The Ultimate Guide to Hawaii's Top 10 Travel Destinations - Scenic Hunter

America’s 50th state, Hawaii is a collection of nearly 137 volcanic islands including eight main islands, located in the heart of the mighty Pacific Ocean.

With its white sandy beaches, majestic green cliffs, massive volcanic mountaintops jutting from the turquoise water of the Pacific Ocean, lush green forests filled with exotic flowers, cascading waterfalls on the dramatic Na Pali coast, and hula dancing, Hawaii offers an endless range of natural attractions and cultural highlights.

In fact, the Pacific Island atmosphere and Hawaiian tropical climate make the extra state special. The mighty Pacific is home to a diverse array of ocean life, providing endless opportunities to snorkel, scuba dive, surf, or simply swim after sunbathing. And also the most exciting part of the islands is the warmly welcoming Hawaiian people. A combination of all of these outstanding characteristics of Hawaii makes you truly feel like a paradise.

This is fascinating post to find the top 10 places to visit in Hawaii.

#10 - Hapuna Beach

Hapuna Beach in Hawaii is a hidden gem that is a must-visit destination for beach lovers seeking stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear waters. Located on the west coast of the Big Island, this white sand beach stretches over half a mile and offers some of the most transparent waters in Hawaii.

Hapuna Beach boasts a beautiful beach park ideal for relaxing and picnicking, making it a perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon. You can stroll along the coast and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains and coastline.

Alternatively, you can enjoy crystal-clear waters by swimming, boogie boarding, or snorkelling. Snorkelling is particularly popular here, allowing one to observe the colourful marine life up close and swim alongside sea turtles.

For those who prefer to stay on land, Hapuna Beach offers a beautiful beach park perfect for picnics and relaxing. You can also stroll along the coast and enjoy the stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains.

Remember to explore the nearby attractions, including the Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site, a fascinating archaeological site that offers insight into Hawaii's ancient history and culture.

#9 - Lanikai Beach

The Road to Lanikai Beach is a breathtaking drive that winds through some of Hawaii's most scenic landscapes. This iconic route takes you through lush tropical foliage, past panoramic ocean vistas, and finally delivers you to one of the most stunning beaches in the world.

Lanikai Beach is a hidden gem in the charming town of Kailua on the eastern shore of Oahu. You will have a multitude of activities to choose from upon your arrival.

Lanikai Beach is famous for its turquoise waters, and the soft white sand is perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. You can rent paddleboards and kayaks or take a snorkelling tour to explore crystal-clear waters and colourful marine life.

Hiking enthusiasts will love the nearby Lanikai Pillboxes Trail. It's a moderate 1.5-mile hike that rewards you with stunning panoramic views of the ocean and the Mokulua Islands.

The town of Kailua is charming and a great place to explore after a day at the beach. You'll find plenty of local shops and restaurants that offer delicious Hawaiian cuisine and refreshing tropical drinks.

#8 - Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay in Hawaii is a natural wonder and a must-visit destination for snorkelling enthusiasts and beach lovers. Located on the southeast coast of Oahu, this marine life conservation area offers an incredible underwater experience with over 450 species of tropical fish and coral reefs.

The best way to experience Hanauma Bay is to rent snorkelling gear and explore the crystal-clear waters. You can witness the fascinating marine life up close and swim alongside schools of colourful fish and sea turtles. The shallow waters make it easy for beginners to enjoy the underwater world, while experienced snorkelers can venture further out to discover hidden coves and reef formations.

For those who prefer to stay on land, Hanauma Bay offers a beautiful sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. You can also stroll along the nature trail, which offers stunning views of the bay and the surrounding mountains.

Remember to visit the Hanauma Bay Visitor Center, which offers information about the bay's history, ecology, and conservation efforts. The centre also offers educational programs and films that provide insight into the marine life that inhabits the bay.

#7 - Haleakala National Park

Haleakala National Park, located on the island of Maui in Hawaii, is a breathtaking destination that promises to take your breath away. The park is named after its main attraction, the Haleakala volcano, which towers over 10,000 feet above sea level.

This natural wonder offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular things to do in Haleakala National Park is to witness the sunrise or sunset from the volcano's summit. The colours of the sky during these times are indescribable and create a truly unforgettable experience.

Another popular activity is hiking the trails that wind through the park, offering stunning views of the volcanic landscape, lush forests, and waterfalls. For those who are interested in stargazing, Haleakala National Park is the perfect destination.

The park is home to one of the most advanced observatories in the world, making it an ideal spot to observe the stars and planets. In addition to these activities, visitors can enjoy ranger-led tours, horseback riding, and camping. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Haleakala National Park has something to offer everyone.

#6 - Hanalei Bay

Hanalei Bay in Hawaii is a picturesque destination that is a must-visit for travellers seeking stunning natural beauty and a laid-back island vibe. This crescent-shaped bay on the north shore of Kauai offers pristine beaches, dramatic mountains, and vibrant local culture.

The best way to experience Hanalei Bay is to hit the beach and soak up the sun on the golden sands. The bay offers a range of water activities, including surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming. The waves are perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike, and several surf schools in the area offer lessons.

For those who prefer to stay on land, Hanalei Bay offers scenic hiking trails that lead through lush rainforests and provide panoramic views of the bay and surrounding mountains. The famous Hanalei River Trail is a moderate hike that takes you through the heart of the Hanalei Valley and offers stunning views of the nearby waterfalls.

