Top 10 things to do in Hawaii
Hawaii can be whatever you want it to be. On the one hand it's a natural tropical paradise with lush rainforests, idyllic beaches and a Polynesian culture that's famous for hospitality. On the other, it's a thoroughly modern destination for shopping, dining out, bar-hopping and nightlife. Part of the attraction lies in how easy it is to be chilled out one moment and living it large the next. To help you make the most of your holiday, here's our pick of top things to do in Hawaii.
1. Explore Pearl Harbour
The 1941 attack on Pearl Harbour led to the USA entering World War II. Today the harbour is still an active military base, but it's also Hawaii's most famous visitor attraction. You can board the 'Mighty Mo' (USS Missouri) to see a battleship that's now a museum, then catch a boat to the memorial built over the sunken USS Arizona. Nearly 1,000 men are entombed in the vessel's hull, now a national cemetery. Pearl Harbour also has the Pacific Aviation Museum, which has an impressive collection of military aircraft from World War II.
2. Hike Diamond Head
On the coast near Honolulu, Diamond Head is a distinctive volcanic cone with a huge circular explosion crater. It's an incredible place for hiking. The trail involves a series of switchbacks and tunnels to reach the summit, where you'll find breathtaking views of Honolulu and the North Pacific ocean. The sparkling calcite crystals on the slopes of the crater were once mistaken for diamonds, which is how the mountain got its name.
3. Go whale watching
Whale watching trips from Honolulu take you to see northern hemisphere humpback whales in their natural habitat. The season typically runs from December to May, with peak sightings occurring in January and February. Tour operators offer guided tours that provide expert commentary on the whales' behaviour and history.
4. Learn to surf at Waikiki
Surfing was born in Hawaii, and there's no better place to learn or improve your skills than Waikiki Beach. The gentle, rolling waves are perfect for beginners and instructors are on hand to provide guidance and support, ensuring that you feel safe and confident on your board. With iconic Diamond Head in the background, this is a sporting adventure you'll never forget.
5. Shop at Ala Moana
Drag yourself off the beach, because Honolulu's shopping is rated by many visitors as one of their top things to do in Hawaii. In the centre of town is Ala Moana, the world's largest outdoor mall with more than 350 stores on pedestrian boulevards decorated with palm trees and water features. Bargain-hunters should head to Waikele Premium Outlets, which is 40 minutes west of Honolulu.
6. Visit Volcanoes National Park
A short domestic flight gets you to Hilo on the 'Big Island' of Hawaii. Stay a couple of nights so that you can rent a car and drive to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If you'd rather not drive, local tour operators provide transport. Hiking trails take you through lush rainforests, over old lava flows and across solidified lava lakes. The park also has lava tubes and ancient Hawaiian rock carvings. To view volcanic activity that can't be seen on foot, catch a helicopter or fixed wing scenic flight from Hilo.
7. Take a trip to Oahu's North Shore
An hour's drive from Honolulu's buzz, the North Shore retains the feel of old-time Oahu - small villages, laidback lifestyle, bush walks and mile-upon-mile of surf beaches. It's a hub for free things to do in Hawaii with family. Surfers say if the perfect wave exists, you'll find it here. Browse the shops to discover locally crafted surfboards, clothing, jewellery and one-of-a-kind treasures. The North Shore also has several snorkelling spots protected by an outer reef.
8. Choose your adventures at Kualoa Ranch
They filmed Jurassic Park, Pearl Harbour, Magnum PI and LOST at Kualoa Ranch, but it's much more than a movie set. The 1,620 hectare working cattle ranch and private reserve is a paradise for outdoor activities like horse riding, all-terrain vehicles, e-bikes, zip-lining and tramping. For a special experience, you can check out Secret Island or board a catamaran and head out on the bay for offshore views of the mountains.
9. Go flightseeing
The true scale of Oahu's dramatic volcanic landscape - with its sheer cliffs, deep valleys, hidden beaches and stunning waterfalls - is hard to appreciate while on land. Charter a chopper or climb into a small plane to soar over world-famous surf breaks, the 300 metre Ali'i Sacred Falls, lush tropical valleys and historic Pearl Harbour.
10. Visit the royals at Iolani Palace
Downtown Honolulu has the only royal residence on USA soil. At Iolani Palace, built in 1882, you can explore the grand halls, throne room and dining room – even the 'imprisonment room' of luckless Queen Liliuokalani. Fully restored to its original grandeur, the palace is a registered National Historic Landmark. There are several guided tours available or you can take a self-guided audio tour. It's best to buy tickets in advance.