Choose from 196 Fun Things to Do in Hawaii
ShowingFilter 161-180 of 196 listings.
Wailea
The town of Wailea is located on Maui's southwestern coast, known as a beach resort with spectacular beaches and luxury resort hotels.
Wailea itself is relatively small, with a population under 6,000, but it's home to no less than five resort hotels – including two huge luxury properties. There are a number of really excellent beaches, such as Ulua Beach, Polo Beach and Wailea Beach, and there are three golf courses that make Wailea a popular draw for golfing vacations, too.
Even if you're not staying in one of the fancy beachfront hotels, you can still enjoy Wailea's gorgeous scenery. Put on your walking shoes and head for the coastal nature trail that winds along the water. It's paved, so it's easy going, and it'll give you an up-close look at an abundance of unique Hawaiian plants. In the morning, the trail is full of joggers, and in the evening, it's an ideal spot to watch the sunset.
Practical Info
Wailea is about 16 miles from Maui's main airport in Kahului and 28 miles from Lahaina. If you're visiting in the winter months, keep your eye on the water as you're walking the coastal trail – it's a pretty good spot for whale-watching.
Address: Wailea, Hawaii, USA
From $ 149
Waimanalo Beach Park
What locals refer to as Waimanalo Beach Park could easily be described as paradise by most visitors; what with its three miles of soft white sand flanked by Hawaii’s famous Koolau Mountains, soaring ironwood trees and dreamy azure and emerald sea, one can hardly argue that Waimanalo Beach Park is nothing short of heaven on earth. In opposition to more famous and more active Waimea Bay Beach, Waimanalo Beach Park is infinitely more tranquil. A silent retreat during the week, it shifts into a family-friendly, chill picnic and barbecue spot for locals.
Waimea’s waves are neither too high nor break far from the beach, making it the ultimate body boarding and body surfing spot on O’ahu, in addition to being perfect for lengthy tanning sessions. Early-risers will be pleased to learn that Waimanalo Beach Park is also an excellent place to catch a good sunrise, thanks to its unbeatable eastward location. Not one to be shy of the spotlight, Waimanalo Beach Park was used as a filming location for Magnum P.I. and Baywatch Hawaii.
Because nothing is perfect, visitors should be very careful with Portuguese man-of-war, a painfully stingy jellyfish found in abundance in the area, especially on windy days.
Practical Info
Waimanalo Beach Park is located is southeastern O’ahu, about 16 miles outside Honolulu. It can be reached by car via route 61 and 72 in 30 minutes. It is also possible to get there by bus but the journey is quite complex. The beach is fully equipped with visitor facilities, such as showers, restrooms, a pavilion, picnic tables, a camping area and a lifeguard tower.
Address: Oahu, Hawaii, USA
From $ 50
Shangri La
A guided tour of Shangri La is unlike anything else on Oahu, where the sun and sand of tropical beaches are swapped for the lavish, luxurious world of heiress Doris Duke. Here on the slopes of Diamond Head, Duke designed a soaring mansion of exquisite Islamic design—inspired by her travels in 1935 through much of the Islamic world. Over a span of nearly 60 years, Duke continued her epic travels through Iran, Egypt, and Morocco, and housed the art she’d find on her travels right here at Shangri La. Today the Islamic Art Collection includes over 2,500 pieces from across the Islamic world, and introduces visitors to cultures and styles not normally found in the tropics. On a guided tour of Shangri La, visit inside the historic home that faces out toward the ocean, and hear as docents discuss the details of archways, tile work, sculptures, and fountains that form a sense of Islamic exoticism just minutes from Waikiki. Hear tales from the life of a legendary traveler and “richest girl in the world,” who scoured the world for artistic riches and brought them here to her home.
Practical Info
Guided tours of Shangri La depart from the Honolulu Museum of Art. Tours begin with video presentations, and the entire experience lasts two and a half hours, with a 90-minute tour of the home.
Address: 900 South Beretania Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814, USA
Hours: Tours are offered Wednesday-Sunday at 10:30am, 12pm, and 1:30pm.
Admission: $25
From $ 109
Wailea Beach
Although the Wailea resort complex is graced with numerous beaches, the epicenter of the beach scene will forever be Wailea Beach. Voted as the #1 beach in America in 1999, this stretch of golden sand which fronts the Grand Wailea and Four Seasons resorts offers everything from snorkeling and standup paddling to outrigger canoe paddling and playful bodyboarding. Fun-loving yet undeniably luxurious, Wailea Beach is the postcard of luxury you would expect from a Maui resort complex.
