8 incredible things to do in Hawai’i for a trip you’ll never forget

1. Explore seas packed with wildlife

Dive into the heart of the Pacific in Hawai'i, where the ocean teems with its most spectacular inhabitants. This is where sea turtles glide, sharks prowl, and dolphins dance through the waves. Fancy swimming with manta rays? Hawai'i's waters are a live-action nature documentary. Prefer to stay dry? Set off from Lahaina Harbor for a whale-watching adventure that's anything but ordinary.

2. Find unique experiences

Hawai'i shatters the mold with one-of-a-kind experiences. In Waikiki, swap the typical boat tour for a deep dive in a submarine. Yeah, you heard right—a submarine! Plunge 100 feet deep to discover an underwater world buzzing with life. Or, switch gears and zip through the waters with the fish, adding speed to your aquatic exploration.

3. Ride some super gnarly waves

As the birthplace of surfing, Hawai'i is a mecca for riders chasing the perfect wave. For the fearless on Oahu, Waimea Bay's monstrous waves await. If you're new to the sport, the gentler swells of Waikiki Beach offer the ideal starting point. Either way, you're in for an adrenaline-pumping ride on some of the world's most iconic waves.

Not only is Hawai'i the birthplace of surfing, but it’s also an absolute paradise for swell-chasers of all skill levels. Those who want to battle big waves ⁠— and we’re talking really big ⁠— need to pack their wax and head to Waimea Bay on the north shore of Oahu. If riding 30-foot waves is a bit daunting (and who can blame you!), the more gentle swells of Waikiki Beach make for a great intro to this cooler-than-cool activity.

4. See unbelievable sunsets

Hawai'i's sunsets are a league of their own, painting the sky with colors you've got to see to believe. In Maui, sail into the sunset while indulging in a sumptuous dinner. Over in Oahu, capture the fiery spectacle with a photography tour. Every island offers a sunset so stunning, it'll redefine your golden hour.

5. Uncover amazing landscapes

Hawai'i is a hiker's dream with trails winding through landscapes so wild they'll leave you speechless. In Oahu, dare to conquer the Diamond Head Crater or the jungle-clad path to Manoa Waterfalls, where Jurassic Park's primeval backdrop comes to life. Maui's not just about beaches; hit its trails for some easy yet jaw-dropping hikes perfect for families. Craving more? Kauai’s Waimea Canyon, a riot of rugged red rock and green valleys, is an adventurer's playground that's not to be missed.

6. Enjoy some of the world's greatest beaches

Ready for a beach odyssey? Hawai'i's shores are a patchwork of every conceivable beach scene. The Na Pali Coast is your gateway to an eco-adventure on the high seas, while Punalu’u Beach's black volcanic sand is a striking contrast to the usual golden stretches. For a classic Hawaiian beach day, Waikiki Beach is the go-to, but if tranquility is your game, Lanikai Beach is where you'll find your zen.

7. Get up close and personal with active volcanoes

No trip to Hawai'i is complete without getting up close to its legendary volcanoes. Volcanoes National Park is one of the best ways to experience Hawaii, and your ticket to a world where the earth breathes fire – think black sand beaches, molten lava flows, and steaming vents. Early risers, take your adventure to new heights atop Mauna Kea, the world's tallest volcano. As the sun rises, you'll witness a spectacle that's truly out of this world.

8. Discover a host of different islands

Dive into Hawai'i's ultimate island-hopping quest, whether you want to take a day trip from Maui to Oahu to experience its energy or get lost in nature in Kauai. Kauai, the “Garden Isle,” is a lush paradise for those who revel in nature's raw beauty. On the island of Hawai'i, brace yourself for a walk on the wild side amidst its stark lava fields. Oahu pulses with city life, offering a rush of urban exploration. Over in Maui, it's a laid-back surfer's paradise where chill vibes rule. And for those seeking the road less traveled, Lanai and Molokai are your hidden sanctuaries, far from the tourist track. Each island is a distinct chapter in Hawai'i's epic adventure story, promising an adrenaline-fueled journey through diverse landscapes and cultures.