Hawaii is truly a paradise on earth. Pristine sun-kissed beaches, turquoise waters, lush green mountains, cascading waterfalls, rich tropical rainforests, seaside cliffs, and active volcanoes are what’s in store for you in Hawaii for an ultimate tropical adventure.

Hawaii is not a single destination. In fact, it is a group of islands, the most popular ones in the Hawaiian archipelago being its main 8 islands, including islands Kahoolawe and Niihau which are forbidden to tourists. The remaining six islands; Big Island, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, and Lanai, are topping the tourists’ bucket lists. You will be amazed to see how different each island is from the other and the tons of things to do on each island. I guarantee you, no matter what island you visit, you will find something to be happy about. Here’s a list of the best things to do in Hawaii’s top six islands.

Things to do in Big Island

The Big Island, being the largest of all the islands is true to its name. Also popularly known as the ‘Island of Hawaii’ and the ‘Island of Discovery’, this extraordinary island, although being the youngest, is home to 11 climate zones. You will discover a whole new world from fiery active volcanoes to black sand beaches, lush green forests, and mountains covered in snow. Here are some of the best things to do on Big Island.

1. Feel the heat at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

An hour’s drive from Hilo will take you to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It is a must-visit destination as you will not find anything like it anywhere else. It is home to the two most active volcanoes Kilauea and Mauna Loa. You will not only get to witness these volcanoes but also will get to experience lava fields, tubes, and much more. Make a visit to the Kilauea Visitor Center to get up-to-date information on any lava activity in and around the area. You can take the 11-mile Crater Rim Drive and hike to explore the surroundings. Along the drive, do not forget to take a stroll through Nahuku, also called Thurston Lava Tube, a 500-year-old lava cave. Also, make sure to take a look at Pu’uloa Petroglyphs.

2. Go snorkeling or scuba diving to see Manta Rays

If you are someone who loves to enjoy underwater creatures, this is an exciting thing to do. Snorkeling or scuba diving trips are done during the nighttime and spotlights are used to attract plankton, which Manta Rays eat. You can then sight these exciting creatures and swim with them if you are an experienced diver.

3. Appreciate nature’s beauty at Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

You will come across this beautiful garden located just North of Hilo. The 40-acre garden is home to some spectacular fauna and flora, where you will get more than 2000 species of plants to explore. Do not miss to check out the orchid garden.

4. Go waterfall hunting

If you are the adventurous type, this is something you will enjoy. At Akaka Falls State Park, you will come across a breathtaking 442-feet tall Akaka Falls and a 100-feet tall Kahuna Falls after an easy hike in less than an hour’s time through a refreshing rainforest. Also visit Wailuku River State Park to witness Rainbow Falls, a stunning 80-feet waterfall. If you get more time, see the boiling pots too.

5. Go on a seahorse farm tour

Ocean Rider is the one and only seahorse farm in the world that breeds and restores endangered seahorses. During the tour, you will get to hold a seahorse too! How cool is that?

Things to do in Maui

Maui, also known as the ‘Valley Isle’ is renowned for its incredible beaches, scenic routes, mountains, spectacular valleys, and a dormant volcano. The island is also home to some luxurious hotels and resorts which is why it is also called ‘Beverly Hills Island’. These are some of the things you can try in Maui.

1. Take the scenic Road to Hana

This is something you shouldn’t miss while holidaying in Maui. It is one of the best scenic routes in the world and you will be treated to some picturesque scenery along the way. The 64-mile drive will surely be a nerve-crunching ride as you pass unending curves and one-lane bridges.

You should definitely make a stop at Ke’anae Peninsula to view the mighty waves splashing against the black lava rock and you just cannot miss the black sand beach at Waianapanapa State Park, where you can take a stroll on the beach and enjoy the greenery around. The whole ride will take approximately 10-12 hours so make sure to plan accordingly.

2. Go whale watching

Maui is an excellent location to go whale watching. You will have a higher chance of spotting a humpback whale on the south side of Lahaina, even though the best time of viewing them is November to April as over 10,000 whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii.

3. Visit Haleakala National Park

Haleakala National Park is home to the dormant Haleakala volcano, Oheo Gulch with pools and beautiful surroundings. You can hike or do sky watching at the park.

4. Go snorkeling to explore the underwater world

Maui’s Molokini Crater is a fantastic spot for snorkeling and exploring marine life underwater. I recommend a morning tour so you have all the time in the world to enjoy snorkeling. You will also get snorkel tours to Kaanapali Beach, which are inclusive of barbecue lunches.

Things to do in Kauai

Kauai, ‘The Garden Isle’ or nicknamed ‘Island of Discovery’ is truly a spectacular island blessed with sandy beaches, canyons, mountains, and cliffs for a perfect romantic getaway with your partner. Here are some of the things to do in Kauai.

