Bucket List Hawaii: 40 Incredible Things to See & Do in Your Lifetime 🌈

Ready to dive into the ultimate Hawaii Bucket List?

I’m going to break it down island by island, starting with Hawaii’s most visited island…Let’s go!

Oahu 🌈

1. Visit Pearl Harbor

For some Hawaii visitors, Pearl Harbor is the #1 reason they come. It’s Hawaii’s most significant historic site and a must when you visit Oahu. The site provides a powerful look at the events of December 7, 1941.

The USS Arizona Memorial is a moving tribute to those who lost their lives, while the Battleship Missouri, USS Bowfin Submarine, and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum are all well worth a visit, too.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will likely blow on mai tais, poke, and shave ice.  All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you. 

Read More: The 7 Absolute Best Things to Do on Oahu (if time is short!)

2. Hike Diamond Head Crater

One of Oahu’s most famous hikes, Diamond Head Crater is a must-do. If you only tackle one hike on your visit, make it this one. Just remember, like Pearl Harbor, this is one of the few activities on Oahu that requires a reservation.

The best time to reserve is the first time slot of the day for sunrise when the early morning light bathes the island in golden hues. The steep but short trail is well worth the effort for the stunning 360-degree views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean at the top.

Read More: Why Hiking Diamond Head Crater is an Oahu Must-Do

3. Drive the North Shore

A road trip along Oahu’s North Shore is a fun day trip for beach lovers, surfers, and foodies. This scenic drive takes you past world-famous surf breaks like Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach, charming local towns, and some of the best food trucks on the island.

It’s the perfect way to experience the laid-back side of Oahu.

Read More: 15 Can’t-Miss Stops on a Day Trip to Oahu’s Iconic North Shore

4. Visit Iolani Palace

The only royal palace in the United States, Iolani Palace was home to Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs before the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom.

A visit here offers a fascinating (and often somber) glimpse into Hawaiian history, with opulent rooms, royal artifacts, and immersive tours that bring the palace’s past to life.

Read More: Iolani Palace: Why America’s Only Royal Palace is a Must-See in Honolulu👑

5. Swim at Waimea Falls

Located in the North Shore’s lush Waimea Valley, Waimea Falls is the only waterfall on Oahu where it’s safe (and legal!) to swim.

The paved, scenic trail leads through a botanical garden filled with native Hawaiian plants. It’s an easy and rewarding hike that ends with a lovely waterfall where you can cool off with a lifeguard-supervised swim.

Read More: Hiking Waimea Falls: Oahu’s Easiest Waterfall Hike

6. Watch the Friday Night Fireworks

Every Friday night, Waikiki Beach lights up with a spectacular fireworks show launched from the Hilton Hawaiian Village. It’s one of my favorite ways to kick off the weekend and one of the best Free Things to Do on Oahu.

Grab a spot on the sand, bring a picnic, and enjoy the best free show on the island. Or, watch from the water aboard one of the many fireworks cruises (like the one we recently did aboard the Majestic by Atlantic Cruises).

For all the best places to watch…

Read More: The Friday Night Waikiki Fireworks (by land, sea, or air!)

7. Learn to Surf at Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is the birthplace of modern surfing, and its gently rolling waves make it the perfect spot for beginners. Take a surf lesson from one of the many beachfront instructors, paddle out, and ride your first wave just like legendary Hawaiian surfer Duke Kahanamoku.

Even if you’re not surfing, watching the longboarders cruise effortlessly on the waves is a classic Waikiki experience.

8. See the Halona Blowhole

A natural wonder on Oahu’s southeastern shore, the Halona Blowhole shoots water high into the air when waves crash into the lava rock formations below. Nearby, Halona Cove (aka Eternity Beach) is a small, secluded beach perfect for a quick photo stop.

Note: Please don’t be the guy in this photo. Blowholes are actually very dangerous if you get too close!

Read More: Why the Halona Blowhole is a Must-See on Oahu’s Loveliest Coast

9. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay

Oahu’s most famous snorkeling spot, Hanauma Bay, is a protected marine conservation area filled with colorful coral reefs and an abundance of tropical fish. Reservations are required and you’ll want to book an early time to get a parking spot.

Spend the morning exploring the underwater world, where you might even spot a sea turtle gliding past. This is one of Oahu’s toughest reservations to score but here’s everything you need to know…

Read More: The Foolproof Guide to Hanauma Bay for Snorkeling

10. Take a Tour at Kualoa Ranch

Famous as the backdrop for Jurassic Park and countless Hollywood films, Kualoa Ranch is one of the most beautiful places to visit on Oahu.

They offer a wide variety of tours from horseback riding to catamaran sails and they’re all great. We’ve done several of the tours over the years but the UTV Raptor Tour was probably my favorite. Winding through lush valleys and dramatic mountain scenery, it’s a must for movie buffs and adrenaline junkies.

