Hawaii’s Must-See Spots According to 82,151 Travelers

As someone who’s called Oahu home for over three decades and explored every corner of these islands – from hidden waterfalls on Kauaʻi to lava fields on the Big Island – I know Hawaii’s magic isn’t just in its postcard views. It’s in the way the trade winds carry the scent of plumeria, the rhythm of ukulele strings at sunset, and the aloha that locals pour into every “howzit?” greeting.

Recently, I asked my 82,151 Facebook fans to name the one place in Hawaii everyone should visit. Here’s what they chose, ranked by popularity-plus my insider tips to experience these spots like a true kamaʻāina (local).

Pearl Harbor: Where History Echoes Across the Pacific

Standing on the USS Arizona Memorial, you’ll feel the weight of history in the silence. Oil still seeps from the sunken battleship-a haunting “black tear” for the 1,177 crew members lost on December 7, 1941. The site isn’t just a museum; it’s a living classroom.

Why it’s iconic:

• The USS Arizona Memorial sits above the actual sunken battleship
• You can view all four historical sites in one day (USS Arizona, Battleship Missouri, USS Bowfin Submarine, and Aviation Museum)
• The USS Missouri, where World War II officially ended with Japan’s surrender, offers guided tours

I’ll never forget the day I met a Pearl Harbor survivor here. His hands trembled as he pointed to the Arizona’s rusted hull. “We thought the smoke was a drill,” he said. “Then the bombs fell.” Stories like his turn dates on a plaque into something visceral.

Pro tip: Arrive by 7:00 AM to beat the crowds. The early morning light reflecting off the harbor creates a sense of reverence that disappears once tour buses arrive. Although the Arizona Memorial is free, tickets are limited and often gone by 9:00 AM.

Location: 1 Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu, HI 96818
Website: www.nps.gov/perl

Iolani Palace: America’s Only Royal Residence

Most visitors miss this downtown Honolulu gem, but it’s a crime to skip it. Built in 1882, ʻIolani Palace had electricity before the White House. Walking through its koa wood halls, you’ll see Queen Liliʻuokalani’s quilt-stitched during her imprisonment after the monarchy’s overthrow.

What makes it special:

• The only official royal palace on U.S. soil
• Original furnishings and artifacts from Hawaii’s monarchy period
• The Grand Hall’s staircase features intricate crown motifs symbolizing sovereignty

Local phrase: “E mālama ʻia ka moʻomeheu” (“Preserve the culture”)-a mantra for this sacred site.

When you stand in the throne room where Queen Liliʻuokalani was tried by American businessmen who overthrew her government, you’ll feel Hawaii’s complex history come alive. The guided tours are worth every penny-they reveal hidden symbols throughout the palace that tell stories of resistance and hope.

Location: 364 King Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Website: www.iolanipalace.org

North Shore Oahu: More Than Just Giant Waves

The drive from Honolulu to the North Shore is a sensory feast: rainbow shave ice stands, the tang of soy-glazed shrimp from roadside trucks, and the roar of winter waves at Pipeline. But summer transforms these beaches into calm snorkeling havens.

Can’t-miss spots:

• Sharks Cove: Tide pools teeming with neon fish (avoid in winter when surf is rough)
• Laniakea Beach: Green sea turtles basking at sunset
• Haleiwa Town: The North Shore’s heart with surf shops and local art

Last July, I watched a local teen teach tourists how to crack open a coconut here. “Use the rock, aunty-like this!” he grinned. That’s the North Shore: unfiltered aloha served alongside natural beauty.

Pro tip: Take the scenic route through Kailua and Kāneʻohe at least once-it’s twice as long but delivers coastal views that will make you pull over every few miles for photos.

