414 Best Sights in Hawaii, USA

An all-in-one, surf-themed recreation complex at Hoakalei Resort (a master-planned community) on the Ewa Beach waterfront, the LineUp celebrates Hawaii’s connection with water, surf, and cultural traditions. It centers around the Wai Kai Wave, a 100-foot wave pool that emulates river surfing, and there's also a 52-acre lagoon for paddling or floating. Wai Kai doesn’t have a hotel yet, but it serves as a popular community hub, with three restaurants and numerous programs and activities, such as farmers markets, surfing classes, and performances. It’s just a 10-minute drive from Kapolei and worth the drive to check out the complex. You can ride a shuttle to Wai Kai from West Oahu (Ko Olina, $35 round-trip) or Waikiki (from various resorts, $35 round-trip).

Built in 1839 by missionary couple Sarah and David Lyman from New England, the beautifully restored Lyman Mission House is the Island's oldest wood-frame building. On display are household utensils, artifacts, tools, and furniture used by the family, giving visitors a peek into the day-to-day lives of Hawaii's first missionaries. The Lymans hosted such literary dignitaries as Isabella Bird and Mark Twain here. The home is on the State and National Registers of Historic Places, and docent-guided tours are offered. An adjacent museum has wonderful exhibits on volcanoes, island formation, island habitats and wildlife, marine shells, and minerals and gemstones; it also showcases Native Hawaiian culture and the culture of immigrant ethnic groups. On permanent exhibit is a full-size replica of a traditional 1930s Korean home. The gift shop sells superb Hawaiian-made items.

This trail has breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, and the windward Islands. The point of land jutting out in the distance is Mokapuu Peninsula, site of a U.S. Marine base. The spired mountain peak is Mt. Olomana. On the long pier is part of the Makai Undersea Test Range, a research facility that's closed to the public. Offshore is Manana Island (Rabbit Island), a picturesque cay said to resemble a swimming bunny with its ears pulled back. Ironically enough, Manana Island was once overrun with rabbits, thanks to a rancher who let a few hares run wild on the land. They were eradicated in 1994 by biologists who grew concerned that the rabbits were destroying the island's native plants.

Nestled in the cliff face is the Makapuu Lighthouse, which became operational in 1909 and has the largest lighthouse lens in the United States. The lighthouse is closed to the public, but near the Makapuu Point turnout is the start of a paved mile-long road (it's closed to vehicular traffic). Hike to the top of the 647-foot bluff to get a closer view of the lighthouse and, in winter, to do some whale-watching.  Park in the free parking lot for the trail (it's busiest on the weekends), but don't attempt to continue driving to the gates for the military base since civilian vehicles are not allowed.

You'll get a full introduction to the sea life that makes Hawaii special at this aquarium, which focuses on creatures of the Pacific. One highlight is the acrylic tunnel that runs through the 750,000-gallon Open Ocean tank, providing an up-close, underwater look at more than 50 marine species, including sharks and stingrays. Shallow Reef and Living Reef exhibits enlighten you on the coral ecosystem, and a whale exhibit has interactive learning stations and a dome theater that uses 3D technology to give you a mesmerizing humpback-whale's-eye-view. Cultural exhibits focus on the First Hawaiians and their relationships with the sea and on the history of Kahoolawe, a neighboring island that can be seen just across the Alalakeiki Channel. 

Although it's not an enormous facility, you should allow two hours or so to explore it all. The center is part of a complex of retail shops and restaurants overlooking the harbor. Enter from Honoapiilani Highway as it curves past Maalaea Harbor.  The aquarium's gift shop is one of the best on Maui for artsy souvenirs and toys.

Naturally, the top seller at this winery, located on what was once Rose Ranch and is now Ulupalakua Ranch, is the pineapple wine Maui Blanc. Reservations are encouraged for the regular tastings that take place Tuesday through Sunday in the King's Cottage, which was built in the late 1800s for frequent appearances by King Kalakaua. Reservations are required for the more intimate Under the Camphor Tree experience, which is held at select times on Thursday and Friday and which pairs wine with insight on area history—from visits by monarchs to sugar plantations to cattle ranching.

