This is an ordered list of all the things we think are fun to-do in Hawaii. Most of the things on this list are easy for anyone, with the major exceptions being surfing, Scuba Diving, and possible skydiving. But jumping out of an airplane doesn’t really require too much physical effort and gravity is doing most the work. For those that have never snorkeled, most outfitters can get a novice out into the water as long as you are a decent swimmer. Like all hiking, there are easy trails and in Hawaii, so epic difficult multi day hikes, including one that is more of a mountain climbing expedition.
Surfing
One of the premier surfing destinations in the world. Some of the easiest waves to catch are on Waikiki beach in Honolulu. You can get a surf lesson here, but it’s still not the easiest of activities. The north shore of oahu where the famous Bonzi pipeline is located. The North Shore does not’ have crazy big waves all year round. The winter time is the big wave season. Maui is home to one of the most famous big wave sourcing spots in the world “Jaws” Launiupoko Beach Park and The Cove are better spots for beginners. Launiupoko Beach Park and The Cove.
Snokering
There are all sorts of places to go snorkeling by just heading out from the beach. You can see reefs and fish 20 yards off of Waikiki beach. For more of an adventure, take on the of snorkeling cruises. On the big Island Captain Cook is the destination of choice, While you can make a hike and DIY it, it’s a tough hike, and it’s also tough to find a parking spot to make the hike. It’s better to take one of the guided tours. Maui offers incredible snorkeling opportunities, with some of the best spots being Honolua Bay, Kapalua Bay, Molokini Crater, and Black Rock
Scuba Diving
Hawaii is probably not the place to learn how to scuba dive. But if you already have your C card there are some really cool places to dive. If you looking to get certified, the dive show in Honolulu has a class.
Hiking
There are cool easy hikes and some multi day epic hikes. On the big island Volcano Park has some of the big ones. We tried to make the big hike up Mauna Kae on the BIg Island, but only made it about ½ before the altitude got to us and we turned back around.
Fishing
For those of you that like to fish, charter boat and offshore fishing in Hawaii is world class, but very expensive, You can catch your dinner and enjoy fishing form the beach as well. Some of the bottom party fishing boats trip out of Waikiki are about $100. Off shore game fishing is around 2k after tip and other costs. Most of the charter boat also do not allow you to keep the catch, or only a small part of it if you get something big.
The Beach
Waikiki beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world for good reason. The beach itself is very nice. There are shops, malls, hotels, bars, and all sort of other stuff along the several mile strip. If you rent a car on Oahu, the Big Island, or Maui, you can find some amazing beaches that sometimes have a little more privacy and remote feel to them. But even the lesser know beaches typically have a small crowd.
Hunting
Hawaii is an underrated hunting destination. Fames Outdoors man Steve Renlee has done a few episodes on it. There are wild goats everywhere on the Big Island. We passed a handfull on our drive to Maune kay.
Sailing
You can take a ride on a variety of sailboats for about $50-$100.
Exploring Volcanoes
Only 2 islands, The big Island and Maui, have active volcanoes. On the big island the active sites are in Volcano state park. The largest volcano and the largest mountain in Hawaii is Mauna Kea. It’s located just off the main highway that splits the big island, and is not located in Volcano Park. Maui has two volcanoes: the active, massive Haleakalā volcano that forms the eastern part of the island, and the older, heavily eroded Mauna Kahalawai, or West Maui Mountains, that form the western part. Haleakalā is considered a dormant volcano but has erupted at least 10 times in the last 1,000 years. Visitors can explore Haleakalā National Park for hiking and sunrise or sunset views.
Whale Watching
It’s best to catch the wales at the right time of the year Whale watching in Hawaii is a prime winter and spring activity, typically running from December to April, with January to March being the peak months for humpback whales. Maui is considered the best island due to its shallow, calm waters ideal for mothers and calves
Swimming with Manta Rays and Night
This activity is on the Big Island and looks really cool, but we have not had a chance to check in out in person yet.