Even though private cabanas line the shoreline (and there is a great chance of spotting a celebrity), Wailea Beach is a public beach and is open to anyone in the community. Public parking lots are found at neighboring Ulua Beach as well as next to the Four Seasons, and a two-mile coastal path connects Wailea Beach with Polo beaches, which is a similar island favorite.
Although there is never a bad time to find yourself on Wailea Beach, summer can be a bit more prone to large surf which can make bodyboarding dangerous and churn up the visibility while snorkeling. On most days of the year, however, Hawaiian green sea turtles can be spotted off the point, and the waters are calm and clear with just enough wave action to frolick in the surf.
Or, if watersports aren’t your thing, the string of cabanas and beach umbrellas are the perfect spot for kicking back with a good book, a cold drink, and simply listening to the surf crash on the shore. Flanked on both sides by palm trees and resorts, Wailea Beach is a dream getaway for the resort-loving crowd, and even those who prefer their lodging a bit more low-key will appreciate the island beauty which radiates from the shore.
Even though private cabanas line the shoreline (and there is a great chance of spotting a celebrity), Wailea Beach is a public beach and is open to anyone in the community. Public parking lots are found at neighboring Ulua Beach as well as next to the Four Seasons, and a two-mile coastal path connects Wailea Beach with Polo beaches, which is a similar island favorite.
Although there is never a bad time to find yourself on Wailea Beach, summer can be a bit more prone to large surf which can make bodyboarding dangerous and churn up the visibility while snorkeling. On most days of the year, however, Hawaiian green sea turtles can be spotted off the point, and the waters are calm and clear with just enough wave action to frolick in the surf.
Or, if watersports aren’t your thing, the string of cabanas and beach umbrellas are the perfect spot for kicking back with a good book, a cold drink, and simply listening to the surf crash on the shore. Flanked on both sides by palm trees and resorts, Wailea Beach is a dream getaway for the resort-loving crowd, and even those who prefer their lodging a bit more low-key will appreciate the island beauty which radiates from the shore.
Address: Wailea Beach Park, Kihei, HI 96753, USA
From $ 93
Waipio Valley
Forming a deep natural amphitheater that’s washed by the sea and waterfalls, the Waipio Valley, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a natural wonderland marked by rain forests and hiking trails. Cliffs thousands of feet high plunge to the valley floor, where a curved black-sand beach meets the sea.
The Basics
Known for its rich history and its natural beauty alike, the “Valley of the Kings” offers experiences for just about every type of traveler. Ride ATVs while learning about the valley’s lore, snap photos from the Waipio Valley Lookout, soar above 2,000-foot (610-meter) cliffs in a helicopter, or spend the day visiting some of Hawaii’s most famous waterfalls, including the towering Hi’ilawe Falls.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Waipio Valley is a must-see for adventure travelers, history buffs, or first-time visitors to the island.
- Remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Don’t attempt to drive a rental car into the valley; the road is extremely steep and many rental agreements prohibit it.
- Hiking down to the black-sand beach requires a high level of physical fitness, but anyone can enjoy the views from the Waipio Valley Lookout.
How to Get There
The stunning Waipio Valley is located on the Big Island’s northern Hamakua Coast. The roads here are notoriously steep and should only be accessed by four-wheel drive, horseback, or organized tour (from Kukuihaele).
When to Get There
Since the views are one of the biggest draws, plan to visit on a clear, sunny day. November is the wettest month on the Big Island, and rain tends to impact how much of the valley is visible. Organized tours typically don’t run on Sundays.
Sacred, Mythical, Historical Waipio Valley
The Waipio Valley was once the home of many of Hawaii’s past rulers, and has great sacred and mythical significance. It was here where Kamehameha the Great (the first ruler of a unified Kingdom of Hawaii) was proclaimed the future ruler of the islands by Kakailimoku (a Hawaiian god). It’s also the site of several important Hawaiian temples, or heiaus.
Address: Highway 240, Honokaa 96727, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 182
Wailua River
Kauai’s Wailua River runs from the volcanic Wailua crater to the coast, flowing through the Wailua River State Park.
