Sightseeing in Hawaii: Pro Tips & Favorite Spots!

You dream of sightseeing in Hawaii. You know this is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world, and you want to marvel at its awe-inspiring sights up close. 

Endless blue stretching toward the horizon, towering mountains rich with jungle greens, open volcanic craters, and colorful gardens. You can see all this and more during your Hawaiian vacation, but you need to have a good plan, some flexibility, and open eyes. 

Today we’re sharing all our best tips, insights, and hotspots for sightseeing in Hawaii. Read through it and get ready to see some of the most inspiring wonders in the world 

The Importance of Sightseeing on Vacation

Too many people visit Hawaii and don’t go far beyond their hotel grounds. Everyone should vacation their own way, but we always encourage visitors to explore the islands – at least a little bit. After all, there are lots of benefits to sightseeing, no matter where you vacation.

Here are some of the ways that sightseeing can enrich any getaway:

• Many sightseeing spots also have an interesting geological and/or historical significance, so you can gain knowledge and insight during your visit. 
• Sightseeing is an excellent practice for mindset and groundedness. Enjoy being present and in the moment. 
• Taking in beautiful views can stimulate the mind and encourage creativity. 
• Getting out and about encourages connectedness – with your travel destination and with fellow travelers. 
• Increase cultural awareness while sightseeing. 

How to Sightsee in Hawaii

If you want to get out and about, you’ll have lots of options in Hawaii. Read on to discover the top ways to sightsee during your vacation.

Hawaii Roadtrips

Our favorite way to see the beautiful sights of Hawaii is by driving around the island. So much beauty awaits along the roadside, and you may find unexpected sights along the way. 

First-time visitors may imagine small islands with only a few places to visit. But the Hawaiian islands are large and diverse, and you could spend multiple days simply driving around the islands. 

While you explore, you’ll visit multiple towns, see beaches in all shapes and sizes, enjoy scenic overlooks, and encounter new and unique sights. 

We’ll highlight some of our favorite Hawaii sightseeing routes later on, but for now, remember that driving around the islands is a top activity!

Chauffeured Drivers & Bus Tours

Driving yourself around Hawaii has many downsides. First, you’re choosing your own routes and stops. The freedom’s nice, but you might get it wrong, missing out on spectacular sights and spending too much time accessing less impressive locales. 

Second of all – and this is a big one – is the safety concern. There’s a lot of sightseeing available as you drive through Hawaii, with no stopping necessary. BUT, the driver of your group will miss out on all of this. Even the most focused drivers can become distracted quickly when they see something beautiful. 

The solution? Leave the driving to the experts. 

You can book a private, chauffeured driving tour (check out this custom Oahu circle island tour!), or you can join a bus tour with other visitors. 

A bus tour will cost less than a private trip, but a private one can be customized to your unique preferences. 

Either one takes a big burden off your travel group by allowing all of you to take the passenger seat and simply enjoy sightseeing in Hawaii

Hiking in Hawaii

Some of Hawaii’s best sightseeing is accessible by car. If you want to discover hidden gems, and really take the time to appreciate all of it, you’ll want to sightsee on foot. There are a range of hikes throughout the islands. You’ll find short, paved walks that just take a few minutes along with complex, multi-mile trails that take you through diverse scenery (and everything in between!). 

When you hike through Hawaii, you’ll realize sightseeing isn’t just about the single spot with incredible views – it’s also about the little things you see along the way. Native plants growing in deep jungles, gentle waterways trickling through quiet landscapes, birds overhead and rock underneath. Even a small hike can help you appreciate all the small things that make Hawaii so incredibly beautiful. 

Sightseeing in Hawaii from the Water

One of our favorite ways to enjoy Hawaii’s scenery is by getting on the water. This offers a unique vantage point, allowing you to observe the shape of the islands while getting up close to the water. Whether you opt for a large catamaran, a small kayak, or a smaller, faster vessel, you’ll get to take in some of the best sights in Hawaii. 

This is also your chance to double-up on some activities. Enjoy activities like whale-watching, snorkeling, parasailing, deep-sea fishing, or drinking, all while sightseeing in Hawaii.

Hawaii Helicopter Tours

If you really want to live it up in Hawaii, you can see Hawaii from the air. Helicopter tours are offered throughout the islands and offer unique vantages that you can’t get any other way. They’re a big investment, but could be worth it for travelers who want an awe-inspiring experience. 

The Best Sightseeing Spots in Hawaii

Now you know how and why to sightsee – but what should you actually see while you’re here? 

Everybody has different sights that bring them different joy. Maybe you’re awe-struck by tall mountains and deep blues. Maybe you can’t get enough of bright oceans and clear skies. Or maybe you enjoy some history and culture mixed in with your sightseeing. 

Here are a few of our favorite sightseeing spots in Hawaii – which one will you include in your next vacation?

Sightseeing on Oahu

Pearl Harbor

Take in the solemn USS Arizona Memorial and consider visiting the other attractions in the area. 

Diamond Head

You’ve seen Diamond Head standing all over Waikiki. But did you know you can also hike to its peak and enjoy panoramic views of the Honolulu coastline and the Pacific Ocean?

Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden

If you want to find lush, mountain views and tranquil ponds, the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is a must-visit. Best of all, admission is free.

