Essential Hawaiian Destinations: From Secret Beaches to Volcanic Wonders

Hawaii’s main islands get flooded with tourists — and as someone who’s spent the last three years island-hopping across the Pacific, I totally get why people flock to spots like Waikiki Beach and the Road to Hana. These places are beautiful, but the long lines, packed beaches, and endless tour buses can make it hard to feel that laid-back island vibe Hawaii is known for.

Lucky for us, Hawaii spreads across six main islands with countless hidden corners waiting to be explored, from quiet beaches where you might be the only footprints in the sand to lesser-known hiking trails leading to secret waterfalls. There’s so much more to discover beyond the typical tourist spots, including local communities and traditions that show the true heart of Hawaii. Here’s my list of the best places to visit in Hawaii, including both classic stops and quiet escapes that’ll make you feel like you’ve found your own piece of paradise.

Waikiki Beach, Oahu

Waikiki Beach has long been the most recognizable name in Hawaiian tourism, and for good reason. This two-mile stretch of sand on Oahu’s south shore blends the energy of a modern beach city with the laid-back spirit of old Hawaii. You’ll find surfers catching waves alongside first-timers taking lessons, families sprawled out on beach towels, and tourists mixing with locals at beachfront bars. The beach itself is sheltered by a barrier reef, creating gentle waters that are perfect for swimming and beginner surfing. While it can get crowded, especially during peak season, there’s something truly special about looking up from your beach chair to see the iconic silhouette of Diamond Head crater looming in the distance.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island

Anyone interested in witnessing the raw power of nature needs to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Located on the Big Island, this vast park lets you get up close to two active volcanoes – Kilauea and Mauna Loa – where you can see steam vents, walk through ancient lava tubes, and maybe even catch glimpses of flowing lava if you’re lucky. The park’s Crater Rim Drive takes you past the main attractions, including the Kilauea caldera and the Thurston Lava Tube.

Na Pali Coast, Kauai

The Na Pali Coast was my first taste of Kauai’s raw natural beauty back in 2018. Located along the north shore of Hawaii’s “Garden Isle,” this 17-mile stretch of coastline rises dramatically from the Pacific Ocean with green-mantled cliffs reaching heights of 4,000 feet. The rugged terrain here is home to hidden beaches, secret waterfalls, and ancient Hawaiian valleys that can only be accessed by boat or foot. The Kalalau Trail snakes along these cliffs, offering hikers close-up views of the emerald peaks and secluded coves below. While many visitors opt for boat tours or helicopter rides to take in the scenery, I found that kayaking through the sea caves and beneath towering rock faces gave me the most intimate experience of this remarkable coastline.

Haleakala National Park, Maui

Many visitors journey to Haleakala National Park for its massive dormant volcano, but this Maui gem offers much more than just volcanic views. The park spans from sea level to the 10,023-foot summit of Haleakala, creating distinct climate zones that host unique plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth. Watching the sunrise from the summit has become a bucket-list experience, where early risers gather in the pre-dawn hours to see the sky transform above a sea of clouds. Beyond the summit, the park’s extensive network of trails leads through bamboo forests and past tumbling waterfalls in the Kipahulu coastal area, while the rugged Sliding Sands Trail takes hikers into the heart of the crater itself.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Oahu

Step back in time at Pearl Harbor National Memorial, where you can explore one of America’s most significant World War II sites. The USS Arizona Memorial, floating above the sunken battleship, offers a moving tribute to the 1,177 sailors who lost their lives during the 1941 attack. You can take a boat ride to the memorial, watch informative documentaries at the visitor center, and see actual artifacts from that fateful day. For an in-depth experience, join a guided tour to hear personal stories from survivors and visit additional sites like the USS Missouri Battleship, where Japan officially surrendered to end WWII.

Mauna Kea Summit, Big Island

At 13,803 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea draws visitors to the Big Island for more than just its impressive height. While many come to witness the world’s largest astronomical observatory at the summit, this dormant volcano offers experiences that go far beyond stargazing. The mountain’s unique environment creates perfect conditions for viewing both sunrise and sunset above the clouds, and during winter months, you might even spot snow at the peak – a rare sight in Hawaii. Though the summit is accessible by four-wheel drive vehicles, many visitors opt for guided tours that include cultural insights about the mountain’s sacred significance to Native Hawaiians, along with information about the diverse geology and plant life found at different elevations.

