Hawaii: An Island Full of Adventure
For active travelers, there’s no place on Earth quite like the Hawaiian Islands. From crystal blue waters to black sand beaches, comfy holiday homes, Hawai‘i’s iconic locations will fill any bucket list. But there’s more to Hawai‘i than what you’ve heard about—so take a moment to wander off the beaten path. Hike to a secret waterfall. Find a surfing spot the locals love. Go for a stroll on a secluded beach. You won’t need a roadmap to find your most memorable moments. MAUI. The Valley Isle is a great place for “firsts.” Such as your first time seeing the sunrise atop a dormant volcano (Haleakalā). Your first surfing lesson with a local pro, off the shores of Lāhainā. Or your first helicopter ride over emerald valleys and sparkling waterfalls. For a unique adventure on water, try a private guided tour via stand-up paddleboard or kayak. Or join a snorkeling or diving expedition at Molokini, a crescent shaped volcanic islet just off Maui. Your Maui adventure is only just getting started. How about climbing a waterfall, and then cooling off in the crystal pool below? Or hiking along a bamboo-fringed trail in the rainforest? Take a moment to stop and smell the tropical flowers along the way. KAUA‘I. Get ready for days filled to the brim with adventure on Kaua‘i. Start with a hike for an up-close experience with the island’s natural beauty and wonders. Explore the trails of Waimea Canyon, or hit the Kalalau Trail to Kōke‘e State Park. On water, you can boat along the sea cliffs of the stunning Nāpali Coast, kayak down the Wailua River, or mountain tube in the water flumes of Līhu‘e. Savor the beauty of Kaua’i’s east coast on a leisurely bike ride along the Ke Ala Hele Makalae path. Or take a zipline canopy tour in nearby Nāwiliwili. Love off-roading? Get some ATV or 4x4 wheels and set off for an excursion along the island’s rugged South Shore—through jungle landscapes, sugar plantations, and breathtaking movie locations. Best of all, leave your GPS behind and see what surprises Kaua‘i has in store for you. O‘AHU. There’s no shortage of excitement on O‘ahu—where some of the world’s most skilled surfers hang ten on the curling waves of the North Shore. If you’re tempted to try surfing yourself, you can take lessons in the calm waters of Waikīkī. Maybe you’d rather get your heart pumping by parasailing over turquoise waters. Or try the quieter pleasures of boating: Take a romantic catamaran cruise, or go kayaking to a secluded offshore island. On land, hike iconic Lē‘ahi (Diamond Head), or explore the Makapu‘u Lighthouse Trail on the island’s eastern tip. Ready to venture off the beaten path? Head to the Manoa Falls hike and feel like you’re in the middle of the rainforest.
MOLOKA‘I. Time seems to stand still on Moloka‘i, perhaps Hawai‘i’s most pristine island. Here, you can explore Hawai‘i as it was long ago—simple, untouched, and filled with local culture and community. You won’t find one traffic light here, but you will find plenty of wondrous activities to fill your days. Ease into the spirit of Moloka‘i with a classic island experience: a mule ride to Kalaupapa National Park, which sits at the base of the highest sea cliffs in the world. Ride down the 2.9-mile trail, descending 1,700 feet to Kalaupapa Peninsula. Craving a dip? Discover a snorkeling and scuba paradise along the island’s south shore— the site of Hawai‘i’s longest continuous fringing reef (28 miles long). Dive in when the waters are calm, and admire the “finger” coral, stony coral, and bright schools of fish.