Hawaii is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Every year, millions of people visit the island chain to enjoy its stunning beaches, lush tropical forests, and active volcanoes. While there are many amazing places to see in Hawaii, some spots are simply more popular than others. Here are ten of the most popular tourist attractions in Hawaii.
Waikiki Beach
Arguably the most famous beach in Hawaii, Waikiki Beach is located on the island of Oahu. This world-renowned stretch of sand is lined with high-rise hotels and resorts, as well as a plethora of shops, restaurants, and bars. Visitors to Waikiki can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and much more. Because of its close proximity to Honolulu, Waikiki Beach is also a popular spot for people watching. From locals to celebrities, you never know who you might see strolling along the beach. So whether you’re looking to relax or people watch, Waikiki Beach is the perfect place to soak up the Hawaiian sun.
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Diamond Head State Monument
Diamond Head is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Hawaii. This volcanic crater is located on the island of Oahu and is a popular hiking destination. Visitors can hike to the top of Diamond Head for stunning views of Waikiki Beach and the surrounding area. The hike to the top is not too difficult, and it is definitely worth it for the views. Just be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as there is no shade on the trail. Diamond Head is also a great place to watch the sunset. After a long day of hiking, you can relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning views of Diamond Head lit up against the night sky.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Hanauma Bay is one of the most popular snorkeling destinations in Hawaii. The bay is located on the southeastern coast of Oahu and is surrounded by cliffs. Visitors can see a variety of fish, turtles, and other sea creatures while snorkeling in the calm waters of the bay. Hanauma Bay is also a great place to relax on the beach and take in the stunning views. The name “Hanauma Bay” comes from two Hawaiian words – “hana” means “bay” and “uma” means “curved.” This name is very fitting because of the bay’s curved shape. If you’re ever in Hawaii, be sure to check out this magical place!
Kilauea Volcano
Kilauea is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and is located on the island of Hawaii. The volcano is rises to about 4,090 feet (1,250 meters) above sea level, and has been erupting continuously since 1983. Visitors can view the volcano from a number of different vantage points, including hiking trails, helicopter tours, and boat tours. Kilauea is an active volcano, which means that it is constantly spewing lava and ash into the air. The lava flows can reach temperatures of up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The volcanic activity at Kilauea is also responsible for creating a number of other features on the island, including lava tubes and lava fields.
Haleakala National Park
Haleakala National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Hawaiian island of Maui. The park is home to the Haleakala Volcano, which is dormant, as well as the endangered Hawaiian geese. Visitors can drive to the top of Haleakala for stunning views of the crater and the surrounding area. The park also offers a variety of hiking trails and camping opportunities. The Leleiwi and Kalahaku overlooks on the steep Crater Road offer views across the West Maui Mountains, while the rugged trails in the Summit District pass cinder cones and lava flows. In the coastal area of Kipahulu are the Pools of Ohe’o, freshwater pools and waterfalls set amid bamboo forest. No matter what your interests are, Haleakala National Park has something to offer everyone.
Na Pali Coast State Park
The Na Pali Coast is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. The coast is home to a number of cliffs, waterfalls, and beaches. Visitors can take a boat tour or hike along the Kalalau Trail to see the stunning views of the coastline. The Na Pali Coast State Park were made famous in the film Jurassic Park, which shows a dramatic coastline with cliffs that seem to ripple on Mount Waialeale, named for the way in which hundreds of waterfalls weep from the slopes of the mountain. The Na Pali Coast is also a popular destination for kayaking, as there are a number of kayak tours that take visitors through the stunning scenery.
Molokini Crater
Molokini is a crescent-shaped volcanic crater located off the coast of Maui. This popular snorkeling and diving destination is home to a variety of tropical fish, coral reef and bird life. Molokini is a great place to see Hawaii’s underwater world up close. The reefs are teeming with colorful fish and the water is crystal clear. You can also find turtles, rays and other marine life swimming around the crater. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a whale or two! Molokini is also a birder’s paradise. The cliffs of the crater are home to a variety of Hawaiian birds, including the endangered Hawaiian hawk. So whether you’re looking to explore Hawaii’s underwater world or just want to relax on the beach, Molokini is the perfect destination for you.
Pearl Harbor Historic Sites
The Pearl Harbor Historic Sites are a group of sites related to the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. These sites include the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri Battleship Museum, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Each site offers a unique perspective on the attack and its aftermath. The USS Arizona Memorial is perhaps the most well-known of the sites. It sits atop the sunken hull of the USS Arizona, and features a memorial wall with the names of all those who lost their lives in the attack. The USS Missouri Battleship Museum tells the story of the ship that served as the site of Japan’s formal surrender at the end of World War II. And finally, the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum offers visitors a chance to see restored planes and learn about the history of military aviation in Hawaii. Whether you’re interested in history or simply want to pay tribute to those who lost their lives, a visit to the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites is sure to be a memorable experience.
Waimea Canyon State Park
Waimea Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island of Kauai. The canyon is over 10 miles long and 3,000 feet deep, and it provides visitors with stunning views of the surrounding area. There are a variety of hiking trails available, ranging from easy to strenuous, so there’s something for everyone. In addition to the amazing views, the park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including Kauai’s state bird, the nene goose. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience while on Kauai, be sure to add Waimea Canyon to your itinerary.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hawaii. The park is home to two of the most active volcanoes in the world, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can view these volcanoes from a number of different vantage points, including hiking trails, helicopter tours, and boat tours. The park also offers a variety of educational opportunities. There are ranger-led programs, exhibits, and films that provide visitors with information about the history and geology of the area. The park is also home to a variety of plant and animal life, including many rare and endangered species.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just want to relax on the beach, Hawaii has something for everyone. The 10 destinations listed above are just a few of the many reasons why Hawaii is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Hawaiian vacation today!