those seeking solitude and connection. Whether you're chasing adventure or simply watching the clouds drift over Hanalei Bay, Kauai invites you to slow down and listen.

Looking for a place to stay that matches the island’s magic? Explore our Kauai hotel recommendations.

🏨 Hotels in Kauai

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🌋 Things to Do on the Big Island

The Big Island is raw, elemental, and alive. It’s where fire meets water, and ancient landscapes tell stories older than time. From snow-capped Mauna Kea to the molten glow of Kīlauea, this island is a study in contrast and wonder.

Things to do on the Big Island Hawaii include visiting Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, snorkeling with manta rays off Kona, and stargazing at the summit of Mauna Kea. The beaches here range from black sand to green crystal, each one a geological marvel. Whether you're hiking lava fields or sipping Kona coffee on a misty morning, the Big Island invites you to explore your wild side.

Ready to stay somewhere unforgettable? Check out our Big Island hotel picks.

🏨 Hotels on the Big Island

KONA — The Big Island

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🍽️ Top Restaurants

• Mama’s Fish House (Maui) – Iconic beachfront dining with fresh-caught seafood and Polynesian flavors.
• Alan Wong’s Honolulu (O‘ahu) – A pioneer of Hawaiian regional cuisine, blending local ingredients with global flair.
• Bar Acuda (Kauai) – Farm-to-table tapas in Hanalei, perfect for sunset dining.
• The Pig and the Lady (Honolulu) – Vietnamese fusion with bold flavors and creative presentation.
• Merriman’s (Waimea, Big Island) – Upscale dining with panoramic views and sustainable sourcing.

  

🍹 Best Bars

• Fleetwood’s on Front St (Maui) – Rooftop cocktails and live music, owned by Mick Fleetwood.
• Duke’s Waikiki (O‘ahu) – Legendary beachfront bar with mai tais and aloha vibes.
• Tahiti Nui (Kauai) – Local dive bar with live Hawaiian music and strong drinks.
• House Without a Key (Halekulani, Waikiki) – Elegant open-air bar with hula performances.
• Lava Lava Beach Club (Big Island) – Barefoot bar on the sand with tropical cocktails and fire pits.

🌺 Hidden Gems

• Makauwahi Cave Reserve (Kauai) – A limestone cave with archaeological wonders and tortoise sanctuary.
• Red Sand Beach (Kaihalulu, Maui) – Secluded crimson cove accessible via a rugged trail.
• Byodo-In Temple (O‘ahu) – A peaceful Japanese temple nestled in the Valley of the Temples.
• Green Sand Beach (Papakōlea, Big Island) – One of only four green sand beaches in the world.
• Lanai Cat Sanctuary (Lāna‘i) – A feline paradise with over 600 rescued cats roaming freely.

🗣️ Local Phrases

• Aloha – Hello, goodbye, love
• Mahalo – Thank you
• ʻOhana – Family
• Pono – Righteousness, balance
• Kōkua – Help, support
• E komo mai – Welcome
• Hana hou – Encore, do it again
• Wikiwiki – Fast, quick
• Lōkahi – Unity, harmony
• No ka ʻoi – The best

🌴 Fun Travel Facts

• Hawaii is the most isolated population center on Earth.
• The Big Island grows by several acres each year due to volcanic activity.
• There are no billboards in Hawaii—they’re banned to preserve natural beauty.
• Hawaii has its own time zone: Hawaiian Standard Time (HST).
• Surfing was invented in Hawaii and considered a sacred art.
• The Hawaiian alphabet has only 13 letters.
• Spam is a beloved local delicacy, often served with rice and eggs.
• Hawaii is the only U.S. state that grows coffee commercially.
• The state flower is the yellow hibiscus.
• Mount Waialeale on Kauai is one of the wettest places on Earth.

❓ FAQ

• What’s the best time to visit Hawaii? April to June and September to November offer great weather and fewer crowds.
• What are the 7 Hawaiian islands? Hawai‘i (Big Island), Maui, O‘ahu, Kaua‘i, Moloka‘i, Lāna‘i, and Ni‘ihau.
• Is it expensive to travel in Hawaii? It can be, but budget hotels and hostels like Hawaii Beach Hostel help reduce costs.
• Do I need a car to explore Maui or Kauai? Yes—renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and access to remote areas.
• What’s the best island to visit in Hawaii for first-timers? O‘ahu offers a mix of city life and nature, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
• Are there black sand beaches in Hawaii? Yes—Punaluʻu Beach on the Big Island is the most famous.
• Is Hawaii safe for solo travelers? Absolutely. Locals are friendly, and crime rates are relatively low in tourist areas.
• Can I hike active volcanoes in Hawaii? Yes—Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park offers safe, guided access to volcanic zones.
• What’s the capital of Hawaii? Honolulu, located on the island of O‘ahu.
• Is Hawaii good for digital nomads? Yes—Wi-Fi is widely available, and coworking spaces are popping up across the islands.