Makapu’u Point

This roadside walking path takes you to an incredible view of the ocean and coastline. Pro Tip: Visit in the winter to look for whales in the water below. 

Lanikai Beach

This is one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. It’s a wonder to look at, and also a lot of fun to play at too. When conditions are right, Lanikai Beach is excellent for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking. 

Waimea Valley

This private botanical garden and accessible hike allows you to walk through beautiful plant life on Oahu’s north shore. At the end is a natural waterfall where you can swim. 

Nuʻuanu Pali Overlook

If you’re driving around Oahu, you should definitely stop by the Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside. Here, you can take in expansive views of the Koʻolau cliffs and the windward coast. It’s also incredible to feel the intense wind that rushes through the overlook. It’s also a significant battle site in Hawaii history – you can learn all about the history and beauty of Nuʻuanu here!

Maui Sightseeing

The Road to Hana

Driving the Road to Hana is one of the most famous activities on Maui. Along this route, you can see a number of waterfalls, scenic vistas, gardens, and beaches. Plan a self-guided tour, or book a guided Road to Hana tour. 

Haleakala

Lots of people have a Haleakala sunrise on their Hawaii bucket list. In our opinion, Haleakala is beautiful any time of day, especially at sunset when you can stick around for stargazing. 

Kapalua Coastal Trail

West Maui is packed with beautiful sites, including Nakalele Blowhole and Honolua Bay. One of our favorite sights in West Maui is the Kapalua Coastal Trail. This beautiful stretch of walkway stands atop ragged oceanside cliffs that are often battered by massive waves. 

Maui Tropical Plantation

This small garden features colorful tropical flowers and sweeping views of the west Maui mountains. It’s a quick and easy stop that’s always a hit when I welcome visitors to Maui. 

Waianapanapa State Park

This is one of the final stops on the Road to Hana, and it’s definitely worth the effort to get here. A black-sand beach, a blowhole, and impressive ocean views are just some of what you can look forward to at Waianapanapa State Park. 

Makena Cove

Makena Cove feels like a truly secret beach. When the tide is low and conditions are calm, you won’t have it all to yourself, but you can still enjoy its beauty. It has a quintessential Hawaiian setting: soft sand, bright green palm trees, dark black lava rock, and glistening blue water. Conditions aren’t great for swimming, but it’s excellent for sightseeing and watching a classic Hawaii sunset. 

Kauai Sightseeing

Waimea Canyon State Park

Waimea Canyon is so massive and beautiful that it’s been called “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” When you see it in person, you won’t believe such an iconic landscape is hidden here in Hawaii. 

Napali Coast

Some of Hawaii’s most iconic sightseeing is available on Kauai. One of our favorites is the Napili Coast, a massive, uninhabited coastline on northern Kauai. Experienced hikers can see it on foot, but we recommend a boat tour. 

Kilauea Lighthouse

This north shore Kauai landmark is an ideal spot for birdwatchers. But anyone can appreciate the scenic overlook and beautiful grounds. 

Wailua River

The Wailua River on Kauai is Hawaii’s only large, navigable river. And it’s such a treat for visitors! Explore on a boat tour, or paddle through it on a kayak. You’ll enjoy unique jungle sites in a tranquil setting. 

Tunnels Beach

There are a lot of stunning beaches on Kauai. For amazing sightseeing, check out Tunnels Beach on the north shore. In good conditions, this is also a popular snorkel spot. 

Hawaii Island Sightseeing (The Big Island)

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on your travel bucket list? The sightseeing here is amazing, including deep cauldrons, volcanic glows, rugged lava fields, and jungle trails. 

ʻAkaka Falls State Park

A massive waterfall is the focal point of this Hawaii state park. But you’ll also see rich jungle landscapes with unique plant life. Prepare for lots of steps during this short but somewhat strenuous hike – and prepare for gorgeous sights!

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

During my recent trip to Hawaii Island, I was really impressed by Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park. There are interesting cultural and historical sites here, and calm scenic waters where you can swim or simply enjoy the views. 

Waipiʻo Valley Lookout

If you’re taking a Hawaii Island roadtrip, include Waipiʻo Valley Lookout on your route. This beautiful spot looks out over a small off-grid community, a remote beach, and looming mountains. You can also join a guided driving tour into the valley if you want to see its sights close up. 

Mauna Kea

You can catch great views if you visit Mauna Kea during the day, but we recommend going just before sunset so you can stick around for its world-famous stargazing. 

Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden

With so much free and cheap sightseeing to do in Hawaii, is it worth it to pay for a botanical garden? Most visitors to Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden find that it’s well-worth the price of admission. Enjoy a tranquil walk through the tropical forest and feast your eyes on beautiful ocean views. The higher admission price means fewer crowds and well-maintained paths. 

Planning Your Hawaii Sightseeing Vacation

Did we inspire you to explore the Hawaiian Islands? You probably can’t see it all during one vacation, but once you get a taste of Hawaii’s beauty, you’ll want to return again and again. 

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, we want to help take your Hawaii vacation to the next level. We can help with logistics and bookings, all while providing expert guidance on activities, sightseeing, and more. 

We’ll see you in Hawaii soon!