Top 20 Must-Try Hawaii Activities

The Star of Honolulu is Oahu’s premier sunset dinner cruise, offering a magical experience that’s perfect for any occasion. This top-rated attraction provides a variety of dining options suitable for both families and couples, along with customizable add-ons to enhance your evening. Guests can capture breathtaking views from the 60-foot observation deck, enjoy Hawaiian hula shows, and on Fridays, marvel at the Waikiki fireworks.

Explore the best of Kualoa Ranch with a comprehensive package that combines three of Oahu’s top tours into one unforgettable day, including the Hollywood Movie Sites Tour, Kualoa Grown Farm Tour, and the Jurassic Jungle Expedition, complete with a delicious lunch. Alternatively, you can opt for one or two of these tours separately.

Experience the breathtaking Haleakala sunset and stargazing tour on Maui with Maui All Stars, where you’ll enjoy some of the world’s most stunning sunset views. Known primarily for its sunrise tours, Haleakala’s sunset transforms the sky into vibrant shades of orange and red as you watch from the summit. During the drive, your guide will share intriguing facts and the history of the area, including the meaning behind Haleakala’s name, “House of the Sun.” As night falls, use high-powered telescopes to observe the stars twinkling above in the clear Hawaiian sky.

This exclusive tour takes you through private lands, featuring a guided journey to scenic spots and hidden waterfalls accessible only via off-road trails. The tour includes extended riding times across diverse landscapes, from tropical rainforests to lush valleys and pristine beaches like Kipu Kai. Along the way, enjoy a swim at a private waterfall and take memorable photos at various Hollywood blockbuster sites. This three-hour adventure offers both driver and passenger options.

Set out on a five-hour guided kayak and hiking adventure perfect for adventurous families, exploring the famous Wailua River and a hidden waterfall in Kauai. Paddle through the peaceful waters and hike a trail into the heart of the tropical rainforest Kauai is known for. Cap off your journey with a swim in the natural pools at the base of the secluded waterfall, fully immersing yourself in the mystique of Kauai’s natural landscape.

Stop at the Onizuka Visitor Information Station to acclimate and enjoy a meal before ascending to the 13,796-foot summit to witness a breathtaking sunset above the clouds. At the Mauna Kea Visitor Center, warm up with hot drinks and enjoy a guided stargazing session using lasers and Celestron telescopes to explore constellations, star clusters, planets, and distant galaxies. This 7.5 to 8.5-hour tour includes dinner and is an exceptional way to experience the natural and cultural significance of this sacred Hawaiian site.

From the moment you arrive, immerse yourself in a traditional atmosphere with hands-on activities suitable for all ages. Enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet while watching a breathtaking sunset from a mountain-top venue. As night falls, the dinner show dazzles with fire-knife dancers, hula performances, and dramatic reenactments of historic Hawaiian battles, providing a unique blend of history and modern entertainment.

Set sail with a continental breakfast before diving into a variety of activities at the world-famous Hulopo’e Beach & Marine Preserve, to which Trilogy has exclusive access. Spend your day swimming, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, sunbathing, and playing beach volleyball. Explore the local marine life in the protected waters of Hulopo’e Bay, hike to Sweetheart Rock, and relax in the natural tide pools. Cap off your adventure with a delicious Kiawe wood BBQ lunch at Manele Bay.

Enjoy breathtaking views, live music, and captivating stories about Hawaiian culture and history. For a seamless experience, book with Smith’s Tropical Paradise Luau and consider the last cruise at 3:30 pm, allowing you to transition directly to the luau after your cruise.

Start with a flight through Hanapepe Valley and over the famous Manawaiopuna Falls, known as “Jurassic Park.” Your guide, an expert pilot, will navigate the stunning Na Pali Coast and delve into Waimea Canyon, often described as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” If conditions allow, soar through the ancient crater of Mt. Waialeale, the wettest spot on Earth, for a comprehensive view of the island.

Glide through the ocean’s depths in the world’s largest high-tech passenger submarine, where you can observe Hawaiian green sea turtles, colorful tropical fish, reef sharks, and artificially created reefs from sunken ships and airplanes—all through large viewing windows. Perfect for families and those who prefer not to snorkel or scuba dive, this tour includes a scenic boat ride with views of Diamond Head and Waikiki, followed by a 45-50-minute submarine journey.

Enjoy a hassle-free trip to Hanauma Bay with a convenient and affordable shuttle service from Waikiki, offering multiple daily pickups and up to five hours of snorkeling. This service provides clean, fully sanitized snorkeling gear, with additional accessories like underwater cameras and flotation vests available for purchase.

Led by an expert crew, you’ll explore the stunning landscapes of towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, hidden sea caves, and secluded beaches. Learn about Hawaiian history and legends while snorkeling among vibrant marine life, including spinner dolphins, green sea turtles, and humpback whales during the winter months. Equipped with high-quality snorkeling gear and instruction, this tour promises to be a highlight of your Hawaiian holiday.

Led by an expert crew, you’ll explore the stunning landscapes of towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, hidden sea caves, and secluded beaches. Learn about Hawaiian history and legends while snorkeling among vibrant marine life, including spinner dolphins, green sea turtles, and humpback whales during the winter months. Equipped with high-quality snorkeling gear and instruction, this tour promises to be a highlight of your Hawaiian holiday.

Dive into a memorable dolphin encounter with Dolphin Quest at The Kahala, offering private group dolphin swimming packages perfect for families and safe for young children. Choose between the Premier Experience for up to three people or the Family Swim for six. With over 27 years of expertise, Dolphin Quest provides one of the best interactive dolphin programs in Hawaii, emphasizing superior animal care, scientific research, and environmental stewardship.

Opt for a comfortable and scenic journey on the less-traveled Reverse Route, where rental cars aren’t allowed, allowing you to escape the crowds. This expert-guided tour starts from Upcountry Maui and includes visits to breathtaking waterfalls and a famous black sand beach, complemented by delicious local snacks. Enjoy a fresh hot picnic lunch with choices, all while taking in the majestic views. Travel in style in a minibus with spacious seating and large windows or a luxurious Cadillac Escalade, both equipped with modern comforts.

Be captivated by Maui’s marine ecosystem with a family-friendly array of over 60 self-paced, interactive exhibits that showcase species indigenous or endemic to Hawaii. Located conveniently across from Ma’alaea Harbor, it serves as an excellent primer for visitors planning snorkeling expeditions. Each exhibit is meticulously designed to mirror natural habitats, providing a fascinating and educational experience for all ages.

Start your day with a picturesque drive along Saddle Road to Kauhi Cavern. Continue to Volcanoes National Park for an immersive tour. Witness the transformed landscape of the Kilauea Crater, shaped by recent lava flows, and hike two to three miles through volcanic terrains. This extensive 10-12 hour tour offers a deep dive into the park’s less-traveled paths, exploring its cultural and natural history. If the volcano is active, cap the evening with the stunning sight of the red glow from Halemaumau Crater.