Zip Lining
Some of the better zip line adventures are on the North Shore of Oahu. Transportation is typically available from Waikiki. A few of the zip line paks also have other activities including ATVs
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
A very popular activity that is available in many different locations. You can rent both on most of the popular beaches, and there are also other tours of rivers and inland waterways. Pricing range can be $30-$100 a day depending on how long you want to rent and the destination.
Museums
Pearl Harbor s is the biggest museum in Hawaii. Some other cool ones include the Bishop, Honolulu Museum of Art, and ʻIolani Palace.
Shopping
The malls and high end shops just off of Wikkiki beach in Honolulu are a shopping destination paradise. Some other cool things can be bought on the Island Circle tour including fresh fruit and coffee straight from the farm.
Dole Plantation
Located on the north shore, it’s a nice little stop on a circle tour.
Diamond Head
You now must have a reservation for Diamond Head hiking trail. There are affordable trip from Waikiki.
Movie Set Tour
There are several types of Movie Set tours, but the main one is the Kualoa Ranch Movie Sites & Ranch Tour with sites from the original Jurassic Park and Lost. It is located on the North Shore of Oahu and trip options include buses and ATV adventures.
The stairway to Heaven
You may no longer hike the stairway to heaven, and if they catch you it’s a very heavy fine. They are pretty serious about shutting this done. Fun hating nanny state BS.
Valley of the Temples
On the north shore of Oahu, this is one of the stops on the Island Circle tour. It’s a very cool Buddhist temple and set of gardens.
Scenic Drives
One of the best ways to explore the islands is by car. You can rent a crap box of a car for really cheap and for the most part they can take you just about anywhere. You have to have a 4×4 to go to the top of Mauna Kea. You can also rent a convertible in Waikiki for the day to explore Oahu. On Maui and the big Island a rental car is almost a must, not really necessary in Honolulu.
4 Wheeling
There are a handful of nice ATV tours on Oahu including the Movie Star tours on the north shore. Typical cost is in $200-$350 range.
Helicopter Rides
Helicopter rides are typically around $300-$500+. Some of the nicer private ones can be several thousand.
Day Cruises.
There are all sorts of boat rides from sunset dinner cruses, snorkeling trips. catamarans, glass bottom boats, and BYOB party boat to name a few. Prices range from $50- $200
Take a submarine ride
There are 3 submarines run by Atlanta One on Oahu, the Big Island, and Maui. Checkout out https://www.atlantisadventures.com/ for more information and pricing.
Glider rides.
On the north shore of Oahu you can ride in a glider, and even take the controls for a little bit. Pricing starts at $100 and is about $250 for a longer ride.
Paddle in a outrigger canoe
This action packed activity is something that is very “Hawaiian”. You can join a crew of fellow paddlers and head out into the ocean on an iconic island canoe. Pricing start at around $50.
Jet Skis and Boat Rentals
You can’t rent ski’s directly on the beach at Waikiki. The companies are all located in the harbor area on the other side of Honolulu.
One the big Island you can rent a boat http://www.konaboatrentals.com/
https://www.bigislandesports.com/ – Rent and E-foil on the Big Island
https://jetskioahu.com/ – In Honolulu, only 130 per person for a 1 hour trip.
Attending a Luau
The price of the Luau can see a bit much for meal, as they run about $150. The meal is typically OK and it’s more about the show and the experience of it all. One Luau per trip is plenty. There is one Luau included in the Premium City Pass.
Golf
There are so many great places to play Golf in Hawaii. Check back soon for our Hawaii Golf Guide.
Tennis
Many of the resorts and nicer hotels have tennis courts, lessons, and other tennis activities. They weather is perfect for this activity.
The City Pass
Like many fun vacation destinations the City Pass can be a great way to hit all the tourist stuff on a limited budget. The City Pass Hawaii is for attractions on the island of Oahu , and most, but not all of them in the city of Honolulu. The City pass typically includes a Luau at one of 2 destinations. Different packages include all sorts of stuff form beach, boats, and access to the museums, One of the best City Pass destination deals you can find. Unlike other places, you have to make reservations for most of the activities, and put down deposits on your credit card to sign up. The deposits are typically charged if you do not show up for the event, so keep that in mind.