The Mauna Ulu lava flow presents an incredible variety of geological attractions within a moderate, 2½-mile round-trip hike. The diverse lava landscape was created during the 1969–74 Mauna Ulu flow, which produced enormous "lava falls" the size of Niagara Falls. Visitors can see everything from lava tree molds and fissure vents to cinder cones and portions of the old highway still exposed under the flow. Hawaiian nene geese roam the area, feeding on ripe ohelo berries. Hike to the top of a small hill that survived the flow for incredible views of the distant geological landmarks. On clear days, you can see Mauna Loa, Maunakea, and the Pacific Ocean from atop this hill, known as Puu Huluhulu.  Purchase the Mauna Ulu trail booklet at the Kilauea Visitor Center for under $3. This excellent resource includes trailside attractions, trail maps, history, and photographs. Moderate.

Tucked away in Lawai Valley, this collection of gardens includes lands and a cottage once used by Hawaii's Queen Emma (1836–85) for a summer retreat. Trams depart frequently to transport people from the visitor center to the gardens. The rambling 252-acre McBryde Garden has exhibits and easy trails to help visitors learn about biodiversity and plants collected throughout the tropics, including a Canoe Garden that features plants introduced to Hawaii by early Polynesian voyagers.  The biodiversity path in McBryde is accessible for people with mobility issues. The 100-acre Allerton Garden, which can be visited only on a guided tour, artfully displays statues and water features originally developed as part of a private estate. A famous scene in Jurassic Park was filmed here.

Reservations and closed-toe shoes are required for all tours. The visitor center has a high-quality gift shop and grab-and-go refreshments. Besides propagating rare and endangered plants from Hawaii and elsewhere, NTBG functions as a scientific research and education center. The organization also operates gardens in Limahuli, on Kauai's North Shore; in Hana, on Maui's East Shore; and in Florida.

This panoramic perch looks out to expansive views of Windward Oahu—from Kaneohe Bay to a small island off the coast called Mokolii ("little lizard," also known as Chinaman's Hat). It was in this region that King Kamehameha I drove defending forces over the edges of the 1,200-foot-high cliffs, thus winning the decisive battle for control of the island in 1795. Temperatures at the summit are several degrees cooler than in warm Waikiki, so bring a jacket along. Hang on tight to any loose possessions, and consider wearing pants; it gets extremely windy at the lookout, which is part of the fun. After arriving in the pay-to-park lot, remove valuables from your car and lock it. Break-ins have occurred here; this wayside is in the most trafficked state park in Hawaii.

Koloa’s first sugar plantation opened in 1835, ushering in an era of sugar production throughout the Islands, with more than 100 plantations established by 1885. Many of the workers came from the Philippines, Japan, China, Korea, and Portugal, creating Hawaii’s multiethnic mélange. Today, many of Koloa’s historic buildings, beneath the shade of stately old monkeypod trees, have been converted into fun shops, galleries, and places to eat. Even the newer developments mimic quaint plantation-camp architecture. You’ll just want to stroll and take it all in. Indulge in a sweet treat like a shave ice, freshly roasted gourmet nuts, or a healthy smoothie after a food-truck lunch taken to nearby Knudsen Park. Be sure to approach Old Koloa Town via the Tree Tunnel, a romantic canopy of eucalyptus trees planted more than a century ago along a stretch of Maluhia Road.

At 9,200 feet, this excellent amateur observation site is a great way to get a sense of the mountain and the observatory work without going all the way to the summit. It's open daily from 9 am to 9 pm and offers free monthly stargazing events (which require preregistration and are weather dependent). The center is also a good place to stop to acclimatize yourself to the altitude if you're heading for the summit. Peruse the gift shop and exhibits about ancient Hawaiian celestial navigation, the mountain's significance as a quarry for the best basalt in the Hawaiian Islands, and Maunakea as a revered spiritual destination. You'll also learn about modern astronomy and ongoing projects at the summit. Nights are clear 90% of the year, so the chances are good for seeing some amazing sights in the sky. Surprisingly, stargazing here is actually better than at the summit itself because of reduced oxygen there. The parking lot can get crowded.

