1. Na Pali Coast
Journey to the North Shore of Kaua‘i and take in the dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast and the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Hike along the Kalalau Trail and take in the majestic green cliffs, cascading waterfalls and the deep, narrow valleys. For a stunning view without the hike, try a helicopter tour.
2. Haleakala National Park
Feel the power of nature at Haleakala National Park on Maui. Hike or drive to the summit of Haleakala, Maui’s highest peak. Wake up early and head to the Haleakala Visitor Center to catch the sunrise.
3. Pearl Harbor
Take a tour of Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and the USS Arizona Memorial and learn about the historic attack on Pearl Harbor. The USS Arizona Memorial is built over the sunken wreckage of the USS Arizona, the final resting place for many of its crewmen.
4. Traditional Luau
Don’t leave Hawai‘i without taking part in an authentic luau where you can get a taste of Hawaiian culture and food. See the kalua pork unveiled during the imu ceremony (an imu is an underground oven). Watch the art of the hula and the talented fire knife dancers as they spin and twirl their knives into the night sky. Join a tour to experience the warmth of the island’s people and genuine aloha spirit.
5. Waikiki Beach
The crescent beach of Waikiki is known as the birthplace of modern surfing and is the perfect place to learn to surf. At the end of the day, relax in one of the beachfront bars with a cocktail and watch a spectacular Waikiki sunset.
6. Diamond Head Hike
Hike to the top of one of Waikiki’s iconic peaks, Diamond Head. The 1.3 kilometre trek to the summit of this extinct volcano will reward you with stunning views of Waikiki and O‘ahu south shore.
7. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
Get a close up look at the world’s most active volcano, Kilauea and see the fiery Halemaumau Crater on the Island of Hawai‘i. Walk one of the many hiking trails and discover fire pits, a lava tube and an 18 kilometre crater rim.
8. Drive the Hana Highway
With 620 bends and 59 bridges, Maui’s Hana Highway is one of the world’s most scenic drives. Pass through rainforests, flowing waterfalls and picturesque seascapes. Make sure your stop off at Wai‘anapanapa State Park, Ho‘okipa Lookout and Wailua Falls before you reach sleepy Hana town. See pages 16, 35.
9. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay
The crystal clear waters of Hanauma Bay State Park, O‘ahu, are a sanctuary for snorkellers. An easy shuttle ride from Waikiki (entrance fees apply) and you will be rewarded with the stunning beach, tropical fish, colourful coral and maybe even a sea turtle! Other great places to snorkel and dive are Kealakekua Bay (Island of Hawai‘i), Poipu Beach (Kaua‘i) and Molokini Crater (Maui).
10. Waimea Canyon State Park
Known as ‘the Grand Canyon of the Pacific’, Waimea Canyon is located on the southwest side of Kaua‘i. 22 kilometres in length and over one kilometre deep, enjoy panoramic views of the deep valleys and rugged gorges from the lookouts.