Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Hawaii: Expert Picks and Where to Stay
Discover the best places to visit in Hawaii, a bucket-list destination for travelers worldwide. Each island boasts unique attractions. Drawing from our extensive firsthand experience, we've curated this guide to top spots—and the best places to stay nearby.
Black Rock at Ka'anapali Beach (Maui)
Adventure enthusiasts flock to Black Rock for cliff diving, scuba diving, snorkeling amid tropical fish, and frequent sea turtle sightings. The dramatic scenery is a photographer's dream.
Every evening, the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa hosts a torch-lighting and cliff-diving ceremony, evoking ancient legends of spirits leaping from the rocks. Arrive early for sunset views and make it a full-day outing.
Where to Stay on Ka'anapali Beach
Ka'anapali Beach Hotel: A highly rated mid-range resort steps from the sand.
Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa: Luxury accommodations at the base of Black Rock.
Waipiʻo Valley (Hawaiʻi, The Big Island)
Home to Hawaiʻi's tallest waterfall, this secluded valley hides gems accessible only via guided tours on private land. We recommend KapohoKine Adventures; options include horseback or ATV excursions.
Where to Stay near Waipiʻo Valley
Waipiʻo Lodge: Mid-range, highly rated option right near the valley.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel: A four-star gem on the Kohala Coast, about an hour's drive away.
Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel: Features a swimmable beach with resident turtles for snorkeling. We stayed three nights and hated to leave!
Read more: Big Island Hawaii Travel Guide & Packing Tips
Shipwreck Beach (Kauai)
Named for a long-gone wreck, this beach offers epic views and draws local surfers. Strong swimmers only due to rough conditions; it's ideal for experienced surfers and boogie boarders. Hike the Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail and relax on golden sands.
Where to Stay near Shipwreck Beach
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa: Luxurious beachfront property, traveler favorite.
Koa Kea Hotel & Resort: Upscale stay 2.5 miles away with restaurant and spa.
Kauai Inn: Budget-friendly, amenity-rich option slightly inland.
Read more: How to Travel Kauai on a Budget
Road to Hana (Maui)
The iconic Road to Hana is a Hawaiʻi essential. Rent a Jeep, pack snacks, and drive 2-3 hours (with countless stops). Extend your trip for waterfalls, beaches, trails, and dining along Hana Highway. Book in Hana Town.
Where to Stay on the Road to Hana
Travaasa Hana: Wellness-focused resort amid 70 acres of gardens, with cultural classes and adventures.
Paia Inn: Mid-range base for Road to Hana explorations.
Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Maui on a Budget
Na Pali Coast (Kauai)
This 17-mile rugged shoreline is accessible only by sea, air, or foot. Swim in the Open Ceiling Sea Cave and photograph Waiahuakua stream cascading through the cave roof.
Where to Stay near the Na Pali Coast
The St. Regis Princeville: Stunning resort near key trails—we highly recommend the North Shore.
Wyndham Bali Hai: Mid-range apartments with full kitchens.
Read more: The Best Way to See Kauai's Na Pali Coast
Papohaku Beach (Molokai)
One of Hawaiʻi's largest white-sand beaches offers serene escapes and Oahu views—but avoid swimming due to dangerous currents.
Where to Stay near Papohaku Beach
Hotel Molokai: Mid-range hotel, 40-minute drive away.
Read more: Molokai, Hawaii Travel Guide + Packing Tips
Manele Bay (Lanaʻi)
Family-friendly Hulopoe Beach offers swimming, tide pools, golf at Four Seasons, and cultural activities like hula lessons.
Where to Stay in Manele Bay
Four Seasons Resort Lanaʻi: Luxury with garden and ocean views.
Hotel Lanaʻi: Budget-friendly for solo travelers.
Lahaina Shores: Mid-range in central Lahaina.
Read more: How to Choose the Best Hawaiian Island for Your Vacation
Kalaupapa (Molokai)
This historic site, once home to a leprosy settlement, features St. Philomena Church and Father Damien's legacy. Book a Damien tour; mule rides are currently unavailable. Prepare for a poignant experience.
Where to Stay near Kalaupapa
Hotel Molokai: Best nearby option, or rent vacation homes/guesthouses.
Read more: Molokai: It's All About The Love
Pololu Valley (Hawaiʻi, The Big Island)
Black-sand beaches and lava rocks reward the steep hike—wear grippy shoes and bring water. Stop in Hawi for lunch and fudge.
Where to Stay near Pololu Valley
Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel: Our favorite on the Kohala Coast.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel: Excellent alternative nearby.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (Hawaiʻi, The Big Island)
Outdoorsy visitors love the diverse landscapes for hiking and biking. At night, witness lava glow; try Paradise Helicopters' no-door tours from Hilo.
Where to Stay near Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Kilauea Lodge: Mid-range inn one mile away with hot tub and breakfast.
Volcano Village Lodge: Features waterfalls, koi ponds, hot tub—10 minutes from park.
Essential Packing for Hawaii
Photo Gear: GoPro for underwater shots (plus selfie stick) and a quality camera for land. See our travel camera buying guide.
Clothing: Sandals (Rainbow recommended), swimsuits, sunglasses, sun hat, water shoes.
Rash Guard: Long-sleeve for sun protection and warmth while snorkeling.
Snorkel Gear: Bring your own to save money—mask and travel fins.
Reusable Water Bottle: CamelBak or collapsible for eco-friendly hydration.
Carry-on Essentials: See our Carry-on Packing Guide.
Plan Your Hawaii Trip
With over 10 years of travel experience, we rely on these trusted sites:
Flights: Momondo scans hundreds of airlines for the best deals, with a calendar for cheapest dates.
Accommodations: Booking.com for hotels, apartments, villas worldwide—best price guarantee.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads, our go-to for 8+ years.
