If I haaaaad to pick a favorite place in the world, Hawaii would be pretty high on that list. Each island offers such a diverse blend of adventurous things to do. From snorkeling to beach-hopping, the options are truly endless. Here’s the ultimate Hawaii bucket list for adventure lovers!
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Table of Contents
Oahu, Hawaii Bucket List
Oahu is definitely the busiest island we’ve visited, BUT it is still jam-packed with amazing things to do!
1. Whale-Watching
Whale watching in Hawaii is a must on any Hawaiian itinerary. The best time to see these gentle giants is between December and April. Trust me, watching humpback whales breach the ocean’s surface is a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle. So so cool!
Check out popular Oahu Whale Tours here!
2. Snorkel Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is definitely one of the most epic snorkeling spots in the USA! After arriving, you’ll get your first glimpse at this unique volcanic cone. Then, you can take the shuttle or a short stroll down and head in the water.
Teeming with colorful fish and vibrant coral, it’s like swimming in a giant aquarium. It’s a great spot for beginners too as you’ll typically be met with calm and shallow waters. As always, remember to respect the reef and marine life.
Reserving a time slot can be a bit challenging, read more about my experience here!
3. Conquer Koko Head
Ready for a challenge? Koko Head Crater Trail is a steep (steeeeeeeeep) hike with over 1,000 steps, but the panoramic view at the top is absolutely worth every drop of sweat.
Sunrise hikes here? Absolutely breathtaking (and more enjoyable as you won’t be roasting in the mid-summer day sun the entire trek). It’s a must on any hiker’s bucket list!
4. Road Trip the North Shore
The North Shore is Oahu’s laid-back, surfer-cool region (think all things shakabrah vibes). It’s a road trip filled with stunning beaches, food trucks (hello, shrimp tacos!), and charming towns.
Depending on the amount of time you have, you can make stops at (in order of east-to-west loop) The Byodo-In Temple, Kualoa Ranch (tours needed), Ehukai Pillbox Hike, Banzai Pipeline (to watch surfers tackle massive waves), Waimea Falls, the town of Haleiwa, and the Dole Plantation.
5. Hike Diamond Head
This iconic landmark is a must-hike for any visitor. It’s a relatively easy trek and the views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean from the summit are spectacular. Go early to beat the heat and the crowds.
Tip! Advance reservations are required!!
6. Go Waterfall Hunting
Oahu is dotted with hidden waterfalls. Whether it’s the popular Manoa Falls or the more secluded Likeke Falls, the journey through lush greenery to these natural wonders is as exciting as the destination.
7. Visit Pearl Harbor Memorial
The Pearl Harbor Memorial is a profound and moving site. Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial was a powerful reminder of history and the sacrifices made during WWII.
Book your Pearl Harbor Here!
8. Sunrise at Lanikai Pillbox
The Lanikai Pillbox hike is short (but steep) and offers stunning sunrise views over Lanikai Beach. The early morning effort is rewarded with a serene, picture-perfect start to the day.
Then, be sure to have a beach day at Lanikai Beach afterward. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve seen!
Insider tip! There’s unfortunately no parking lot at this trailhead. This means you have to find street parking in the residential area. Be sure to follow street signs and not block any driveways. Nobody wants to deal with your car being towed on vacation.
9. Picnic at Makapuu Lighthouse
The Makapuu Lighthouse trail is an easy, paved path ideal for families and beginner hikers. Pack a picnic and enjoy the incredible ocean views at the top. Keep an eye out for whales during the migration season!
10. Doors Off Helicopter Tour
For the thrill-seekers, a doors-off helicopter tour is exhilarating. Flying over Oahu’s dramatic landscapes without doors is an adrenaline rush and provides unobstructed views. There are several different tour companies to choose from ranging from 30 to 60-minute adventures!
This one is still on my Hawaiian bucket list!
11. Snorkel with Turtles
When I picture Hawaii, I see sunshine, rainbows, and of course sea turtles! Snorkeling with Hawaiian green sea turtles is a magical experience. Laniakea Beach on the North Shore is a popular spot, but remember to give these beautiful creatures space and respect.
Check out different snorkel tour options here!
12. Atlantis Submarine
Dive into the deep without getting wet! The Atlantis Submarine adventure is a unique way to explore Hawaii’s underwater world, especially for those who prefer not to snorkel or dive.
