Things To Do
in Hawaii
Hawaii is an archipelago of volcanic islands in the central Pacific renowned for its dramatic landscapes and pristine beaches. The islands range from the lava-fed moonscapes of the Big Island to the emerald valleys of Kauai and the world-famous surf towns of Oahu. Aloha spirit and indigenous culture infuse daily life, from luau feasts to hula and craft markets.
Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, crystal clear waters, and year-round sunshine shaped by trade winds and volcanic activity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Honolulu International Airport and check into your hotel. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a seaside café, taking in the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. Spend the morning exploring the vibrant streets of Waikiki, soaking up the sun on its iconic beach.
Head over to Pearl Harbor to visit the historic sites and learn about the events of December 7, 1941. After exploring, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, serving authentic Hawaiian cuisine. Spend your afternoon relaxing by the beach or taking a surf lesson if you're feeling adventurous.
As the sun sets, stroll along the beach and watch as the sky is painted in hues of orange and pink. Experience a traditional Hawaiian luau, complete with hula dancing and a feast of local delicacies. Conclude your evening gazing at the stars while enjoying the sound of the waves.
Travel to the renowned North Shore, famed for its legendary surf spots. Enjoy breakfast at a local diner, famous for its pancakes and fresh fruit. Spend the morning watching surfers tackle the big waves at Waimea Bay.
Visit the quaint town of Haleiwa, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and enjoy the local food trucks. Indulge in a shave ice on the beach, a refreshing treat perfect for the warm weather. Spend your afternoon exploring the lush landscapes of the nearby countryside.
Return to your hotel in Honolulu and freshen up before dinner. Enjoy a gourmet meal at a beachside restaurant, savoring the flavors of the islands. End your day with a relaxing walk along the beach, listening to the calming sounds of the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🧾Grocery for a week for two | $100-180 |
| 🍽️Meal for two in a mid-range restaurant | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $4-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $180-260 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes
- Year-round warm weather and beaches
- Friendly local culture and aloha spirit
- World-class snorkeling, surfing, and hiking
- High travel costs and limited public transportation on some islands
- Crowds and traffic in popular areas like Waikiki
- Environmental sustainability challenges from tourism
- Occasional tropical storms and big wave seasons on certain coasts
- "Aloha" - Hello / Goodbye / Love
- "Mahalo" - Thank you
- "E komo mai" - Welcome
- "E oluolu" - Please
- "Aʻole pilikia" - No problem
Places to Visit in Hawaii
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft dawn light over Diamond Head and surfers returning to shore.
Panoramic views of Honolulu, Waikiki, and the Pacific from the crater rim.
Vertical cliffs, emerald valleys, and blue water along a dramatic coastline.
Cinder cone landscape with vast volcanic scenery and starlit skies.
Grand canyon-esque ridges and vivid greens from lookout points.
Lush valley with verdant cliffs and historic scenery.
Lush rainforest and a 442-foot waterfall framed by tropical flora.
Food in Hawaii
Hawaii Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Diced raw fish (often ahi) marinated or seasoned and served with rice or greens; find it at markets and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Slow roasted pork cooked in an underground oven, a luau staple.
Meat wrapped in taro leaves and steamed; common at luau feasts and Hawaiian restaurants.
Hawaiian comfort dish with rice, burger patty, fried egg, and gravy.
Finely shaved ice with flavored syrups; perfect on a hot day.
Starchy taro paste that accompanies many dishes, often eaten with meat and fish.
Portuguese inspired fried dough, dusted with sugar; popular as a sweet treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Popular market with fresh produce, prepared foods, and local snacks in a friendly neighborhood setting.
A bustling market on the Big Island offering tropical fruits, crafts, and local bites.
A mix of street food stalls, fusion bites, and local specialties in downtown Honolulu.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be friendly and patient; greetings matter and smiling is common.
Ask permission before entering cemeteries or heiau; do not touch or remove objects at sacred sites.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples or sacred places.
Be respectful and obtain consent where appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Hawaii
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically 15-20% for good service; housekeepers $2-5 per night; porters $1-2 per bag; guides may expect 15-20%.
Credit and debit cards widely accepted; cash still useful in markets and some small vendors; many places also accept mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with warm days, gentle trade winds, and calmer seas in many areas; great for beach days and snorkeling; occasional tropical showers.
Surf and whale watching peak; bigger swells on north shores; higher chance of showers; lush landscapes from rainfall; water temps cooler at night.
Hawaii at Night
Hiking in Hawaii
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy-to-moderate hike with iconic crater views over Waikiki.
Scenic canyon hiking with dramatic red cliffs and lush greenery.
Challenging coastal hike along the Na Pali coast with breathtaking scenery.
High-elevation trail with volcanic landscapes and sweeping views.
Lush rainforest loop to see a waterfall and tropical plants.
Airports
How to reach Hawaii by plane.
Main gateway on Oahu with inter-island flights and international connections.
Maui's primary airport serving inter-island and limited international flights.
Big Island airport near Kailua-Kona for inter-island travel.
Kauai's main airport with inter-island connections.
Big Island airport serving inter-island flights and some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
An integral part of Hawaii's history and culture; influence language, music, and traditions.
A large and long-standing community contributing to cuisine, festivals, and business.
Strong presence in the workforce and local culture.
A diverse mix of residents and visitors shaping daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A quintessential Hawaiian sport with famous breaks on Oahu, Maui, and the islands.
Traditional water sport with practiced crews across the islands.
Explore coral reefs and sea life around many beaches.
Volcanic crater trails, rainforest hikes, and scenic canyons attract outdoor lovers.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy fresh fruit markets, veggie poke options, and many island salads; request meat-free versions at most restaurants.
Many restaurants offer gluten-free options; check sauces and seasoning and opt for seafood, rice, and vegetables.
Many Hawaiian dishes can be modified to be dairy-free; ask for coconut milk or water in drinks and desserts.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hawaii.