Getting there: About an hour’s drive from Waikiki, either via H2 freeway (fastest) or the windward coastal route (most scenic)
Website: www.haleiwatown.com

Waikiki Beach: Where City Meets Surf

Yes, it’s crowded. Yes, it’s touristy. But Waikiki’s golden sand and Diamond Head backdrop are irresistible. For a unique twist:

• Walk to the far end near the Honolulu Zoo-the locals call this “Queens” and the crowds thin out
• Take a $25 outrigger canoe ride where beach boys teach you to catch waves the ancient Hawaiian way
• Visit during Friday night fireworks (7:45 PM weekly) when the sky erupts over the Pacific

Myth debunked: Locals do come here-for dawn patrol surfing, sunset swims, and weekend paddleboard races. We just know to arrive before 8:00 AM or after 4:00 PM to avoid peak tourist hours.

When my mainland friends visit, I always book them a sunset mai tai at Duke’s Waikiki. Watching the sun disappear behind sailboats while slack key guitar plays in the background is pure Hawaii magic.

Location: Stretches approximately 2 miles along Kalākaua Avenue
Website: www.gohawaii.com/islands/oahu/things-to-do/beaches/waikiki-beach

Hanauma Bay: Snorkeling in a Volcano

This protected marine preserve sits inside a volcanic crater. The teal waters host over 400 species of fish, many found nowhere else on earth. Since implementing a reservation system, the experience has become much more pleasant-fewer crowds mean better visibility and happier marine life.

Essential knowledge:

• Reservations open exactly 48 hours in advance at 7:00 AM HST and sell out within minutes
• The mandatory 9-minute conservation video is actually fascinating (and I’ve seen it dozens of times)
• Rip currents near the telephone cables (“The Slot”) can be dangerous-stay alert

Local secret: Visit on weekdays-weekends draw 3,000+ visitors. Early morning provides the clearest water before sand gets stirred up. I always bring bread for breakfast and eat at the top lookout before heading down to snorkel.

Location: 7455 Kalanianaʻole Highway, Honolulu, HI 96825
Website: hanaumabaystatepark.com

Polynesian Cultural Center: A Pacific Journey

Though some call it “Disney-fied,” the PCC offers the most comprehensive glimpse into Pacific cultures in one place. Six authentic villages represent different Polynesian nations, with demonstrations led by actual islanders sharing their heritage.

The evening show “Hā: Breath of Life” features 100+ performers telling creation stories through fire knife dancing and traditional chants. It’s breathtaking even to someone like me who’s seen dozens of luaus.

Worth knowing:

• Book the Ali’i Luau package for premium seating and traditional imu ceremony (watching them unearth the pig from an underground oven)
• Free parking beats the expensive tour bus options from Waikiki
• The center is closed Sundays (it’s owned by the Mormon church)

Pro tip: The canoe pageant at 2:30 PM is often overlooked but showcases dancing on moving canoes-a true athletic and cultural feat.

Location: 55-370 Kamehameha Highway, Lāʻie, HI 96762
Website: www.polynesia.com

Road to Hana: Maui’s Adventure Highway

This 52-mile drive isn’t about the destination-it’s about banana bread stands, hidden waterfalls, and the scent of guava hanging in the mist. With 620 curves and 59 bridges, the journey defines the meaning of “the road less traveled.”

Must-stop spots:

• Twin Falls (mile marker 2): Easy waterfall access without the full-day commitment
• Waianapanapa Black Sand Beach: The contrast of jet black sand against turquoise water is surreal
• Garden of Eden Arboretum: Worth the $15 entry for Jurassic Park filming locations and rainbow eucalyptus trees

One rainy Tuesday, I pulled over at an unmarked trail near mile marker 14. Following the sound of water, I found a 60-foot waterfall with nobody else around. These spontaneous discoveries make the Road to Hana magical.

Pro tip: Rent a Jeep or SUV-compact cars struggle with potholes. Start by 7:00 AM to avoid getting stuck behind tour vans, and consider staying overnight in Hana to break up the journey.

Website: thehawaiivacationguide.com/road-to-hana-guide

Na Pali Coast: Kauaʻi’s Untamed Beauty

Towering emerald cliffs plunge 4,000 feet into azure waters, creating a landscape so dramatic it seems computer-generated. But Na Pali’s 17-mile coastline is very real-and accessible only by hiking trail, boat, or helicopter.

