Blessed with diverse natural surroundings due to its volcanic formation, Hawaii is a popular vacation destination for travelers worldwide. Sunny skies, a buzzing nightlife and the insistent rhythm of Hawaiian culture have electrified this sultry polyglot of a city centering the Pacific Ocean. Celebrity drenched Beach attracts people watchers and the Art Deco stylings of the Iolani Palace provide a glimpse into Hawaii's sleepy past. The beaches, the water, the Aloha Spirit offer a different experience every time you visit here. There is no other place like Hawaii on the earth. There is profusion of tourist places to visit in Hawaii that will surely dazzle you and make your trip a memorable one.
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Start your journey with the blessings of Lord Buddha by visiting the Byodo-In Temple one of the best tourist places in Hawaii. The temple is located at the foot of the Ko’olau Mountains in Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. Draped by low-hanging clouds and a snowy backdrop this temple is replica of the 900 years old Buddhist temple in Uji. Well manicured lush grounds of the temple are home to wild peacocks and hundreds of Japanese koi carp. A large reflecting pond, meditation niches, and small waterfalls are some mesmerizing features of the temple.
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Located along the northeastern Hamakua Coast, Akaka Falls are a spectacular waterfall. It is one of the most attractive waterfalls of Hawaii. With a drop of 442 feet, the falls are more than two and a half times higher than Niagara Falls. It paralyzes you with its awesomeness and leaves you wondering about the well kept secrets of the nature, secrets that only god could know.
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This secluded beach is situated in the Lanai’s northwestern end. Polihua Beach is over 1.5 miles long and is the longest white sand beach on Lanai. The pristine foamy waters kissing your feet, soft golden sands beneath you, unspoiled nature and scenic views make it a hotspot for picnic. The green sea turtles and humpback whales are the major highlights of the beach that you can spot if you are lucky enough. However, because of the string water current swimming is not allowed at the beach.
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The southernmost and largest of the seven windward valleys of Kohala Mountain, Waipi’o is the Valley of the Kings. Waipi’o is a place of indescribable beauty and has great historic significance to the natives. One of the best tourist places in Hawaii, it’s breathtaking views attract a lot of visitors to this place. On both sides of the valley there are cliffs reaching almost 2000 feet with hundreds of cascading waterfalls, including Hi’ilawe which is one of the most celebrated waterfalls of Hawaii.
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the Mauna Kea is the tallest peak of the pacific and offers most dramatic and unforgettable spectacular scenery. The spot is highly famous for its jaw dropping sunset view and the stunning stargazing at night. The sunset provides an opportunity to see the sun slip into the Pacific through the pristine alpine atmosphere and also enjoy picturesque views of Maui’s Haleakala. At night you can adore the charm of the charcoal black sky filled with the twinkling golden color stars while gazing into the heavens.
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Nicknamed as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific ”, Waimea Canyon is located in Kauai. Words and pictures can merely describe the beauty of the Canyon. Narrow waterfalls tumble thousands of feet to streams that cut through the rust-colored volcanic soil. As sunrays fall on the cliffs you can the enchanting shades of red and orange colors and sunset and sunrise is the perfect time to view this splendid sequence.
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It is one of the most visited beaches on Kauai. It is located at the north end of the island where the highway ends. Surrounded by swaying palm and beautiful almond trees, this pristine white-sand beach is a great spot for viewing sunsets. You can even spot the occasional sea lion. The lagoon is the best spot for snorkeling and you can swim with the turtles, tunas and other fishes.
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Situated in Lanai, the Keahiakawelo is also known as the “Garden of the Gods ”. Formed after thousands of years of erosion, Garden of the Gods are unique and beautiful rock formations creating heights and buttes in an isolated canyon area. Palettes of red, purple, and ochre earth and crusted lava create an arresting lunar landscape. The best time for viewing is dawn and dusk when the captivating sun’s rays hit the minerals in the rock and bring out the best colours of the nature. It is one of the best tourist places to visit in Hawaii.
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The park on Maui is the largest dormant volcano in the world. There are three visitors center in the park. Travelling at the top of the highest peaks of Haleakala, hiking above the clouds and horseback riding across otherworldly deserts are some of the best experiences that one should not miss. Lush tropical areas full of waterfalls and streams glorify the beauty of the area. The major attraction here is Haleakala Crater, featuring moon-line surroundings. The park is also home to an unique plant the silversword which grows nowhere else in the world.
