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Hawaii Activities

We’ve compiled some of our favorite activities throughout the Hawaiian Islands, ensuring our clients have the inside scoop on all that Hawaii offers.

Kauai:

Kauai is the oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain. It is often called the “Garden Island” because of its tropical rainforests, rivers and majestic waterfalls. Kauai’s laid-back atmosphere and rich culture found in its small towns also make it a truly timeless destination.

What to do:

Take a helicopter tour. Out of all the Hawaiian Islands, Kauai is the one to see by air. Because roads are only found on the island perimeter, much of Kauai can only be seen by air. The beauty of Kauai’s most remote and untouched scenery can only truly be understood by those who have seen it first-hand from the air. It is truly magical.

Visit Wailua Falls. Most of the waterfalls on Kauai are only accessible by helicopter, but Wailua Falls can be accessed by vehicle and is therefore easy to see. Travel Beyond Tip: At the Wailua Falls established viewing point there is a chain link fence. If you follow the fence line back towards the road you drove in on, you will see a small trail with rope tied to trees as a hand rail. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the trail to the bottom and you’ll be able to swim in the lagoon of the waterfall (Don’t swim under the falls!) This trail is not well known so if you don’t want a crowd joining you, secretly meander over to the trail. Wear good shoes because it can be slick.

Oahu:

As the third largest island, Oahu is home to the majority of Hawaii’s diverse population. Often called “The Gathering Place,” Oahu is a melting pot for cultures rooted in the values and traditions of the Native Hawaiian people. This contrast between the ancient and modern is what makes Oahu so enjoyable.

What to do:

Visit Haleiwa on the North Shore. An hour drive from Waikiki Beach, one of Oahu’s most tourist-heavy beaches, is the laid-back surf town of Haleiwa. Here you’ll find small boutiques, quiet restaurants (like Kua’aina, which has great burgers), and charming art galleries. Travel Beyond Tip: Make sure you have enough time to visit the famous beaches of Waimea Bay, Ehukai (Banzai Pipeline) and Sunset Beach to watch the surfers. Don’t plan on swimming, however. The surf is not safe. Before leaving, try shave ice at Matsumoto’s; it’s a local favorite.

Explore by kayak. With a half mile of soft white sand, turquoise water and gentle breezes, Kailua Beach Park is not to be missed. Kailua Beach’s proximity to several small islands makes it an ideal place for adventuring and kayaking. Travel Beyond Tip: Kayak to Mokulua Islands, commonly known as “Moks” or “Twin Islands” and visit Kalama Beach, a family-friendly beach with mild waves great for teaching kids how to surf and body board.

Molokai

Molokai is truly the Hawaii of the past. Molokai is often called the “Friendly Island” and remains largely unspoiled with untouched beaches, no stoplights and the highest population of native Hawaiians. On Molokai, Hawaiian culture and adventure thrive.

What to do:

Ride a mule to the historic town of Kalaupapa. For those looking for adventure, the 1,700 foot cliff-side decent to Kalupapa, an historic leprosy settlement, on the back of a mule may be right up your alley. This 90 minute scenic ride ends in Kalaupapa, one of the most remote destinations in Hawaii. Kalaupapa sits at the base of the highest sea cliffs in the world and is accessible only by mule, light aircraft, or on foot.

Attend the Molokai Ka Hula Piko Festival. According to Molokai legend, hula was born on the island. If you’re looking for an authentic cultural experience, in May Hula schools from all over Hawaii gather at Papohaku Beach Park and perform ancient hula rarely seen in public. This free event is open to the public and is a celebration of this uniquely Hawaiian art.

Lanai:

Lanai is the smallest inhabited island in Hawaii, but it has a lot to offer. You won’t find a single traffic light on Lanai, but you will find some of the most luxurious resorts and golf courses in Hawaii. For those looking for remote luxury and adventure, Lanai may the place to visit.

What to do:

Golf Lanai’s prestigious courses. The Experience at Koele is an 18-hole championship course designed Greg Norman and Ted Robinson featuring stunning scenery in Lanai’s 2,000-foot highlands. The Challenge at Manele, designed by Jack Nicklaus, features three holes built on the seaside cliffs above Hulopoe Bay. Both rank among the best resort courses in Hawaii.

Explore in 4-wheel drive. Lanai offers 400 miles of road to explore by 4-wheel drive. The Kanepuu Preserve is 20 minutes away from Lanai City on a dirt path. If you continue for another five minutes you’ll arrive at the lunar landscape of Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods). For the truly adventurous, continue for another 35 minutes where you’ll reach the remote white sands of Polihua Beach. Hawaii’s green sea turtles can often be spotted at Polihua Beach and Molokai is visible on clear days. Travel Beyond Tip: Make sure to ask your hotel for clear directions and don’t plan on swimming due to the rough waters. Polihua Beach is best for sun bathing, collecting sea shells and picnicking.

Maui:

As the second largest Hawaiian island, Maui is the perfect destination for those seeking a variety of activities, spacious accommodations and some of the best beaches in the world.

What to do:

Whale Watch in Lahaina. Each winter (December – May), the coast of Lahaina is one of the best locations to spot humpback whales. Travel Beyond Tip: Snorkel off the shores of Lahaina as you may actually hear whale calls from below the surface.

Drive to Hana. On the eastern coast of Maui lies the remote town of Hana, accessible on land by a stretch of highway consisting of 600 curves and 54 bridges (many of which are one lane). The drive can take up to four hours, but with breathtaking views and enjoyable places to stop for photos along the way, the road to Hana itself is well worth the drive. Travel Beyond Tip: Beyond Hana, venture 10 miles south to the outskirts of Haleakala National Park in Kipahulu. There you’ll find the Pools of Oheo, where waterfalls spill into tiered pools leading to the sea. Take a swim in these tranquil natural pools or hike up the Pipiwai Trail to the 400 foot Waimoku Falls.

Big Island:

With flowing molten magma, snow-capped peaks, green rainforests, and jet-black sands, the Big Island is a testament to the power of Mother Nature. In fact, the Big Island boasts 11 of the 13 climate zones present on Earth making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seekers.

What to do:

Swim with Manta Rays. With a wingspan of up to 20 feet, the Manta Ray is one of the largest fish in the ocean. On Hawaii’s Big Island, you can experience an up close encounter with these gentle creatures year-round by swimming with them off the west coast of the island. Travel Beyond Tip: Make the trip at night. During night tours, giant lights are set up on the ocean floor where the mantas visit, providing a one-of-a-kind, up-close experience with these mesmerizing animals.

Star Gaze from the Mauna Kea Summit. The 13,796 foot drive to the Mauna Kea Summit offers some of the best site seeing opportunities on the Big Island. From the summit, enjoy magnificent views of the Hawaiian sky through Mauna Kea’s world-class telescopes.