Just be prepared to get VERY dirty!

Maui🐋

11. Drive the Road to Hana

One of the most famous road trips in the world, the Road to Hana is a full-day adventure through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and along dramatic coastal cliffs. With over 600 curves and 50 one-lane bridges, it’s more about the journey than the destination.

Just don’t forget, the popular black sand beach on the Road to Hana requires a reservation!

Read More: Headed to Maui? Here are 3 Reservations You Need to Make Now 🌺📆💻

Whether you choose to drive it yourself or book a guided tour like the popular Small Group Road to Hana Adventure Tour, this scenic drive is an epic day trip.

Take your time, make plenty of stops, and enjoy the ride. Just be forewarned, this curvy drive is NOT for everyone. Here’s what you need to know before you go.

Read More: Maui’s Road to Hana: Iconic Adventure 🌈 or Risky Road Trip? ⚠️

12. Sunrise at Haleakala

Watching the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala is a surreal, once-in-a-lifetime experience. At over 10,000 feet, you’ll be above the clouds as the sun paints the sky with dazzling colors. Just be sure to make a reservation in advance and dress warmly—it’s freezing at the top!

Oh, and if getting up at 3:00am on your vacation isn’t your idea of a good time, it’s totally OK to skip this one. Tip: Go for sunset instead. There’s no reservation required and it’s much warmer!

Read More: Yes, it’s OK to Skip These 3 Super Popular Maui Experiences (Here’s Why)

13. Explore Iao Valley State Park

Home to the iconic Iao Needle, this lush valley is steeped in Hawaiian history and natural beauty. Walk the short trail to the lookout, where you’ll be surrounded by towering green peaks and a serene stream.

There are several easy trails and a small botanical garden to explore. It’s a peaceful and culturally significant stop on any Maui itinerary.

Just remember that you do need an advance reservation for this one!

Read More: The Emerald Peaks of Iao Valley State Park Are a Must-Visit on Your Maui Vacation

14. Take a Day Trip to Lanai

Ok, so this is not technically a thing to do ON Maui. But a day trip to Lanai is still one of the best things I’ve ever done FROM Maui. So it counts.

Hop on the Expeditions Ferry from Maalaea Harbor for a day trip to explore the charming island of Lanai.

Spend the day relaxing at Hulopo’e Beach, off-roading to the otherworldly Garden of the Gods, and visiting the incredible Lanai Cat Sanctuary. Like the cats (known as the Lanai Lions), the locals are super friendly and welcoming.

The island is easy to explore in a day. It’s the perfect escape from the tourist crowds of Maui and a great way to experience a quieter, more authentic side of Hawaii.

Read More: How to Plan a PURRfect Day Trip from Maui to Lanai ⛴️🍍🐈

15. Snorkel at Molokini Crater

This crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater is home to some of the clearest snorkeling waters in Hawaii. Swim alongside vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and even reef sharks in this protected marine sanctuary.

Early morning tours have the calmest conditions for snorkeling and the Molokini Snorkeling Adventure Aboard Calypso is the most popular day trip to book. My husband and I did this tour on our last weekend trip to Maui and really enjoyed it.

16. Explore Maui’s Upcountry

Leave the golden beaches of Maui behind and head north to explore Maui’s beautiful Upcountry region.

One of my favorite things to do here is visit the fragrant Alii Kula Lavender Farm. With stunning views and beautiful gardens, it’s a peaceful escape from the crowds. Stroll through the fields, sip lavender tea, and pick up some locally made lavender-infused treats.

And don’t miss a visit to the quirky Surfing Goat Dairy farm to meet friendly goats and learn about Maui’s award-winning goat cheese. Take a tour, try your hand at milking a goat, and taste delicious cheese varieties.

Read More: You Haven’t Really Seen Maui Until You’ve Explored Its Stunning Upcountry🌿

17. Winter Whale Watching

All of Hawaii is known for terrific whale watching, but in the winter months, Maui is ground zero for this annual migration.

From December to April, humpback whales come by the thousands to Hawaii’s warm waters to breed and give birth.

If you visit Hawaii during this time – and especially if you visit Maui! – taking a boat tour for an up-close view is a must. On Maui, you can even watch them breach right from the shore in places like Maalaea and Kaanapali.

Read More: The Everything Guide to the Best Maui Whale Watching Tours

18. Visit the Nakalele Blowhole

This natural wonder is a powerful ocean blowhole that shoots water high into the air with each crashing wave. Located on Maui’s northwestern coast, it’s an impressive sight—just be sure to keep a safe distance, as the waves can be unpredictable.