It’s Hawaii’s only navigable river, so make the most of the experience with a boat tour or cruise into the island’s rugged interior.
Along the way, you’ll pass waterfalls, nature reserves and walking trails as the river slowly meanders its way inland.
The river’s highlights are Fern Grotto, Wailua Falls and Secret Falls, reached by a secluded walking trail.
Practical Info
The Wailua River enters the ocean on the island’s east coast, near the settlement of Wailua.
Address: State Highway 580, Wailua 96791, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 59
Tropical Farms Macadamia Nut Farm
Located on the east coast of Oahu, 20 miles (32 kilometers) north of Honolulu, Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts is set in the shadow of the mountains of the Koolau Range and is a stop on many circle-island tours. It’s a great place to enjoy a Hawaiian treat and shop for gifts and souvenirs.
The Basics
Along with macadamia nuts, Tropical Farms sells coffee, chocolates, gift baskets, and other local items. The rustic indoor-outdoor complex is a nice break when you want to stretch your legs on a drive around the island, whether you make the journey yourself or as part of a circle-island tour from Waikiki or Honolulu.
Tastings are typically provided for coffee and different varieties of macadamia nuts, such as cinnamon- or Kona coffee-glazed, and tours are available into the orchards. Cracking the raw nuts is a favorite with kids.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is a parking lot on site.
- Circle-island tours that include a stop at the farm typically last from six to 10 hours, as many other stops are also made.
- Kamehameha Highway is a 2-lane road on this part of the island, and it’s the only way to get from north to south along the east coast; delays are possible.
- Tropical Farms is located about a mile down the road from popular Kualoa Ranch, making it easy to visit both in one day.
How to Get There
Tropical Farms is located on the Kamehameha Highway, one of Oahu’s major roads, which runs along the east coast, across the North Shore, and through the center of the island, making the farm easy to get to by car from Honolulu, Kailua, and the North Shore. By public transit, bus 55 stops near the farm entrance.
When to Get There
The store is open daily (except major holidays), from morning to early evening. To experience smaller crowds, go in the morning before most groups arrive.
Kualoa Ranch
Known for its outdoor adventure opportunities and movie filming locations, neighboring Kualoa Ranch is one of the most visited attractions on Oahu outside of Honolulu. ATV tours, horseback rides, and a zipline course provide ways to admire the green mountain scenery, and the movie tour shows you where blockbusters such as Jurassic Park have been filmed.
Address: 49-227 Kamehameha Hwy # A, Kaneohe, Hawaii, USA 96744, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 118
Wailuku River State Park
Best known for Rainbow Falls, Wailuku River State Park is a collection of waterfalls and eroded pools only 10 minutes from downtown Hilo. Make a stop at Rainbow Falls to watch colors dance in the mist, and then continue five minutes up the road to the area known as “Boiling Pots.” These deep, circular, roiling pools seem to boil during periods of high water, and Pe‘epe‘e Falls toward the back of the pools cascades 60 feet toward the rocks below.
The waterfalls and pools here are at their most dramatic after a period of heavy rain. Flash flooding is a common occurrence, so swimming in the pools is a high-stakes gamble no matter how enticing they might seem. Since the trails down to the pools can often be slippery, the pools and falls are best enjoyed from the easily accessible lookouts. Bring a picnic and linger in the grass with rushing water as your soundtrack, or simply kill an hour in Hilo with a quick jaunt up to the falls. Not only is this Hawaii’s longest river, but it’s also one of the most popular getaways for Hilo locals and families.
Practical Info
Rainbow Falls is two miles from Hilo off of Waianuenue Avenue, and Boiling Pots is 1.5 miles past the turnoff for Rainbow Falls. The park is open during daylight hours seven days per week, and there is no entrance fee for enjoying the beauty.
Address: Waianuenue Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii, USA
Hours: Daily during daylight hours
From $ 167
Thurston Lava Tube
Located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Thurston Lava Tube is the most accessible lava tube on the Big Island. Discovered in 1913, this 500-year-old tube was created by subterranean lava that once flowed through this young section of earth. Today, the tube is illuminated to create an eerie glow for visitors who venture inside.
