Hawaii is a mountainous tropical paradise that has become a dream vacation destination for many, welcoming millions of visitors annually. The Aloha State is the perfect candidate if you appreciate white sandy shores and a lush tropical backdrop.
The best part is that Hawaii allows you to live in a tropical paradise without leaving the US and moving to a socially, economically, and culturally different country.
If you want more convincing, this guide to the best activities and attractions will get you packing and flying across the Pacific.
1. Visit Na Pali Coast
Kauai, also known as the Garden Island, is one of Hawaii’s most scenic islands. It has rugged terrain marked by towering cliffs and green valleys. North of this mountainous shoreline is the 17-mile Na Pali Coast.
The beautiful beaches at the base of the cliffs make for a unique and dramatic scenery.
Visitors usually access the coast by sea or air as they are the safest and easiest ways and feature spectacular views of the island.
Besides relaxing on the beach at Na Pali Coast, you can go on exploration cruises and kayaking tours to find hidden gems like caves and remote beaches.
2. Experience Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is a popular tourist destination receiving visitors from around the world, and it’s easy to see why. The high-rise hotels dotted with palm trees and a two-mile white sand beach are quite breathtaking.
The beach is located on the Honolulu shores and has become a favorite for water activities like swimming, surfing, and boating.
At any time of the day, Waikiki Beach is lively and beautiful. But wait for sunset to appreciate how picturesque it gets. You’ll also find the evening calm, perfect for kayak tours on the Pacific.
3. Check Out Aloha Tower
The tower used to be a lighthouse and the tallest building on the island. Today, Aloha Tower is a historic landmark offering a glimpse into the past. If you’re a history buff, this is a site to visit.
Since the tower sits perfectly on Honolulu Harbor, it offers impressive views of the harbor and the Pacific Ocean. Climb up the observation deck and take photographs.
When you’re done, stroll around Aloha Tower Marketplace and check out other historic landmarks in the vicinity, like the Hawaiʻi Maritime Center.
4. Drive to Hana
The towns of Kahului and Hana are connected by a scenic 64-mile road known as The Road to Hana. It’s a coastal road winding its way along rugged ridges that make the drive challenging but highly rewarding.
If you’re a fan of road trips, you’ll love the drive through the tropical setting. It offers breathtaking scenery and unparalleled highlights along the way, like the Twin Falls waterfall and the Wai’anapanapa State Park, known for its black sand beach.
For a more immersive experience, join guided tours featuring multiple stops at scenic attractions en route.
5. Surf at the North Shore
A trip to Oahu’s famous North Shore can be all the reason you need to consider settling in Hawaii. If natural beauty is your weakness, you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning beaches, mountainous shoreline, and tiny laidback surf towns.
The North Shore is about 30 miles from downtown Honolulu. It is considered a dream destination for beach lovers and surfers, with seven miles of magnificent beaches to explore.
If you’re a surfer, you’ll likely fall in love with North Shore’s surfing spots. It’s one the most recognized places for surfing, attracting top surfers worldwide.
It would be a memorable experience if you could surf one of North Shore’s giant waves. That is if you’re a skilled surfer. Otherwise, take photos of professionals riding the monster waves.
6. Explore Waimea Canyon State Park
The colorful park was named the Grand Canyon of the Pacific for a reason. Imagine the Grand Canyon draped in green.
Drive up the winding road to scenic lookouts.
Alternatively, immerse yourself in nature even more by hiking to the park’s excellent vistas with epic views of the steep ridges and the greenery.
Waimea Canyon is a great place to get away from everything and relax. But, while Hawaii offers many scenic nature retreats, it restricts what you can do in these areas.
For instance, Hawaii is strict when it comes to weed, only allowing marijuana for medicinal use, and that too requires evaluation by a marijuana doctor.
Final Thoughts
Hawaii is a center of cultural values and spectacular natural attractions. It’s an outdoor paradise but also a land of unique cultures that strive to preserve the island’s identity. If these things mean a lot to you, the Aloha State would be a wonderful place to live.