Read More: Maui’s Famous Nakalele Blowhole is an Explosive Display of Nature’s Power 🌋🌊

19. See the Honu at Ho’okipa Beach

Ho’okipa Beach is a prime spot to see Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) basking on the sand. Visit in the late afternoon when the turtles come ashore to rest, but be sure to keep a respectful (and required) 10′ distance.

20. Sunbathe at Kaanapali Beach

Kaanapali Beach is one of Maui’s most famous stretches of sand, with soft white sands, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of beachfront resorts and restaurants nearby. It’s also a great place for snorkeling near Black Rock.

Read More: 5 Unforgettable Maui Beaches (Don’t Leave Hawaii Without Seeing #3)

Kauai🐢

21. See the Na Pali Coast

If you only have time for one excursion when you visit Kauai, make it a boat trip to the Na Pali Coast, especially if it’s whale season!

Read More: Ultimate Guide to the Best Kauai Whale Watching Tours

Kauai’s most dramatic stretch of coastline is known for hidden sea caves, towering cliffs, and pristine beaches that are only accessible by water.

Whether you explore on a catamaran like the fantastic Snorkel Tour Aboard the Lucky Lady or choose the thrilling Na Pali Coast Super Raft Aventure, this day trip is a must.

22. Explore Waimea Canyon

Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon offers jaw-dropping views of deep, colorful gorges and rugged terrain. Stretching 10 miles long and over a mile wide, the 3,600ft deep canyon offers visitors numerous hiking trails and lookout points to take in its beauty.

Stop at several viewpoints or hike one of the many trails for even more epic scenery.

Oh, and don’t miss the unique Red Dirt Waterfall. Located within Waimea Canyon, this charming seasonal waterfall cascades down the canyon’s vibrant red rock walls.

23. See Wailua Falls

If you’re short on time and want to see one of Kauai’s most gorgeous waterfalls, follow Highway 56 a few minutes north of Lihue on Kauai’s east side and stop at the lookout point for Wailua Falls (two waters).

Shout out to my fellow children of the 80’s, this is the waterfall featured in the opening scenes of the TV show “Fantasy Island.”

Read More: The Top 5 Fun Things to Do on Kauai (#1 is a must!)

24. Uluwehi (Secret) Falls Kayak Hike

One of Kauai’s most popular day trips, the Guided Secret Falls Kayak & Hike is a terrific way to spend an afternoon. Kayak up the Wailua River, then take a short hike through the rainforest to reach the enchanting Secret Falls.

This waterfall is a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery and perfect for cooling off after the 2-mile kayak adventure.

25. Visit Kilauea Lighthouse

Perched on a cliffside at the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, this historic lighthouse is a prime spot for birdwatching and breathtaking coastal views. During winter, you might even spot whales offshore!

Note: The lighthouse is closed for renovations from February 17 – April 30, 2025. Luckily, during that time you’ll still be able to view the lighthouse from the main lookout point nearby.

Just remember, when it does reopen, you need a reservation to visit the lighthouse (not for the lookout point). Reservations can be made up to 2 months in advance on Recreation.gov.

26. Hike the Kalalau Trail

This world-famous 11-mile trail along the Na Pali Coast offers unparalleled views of rugged cliffs and turquoise waters. Whether you hike a shorter section or go all the way to Kalalau Beach, this trail is an unforgettable experience.

Just keep in mind that this is a serious hike for experienced hikers only. If you just want to see the views of the Na Pali coast, take a boat trip or visit the Kalalau Lookout Point.

27. Visit the Spouting Horn Blowhole

This quick and easy stop near Poipu Beach is one of Kauai’s best free things to do.

Watch as waves force water through a lava tube at Spouting Horn, creating a geyser-like spray and a distinctive roar-like sound. It’s a fun and photogenic natural phenomenon with free parking and beautiful views.

Read More: Spouting Horn: Ocean Meets Lava at One of Kauai’s Best Free Attractions 🌋🌊

28. See the Honu at Poipu Beach

Poipu Beach is more than just one of the best beaches on Kauai. It’s also one of the best spots on Kauai to see honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) in their natural habitat.

Read More: These 7 Kauai Beaches are Simply Too Gorgeous to Ignore

On any given day, you’ll find a dozen or more honu basking in the sun under the watchful eye of local volunteers who keep them safely roped off.

Remember to keep a respectful minimum distance of at least 10′ (it’s the law!) as you watch these beautiful creatures. They are, after all, here to rest and relax.

29. Stroll the Pier at Hanalei Bay

Located on Kauai’s north shore, Hanalei Bay is a postcard-perfect crescent of golden sand surrounded by lush mountains. This iconic beach with its picturesque pier is one of the largest on the island, so there’s plenty of space to relax and soak in the scenery. 

Take a leisurely stroll along Hanalei Pier to enjoy stunning views of the bay’s crescent-shaped beach and surrounding mountains. It’s an idyllic spot to relax and take Instagram-worthy photos.