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Also known as “Waianuenue Falls ”, Rainbow Falls are one of the most popular waterfalls. The waterfalls are known for the rainbows that are formed in the surrounding mist. Flowing 80 feet down and over an ancient Hawaiian cave Rainbow Falls are at its best when the first light of the sun hit the misty waters and create a picture perfect moment.
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This beach is renowned as “The Black Sand Beach of Hawaii ”. The breezy shores at the beach are an unforgettable sight. Coconut palms fringe the upper edge of sand. You may also discover large Honu, or Hawaiian Green Sea turtles while relaxing on the beach. The beach is not an ideal spot for swimming but a great place to enjoy a day picnic with your friends and family. Spread out a blanket under a coconut tree for a midday picnic or sit for hours watching the action at the beach.
Photo Credit : Steve Dunleavy
To witness something out of the box, Papakolea Beach is the ultimate destination that every beach lover must visit. The beach is more popularly known as “The Green Sand Beach ”. The beach has got this name because the sand here is made of tiny olivine crystals from the surrounding lava rocks that are trapped in the 49,000-year-old Pu’u Mahana cinder cone by the waters of Mahana Bay. Exploring the waters of this beach would be once in a lifetime experience for every beach connoisseur.
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Located 30 miles southwest of Hilo, this is the home of Kilauea volcano. This is one of the most active volcanoes on earth. . 150 miles of hiking trails through volcanic craters, scorching hot deserts, rainforests, museum, petroglyphs, a walk-in lava tube and two active volcanoes: Maunaloa, and Kilauea make it a magnet of tourist attractions in Hawaii and a sacred spot for the natives. Due to its extraordinary natural diversity of the park it has earned the status of World Biosphere site by UNESCO in 1980 and in 1987 the park was again honored as a World Heritage site.
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It is an amazing underwater park that provides an array of marine species, frenetically colored plants and beautiful corals. Snorkeling in Hanauma Bay is like experiencing paradise. The azure water of the Bay is full of bright and diverse species of fish, rays and turtles. You do not have to be an experienced snorkeler as you can have a great time swimming with the Hawaiian wildlife in Hanauma Bay and get up close with the friendly sea creatures. It is an enigmatic experience to see 450 colorful tropical fish in the area, as well as octopus, crabs and eels.
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The sea cliffs at Molokai are one of the most spectacular scenery of the planet that one must witness in their lifetime. Located along the island’s north coast these cliffs are 3000 and 4000 feet high and hence are considered as the tallest sea cliffs in the world. The sea cliffs are deep and emerald green colour enhances its velvety texture. During wet seasons cascading waterfalls are coursing down to the ocean creating a jaw dropping view that can be merely described in words.
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located at Hana highway, Maui, the Oheo Gulch is also known as “The Seven Sacred Pools ”. The pools are an irresistible collection of seven pools. The sprawling park is home to beautiful streams, gorgeous waterfalls and an amazing display of Hawaiian flora embraces its beauty further. The gulch is surrounded by a series of trails known as the Kipahulu Area trails where you can wander. An arresting picture of the wide expanse of lush greenery, clear blue skies and some great waterfalls will blow away your mind while trailing in the area.
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Located on the north shore of Kauai, Napali Coast is the myriad of natural wonders. Panoramic views of the vast Pacific Ocean, emerald green cliffs, the shimmering streams of water hurtling downwards and deep valleys make Napali Coast as one of the best kept secrets of Hawaii. Sailing, rafting, hiking are the best ways to explore the wonders of the Coast. Special permits are required for camping at the site. It is a must and one of the best tourist places to visit in Hawaii.
Photo Credit : Eric Tessmer
Diamond Head is one of the most famous landmarks on Oahu. It has once been an active volcano, but hasn’t emitted any ashes since last 150,000 years. The extinct crater and lookout point at the peak of it is a popular hiking destination. Due to its picturesque views Diamond Head is one of the most photographed and painted spots on Oahu, embellishing the beauty of many wall calendars and postcards.
Photo Credit : Wally Gobetz
Situated opposite Iolani Palace in the lovely Historic District, Hawaii State of Art is a cultural gem. The art lovers would love to see pieces from some of Hawaii’s most notable artists are displayed throughout the museum’s three intimate galleries. Rotating exhibits allow guests to experience Hawaii’s colorful heritage through a variety of mediums. On permanent display are some of the islands’ most stunning landscapes, sculpture and decorative arts.
