Hawaii Attractions Guide

Must-See Landmarks in Hawaii

Hawaii Attractions Guide

This article may include affiliate links at no extra cost to you. Mahalo for your support!

John Derrick
Published by: John C. Derrick
Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.

Best Places to Visit in Hawaii

Top Hawaiian Attractions Guide

Embark on an extraordinary journey as we introduce you to the remarkable attractions that make Hawaii an unparalleled destination. From the sun-drenched beaches with crystal-clear waters to the awe-inspiring waterfalls hidden within lush rainforests, from the vibrant hiking trails unveiling breathtaking vistas to the tranquil gardens bursting with tropical flora, there's a unique adventure waiting for you in every corner of these beautiful islands.

Unveil the mysteries of the volcanic landscapes on the Big Island, soak in the surf culture on the sands of Oahu, experience the breathtaking beauty of Kaua'i's cliffs, or witness the stunning sunrise atop Maui's Haleakala Crater. But that's not all; Hawaii's attractions go beyond the visual.

Immerse yourself in the islands' rich history, engaging culture, sumptuous cuisine, and the warm spirit of Aloha that is woven into every experience. Start your exploration here, where the magic of Hawaii comes to life featuring each island's top attractions.

Kauai attractions stretch from lush tropical gardens to dramatic hiking trails and calm golden beaches that sparkle in the island sun. Discover Kauai’s enchanting waterfalls, like Wailua Falls, that plunge into misty pools and look straight from a Hollywood film set. Marvel at the vivid reds and greens of Waimea Canyon’s towering cliffs, then lose yourself among the flowers at the National Tropical Botanical Garden. Stroll along Hanalei Bay’s serene shoreline, enjoy a quiet swim, or hike the epic Kalalau Trail along the rugged Na Pali Coast. If you crave nature’s best, Kauai delivers surprises around every bend.

Ready to explore more? Plan your Kauai adventure now!

Oahu attractions range from the lively shores of Waikiki Beach to the tranquil serenity of Byodo-In Temple, with historic Pearl Harbor and the grandeur of Diamond Head in between. Explore the world-famous North Shore for legendary surf breaks, savor local flavors at Honolulu’s bustling markets, and wander through Iolani Palace, America’s only royal residence. Relax under swaying palms at Kailua Beach, snorkel in the pristine waters of Hanauma Bay, and connect with island culture at the Polynesian Cultural Center. If you crave a balance of urban life and coastal beauty, Oahu delivers at every turn.

Ready to explore more? Plan your Oahu adventure now!

Maui attractions unfold like a storybook, from the golden sands of Ka'anapali Beach to the lush rainforests along the iconic Road to Hana. Enjoy a brilliant sunrise atop Haleakala’s towering crater, stroll through historic ʻIao Valley, and savor the flavors of fresh island produce at one of the island's fresh markets. Marvel at cascading waterfalls, like Wailua Falls, trek through bamboo forests like those found on the Pipiwai Trail at the famous ʻOheʻo Gulch, and bask along Wailea’s scenic shoreline. If you long for a blend of breathtaking landscapes and laid-back vibes, Maui promises unforgettable moments.

Ready to explore more? Plan your Maui adventure now!

Big Island attractions stretch across a mosaic of wild terrains, from the fiery landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to the peaceful black sands of Punalu‘u Beach. Catch a glimpse of Waipio Valley’s lush taro fields, discover hidden waterfalls like Akaka Falls, and sample rich Kona coffee beneath rustling palms. Stargaze atop Mauna Kea, feel the heat of Kilauea’s lava flows, and immerse yourself in the island’s cultural traditions. If you yearn for nature’s raw power and scenic variety, the Big Island awaits.

Ready to explore more? Plan your Big Island adventure now!

Frequently Asked Questions

Hawaii Attractions FAQ

1. What are the must-see attractions in Hawaii?

Hawaii is full of incredible attractions, but some must-see spots include:

• Oahu: Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, and Waikiki Beach.

• Maui: Road to Hana, Haleakala National Park, and Kaʻanapali Beach.

• Big Island: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea, and Akaka Falls.

• Kauai: Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and Hanalei Bay.

2. Which island has the most attractions?

Each Hawaiian island offers unique attractions. Oʻahu is often considered the most versatile for first-time visitors, with a mix of historical, cultural, and natural sites. However, nature enthusiasts might prefer Maui, Kauaʻi, or the Big Island for their stunning landscapes.

3. Are there any free attractions in Hawaii?

Yes! Many attractions in Hawaii are free to enjoy:

• Beaches across all islands, such as Lanikai Beach (Oʻahu) and Poʻipu Beach (Kauaʻi).

• Hiking trails like the Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail (Oʻahu) or Pipiwai Trail (Maui).

• Scenic viewpoints such Pololu Valley Overlook (Big Island) or Nu'uanu Pali Lookout (Oahu)

4. What are the best attractions for families with kids?

Hawaii is family-friendly, with plenty of activities for kids:

• Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium (Oʻahu)

• Maui Ocean Center (Maui)

• Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach (Big Island), where kids can spot sea turtles

• Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge (Kauaʻi) for birdwatching

5. What are the top cultural attractions in Hawaii?

Hawaii’s rich culture is showcased through several attractions:

• Polynesian Cultural Center (Oʻahu)

• ʻIolani Palace (Oʻahu)

• Bishop Museum (Oʻahu)

• Hawaiian Luaus available on most islands

• Puʻuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park (Big Island)

6. Can I visit all the islands during one trip?

Visiting all the islands in one trip can be challenging due to travel time and logistics. Most visitors focus on 1-2 islands, depending on their interests and length of stay. Interisland flights are available, but each island has enough attractions to fill a week-long itinerary on its own.

7. What are the best times to visit Hawaii’s attractions?

Hawaii is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit attractions are:

• Morning: For popular hikes like Diamond Head or Haleakala Summit.

• Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October): For fewer crowds and milder weather.

• Avoid peak tourist seasons (summer and Christmas/New Year) for less congestion at attractions.

8. Are fees and/or reservations required for any Hawaii attractions?

Yes, some attractions now require fees and/or reservations, including:

9. How can I find tours to Hawaii attractions?

Check out our Hawaii Tours & Activities page for curated tour recommendations. We’ve partnered with trusted operators to offer guided experiences from snorkeling to helicopter tours.

Affiliate Disclosure: We may earn commissions from some travel partners (like Amazon or Expedia) which helps us maintain this site. These links are at no extra cost to you and don't impact our honest & unbiased recommendations. Remove all the ads →