The Kalalau Trail is the crown jewel of Hawaii hiking, winding along sea cliffs to remote beaches. If an 11-mile trek sounds daunting, the first two miles to Hanakapiai Beach offer similar views with a fraction of the commitment.

Experience options:

• Helicopter tours provide the most comprehensive views ($300-400 per person)
• Zodiac boat tours reach sea caves inaccessible to larger vessels
• Sunset sailing cruises offer champagne with your scenery

Local insight: The dry season (May-October) offers the clearest views. During winter, rain creates temporary waterfalls cascading down the cliffs-beautiful but often shrouded in mist.

Location: Northwest shore of Kauai (access via Haena State Park or boat tours from Port Allen)
Website: na-pali-coast.com

Waimea Canyon: The Grand Canyon of the Pacific

When Mark Twain called Waimea Canyon “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” he wasn’t exaggerating. The 14-mile-long, 3,600-foot-deep gorge showcases striations of red, brown, and green against blue skies that take your breath away.

View of a lifetime:

• Waimea Canyon Lookout (mile marker 10): The main panoramic viewpoint
• Puu Hinahina Lookout: Offers both canyon views and glimpses of Niihau island
• Kalalau Lookout: Peer down into the remote Na Pali Coast valley

On clear days, arrive early. By mid-morning, clouds often settle in the canyon, obscuring the views. I bring breakfast to enjoy at the lookouts, watching the morning light transform the canyon walls from purple to vibrant red.

Pro tip: Combine with a visit to neighboring Kōkeʻe State Park for hiking trails through native forests and visits to the Natural History Museum for context on local ecology.

Location: Waimea Canyon Drive, Waimea, Kauai
Website: waimeacanyon.org

Diamond Head: Honolulu’s Iconic Silhouette

What looks like a moderate hill from Waikiki is actually a 300,000-year-old volcanic crater. The 1.8-mile round trip hike rewards climbers with 360-degree views of Honolulu, mountain ranges, and endless Pacific blue.

Trail insights:

• Two route options near the top (left route is less steep but more exposed to sun)
• A dark tunnel and spiral staircase add adventure to the climb
• Summit elevation: 762 feet with views stretching from Koko Head to Waianae mountains

Bathroom situation: There’s only one restroom facility at the visitor center-use it before starting your climb.

I’ve hiked Diamond Head over 50 times, and sunrise remains magical every time. There’s something special about watching the city lights fade as golden light spills across Oahu’s south shore.

Pro tip: Reservations are now required for all visitors. Book the earliest slot (6:00 AM) for cooler temperatures and spectacular sunrise views.

Location: Diamond Head Road, Honolulu, HI 96815
Website: dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument

Dole Pineapple Plantation: Beyond the Fruit

Don’t dismiss this spot as a tourist trap. The world’s largest maze (shaped like a pineapple, naturally) and garden tours offer genuine agricultural insights. Learn about pineapple cultivation techniques that revolutionized Hawaii’s economy.

Better than expected:

• Eight themed gardens showcase plants that shaped Hawaiian history
• The Pineapple Express train tour reveals working agricultural practices
• Dole Whip, their signature pineapple soft-serve, is legitimately worth the hype

Alternative suggestion: If you’re short on time, skip Dole and visit Kahuku Farm Stand on the North Shore instead. Their fresh-cut pineapple makes the perfect road trip snack with fewer crowds.

Location: 64-1550 Kamehameha Highway, Wahiawa, HI 96786
Website: www.dole-plantation.com

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Where Earth Creates Itself

Witnessing molten lava flow into the ocean at sunset will reset your understanding of our planet’s power. Since the 2018 eruptions and subsequent park reopening, the landscapes have dramatically changed-but remain no less awe-inspiring.

Safety first:

• Bring plenty of water-refill stations are only available at the visitor center
• Stay back from cliff edges and cracks-the 2018 activity created unstable areas
• Check the park website for current volcanic activity before visiting

The Nāhuku (Thurston) Lava Tube feels like stepping into another world-a 500-year-old tunnel formed by flowing lava. At night, the Halemaʻumaʻu crater glows orange against the black sky, a reminder that you’re standing on one of earth’s most active volcanoes.