13. Dive with Sharks
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try cage diving with sharks. It’s safe, surreal, and lets you see these misunderstood creatures up close in their natural habitat.
14. Tour the Dole Plantation
Okay, this one is a bit less adventurous than cage diving with sharks…but hey, everyone has their own definition of adventure! A trip to the Dole Plantation is a fun way to decompress after all the adventures on this Hawaiian bucket list!
Visitors can enjoy the Pineapple Express Train Tour, a garden tour, the famous maze, and of course tastes of the delicious Dole Soft Serve. You can visit here on your own or as part of a guided North Shore tour!
15. Explore the Kualoa Ranch
Kualoa Ranch is a breathtakingly beautiful area, famous for being the filming location for movies like Jurassic Park. Take a guided tour, go horseback riding, or explore the lush valleys and mountains. It’s a perfect addition to any Oahu Bucket list!
Big Island of Hawaii Bucket List
The Big Island surprised me the most out of all the Hawaiian islands. It’s nothing like you would imagine, yet full of the most amazing adventures. From staying in a cozy jungle B&B to seeing real live lava with my own two eyes, it may be hard to beat.
16. Snorkel at Night with Manta Rays
Snorkeling with manta rays at night off the Kona Coast is an amazing (yet slightly creepy) experience. Jumping into the ocean at night is quite the experience (I’m a big ol’ baby though, so you may not be as scared as me).
ANYWAY, during your snorkel tour, the guides will have a large floating raft (with blue lights) to hold on to. Then, you’ll get to float above these gentle giants as they gracefully glide through the ocean.
There are many different tours to choose from, but they do oftentimes sell out so be sure to reserve your spot in advance!
Keep Reading: The BEST Snorkeling Spots on the Big Island
17. Marvel at the Lava
Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and witnessing the raw power of active lava flows is a humbling experience. This is actually the reason the Big Island was ever even on my radar.
After exploring the park during the day, be sure to go back at night to see the glow of the lava below. It’s really something you’ll never forget.
Side note: There’s not always lava flowing. It is nature after all.
18. Hike on a Volcano
Hiking on an actual volcano is as epic as it sounds. Trails in the Volcanoes National Park range from easy walks through lush rainforests to challenging treks across lunar-like landscapes. We especially enjoyed the Kilauea Iki and Crater Rim Trail (3.2 miles) as you get to walk right across the crater’s rim. (Yep, rain and all it was still AMAZING!)
19. Kaumana Caves
Exploring the Kaumana Caves was my husband’s favorite part of the trip (maybe his favorite adventure ever). These caves are part of a 25-mile-long lava tube and offer a unique spelunking experience.
Delve into the cool, dark caves and marvel at the fascinating formations created by ancient lava flows. At some point, the caves turn into private property, but it is a bit unclear as to where. If wanting to explore, be sure to wear closed-toe shoes and bring a flashlight. A helmet would be a great idea as well.
20. Chase Waterfalls
The Big Island is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii. And you should know by now that chasing waterfalls is my absolute favorite thing to do.
From the easily accessible Rainbow Falls in Hilo to the more secluded Waipi’o Valley waterfalls, each offers a tranquil and picturesque setting.
21. Shop at the Hilo Farmers Market
Experience local culture and flavors at the Hilo Farmers Market. It’s a great spot to pick up fresh fruits, artisanal foods, and unique crafts. Plus, chatting with local vendors is always a joy.
22. Picnic with Sea Turtles
Find a spot on one of the many beaches where Hawaiian green sea turtles bask in the sun. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is a popular spot. We stopped here after spending the day in the National Park as it’s less than 1 hour away. It’s a great spot for sunset!
23. Beach Hop in Kona
Kona is famous for its beautiful beaches and sunny skies. It was actually the first time we saw the sun during our trip to the Big Island! From the white sands of Hapuna Beach to the unique green sands of Papakolea, beach hopping in Kona is a day well spent.
24. Whale Watch
The Big Island is an excellent place for whale watching, especially from December to April. Witnessing these magnificent creatures breach the water is a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
Maui, Hawaii Bucket List
Maui was the first Hawaiian island we visited and we were instantly hooked. It’s the quintessential “Hawaii” experience and quite the contrast to the Big Island!