About a mile from Alii Kula Lavender are 8 acres of organic salad greens, herbs, vegetables, coffee, cocoa, fruits, and berries—and the public is welcome to enjoy the bounty. Oo Farm is owned and operated by the restaurateurs responsible for one of Maui's finest dining establishments, PacificO, and more than 300 pounds of produce end up on diners' plates every week. Reserve a space for the breakfast or lunch tours that include an informational walk around the pastoral grounds and an alfresco meal prepared by an on-site chef. Cap off the experience with house-grown roasted and brewed coffee. Reservations are required.

One of the island's few formal recreation areas, this 233-acre retreat sits at a 1,000-foot elevation. A short path through an ironwood forest leads to Kalaupapa Lookout, a magnificent overlook with views of the town of Kalaupapa, a national historical park, and the 1,664-foot-high sea cliffs protecting it. Informative plaques have facts about leprosy, Saint Damien, and the colony. The park is also the site of Kaule O Nanahoa (Phallus of Nanahoa), where women in old Hawaii would come to the rock to enhance their fertility; it is said some still do. Because the rock is a sacred site, be respectful and don't deface the boulders. The park is well maintained, with trails, camping facilities, restrooms, and picnic tables.

One of the most sensational beaches in Hawaii, Papohaku is a 3-mile-long strip of white sand—so much so that Honolulu once purchased bargeloads of it to replenish the sand at Waikiki Beach. A shady beach park just inland is the site of the Ka Hula Piko Festival, held each year in May. The park is also a great sunset-facing spot that's perfect for a rustic afternoon barbecue. A park ranger patrols the area periodically.  Swimming is not recommended, except on exceptionally calm summer days, as there's a dangerous undertow. Amenities: showers; toilets. Best for: sunset; walking.

Exceeding 130,000 acres and regularly running tens of thousands of head of cattle, Parker Ranch is an impressive and compelling backdrop for the scenic town of Waimea. It was established in 1847 by a sailor from Massachusetts, John Palmer Parker, who was permitted by the Hawaiian ruler King Kamehameha I to cull vast herds of out-of-control cattle; thus, the ranch was born. It later grew into the empire it is today, and the foundation started by Parker's descendants supports community health care, the arts, and education, as well as a commitment to sustainability. In addition to taking self-guided tours of two of the ranch's historic homes—Hale Mana and Puuopelu—you can also visit Parker Ranch Center, the town's largest shopping and restaurant complex. The Round Up club, founded by Parker Ranch employees, holds rodeos year round.

Pearl Harbor is still a working military base as well as Oahu’s most visited attraction, consisting of five distinct destinations. Managed by the National Park Service, the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and USS Arizona Memorial make up the national memorial, where exhibits tell the story not only of the devastating Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, but also of the wartime internment of Japanese Americans, World War II battles in the Aleutian Islands, and the occupation of Japan after the war. The history continues at three privately operated sights: the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum (whose centerpiece is the USS Bowfin), the Battleship Missouri Memorial, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

A valid government-issued photo ID is required to enter the base. You can walk to the visitor center or the submarine museum from the parking lot, but access to the USS Arizona requires a ferry ride (and ticket reservations via  www.recreation.gov), and access to other sites, including the USS Missouri and the aviation museum, requires a shuttle bus trip. Advance reservations are required to access USS Arizona Memorial. There are no same-day tickets except rare standby spots.

No bags of any kind except clear stadium ones—not even small purses—are allowed at any of the sights, though cameras, cell phones, and wallets can be hand-carried. A bag check is available. Children under four can visit the submarine museum, but for safety reasons, they are not allowed on the USS Bowfin itself.

This popular 4-mile trek offers two spectacular waterfalls: the first, Makahiku Falls, appears about 0.5 miles in, and the trail culminates at the majestic 400-foot Waimoku Falls, where water cascades down in full force. From the parking lot, follow signs across the road and uphill into the lush forest. The trail hugs a dramatic gorge before leading you onto a boardwalk that winds through the enchanting bamboo forest—a hiking highlight. Expect to encounter muddy and rocky terrain, and plan for around three hours to enjoy the experience fully. Though this trail rarely feels overcrowded, starting your hike early in the morning is ideal to beat the tour groups. Remember to bring mosquito repellent to keep the bugs at bay. Moderate.