The Basics
The Thurston Lava Tube, also known as Nahuku, is one of several points of interest located along the park’s Crater Rim Drive. From the parking area, a 15- to 20-minute walk leads down through a fern forest to the cave-like tube. The tube features on just about every guided tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, as well as circle island and volcano-themed tours of the Big Island.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Thurston Lava Tube is a must-visit for first-time park visitors and anyone with an interest in volcanology.
- Watch your head: There are some low spots within the 600-foot (183-meter) tube.
- Bring a flashlight to take a closer look at some of the cave’s natural features.
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- The Thurston Lava Tube is not wheelchair accessible, though there are accessible restrooms in the parking area.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach the lava tube is to drive. The parking area and trailhead leading down to the tube sits 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) past the park entrance on Crater Rim Drive. From there, a short trail (0.3 miles or 0.5 kilometers) leads to the tube entrance.
When to Get There
Since the Thurston Lava Tube is one of the most accessible, and therefore most popular, natural features within the park, it’s a good idea to head there first thing in the morning to explore the tube with fewer people.
Other Attractions of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
If you’re visiting the national park independently, there are several notable points of interest you won’t want to miss. Smell the sulfurous gases of the volcano at Sulphur Banks, breathe in the warmth at the Steam Vents, take in the lunar-like landscapes of Devastation Trail, hike across the floor of Kilauea Iki crater, and watch the glow of the active volcano from the Jaggar Museum observatory.
Address: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, 1 Crater Rim Dr, Volcano, HI 96178, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 103
Wet 'n' Wild Hawaii
Wet ’n’ Wild Hawaii, one of the most visited family attractions on the island of Oahu, occupies 29 lush acres with more than 25 rides and attractions. Kids can climb up the multi-level Water World Kids Playground with its five fun zones and seven slides or splash around in Keiki Kove, a spray ground filled with water cannons, pint-size water slides and a mushroom water shower. Kapolei Cooler, a lazy river, makes an 800-foot lap around the park, while Cutter’s Island provides a serene retreat for guests over 12 years of age.
Thrill seekers will find a host of attractions as well, including raft rides, body slides, racers and a 400,000-gallon wave pool. For an extra fee, guests of all ages and skill levels can catch a wave on Hawaii’s only simulated surf attraction.
Practical Info
The park’s hours aren’t always regular, so be sure to check ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Address: 400 Farrington Hwy, Kapolei, Oahu, USA
Hours: Monday, Thursday and Frida 10:30am-3:30pm; Saturday and Sunday 10:30am-4pm; Closed Tuesday and Wednesday
Admission: $49.99
From $ 50
Sandy Beach Park
When U.S. President Barack Obama shared that Sandy’s was his favorite Oahu beach early in his presidency, it went from a popular locals’ beach to just plain popular. This public stretch of white sand just north of the extinct Koko Head Crater is no languid oasis, however; it’s one of Oahu’s best—and most intense—spots for bodyboarding and bodysurfing. A fierce shore break best suited for experienced surfers sometimes wells into powerful barrels that can pummel riders trying to catch a wave.
The spot is often coupled with a visit to the neighboring Halona Blowhole, a lookout point where waves regularly blow spray up through eroded crevices in the lava rock. And when the wind kicks up, it’s not uncommon to see families flying kites on the spacious lawn fronting the sand.
Practical Info
Located on Oahu’s rugged southern-facing shoreline, Sandy Beach Park sits about halfway between the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve and Makapuu Lookout. The beach is accessible via TheBus routes 22 and 23 between Waikiki and Sea Life Park in Waimanalo, with a physically address of 8800 Kalanianaole Highway. The park has ample parking, freshwater showers, restroom blocks, picnic tables and lifeguards, whose warnings should be heeded when the surf is pounding. Also note that areas of shady refuge are sparse, so a hat and sunblock are recommended accessories.
Address: Oahu, Hawaii, USA, USA
From $ 25
Waimea Valley
Once named the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” by Mark Twain, Waimea Valley is the gateway to one of Kauai’s most impressive natural sights, Waimea Canyon. At 26 miles across and 21 miles long, Waimea Canyon has crags, gorges, and rugged mountains characterized by a variety of colors. Natural green, red, and even purple and blue hues appear in various degrees along the eroded mountain sides. The canyon was carved thousands of years ago from waters flowing from the top of Mount Waialeale, still today one of the places on Earth with the most rainfall. There are still dozens of hidden waterfalls and pools to explore throughout the valley.