Road to Hana, Maui

Often called one of Hawaii’s most memorable adventures, the Road to Hana winds along Maui’s northeastern coast for 64 miles through lush rainforest and past black sand beaches. The journey features over 600 curves and 50 one-lane bridges, making it less about the destination and more about the experience itself. Along the way, travelers can stop at numerous waterfalls, pull over at scenic lookouts, or take short hikes through bamboo forests. While many visitors try to complete the drive in a single day, staying overnight in the small town of Hana allows for a more relaxed exploration of the area’s hidden beaches, local food stands, and the peaceful atmosphere that makes this corner of Maui so special.

Waimea Canyon, Kauai

Here’s a spot I recommend to anyone heading to Kauai – Waimea Canyon. Often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this 14-mile-long gorge cuts through the western side of the island, showing off deep valleys and crags in shades of red and brown. The canyon walls drop down 3,000 feet, with waterfalls and hiking trails offering plenty of ways to explore this natural wonder.

North Shore, Oahu

I first visited Oahu’s North Shore back in 2015, drawn by tales of its legendary waves and laid-back surf culture. Stretching along the island’s northern coastline, this 7-mile paradise runs from Haleiwa to Waimea Bay, where pro surfers tackle massive swells during winter months. Small food trucks and surf shops dot the Kamehameha Highway, serving up fresh garlic shrimp and local plate lunches to beachgoers. The waters here transform with the seasons – winter brings those famous 30-foot waves that attract elite surfers from around the globe, while summer sees calm waters perfect for snorkeling at Shark’s Cove. The nearby historic town of Haleiwa adds to the area’s charm with its vintage surf shops and local art galleries housed in plantation-era buildings.

Molokini Crater, Maui

Looking for the best snorkeling spot in Hawaii? Head to Molokini Crater, a crescent-shaped volcanic crater off the coast of Maui. This partially submerged natural wonder sits about 3 miles from shore and serves as home to more than 250 species of tropical fish, coral reefs, and marine life like sea turtles and manta rays.

Lanikai Beach, Oahu

Looking for a slice of Hawaiian paradise? Lanikai Beach on Oahu’s windward coast feels like it was plucked straight from a postcard. This mile-long stretch of powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water sits in a peaceful residential neighborhood, away from the busy crowds of Waikiki. Two small islands, known as the Mokuluas, float offshore like giant turtle shells on the horizon, creating a perfect backdrop for kayaking adventures and photo opportunities. The calm, protected waters make it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling year-round, while the steady trade winds bring perfect conditions for windsurfing from May to October. Just remember to arrive early – this local favorite has limited parking and gets busy by mid-morning.

Papohaku Beach, Molokai

Located on Molokai’s western shore, Papohaku Beach stands as one of Hawaii’s longest white sand beaches, stretching for an impressive three miles. While most visitors flock to the more developed Hawaiian islands, this secluded paradise offers a rare glimpse into old Hawaii, where crowds are virtually non-existent and nature rules supreme. The beach’s wide shoreline provides plenty of space for long walks, beach picnics, and swimming during the calmer summer months. However, winter brings strong waves that attract experienced surfers and create a perfect backdrop for beachcombing and sunset watching. Despite its size and beauty, you might find yourself sharing this vast expanse of sand with just a handful of other visitors, making it an ideal spot for those seeking to escape the usual tourist hustle.

Diamond Head State Monument, Oahu

Rising from the southeastern shore of Oahu is Diamond Head, one of Hawaii’s most recognizable landmarks. This extinct volcanic crater got its name from 19th-century British sailors who spotted crystals on the crater’s slopes and mistook them for diamonds. These days, the moderate 1.6-mile round trip hike to the summit draws crowds looking for panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. While climbing the 560-foot elevation gain, you’ll pass through an old military bunker system and up several staircases – remnants from the crater’s days as a coastal defense site. At the top, you’ll find yourself at one of the best lookout points on the island, where on clear days you can see for miles in every direction.