Storyboards near this ancient heiau (sacred site) recount the significance of the many sacred structures found along the Wailua River. It's unknown exactly how the ancient Hawaiians used Poliahu Heiau—one of the largest pre-Christian temples on the island—but legend says it was created by the Menehune, the legendary race of little people who were quick builders, because of the unusual stonework found in its walled enclosures. From this site, drive downhill toward the ocean to pohaku hoohanau, a two-piece birthing stone said to confer special blessings on all children born there, and pohaku piko, whose crevices were a repository for umbilical cords left by parents seeking a clue to their child's destiny, which reportedly was foretold by how the cord fared in the rock. Some Hawaiians feel these sacred stones shouldn't be viewed as tourist attractions, so always treat them with respect. Never stand or sit on the rocks or leave any offerings.

Surrounded by shade trees, Pupukea Beach is pounded by surf in the winter months but offers great diving and snorkeling in summer (March through October). Its cavernous lava tubes and tunnels are great for both novice and experienced snorkelers and divers, though you must wear reef shoes at all times since there are a lot of sharp rocks. Sharp rocks also mean that this beach isn't the best for little ones. Some dive-tour companies offer round-trip transportation from Waikiki. Equipment rentals and dining options are nearby. Amenities: parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: diving; snorkeling; swimming.

Built in 1877, this fully restored, three-room sugar mill is a testament to Molokai's agricultural history that's next to the Molokai Museum and is usually included in museum tours. Several interesting machines from the past are on display, including a mule-driven cane crusher and a steam engine. The museum contains changing exhibits on Molokai's early history. A current highlight is an incredible photography exhibit that showcases the people of and life in Kalaupapa; viewing the exhibit and speaking with docents is a great way to learn more about the community if the Kalaupapa National HIstorical Park is closed during your visit. In addition, the museum gift shop sells unique, locally made items.

In 1936, heiress Doris Duke bought 5 acres at Black Point, down the coast from Waikiki, and began to build and furnish the first home that would be all her own. She called it Shangri La. For more than 50 years, the home was a work in progress as Duke traveled the world, buying art and furnishings, picking up ideas for her Mughal Garden, for the Playhouse in the style of a 17th-century Irani pavilion, and for the water terraces and tropical gardens. When she died in 1993, Duke left instructions that her home was to become a public center for the study of Islamic art.

Outside of minor conservation-oriented changes and 2017 renovations to the courtyard and pool, the house and gardens have remained much as Duke left them. To walk through them is to experience the personal style of someone who saw everything as raw material for her art. With her trusted houseman, Jin de Silva, she helped build the elaborate Turkish Room, trimming tiles and painting panels to retrofit the existing space (including raising the ceiling and lowering the floor) and building a fountain of her own design.

Among many aspects of the home inspired by the Muslim tradition is the entry: an anonymous gate, a blank white wall, and a wooden door that bids you, "Enter herein in peace and security" in Arabic script. Inside, tiles glow, fountains tinkle, and shafts of light illuminate artwork through arches and high windows. In 2014, after years of renovation, Duke's bedroom (the Mughal Suite) opened to the public. This was her private world, entered only by trusted friends. The house is open only via the guided tours that depart from downtown's Honolulu Museum of Art. Tours take about 2½ hours including transit time, and reservations are required. Book your spot as early as possible, and note that children under eight are not permitted.

When conditions are right, a natural blowhole in the rocky shoreline behaves like Old Faithful, shooting salt water high into the air and making a hollow echoing sound. It's most dramatic during big summer swells, which jam large quantities of water through the ancient lava tube with great force. Most sidewalk vendors hawk inexpensive souvenirs, but a few carry locally set South Sea pearls or rare Niihau-shell creations, with prices ranging from affordable to several thousand dollars. Look for green sea turtles bobbing in the adjacent cove.

The beach is broad, the sand is soft, the summer waves are gentle—making for good snorkeling—and the winter surf is crashing. Many love searching this shore for the puka shells that adorn the necklaces you see everywhere. Amenities: lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: snorkeling; sunset; surfing.