Waimea Valley, with all its natural beauty, was considered sacred by the ancient Hawaiians. Archaeological sites and more than 700 years of native Hawaiian history can still be seen, while visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the valley from one of several lookouts or explore by foot on one of the area’s many hiking trails.
Practical Info
Waimea Valley is situated on Kauai’s west coast. It can be accessed from Waimea on Hawaiʻi state road 550, which leads up to Koke'e State Park. Waimea Canyon Road, located just past mile marker 23, winds along the canyon but no gas stations are present so be sure to embark with a full tank.
Address: 59-864 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, Hawaii, USA
From $ 245
Wailuku
The city of Wailuku sits on the northern coast of Maui, once a major tourist destination on the island and now a commercial and governmental center. As the Maui County seat, Wailuku is home to the county government and was historically home to some of the Kingdom of Hawaii's most esteemed leaders. It was also a major center of the sugar cane industry in Hawaii in the 19th century.
The town is situated on the coast, but at its back is the mouth of the Iao Valley, a gorgeous and lush state park that was sacred to the old Hawaiian gods and a burial ground for Hawaiian royalty. The valley was also the setting for a legendary 18th century battle in the fight to unify the islands as one kingdom. Visitors to Wailuku today can explore the city's historic monuments, browse its unique local shops and restaurants, and use it as a base for visiting the Iao Valley.
Practical Info
Wailuku is a short 10-minute drive from Kahului Airport, Maui's main airport. It has a very different feel from the more touristy parts of Maui, and lacks the big resort hotels.
Address: Wailuku, Hawaii, USA
From $ 144
Bailey House Museum
The Bailey House is a historical house and museum operated by the Maui Historical Society. It houses the largest collection of Hawaiian artifacts on Maui, many dating back to the 19th century when the house was built. The home was constructed as a mission in 1833 on what was then the royal compound of Kahekili, the last ruling chief of Maui, and the second story contains many of the koa wood furniture that belonged to the missionary Edward Bailey, who lived in the house. The first floor contains remnants of native Hawaiian life, from wooden bowls and utensils to spears and shark teeth used in battle. The museum also houses a private collection of Edward Bailey's paintings of Maui along with the oldest surviving photographs of the island.
Outside you can view dozens of native Hawaiian plants in the house gardens. There is a 100-year-old outrigger canoe and a historic surfboard that belonged to Duke Kahanamoku in an outdoor gallery beside the entrance to the house.
Practical Info
The Bailey House Museum is located at 2375-A Main Street in Wailuku on the island of Maui. It is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and $2 for children 12 and under. It is closed on Sundays and major holidays.
Address: 2375-A Main Street, Wailuku, Hawaii 96793, USA
Hours: Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed Sundays and major holidays.
Admission: $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and $2 for children 12 and under.
From $ 153
Waikoloa
The town of Waikoloa Village is near the western shore of the Big Island of Hawaii, just south of the Kohala Peninsula.
Waikoloa Village is less than nine miles inland from the beach (following the road – not as the crow flies), but it's home to several hotels and resorts. There's also a popular golf resort at Waikoloa Village. There are even more resorts along the water, however, a short drive from the town.
The town of Puako is the narrow strip of land that sits between Waikoloa Village and the ocean, where you'll find many of the resorts. Waikoloa is more residential, whereas Puako is more tourist-centric.
Practical Info
Waikoloa is roughly 32 miles from Kailua-Kona – the drive takes less than an hour if you don't stop to sightsee along the way.
Address: Waikoloa, Big Island of Hawaii, USA
From $ 29
Waioli Mission House
Down a dirt road behind Hanalei’s iconic green Wai’oli Hui’ia church, the Wai’oli Mission House served as the residence for three different gospel-sharing families in the early 19th century. The charming two-story, four-bedroom home—one of the Island’s oldest Western-style dwellings—was built by Congregational missionary Reverend William Alexander and his wife Mary in 1837.
Though tours of clap-board house are offered only on certain days, and on a first-come first-served basis—ring the old school bell to alert the docents of your presence—visitors are treated to a unique blend of early Hawaiian-made home goods as well as items useful in missionary life: A still-functioning wall clock, koa bedframes and bookshelves filled with the missionaries’ tomes, a lava rock chimney, ohio wood floors, a traveling chest, a whale oil burning lantern and a spinning wheel. Many of the artifacts belonged to Lucy and Abner Wilcox and their eight sons who lived here between 1846 and 1869—the longest serving and final residents of the Mission House. Touring the historic home is an educational way to spend a rainy Hanalei day, indeed, the name “Wai’oli” means joyful water, perhaps a nod to the many waterfalls that stream down the mountains behind the old mission settlement during the rains or its proximity to the meandering Hanalei River.