25. Drive the Road to Hana
The Road to Hana is the ultimate road trip, famed for its stunning views, waterfalls, and lush landscapes. This winding journey offers numerous stops for hiking, picnicking, and photo ops.
Remember, it’s more about the journey than the destination! And be sure to pack motion sickness meds as it’s quite the curvy ride!
Pro tip! Download Guide Along audio tours before visiting! It’s your personal tour guide on your radio!
26. Hike the Pipiwai Trail
Located in the Kipahulu section of Haleakala National Park (at the end of The Road To Hana), the Pipiwai Trail is a breathtaking hike that leads you through a bamboo forest to the majestic Waimoku Falls.
It’s a trek that encapsulates the essence of Maui’s natural beauty and my all.time.favorite.hike (and that’s saying A LOT).
27. Go Snuba Diving
Snuba diving is a unique cross between snorkeling and scuba diving and is a great way to explore Maui’s underwater world without needing a scuba certification. The clear waters are teeming with vibrant marine life.
It was perfect for a scaredy-cat like me as I could still see the surface and raft at all times.
Check out more Molokini snorkel tours here!
28. Hike the Waihee Ridge Trail
For those seeking stunning panoramic views, the Waihee Ridge Trail is a must. This moderately challenging hike takes you through lush forests and offers incredible views of the valley and coastline. It’s a great addition to any adventure-lovers Hawaiian bucket list!
29. Boogie Board at the Beach
There are countless beaches to check out on the beautiful island of Maui! Grab your boogie board and spend a day beach hopping! Just be mindful of the strong currents and shore breaks of the various beaches.
30. Watch the Sunrise or Sunset on Top of Mt. Haleakala
Experiencing sunrise or sunset at the summit of Mt. Haleakala is a magical experience. The view from above the clouds is otherworldly, and the changing colors of the sky are truly mesmerizing. Reservations are required for sunrise, but we went at sunset and had the best time!
Be sure to arrive early to have some time to check out the trails. It’s truly otherworldly!
31. Go Ziplining
Maui offers several ziplining tours that provide an adrenaline rush along with stunning aerial views of the island. It’s a fun way to experience Maui’s scenic landscapes from a different perspective.
32. ATV Adventure
For a bit of off-road excitement, an ATV tour is the way to go. It’s a fun way to explore the island’s diverse terrain while satisfying your adventurous spirit.
32. Take a Surf Lesson
Maui is a great place to learn surfing, with its gentle waves and expert instructors. Catching your first wave is an exhilarating experience you won’t soon forget. Make sure you are patient as it can be tricky!!
33. Maui Pineapple Tour
Indulge in the sweet taste of Maui on a pineapple tour. Learn about the growing process, tour the fields, and enjoy fresh pineapple right where it’s grown.
Kauai, Hawaii Bucket List
Unfortunately, I haven’t been to Kauai yet. BUT, it’s super high on my bucket list with these adventurous activities topping the list!
34. Napali Coast Raft Adventure
Embarking on a raft adventure along the Napali Coast is an exhilarating way to experience Kauai’s most stunning coastline. The rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and hidden beaches you’ll see are straight out of a dream.
35. Kayak to Secret Falls
Imagine kayaking down the Wailua River, surrounded by lush greenery, then hiking to a secluded waterfall, aptly named Secret Falls. This adventure combines the tranquility of paddling with the excitement of hiking through a tropical paradise. Expect to spend 5+ hours on this adventure!
36. Doors-Off Helicopter Tour
For a truly thrilling and bucket-list-worthy experience, a doors-off helicopter tour over Kauai is a must. Soaring over the Waimea Canyon, the Napali Coast, and the waterfalls of the Hanalei Valley without doors is both thrilling and offers unobstructed views of the island’s breathtaking landscapes.
Check prices and availability here!
37. Sunset Dinner Sail
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a delicious dinner while sailing into the sunset along Kauai’s coast. This experience combines romance, relaxation, and scenic beauty, making it a perfect evening activity.
FREEBIE! Bucket List Hawaii
I’m obsessed with Hawaii and all the amazing adventures. Although this Hawaii bucket list is just scratching the surface, you could seriously spend months exploring. I’ve made a few fun printables so you can start planning your own Hawaiian adventure!
Click here (or the picture) to download your free PRINTABLE Hawaiian Bucket Lists!
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