Oahu

Diamond Head - Diamond Head crater can be seen from Waikiki Beach.  It is possible to hike to the top of the crater for a spectacular view of Waikiki.  There is a small fee to enter Diamond Head crater.

Hanauma Bay - This is the most famous snorkeling place in all the islands.  There are lots of fish to see, even in the shallow waters.  The park offers snorkel gear rental and instructions about the do's and don'ts of snorkeling here.

Pipeline - This is the most famous surfing spot in the world.  The waves come from the deep water and hit the shallow reef.  The wave will make a tunnel shape when it brakes, on big winter surf the surfer can be inside the tube while riding the wave.  The spot is for the very experienced surfer, it is great fun to watch from the beach.  On the big day you can here people say Wow!!! and Ouch!!! depending on the surfers performance.

Kailua Beach - Kite surfing has become a very popular sport in the past few years an the waters are filled with beginners to expert kite surfers.  They are still improving the equipment and making is safer.

Pali Lookout - At the top of the Pali Highway there is a parking lot and a lookout that will provide you with the best view of the windward side of Oahu. 

Ala Moana Shopping Center - The Ala Moana shopping center should not be missed if you enjoy shopping.  There is an large food court on the main level so you don't have to leave the shopping experience to eat.

Maui

Seven Sacred Pools -  Take the road to Hana, pass Hana town and you will get to the seven sacred pools parking area.  Hike to the beach and to the left.  Bring you swimming suit.  The drive is long but well worth the trip.

Haleakula Crater -  Lots of people drive to the top of this crater in the morning to watch the sun rise.  It is a wonderful experience and gets going on your vacation early that day.  It is a bit cold in the morning so bring a jacket and some extra layers of clothes to put on if you need.  This is lots of fun.  You can also hike into the crater.  When driving back down the hill be careful, many people overheat their brakes and get into trouble.

Lahaina - This quant town offers restaurants, shopping, and activities.  It is fun to walk around this town and window shop.  There is a boat harbor on the ocean side of the town.

Big Island

Rainbow Falls - When you are on the Hilo side you don't want to miss rainbow falls.  It is easy to find and you can drive close to it.

Volcano - The volcano without a doubt is one of the most favorite attractions on the Big Island.  The lava has been flowing for many years and had added many square miles of new real estate.  Be careful and follow posted official instructions, do not venture outside permitted areas.  Have fun, it is a once in a lifetime experience.

Waipio Valley - The view from the parking lot on the top is not to be missed.  The walk to the bottom of the valley is very, very steep.  The beach is black sand and is very private.  There is a little surf spot at the beach.

Kona Town - The town is lots of fun, there are restaurants, shops, movies, and activities.  The town is home to the Iron Man.

Kauai

Hanalei Bay - This bay is one of the most beautiful.  From the Hanalei Peir to the middle of the bay has mostly a sandy bottom, perfect for swimming when the waves are small in the summer.  The winter surf can grow to 20 feet and although it is fun  to watch, swimming even for the most experienced is difficult.

Kilauea Lighthouse - The lighthouse is home to many bird, the most notable is the shearwater bird.  The shearwater needs to take off from a cliff.  They put on a great show so bring you binoculars.

Na Pali Coast - The Na Pali Coast is not to be missed.  You can see it by helicopter, boat, or hiking.  Each will give you a different point of view and each will be a sight to remember.  Bring lots of film and enjoy the experience.

Waimea Canyon - The canyon offers great lookout points along the way to the top.  There are lots of hiking trails throughout the canyon.  My favorite are the trails closer to the top where the temperature is a little cooler and the pine trees give you a nice feeling.

Lanai

Garden of the Gods - High on top of the mountains the powerful wind will sweep across the Garden of the Gods.  Large rocks with multiple smaller rocks are placed on top of each other.  The rocks were brought up the hill from lower elevations around the island.  This was no easy task, you can feel the power as you stand in the Garden of the Gods.

Manele Bay - This bay is filled with beauty.  On one side you will find the Manele Bay resort, this is one of the nicest places in all of Hawaii.  On the other side of the bay you will find Sweetheart rock, one of the most romantic places on all of Hawaii.  Bill Gates was married here and he had the choice of anywhere in the world.  The beach is filled with sea life, from sea turtles to dolphins that are regular visitors to Manele Bay.

Shipwreck Beach - Located on the deserted part of the island, these waters are rough and swimming is not recommended.  The ship hit the reef many years ago and has been left to decay in the water. 

Last changed: 08/19/03