Practical Info
To reach the Mission House, continue 0.2 miles west on Kuhio Highway past Wai’oli Hui’ia Church to Old School House Road. A parking lot and footpath leading to the mission house is located in the trees alongside Hanalei Elementary School. Guided mission tours run Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $10 for adults and $5 for children.
Address: Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, Hawaii 96714, USA
Hours: Guided mission tours run Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Admission: Suggested donation of $10 for adults and $5 for children
From $ 135
Waimea Bay Beach
Welcome to one of the most iconic places on O’ahu Island! Combining popular culture, history and extreme sports, Waimea Bay Beach simply does not disappoint. Its stunning panoramas alone, as seen from the Kamehameha Highway, are sufficient reason to visit the island’s northern end! The area’s international reputation emerged in 1779, when famous Captain James Cook was killed by native villagers after he tried to make the King of Hawaii captive. Staples of this period are still visible today at the Pu'u o Mahuka Heiau State Monument, the largest of its kind on the island.
Many years later, Waimea Bay Beach once again gained popularity by becoming the top surfing destination in the world and officially starting the 1950s now-iconic surf phenomenon (as demonstrated by the Beach Boys’ famous song!). In fact, surfing is still very much in fashion in this neck of the woods, with numerous surfing events taking place throughout the year, especially during big wave season between November and February. Alternatively, it is a very nice place to swim and sunbathe during the calmer summer months. Waimea Bay Beach even made it to the small screen as a filming location for acclaimed series Lost.
Practical Info
Waimea Bay Beach is located on the northern tip of O’ahu Island in Hawaii, roughly 35 miles northwest of Honolulu. It is reachable via route 99 in just under an hour. It is also possible to get there with bus #55 from Ala Moana Shopping Center in Honolulu.
Address: Oahu, Hawaii, USA
From $ 79
Waimea Canyon
A geological kaleidoscope of reds and browns, Kauai’s impressive Waimea Canyon—at 14 miles (22.5 kilometers) long, one mile (1.6 kilometers) wide, and 3,600 feet (1,097 meters) deep—is Hawaii’s version of the Grand Canyon. In fact, some say Mark Twain was the first to lend it its nickname: the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Stop on its winding rim road for views of a far-below river, sheer drop-offs, spectacular views, excellent hiking, and waterfall-lined crevasses, all just a short way away from the Garden Isle’s legendary Na Pali Coast.
The Basics
The canyon, within the purview of the free-to-access Waimea Canyon State Park, is best seen on a tour, which allows you to gaze over the cliff edges without having to also navigate a vehicle along the winding, canyon-hugging route. Take a 4WD tour on Kauai’s backroads and past popular attractions like quaint Koloa Town, the Spouting Horn blowhole, the artsy town of Hanapepe, and the old Russian Fort before skirting the canyon. Or follow the Wailua River—coupling boat or kayak rides to the jungle of Fern Grotto—with a journey west for comparatively dry river views. Most Waimea Canyon tours continue to Kauai’s northern coast, stopping at Kokee State Park and the Kalalau Overlook for sweeping views of the undulating Na Pali Coast.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Waimea Canyon itself is dry and dusty, but the Na Pali Coast can be foggy and wet. Be prepared and dress in layers for whatever the weather may bring.
- Although the canyon trails aren’t generally wheelchair accessible, the many lookout points are.
- For experienced hikers, longer treks—including guided multi-day hut-to-hut hikes—are an option. Trail maps and additional information are available in the Kokee Museum and Visitor Center north of the canyon.
- There are no gas stations and only one restaurant along Waimea Canyon Drive—a route that, depending on how many stops you make, could take all day. Choose a tour that includes lunch or snacks, or pack food.
How to Get There
Access Waimea Canyon along scenic, in-and-out Waimea Canyon Drive (Highway 550) in southwestern Kauai. There are several lookout points and trailheads along the route. You can access the road from coastal Highway 50 in the town of Waimea, or from farther west at Kekaha, via Kokee Road. On the return journey be sure to look for glimpses of distant Niihau, the Forbidden Island.
