Take the ultimate winter escape in the paradise of Hawaii. When it comes to having something to do, Hawaii offers a wide variety of activities from beach lounging to skydiving, making it a great location for couples, friends, families, and solo travelers. Do as others do and learn to hula dance or go the path less taken and have a thrilling experience cage diving with sharks. The volcanic islands are known for their diverse, but always stunning landscapes. Warm year-round weather makes Hawaii an enjoyable haven from cold winters.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii’s namesake island, also known as the Big Island, is home to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Within the park, there’s a visitor center where you can learn the latest information on conditions and lava flows, the Volcano Art Center Gallery, Crater Rim Drive, Pu’uloa Petroglyph Fields, and more. With three of the five volcanos currently active, the landscape is diverse and includes rain forests and volcanic lava fields. Hike through the park to witness its interesting ecosystem and get incredible views of the summit caldera of Kīlauea.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
One of the United States’ most pivotal moments in the 20th-century, the attack on Pearl Harbor, prompted the country’s formal entry into World War II. At the Pearl Harbor National Memorial visit its five historical sites and learn more about the devastating attack and its effect on the United States. Be moved at the USS Arizona Memorial and educate yourself about the Pacific theater of the war at the visitor center. Take time to visit the USS Missouri Memorial, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and other attractions as well.
Diamond Head
A U.S. National Natural Monument, the volcanic tuff cone of Diamond Head is iconic to visitors and locals. The crater’s easy-to-access location and spectacular views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean make it a popular hiking destination. The trail itself isn’t long but does require walking along uneven surfaces with stairs. On the way to the top, depending on what route you take, you can pass through a tunnel and an old fire control station to witness a little bit of history.
Waikiki Beach
When you think of Hawaii, you think of gorgeous weather and crystalline beaches. This means you’d be remiss to not spend a day or even your entire vacation on the beach. For a cliché, but still fun, experience head to Waikiki Beach. Sip on a mai tai as you watch surfers take on the waves or enjoy the view of Diamond Head. Soak in the sun and cool off with a dip in the Pacific Ocean before spending the evening with some fine dining or a hula show.
Kauai
Kauai may be the smallest island of Hawaii, but it’s arguably the most beautiful and is the oldest inhabited island. See the island in all its amazing natural glory and have stunning views of Na Pali Coast High Cliffs while sailing. Take a drive through Waimea Canyon and stop at viewing points for panoramic scenes of the mountain top gorge. Hike the Waipo’o Falls trail to see the cascading 800-foot waterfall. Take a movie tour and discover the shooting locations of blockbuster hits. If you can’t get enough of the water, snorkel in the reef areas to swim amongst tropical fish.
Take a Helicopter Tour
Visiting every island of Hawaii is a challenge in and of itself. There’s just so much to do! But at the very least you can get a great view of them while flying in a helicopter. Take a helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view of the islands’ diverse landscapes. See majestic volcanos, lush green forests, sandy beaches, hard to reach waterfalls, undiscovered valleys, and more. Be captivated by Hawaii’s natural scenery and feel a world away.