Pro tip: The Volcano House hotel offers rooms with crater views. Falling asleep watching the glow of lava is an experience you’ll never forget.

Location: 1 Crater Rim Drive, Volcano, HI 96785
Website: www.nps.gov/havo

Mama’s Fish House: Oceanfront Culinary Magic

Perched on a secluded north shore Maui cove, Mama’s isn’t just a restaurant-it’s a Hawaiian institution. The menu lists which local fisherman caught your fish and where-sometimes as recently as that morning.

Why it’s worth the splurge:

• The Polynesian Black Pearl dessert (chocolate mousse in a pastry shell) is as photogenic as it is delicious
• The open-air dining room frames postcard-worthy ocean views
• Each fish dish is prepared with hyper-local ingredients that tell Hawaii’s story

Reservation strategy: Book dinner 2-3 months in advance or try lunch for slightly easier availability. Making a reservation immediately after booking your flight to Maui isn’t overkill-it’s standard practice.

Pro tip: Arrive 30 minutes early to explore their private beach cove and Hawaiian artwork throughout the property. It’s one of Maui’s most beautiful settings even before you taste the food.

Location: 799 Poho Place, Paia, HI 96779
Website: mamasfishhouse.com

Haleiwa Joe’s Kaneohe: Garden Dining with Mountain Views

The Kaneohe location of this popular restaurant sits nestled against the dramatic Ko’olau mountains with tropical gardens surrounding outdoor tables. Their prime rib has a cult following among locals, and the mai tais come in glasses the size of small fishbowls.

Local favorites:

• Coconut shrimp with lilikoi (passion fruit) dipping sauce
• Poke nachos with fresh ahi tuna
• Hapu’upu’u (Hawaiian sea bass) with macadamia nut crust

The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so arrive by 4:30 PM (they open at 4:00) to avoid the inevitable wait. The bar area offers the same menu and sometimes moves faster.

Location: 46-336 Haiku Road, Kaneohe, HI 96744
Website: www.haleiwajoes.com

Pink Palace: Waikiki’s Royal Icon

The Royal Hawaiian (its official name) stands as a blush-colored sentinel on Waikiki Beach. Opened in 1927 when Hawaii-bound travelers arrived by steamship, its Spanish-Moorish architecture transports guests to another era.

Even if you’re not staying here, the hotel welcomes visitors to explore its grounds and iconic spaces. The Mai Tai Bar serves the island’s best version of its namesake cocktail, and the beachfront location offers prime Diamond Head views.

Visitor options:

• Take the free historical tour offered Monday/Wednesday/Friday at 1:00 PM
• Splurge on afternoon tea in the Monarch Room
• Book a beach chair through the hotel’s beach concession (available to non-guests)

Location: 2259 Kalākaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815
Website: www.royal-hawaiian.com

Punchbowl: Sacred Ground Above Honolulu

The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific sits within an ancient volcanic crater overlooking downtown Honolulu. While it might seem unusual to visit a cemetery on vacation, the site offers both historical significance and spectacular views.

The “Courts of the Missing” contain names of over 25,000 service members missing in action from Pacific conflicts. Walking the grounds, you’ll notice graves marked with symbols representing many faiths-a powerful reminder of America’s diverse heritage.

Respectful visiting:

• Maintain reverent behavior (no loud talking, jogging, or picnicking)
• Photography is allowed but be mindful of funeral services
• The views from the upper rim provide perfect Honolulu photo opportunities

I often bring mainland visitors here first after airport pickup. The panoramic view helps orient them to Oahu’s geography, and the peaceful setting offers a gentle introduction to island life.

Location: 2177 Puowaina Drive, Honolulu, HI 96813
Website: www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/nmcp.asp

Throughout your Hawaiian adventure, remember that these islands aren’t just a collection of beautiful places-they’re living communities with deep cultural roots. Take time between these iconic spots to talk story with locals, sample food from roadside stands, and discover your own special places. The true Hawaii reveals itself when you slow down and let the island rhythm guide you. 🌺