Trip to Hawaii: Must-See Attractions and Activities
Hawaii is a États-Unis state made up of numerous islands, including the volcanic island of Hawaii, the island of Kauai (famous for its Waimea Canyon) and the island of Oahu, which is home to the capital Honolulu.
Hawaii is a États-Unis state made up of numerous islands, including the volcanic island of Hawaii, the island of Kauai (famous for its Waimea Canyon) and the island of Oahu, which is home to the capital Honolulu. The Hawaiian archipelago is filled with natural attractions, ideal for trekking or scuba diving. Planning a trip to Hawaii? Follow us as we show you the best places in the Sandwich Islands, as well as the historic site of Pearl Harbor!
The Island of Oahu
Diamond Head
This crater, formed by a phreatic explosion, emerged from the earth nearly 300,000 years ago! It owes its nickname Diamond Head to English colonists, who once mistook these calcite crystals for diamonds! This exceptional site offers stunning views of Honolulu and the ocean. Since May 12, 2022, foreign visitors must make a reservation to enter the site, through a system that allows you to book up to 14 days in advance.
Manoa Falls
The splendid 46-meter waterfall of Manoa Falls can only be admired after some effort hiking through lush jungle! But don't worry, it's a short hike accessible to all trekkers.
Pearl Harbor
About fifteen kilometers west of the city, the Pearl Harbor site is a special place. On-site, museums and reconstructions will introduce you to the "harbor of pearls" – which owes its lovely name to the traditional local pearl fishing tradition. The naval base welcomes the memorial of the USS Arizona, as well as the museum ships USS Missouri and USS Bowfin.
Visiting the Historic Site of Pearl Harbor: Practical Information
Entry to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is free. However, the naval base, the submarine USS Bowfin, the USS Missouri or the Pacific Aviation Museum are paid. Ticket prices vary depending on the tours selected (but must all be reserved).
The historic site is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (last tour check-in at 3:00 p.m.).
Discovering Hawaii's East Coast
Hanauma Bay
Renowned for its fauna and flora, Hanauma Bay is a haven for divers, attracted by its hundreds of marine species. This nature reserve is the result of conservation efforts that began in the 1990s, thanks to a program aimed at restoring the balance of nature – and preserving it from mass tourism.
The Lighthouse at Makapu'u Point
At the end of the day, visit the famous Makapu'u Point lighthouse. The highest point on Oahu, it offers breathtaking views of Makapuʻu and Waimanalo bays. A beauty, made of a thousand and one colors, that will take your breath away!
Exploration in the North of the Island
The Ka'ena Point State Park
This isolated and wild coastal park is divided into two sections: Ka'ena Point Mokuleia (north coast of Oahu) and Ka'ena Point Keawa'ula (west coast of Oahu). It offers multiple activities, such as hiking or fishing. Ka'ena is also an exceptional spot for admiring the sunset and, if you're lucky, the incredible aquatic ballet of dolphins!
Exploring Kualoa Valley
Located on the north coast, Kualoa Ranch valley is an area very popular with filmmakers. Attracted by its wooded slopes and cliffs, many film crews regularly choose its landscapes to shoot their movies (including Jurassic Park and Pearl Harbor, as well as the television series Lost). It's possible to visit certain parts of the site by pick-up or quad bikes!
The Wild Island of Kauai
This island with multiple reliefs is composed of lush forests, waterfalls, mountains and idyllic beaches very popular with surfers. It is also home to two must-see sites:
The "Grand Canyon of the Pacific"
The magnificent Waimea Canyon, which means "reddish water" in Hawaiian, refers to the erosion of its red soils. To discover these unique lands, a canyon trail is ideal. The site has numerous trekking trails, spread over its 750 hectares!
Fern Grotto
The Fern Grotto is a small geological marvel located on the south fork of the Wailua River. Nicknamed "the fern grotto" because of its indigenous flora, it is also home to exotic plants and a tropical forest atmosphere. A lush trail leads to it. An opportunity to discover the island's unique wildlife. Indeed, the "garden island" is known for its (very) many roosters! Between the 1980s and 1990s, two hurricanes allowed thousands of birds to escape into the wild... Since then, they have continued to multiply.
Visiting Hawaii: 3 Weeks to Discover the Must-Sees
This famous American archipelago is a dream destination, endowed with magnificent beaches, rugged landscapes and unforgettable history. To make the most of this wild beauty, and discover all Hawaii's must-sees, it is recommended to take a three-week circuit.
Frequently asked questions
To discover Hawaii's must-sees, it is recommended to plan at least 3 weeks. This circuit will allow you to visit the main islands: Oahu (Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor), Kauai (Waimea Canyon, Fern Grotto) and ideally Maui.
Hawaii enjoys pleasant weather year-round. The high tourist season runs from December to March. To avoid crowds and enjoy better rates, favor April-May or September-October, offering sunny weather with fewer tourists.
Yes, since May 12, 2022, foreign visitors must reserve their Diamond Head entry in advance, through an online reservation system allowing you to plan your visit up to 14 days before your desired date.
Access to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is free. However, access to certain sites such as the USS Bowfin submarine, the USS Missouri museum ship or the Pacific Aviation Museum is paid. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance.
Waimea Canyon, nicknamed the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific', is one of Hawaii's most spectacular natural sites. Located on the island of Kauai, this canyon with red soils spans 750 hectares and offers numerous trekking trails to admire its unique panoramas.
Yes, Hawaii is a premier destination for diving and snorkeling. Hanauma Bay on Oahu is particularly renowned for its hundreds of marine species. This protected nature reserve offers exceptional biodiversity accessible even to beginners.
