Swaying palm trees, glorious sunsets, golden beaches, lush landscapes, and year-round tropical temperatures all await on a getaway to Hawaii. With such lovely surroundings, it’s not hard to simply kick back and relax on a getaway to this remote and beautiful location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
That said, the Hawaiian Islands are also filled with a spectacular array of activities to enjoy. Whether you’re the type to pack in as much as you can on vacation, or balance a little sightseeing with beach time, Hawaii offers a variety of things to do, ranging from snorkeling trips and helicopter tours to opportunities to learn about local culture and history.
We’ve rounded up some of the best places to visit in Hawaii, arranged by island, below. But first, as you’re planning your trip, consider participating in a small service project while you’re there — a simple way to give back to a special place that has served as a popular vacation destination for decades (with all of the impact on the local environment that tourism can bring). Visitors can clean up beaches, plant native trees, and even restore a historic battleship. Check out a number of offerings here — some volunteering projects affiliated with the new Malama Hawaii program can even net you free hotel rooms or other special discounts at certain resorts.