When someone imagines their perfect day in Hawaii, it most likely involves laying on the beach, or taking a surf lesson. But the Aloha State is so much more than stellar beaches, and here are eight surprising activities you may not have considered.

1) Become a Paniolo.
Reuben Bedingfield/Flickr
Paniolos, or Hawaiian cowboys, have been an integral part of the islands’ history, and to this day, visitors can experience the era of the island cowboy at one of the state’s many ranches.
2) Take to the skies.
Tyler S. Miller/Flickr
While everyone is roaming the beaches, take to the sky for a helicopter tour of the island. Or, if you are an adrenaline junkie, opt for a skydiving excursion instead.
3) Swim with the sharks.
JayWei80/Flickr
So maybe this one isn’t as much surprising as it is adventurous, but there are several locales across the Hawaiian Islands where you can cage dive in shark infested waters… Talk about taking a risk!
4) Make your big Hollywood debut.
Chris H/Flickr
With so many movies filmed in Hawaii, there are countless opportunities to appear as an extra in a film – or on the popular television series, Hawaii Five-0. Rumor has it that the show casts anywhere from 200 to 400 extras per episode.

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5) Go inland and relax.
Karendesuyo/Flickr
Check out one of Hawaii’s famous botanical gardens. Walk around, take photographs, and relax. Even better, visit a beautifully landscaped temple, like MuRyangSa Buddhist Temple, where you can drop in on a weekly Saturday afternoon meditation class.
6) Learn how to make a lei.
Mandy Jansen/Flickr
You forgot to pick up leis for your last minute visitors. The lei stands are closed, and your local supermarket is out of stock. What do you do? You make your own, of course!
7) Go on a “road trip.”
Steve Jurvetson/Flickr
Have somewhere to be but don’t need to be there right away? Take the scenic route and experience all of Hawaii’s natural beauty while enjoying the longest drive you’ll be able to take on the islands – unless, of course, you live on Oahu and the ZipMobile breaks down again.
8) Take the plunge.
Justin De La Ornellas/Flickr
Everyone loves walking into the gorgeous Pacific Ocean… but jumping in is even better! If you are a strong swimmer, and are familiar with ocean currents, cliff jumping is a must-do activity.

So, which activity will you try the next time you want to do something other than hang out at the beach, or go hiking?

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