Also, do not forget to explore the local culture and cuisine, a unique blend of Polynesian, Asian, and American influences.

#5 - Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon in Hawaii is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," it offers stunning views of the island's natural beauty and diverse landscape. The canyon is over 10 miles long, a mile wide, and more than 3,600 feet deep, and it offers an array of exciting activities.

The best way to experience Waimea Canyon is to take a scenic drive along Koke'e Road, which offers panoramic views of the canyon and its surrounding areas. You can also take a helicopter tour for a bird's eye view of the canyon and the beautiful Na Pali coast.

For adventure seekers, the canyon offers several hiking trails that range from easy to strenuous. The famous Waimea Canyon Trail is a moderate hike that takes you through lush forests, waterfalls, and stunning canyon views. The Canyon Trail is another popular trail that offers a challenging trek through rugged terrain and is best suited for experienced hikers.

Remember to visit the Waimea Canyon lookout, which offers one of the most stunning panoramic views of the canyon. You can also visit the nearby Koke'e Natural History Museum, which provides information about the canyon's history, culture, geology and surrounding areas.

In conclusion, Waimea Canyon is a destination that offers breathtaking views and diverse activities for travellers of all ages. It's a truly unforgettable destination, with its stunning natural beauty, exciting adventures, and friendly locals. If you're planning a trip to Hawaii, Waimea Canyon should be on your list of must-visit destinations.

#4 - Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach in Hawaii is a mesmerizing paradise that offers the ultimate tropical getaway for travellers. Nestled on the south shore of Honolulu, Waikiki Beach is renowned for its breathtaking turquoise waters, golden sand, and picturesque sunsets. The destination boasts endless opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and exploration.

The best way to experience Waikiki Beach is to indulge in its crystal-clear waters, swim, surf, snorkel, or paddleboard in the ocean, and witness the awe-inspiring marine life. After that, take a walk on the beach and soak up the sun while enjoying a refreshing drink from one of the beach bars.

For adventure seekers, hike up the Diamond Head Crater, which offers stunning panoramic views of the beach and the city. For culture enthusiasts, stroll down the famous Kalakaua Avenue, lined with high-end boutiques, restaurants, and bars.

The avenue leads to Kapiolani Park, a 170-acre public park, where you can explore the Honolulu Zoo, the Waikiki Shell Amphitheater, and the Waikiki Aquarium. At night, Waikiki Beach transforms into a lively entertainment hub, with numerous bars and nightclubs, providing an energetic atmosphere for music and dance.

#3 - Road to Hana

The Road to Hana is an iconic journey that takes you on a scenic drive through the lush rainforests, towering waterfalls, and stunning coastal views of Maui's eastern shore. The road is famous for its 52-mile stretch of winding streets, narrow bridges, and one-lane passages that offer breathtaking views of Hawaii's natural beauty.

One of the best things to do on the Road to Hana is to stop and explore the numerous waterfalls dotted along the way. The cascading falls, such as the Wailua Falls and the Upper Waikani Falls, are a sight to behold and offer a refreshing break from the warm tropical climate.

Another must-do activity is to visit the stunning beaches along the Road to Hana. The beaches, such as the black sand beach at Waianapanapa State Park and the red sand beach at Kaihalulu Bay, offer unique experiences and dramatic scenery that will take your breath away.

The Road to Hana is also home to several botanical gardens and farms that glimpse Hawaii's rich agricultural heritage. The Garden of Eden is a must-visit attraction that boasts over 700 tropical plants and tree varieties.

#2 - Na Pali Coast

Nestled on the northwestern shore of Kauai, Na Pali Coast is a breathtakingly beautiful destination offering some of Hawaii's most spectacular views. The coastline stretches for 17 miles, featuring towering sea cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches that beckon visitors worldwide.

The best way to experience Na Pali Coast is by taking a boat tour. These tours allow you to explore hidden sea caves, see playful dolphins and sea turtles up close, and marvel at the stunning landscape from the water. For a more adventurous experience, you can also take a helicopter tour to see the coast from above.

Hiking is another popular activity at Na Pali Coast, with trails offering panoramic ocean and mountain views. The Kalalau Trail is the most famous, taking hikers through lush valleys and rugged cliffs to secluded beaches and stunning waterfalls.

For those looking for a more relaxing experience, simply lounging on one of the many beaches along the coast is an excellent option. Hanalei Bay and Ke'e Beach offer stunning views and crystal-clear waters.

Whether you choose to explore Na Pali Coast by boat, helicopter, or on foot, it's an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

#1 - Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is a stunning natural wonder located in Hawaii. This park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, which offer visitors a rare opportunity to witness the tremendous power of nature in action.

One of the best things to do in Volcanoes National Park is to hike through the park's unique landscape. There are a variety of hiking trails available, ranging from short and easy walks to more challenging treks that take you deep into the heart of the volcanic terrain. The most popular trail is the Kilauea Iki Trail, which takes you through the lush rainforest and across a crater floor once filled with molten lava.

Another must-see attraction in the park is the Jaggar Museum and Overlook, where visitors can witness the glowing red lava of the Kilauea volcano from a safe distance. The park also offers ranger-led tours, where knowledgeable guides provide insight into the geology and history of the area.

For those looking for a unique experience, taking a helicopter tour of the park is an exciting way to see the landscape from above. Visitors can also explore the park's lava tubes, ancient underground tunnels created by flowing lava.

We do hope you enjoyed our post about the breathtaking state of Hawaii.