When to Get There
It’s best to head to Waimea Canyon early in the day (before 10am) or in the late afternoon (after 3pm), when the fog that regularly rolls off the sea is less likely to obscure views along the route. Very early morning and at sunset, the canyon’s colors come alive and make for great photographs.
Stops Along the Waimea Canyon
There are dozens of pull-offs along Waimea Canyon Drive, but don’t miss sights like the Waimea Canyon Lookout at mile marker 10 or Waipio Falls, best seen from a small lookout around mile marker 13, opposite a picnic area with restrooms and water fountains. The Iliau Nature Loop is a flat and easy (though dusty) trail with signage on local birds and plants, as well as some great canyon views; look for it just before mile marker 9. The restaurant at Kokee State Park, north of the canyon, serves local-style meals—try the loco moco, a hearty Hawaiian dish of white rice, a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and gravy.
Address: Waimea Canyon Drive, Waimea 96796, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 69
Sea Life Park Hawaii
Just across from the blue sea, the mostly open-air Sea Life Park highlights some of Hawaii's aquatic residents—sharks, rays, turtles, penguins, seals (even the rare Hawaiian monk seal), and dolphins included.
In addition to regular educational programs and talks with trainers to teach visitors about its animals, admission tickets also include access to a number of animal habitats, such as the Hawaiian Reef Aquarium and the seabird sanctuary, where injured or sick birds are rehabilitated. Guests are also free to visit an open-top tide pool housing urchins, starfish and, occasionally, baby turtles (touching is optional).
After hours, the park hosts the Chief's Luau, a popular traditional Hawaiian feast and dancing show with hula, a 10-minute fire dance, and chances to weave a headband from banana leaves. Performers remove a pig from the traditional underground imu (oven) for the dinner. This experience is offered nightly (except on Tuesday and Saturday) with a cost separate from park admission: $158 for adults, $139 for youth ages 13 to 20, and $125 for children ages 5 to 12.
Although Viator tours do not include sea lion and dolphin encounters and swims, these experiences are available for purchase at Sea Life Park Hawaii for an additional fee (from $69.99).
Practical Info
Sea Life Park Hawaii is located off Highway 72 on the island's southeastern coast. When coming from Honolulu, it's on the left side of the road past Hanauma Bay, the Blow Hole, and Sandy Beach. The site is open daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm from June through August, and until 4pm the rest of the year. Standard daily entry costs $39.99 for adults and $24.99 for children 12 and under. On-site dining options include Pink's Hot Dogs and the Beachboy Lanai Food Court. A trip to the park is frequently coupled with a stop for snorkeling at nearby Hanauma Bay.
Address: 41-202 Kalanianaole Highway, Waimanalo, Hawaii 96795, USA
Hours: Daily 9:30am-4pm (June-Aug 9:30am-4:30pm)
Admission: Adults $39.99; Children $24.99
From $ 25
Wailua Falls
Kauai is known as “The Garden Isle” for its exceptionally verdant beauty, and when you first catch sight of Wailua Falls it’s easy to understand why. Spilling 80 feet over a rocky ledge into a fresh water pool below, this double-streamed, misty cascade so perfectly captures the tropical essence that it was used as part of the opening scene for the TV show, Fantasy Island.
And, while there’s definitely no shortage of waterfalls on Kauai, what makes Wailua Falls so popular is the fact that you can see the falls without even having to hike. As you follow rural, Ma’alu Road as it twists its way up the mountain, there will eventually be a large parking lot approximately four miles up from the highway. Here, from a sweeping viewpoint on a country road looking over Wailua Stream, a heart-stopping view of Wailua Falls is only a few steps away. For an added, tropical, Wailua Falls bonus, try to visit in mid-morning on a clear, sunny day, when a thin rainbow can often appear in the softly spiraling mists.
Practical Info
Wailua Falls is located about 5.2 miles outside the town of Lihue. While there are trails that lead down the steep cliff face to the base of the thundering falls, the trails are steep, exceptionally dangerous, and officially off-limits to hikers. To reach the falls, drive north of Lihue for approximately one mile until your reach Ma’alu Road, and turn left for a four mile journey into the misty hills.
Address: Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii, USA
From $ 122