1. Visit Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon is a must-visit attraction in Kauai. Also known as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’ it is 900 m deep and 16 km long. You can take a helicopter tour, drive or even hike to enjoy the stunning views of the Canyon.

2. Tour the Napali Coast

Taking a boat tour is the ideal way to witness the soaring cliffs, coastal caves, and waterfalls along the Napali Coast. You will be treated with mesmerizing views without a doubt.

3. Observe seals at Poipu Beach

At Poipu Beach, you will get to observe Hawaiian monk seals sunbathing. You are advised to keep a 45m distance from them.

Things to do in Oahu

Oahu is everyone’s favorite. Oahu has everything from fancy, luxurious resorts and restaurants, galleries, and museums to culinary delights and spectacular nightlife. Hawaii’s capital cities Honolulu and Waikiki are the star attractions in Oahu.

1. Explore Waikiki on a 1-hour Walking Tour

Learn about the history of Waikiki with a tour guide in a one-hour Walking tour of Waikiki! You will look at Waikiki in a different prospect after!

2.Explore culture at Polynesian Cultural Center

This center presents the culture of Hawaii through song and dance. At the center, you can get a Fijian tattoo, go canoeing or simply enjoy watching fire dancers or dancers performing on floating boats.

3.Explore Pearl Harbor

If you are a lover of history, Pearl Harbor is for you. Here you will find the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri Memorial, where documents to end the war between Japan and US were signed, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and USS Bowfin Submarine Museum to explore.

4.Discover hidden places on West of Oahu

Are you one of those who want to visit the not-so-famous spots where it’s not crowded? If your answer is yes, then you will like Oahu’s West! Get in a mermaid cave, visit a bird sanctuary and be amazed by the sights and sounds that nature has to offer. If you get time, visit the Aulani Resort ( Disney Resort). On your way to the Ka’ena point, stop at the beautiful Ko Olina, and click Instagram-worthy images. After the fairly easy hike to Ka’ena Point, enjoy a good swim in the crystal clear water. If you are lucky, you can spot monk seals on this hike! You also get to visit a local rum distillery and learn about rum.

5.Go skydiving over the North Shore

If you are an adrenaline junkie, you should definitely try skydiving in Oahu. An instructor will be jumping with you so that you can take in the breathtaking views while you skydive without hassle.

6. Go on a Circle Island Tour of Oahu

If you are passionate about knowing the history of Hawaii while exploring the natural wonders of the islands, then the Small Group Circle Island Tour of Oahu can be your best pick.

Though the tour is 8 to 9 hours, it covers more than 25 famous places on Oahu. On the Circle Island Tour, get ready to be captivated by the matchless beauty of the island. Visit temples, beaches, and farms, and make the most of your day! You will have a guide who will take you on this breathtaking journey that you will never forget.

Things to do in Molokai

Molokai being a less developed island is home to some unspoiled works of nature. This is where you will get a feel of what traditional Hawaii was like. Here are some of the top attractions in Molokai.

1. Hike the Halawa Valley

A guided hiking tour to Halawa Valley is an excellent way to discover the culture of Hawaii. You will come across the magnificent Moaula Falls and some breathtaking landscapes on the way.

2. Stroll along the Papohaku Beach Park

Located on the West shores of Molokai, Papohaku Beach Park is perfect for a relaxed evening stroll. Also known as the ‘Three-mile Beach’, it is one of the largest untouched white sandy beaches in Hawaii.

Things to do in Lanai

Lanai, the smallest island on the Hawaiian archipelago is just perfect for a romantic getaway. Even though it is the least visited island, here are some of the things you can try in Lanai.

1. Go swimming in Hulopoe Bay

The crystal-clear waters of Hulopoe Bay invite you to swim and snorkel to explore the wonderful and colorful marine life underneath.

2. Explore rock formations at Puu Pehe

Puu Pehe, also known as the ‘Sweetheart Rock’ located on the south shore of Lanai is an iconic landmark that should be explored. It was named Sweetheart Rock after Makakehau, a Lanai warrior who jumped from the cliffs to his death finding his lover Puupehe dead by drowning in the storm waves. You can take the Puu Pehe trail to reach the top of the rock and you will be treated to a bird’s eye view of the turquoise waters. If you get a chance, do not miss to watch the sunrise from the top!

3. Make a visit to Keahiakawelo

This is yet another attraction in Lanai that is worth visiting. Keahiakawelo, ‘The Fire of Kawelo’ or ‘Garden of the Gods’ is a rock garden with rocks scattered around believed to be formed by volcanic eruptions. A 45-minute drive from the city will take you to this fascinating destination. Make sure to take a lot of photos before leaving the place.

You will be taken on a different kind of adventure no matter which island you visit in Hawaii. There will be something for everyone in Hawaii and you will surely have a memorable visit. Aloha!