Akaka Falls State Park, Big Island

Located on the Big Island’s northeastern coast, Akaka Falls State Park sits like a green jewel among Hawaii’s tropical landscapes. The park’s main attraction is the 442-foot Akaka Falls, which plunges down through a lush gorge filled with wild orchids and bamboo groves. A paved loop trail winds through the rainforest for about half a mile, offering glimpses of both Akaka Falls and the smaller 100-foot Kahuna Falls along the way. The well-maintained path takes most visitors around 30 minutes to complete, making it an ideal stop for families and casual hikers. What I love most about this park is how the morning mist creates rainbow effects in the waterfall’s spray, while the constant sound of falling water mingles with birdsong to create nature’s own symphony.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Oahu

If you’re looking for the best snorkeling spot in Hawaii, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a must-visit destination. Located on Oahu’s southeastern coast, this protected marine sanctuary sits inside an ancient volcanic crater and is home to more than 400 species of colorful fish, green sea turtles, and healthy coral reefs. First-time visitors are required to watch a short educational video before entering, which helps preserve this natural wonder for future generations.

Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Big Island

Located on the southeastern coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, Punaluu Black Sand Beach stands as one of the most unique coastal spots in the Hawaiian archipelago. I first visited this natural wonder in 2019, drawn by stories of its jet-black shoreline and gentle green sea turtles. The beach gets its distinctive color from tiny fragments of lava rock, broken down over centuries by the constant motion of the Pacific waves. Palm trees line the ebony sand, creating a natural canopy where visitors can watch Hawaiian green sea turtles basking in the sun. While swimming conditions aren’t ideal due to the rough waters and rocky bottom, the beach offers something even better – a chance to witness one of nature’s most remarkable color contrasts, where black sand meets blue ocean under swaying coconut palms.

Wailea Beach, Maui

If you’re looking for the quintessential Hawaiian beach experience, head straight to Wailea Beach in Maui. Nestled between luxury resorts and backed by swaying palm trees, this golden-sand beach offers calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. You’ll find sea turtles gliding through the crystal-clear water, while the beach’s gentle slope makes it ideal for families with small children.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Molokai

Located on the northern peninsula of Molokai, Kalaupapa National Historical Park tells a moving story from Hawaii’s past. This isolated settlement served as a quarantine colony for Hansen’s disease patients from 1866 to 1969, creating a community that shaped Hawaii’s history. The park stretches across sea cliffs and valleys, where visitors can trek down a winding trail that drops 1,700 feet to reach the former colony. The site combines natural beauty with powerful history – you’ll find peaceful beaches and green valleys alongside preserved churches and buildings that tell tales of both hardship and hope. While access is limited and requires advance permits, making the journey offers a unique glimpse into an often-overlooked chapter of Hawaiian history, where the spirit of aloha persisted even in the most challenging times.

Honolulu Zoo, Oahu

Take a walk on the wild side at the Honolulu Zoo, home to over 900 animals from tropical regions around the world. The 42-acre park lets you get up close with everything from playful chimps to majestic lions, all while enjoying Hawaii’s perfect weather. Kids love the Keiki Zoo, where they can meet friendly farm animals, and the daily elephant presentations are always a hit with visitors of all ages. For a unique experience, join one of the twilight tours to see how the animals behave as the sun sets – you might catch the big cats at their most active or hear the evening songs of exotic birds.

Hamakua Coast, Big Island

Drive along the lush northeastern coast of the Big Island when you visit the Hamakua Coast, a 40-mile stretch of tropical paradise. The historic Hawaii Belt Road takes you past towering waterfalls, deep valleys, and old sugar plantation towns that tell stories of Hawaii’s past. Stop at the Waipio Valley Lookout for views of taro fields and black sand beaches below, or pull over at Akaka Falls State Park to see the 442-foot waterfall cascade down through the rainforest. For a unique adventure, take a guided tour of one of the coast’s small farms, where you can taste fresh macadamia nuts, vanilla beans, and tropical fruits grown in the rich volcanic soil.

Lahaina Historic District, Maui

The historic town of Lahaina is a must-see spot for anyone exploring Maui. Once serving as the royal capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom, this waterfront district now offers visitors a perfect blend of history and island charm through its well-preserved buildings, art galleries, and restaurants along famous Front Street. You’ll find the massive 150-year-old Banyan Tree, the old Lahaina Courthouse, and the bustling Lahaina Harbor where you can hop aboard a whale watching tour or sunset cruise.