30. Snorkel Tunnels Beach

Tunnels Beach, also known as Makua Beach, is a snorkeling paradise with vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Surrounded by stunning cliffs, it’s a favorite spot for both underwater exploration and scenic beauty.

Big Island🌋

31. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

There’s no place on earth quite like Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the most famous volcanoes in the world.

Hike through lava fields, walk through a massive lava tube, and, if you’re lucky, witness active lava flows lighting up the night sky (we’ve had a lot of that lately!).

A visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is easily the most popular thing to do on the entire island and it draws visitors from all over the world.

Read More: 10 Incredible Things to Do on Hawaii’s Brilliant Big Island

32. Visit the Waipi’o Valley Lookout

Waipi’o Valley, also known as the Valley of the Kings, is one of the most breathtaking landscapes in all of Hawaii.

From the lookout, you’ll see lush green cliffs, taro fields, and a black sand beach tucked away in the valley below. While hiking down into the valley is no longer permitted, the panoramic views from above are absolutely worth the trip.

33. See the Honu at Punalu’u Beach

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is famous for its jet-black volcanic sand and resident Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu).

These protected turtles can often be seen sunbathing on the beach, making this one of the best places on the Big Island to spot honu in the wild. And that’s why it’s one of the best beaches on the Big Island to see when you visit.

Read More: The 7 Most Beautiful & Unique Beaches on Hawaii’s Big Island 🏖️🌺

The contrast between the dark sand, turquoise waves, and bright green palm trees makes this beach a photographer’s dream.

It’s also been voted one of the 10 best beaches in the United States.

Read More: This Just In! Hawaii is Home to 5 of the Top 10 Beaches in the USA 🌈🏖️

34. Hike Akaka Falls State Park

This easy half-mile loop trail takes you through a tropical rainforest to one of the most stunning waterfalls in Hawaii.

Akaka Falls plunges 442 feet down a sheer cliff, surrounded by vibrant green ferns and bamboo groves. It’s one of those classic Big Island sights that you simply can’t miss.

35. Stargaze Atop Mauna Kea

At 13,803 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea is home to some of the best stargazing on the planet. The high altitude and lack of light pollution make it an incredible spot to see constellations, planets, and the Milky Way.

Bring warm clothes—temperatures at the summit can be freezing, even in Hawaii. For the ultimate stargazing experience, book the Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour.

36. Manta Ray Night Snorkel

One of the most unique experiences on the Big Island is snorkeling with manta rays after dark. Underwater lights attract plankton, which in turn brings in the massive yet gentle manta rays, creating a surreal, up-close experience.

Kona is one of the best places in the world to do this, that’s why the Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel is truly one of the Big Island’s most unforgettable experiences.

37. See Rainbow Falls

One of Hilo’s most famous waterfalls, Rainbow Falls cascades 80 feet over a lava cave surrounded by lush jungle.

If you visit in the morning, the sunlight hitting the mist often creates a beautiful rainbow, giving the falls their name.

38. Sunbathe at Hapuna Beach

One of the largest and most beautiful white sand beaches on the island, Hapuna Beach is perfect for swimming, boogie boarding, or simply soaking up the sun. The soft sand and clear, blue waters make it a picture-perfect beach day destination.

That’s why it’s not just one of the best beaches on the Big Island, it’s one of the best beaches in all of Hawaii.

Read More: 15 Amazing Beaches to Add to Your Hawaii Bucket List

39. Snorkel Kealakekua Bay

Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, Kealakekua Bay is one of the best snorkeling spots in all of Hawaii.

The bay is also home to the Captain Cook Monument, which marks the site where British explorer James Cook first landed in Hawaii.

Tip: The Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch is the top day trip to book.

40. Hike to the Green Sand Beach

One of the most unique beaches in Hawaii, Papakōlea Beach is one of only four green sand beaches in the world.

The hike to get there is about 3 miles each way, but the payoff is a stunning, crescent-shaped bay with striking green olivine sand.

And that’s a wrap!

How many of these have you already checked off your Hawaii Bucket List?

With 40 incredible things to see and do across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island, this list is your guide to making the most of Hawaii’s breathtaking beauty and unforgettable adventures.

But the best part? There’s always more to explore.

So, whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another island escape, start checking off this Hawaii Bucket List and discover the magic of the Hawaiian islands for yourself. 🌈

For more detailed Bucket Lists for each island (including all the best food spots!) start here:

The Ultimate Oahu Bucket List: 50 Fun Things to See, Do & Eat🍍🌺🏖️

Bucket List Maui: 40 Awesome Things to See, Do & Eat! 🏖️🌺🍹

Bucket List Kauai: 40 Unforgettable Things to See, Do, and Eat! 🌈🌺🍧

The Ultimate Big Island Bucket List: 40 Fun Things to See, Do & Eat! 🌋☀️

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