Most of Maui's produce is grown Upcountry, which is why everything is fresh at this outdoor market located next to Long's in the Kulamalu Town Center. Every Saturday from 7 to 11 am, vendors offer fruits, vegetables, flowers, jellies, bread, plus unique finds like venison, kimchi, and fresh-caught fish. Prepared food offerings reflect the island's cultural melting pot, and there's an excellent selection of vegan and raw food. Go early, as nearly everything sells out.

Lined up tight in a row of seven battleships off Ford Island, the USS Arizona took a direct hit on December 7, 1941, exploded, and rests still on the shallow bottom where she settled. You must reserve tickets ( www.recreation.gov) ahead of time to ensure access to the memorial; same-day tickets are no longer offered. As spaces are limited and tend to fill up, reserve as far ahead as possible; you can do so up to two months in advance. When your tour starts, you watch a short documentary film, then board the ferry to the memorial.

The swooping, stark-white structure, which straddles the wreck of the USS Arizona, was designed by Honolulu architect Alfred Preis to represent both the depths of the low-spirited, early days of the war and the uplift of victory. A somber, contemplative mood descends upon visitors during the ferry ride; this is a place where 1,177 people died. Gaze at the names of the dead carved into the wall of white marble. Look at oil on the water's surface, still slowly escaping from the sunken ship. Scatter flowers (but no lei—the string is bad for the fish). Salute the flag. Remember Pearl Harbor.

Not all volcanic soils are ideal for the cultivation of grapes, but this winery grows its own grapes and produces some interesting vintages. The Macadamia Nut Honey Wine is a nutty, very sweet after-dinner drink. The Infusion Tea Wine pairs estate-grown black tea with South Kona's fermented macadamia nut honey for a smooth concoction perfect for brunch through early evening. Though this isn't Napa Valley, the vintners take their wine seriously, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Wine tasting and flights are available; you can also enjoy wine and cheese inside or in a shaded picnic area. A gift store carries a selection of local crafts.

A 1½-mile-long paved beach walk allows you to stroll among Wailea's prettiest properties, restaurants, and rocky coves. The trail, teeming with joggers in the morning and late afternoon, is landscaped with rare native plants like the silvery hinahina, named after the Hawaiian moon goddess. In winter, keep an eye out for whales. The trail is accessible from Polo Beach as well as from the many Wailea beachfront resorts. Bring your wallet for a treat like banana bread or iced coffee at the resorts' casual eateries along the path.

Kauai has plenty of noteworthy waterfalls, but this one is especially gorgeous, easy to find, and easy to photograph from the road. You may recognize the impressive cascade from the opening sequences of the Fantasy Island television series. To reach it, drive north from Lihue following Maalo Road in Hanamaulu, then travel uphill for 3 miles.  Do not hike down to the base of the falls to access the water.

Once you've made it past Hana town, you're rewarded with views of what many consider to be the most beautiful and most photographed waterfall in Maui. The best part is that you don't even have to get off of the highway to see the stunning 80-foot falls that end in a gorgeous pool. Look for the occasional local vendors in the parking area.

One of the most beautiful beaches on Oahu, Waimanalo is a local pick, busy with picnicking families and active sports fields. Expect a wide stretch of sand; turquoise, emerald, and deep-blue water; and gentle shore-breaking waves that are fun for all ages. Theft is an occasional problem, so lock your car. Amenities: lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: sunrise; swimming; walking.

Carved over countless centuries by the Waimea River and the forces of wind and rain, Waimea Canyon is a dramatic gorge nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific"—but not by Mark Twain, as many people mistakenly think. Hiking and hunting trails wind through the canyon, which is more than 3,600 feet deep, 1 mile wide, and about 14 miles long. The cliff sides have been sharply eroded, exposing swatches of colorful soil. The deep red, brown, and green hues are constantly changing in the sun, and frequent rainbows and waterfalls enhance the natural beauty. This is one of Kauai's prettiest spots, and it's worth stopping at both the Puu ka Pele and Puu Hinahina lookouts within the state park.

Public restrooms and parking are at most proper lookouts, and the main one has ramps for strollers and wheelchairs. If you stop at small pullouts, park completely off the highway and look for cyclists before opening car doors.