Hawaii is a popular destination for travelers who want to enjoy the sun, sand and surf, but there’s more to the Aloha State than just beaches and resorts. If you’re looking for some unique and offbeat experiences that will make your trip unforgettable, check out these 10 suggestions.
Dive beneath the surface on an Atlantis submarine
If you want to explore the underwater world of Hawaii without getting wet, hop on board an Atlantis submarine and descend to depths of up to 100 feet. You’ll see colourful coral reefs, sunken shipwrecks, and marine life such as turtles, sharks, and rays. The submarine tour lasts about an hour and a half and departs from Waikiki.
Visit the Hemingway-themed Art Cafe
For a cozy and artistic spot to enjoy breakfast or lunch, head to the Art Cafe Hemingway in Kapa’a, Kauai. This charming cafe is decorated with paintings, books and memorabilia inspired by the famous writer Ernest Hemingway. You can savor delicious quiches, cakes and specialty coffee while admiring the art and listening to jazz music.
Experience Hawaiian culture at the Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center is a living museum that showcases the diverse cultures and traditions of the Pacific Islands. You can visit six different villages representing Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Tahiti and Aotearoa (New Zealand), and watch demonstrations of crafts, dances, games and ceremonies. You can also enjoy a luau feast, a canoe ride and a spectacular evening show.
Hike to a waterfall in Manoa Valley
Manoa Valley is a lush and scenic area that’s only a short drive from downtown Honolulu. It’s home to several hiking trails that lead to stunning waterfalls, such as Manoa Falls and Likeke Falls. The trails are easy to moderate and offer views of tropical plants, birds and rainbows. You may also recognize some of the locations from movies and TV shows such as Jurassic Park and Lost.
Taste authentic Hawaiian cuisine at Helena’s Hawaiian Food
Helena’s Hawaiian Food is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving traditional Hawaiian dishes since 1946. It’s a local favorite that has won several awards for its authentic and flavorful food. You can try specialties such as kalua pig, laulau, pipikaula (dried beef), poi (taro paste), lomi salmon (tomato salad) and haupia (coconut pudding).
Watch the sunrise from Haleakala National Park
Haleakala National Park is a stunning natural wonder that covers more than 30,000 acres on Maui. It features a massive dormant volcano that rises to over 10,000 feet above sea level. One of the most memorable experiences you can have in the park is watching the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala. You’ll need to make a reservation in advance and dress warmly for the chilly weather.
Learn about Hawaii’s history at Iolani Palace
Iolani Palace is a national historic landmark that was once the official residence of the Hawaiian monarchy. It’s the only royal palace in the United States and a symbol of Hawaii’s cultural heritage. You can take a guided or self-guided tour of the palace and see its elegant rooms, furnishings, artifacts and gardens.
Swim with dolphins at Dolphin Quest
Dolphin Quest is an interactive program that allows you to get up close and personal with friendly dolphins. You can choose from different experiences, such as a dolphin encounter, a dolphin adventure or a dolphin trainer for a day. You’ll learn about the dolphins’ behavior, communication and conservation, and have a chance to touch, feed, and play with them.
Enjoy live music at Blue Note Hawaii
Blue Note Hawaii is a premier venue for live music in Honolulu. It hosts local and international artists from various genres, such as jazz, blues, rock, reggae and Hawaiian. You can enjoy the music while sipping on cocktails and dining on gourmet dishes. The club is located inside the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort and offers two shows per night.
Hide out on the beach at Keawiki Bay
For a secluded beach getaway, head to Keawiki Bay on the Big Island, where you’ll find black sand beaches and tranquil waters. You’ll have to drive through lava fields to get there, but the reward is worth it. You can swim, snorkel or kayak in the bay, or just relax on the shore and enjoy the views.