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The history fanatics and fans of royals will enjoy the old-world elegance and Hawaiian spirit of Iolani Palace. Telling the tales of King Kalakaua and his successor and sister Queen Liliuokalani, this palace is an epitome of opulence, innovation and political intrigue. It is beautiful inside and out. The exterior and grounds are lovely to walk around and the interior of the palace is wonderfully decorated.
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Along Maui’s rugged eastern coastline is the peaceful town of Hana which is considered as one of the last unspoiled Hawaiian frontiers. To experience the journey of a lifetime you must visit the Hana Highway which has 620 curves and 59 bridges. Lush green rainforests, cascading waterfalls, plunging pools and picturesque seascapes will be your great companion and make this site an idyllic getaway. There are plenty of places where you can stop and enjoy the lovely views.
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Situated in Oahu, Sea Life Park is one of its kinds of marine mammal parks. It is an heavenly place for animal lovers as you get the chance to swim with dolphins, sea lions, and rays, taking a sea safari in the aquarium, and feeding the sea turtles. Snorkeling with the rays is a fun experience that is enjoyed by old and young alike.
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Puu Pehe also known as “The Sweetheart Rock ” is one of the most picturesque natural landmarks in Hawaii. Experience the romantic Sunsets while overlooking the dramatic views of Hulopoe Bay. If you are fortunate enough then you may even spot the spinner dolphins that frequent these waters.
Photo Credit : Jay Galvin
Atlantis submarines are located in Oahu, Maui & Kona . They aim to make your journey an amusing one where there is no dearth of fun quotient. Explore the depths of Hawaii’s ocean waters 100 feet below the surface and swim amidst schools of beautiful fish in the world’s most technologically advanced passenger submarine. You not only get close to the wonderful marine creatures but can you also go to the prime viewing locations in the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary during the whale watch season.
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Nestled in the picturesque land of Kauai, these gardens are a botanical garden. Wrapped by the tropical greens and stunning ocean these garden are no less than a paradise. Stroll in the winding trail in McBryde Garden and see lush tropical paradise as well as hidden waterfall. Discover the “Jungle Side ” of the Allerton Garden where you can see the Moreton Bay fig trees that look almost primeval, unusual palms and plants from the faraway islands of Micronesia.
Photo Credit : Terri Stewart
Offering scenic beauty this place is nestled in Oahu. The Nu’uanu Pali lookout is one of the must do things while you are in Hawaii. On most days the lookout which is 1,000 feet high, provide an arresting views across Oahu’s rolling hills towards its turquoise waters. But sometimes occasionally clouds will shroud the area and high winds will blow that may create an off balance.
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nestled in Maui, this valley is a lush, stream-cut valley. ‘Iao Valley is recognized as a very special place for both its spiritual value and spectacular scenery. Iao Valley is a peaceful lush area with easy hikes, exotic tropical plants, and clear, natural pools. The ridge-top lookout offers a fantastic view of the valley and Kahului Harbor.
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Crystal clear waters and blue skies make Lanikai Beach a little slice of paradise. Its’ name translates to “heavenly sea” that you will surely agree with as soon as you step on the site. Leave your worries behind you as you walk along the powdery sands, or take a little dip since, according to locals, Lanikai is one of the best swimming beaches in Hawaii. Kayaking, canoeing, or even wind surfing are best ways to quench your adrenaline thirsts. One of the best beaches of Hawaii , Lanikai beach is one of the best tourist places to visit in Hawaii.
Photo Credit : kris krüg
Although not known as a popular tourist destination, the Midways Islands is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. The place is not only well known for its captivating views, picturesque scenery but there is a lot of historic significance is attached to this place. These islands were home of one of the most important battles in World War II, otherwise known as the Battle of Midway. The whole area may have been ravaged by war, but nature has a way of bringing back its beauty. The lack of tourists may have contributed to its quick healing. If you are tired of exploring the crowded sites of Hawaii and want to unwind all your worries then you must visit this place.
Photo Credit : Daniel Ramirez
The place has a fearsome reputation because of its out of control waves. Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Pipeline is undoubtedly the heaviest and most deadly wave in the world. Many surfers come here to showcase their surfing talent.
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