From stunning beaches and the crystalline waters of the Pacific Ocean to towering mountains, serene valleys, and breathtaking sunsets, the Aloha state has it all. And whether you’ve lived in Hawaii your entire life or are enjoying a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, taking perfect photographs of Hawaii is a never-ending goal. You’ll find natural beauty around every corner here in Hawaii, but there is one vista that is photographed more than any other - and that is the city of Honolulu as seen from the summit of Diamond Head.
Dubbed Diamond Head by sailors who were entranced by the volcano’s glittering peak, the mountain’s summit is littered with calcite crystals – but the name stuck. This volcanic tuff cone is perhaps the most well-known landmark on Oahu.
The view of Diamond Head via airplane is iconic, the hike to the summit is mentioned in every guidebook, and you can even see the volcano from the famous beaches of Waikiki.
Once used for military training, the government-owned property has since been opened to the public, and is now the most iconic hike on the island for tourists to complete.
The trail leads hikers on a steep more than 500 feet in elevation over 1.6 miles to the crater's summit. It isn't the killer stairs that so many people love about Diamond Head, though - it's the incredible views of the southern side of the island and the Diamond Head Lighthouse below…
...but perhaps more importantly, the view of Honolulu and the vast Pacific Ocean from above. From this vantage point, you can see all of Hawaii’s capital city, Oahu's two mountain ranges, and the sparkling surf of Waikiki.
The eight main Hawaiian Islands are not only wildly different from one another, but one side of the island can be in stark contrast to the other. Nowhere is this truer than on the island of Kauai, where the legendary north shore is unlike anything you'll find across Kauai, and even throughout the islands as a whole. From hidden caves and picturesque beaches to mouthwatering shaved ice spots and breathtaking gardens there are so many hidden gems on Kaua'i. These 11 hidden gems in Hawaii that are found along Kauai's north shore are just part of what makes this area so unique. Let's take a closer look at these hidden gems in Hawaii:
With enticing turquoise waters, a plethora of sea life, and the mountains of the Na Pali coast behind you, there’s no questioning why Tunnels Beach is one of the best snorkeling destinations on Kauai. Get a closer look at beautiful Tunnels Beach:
A jaw-dropping vista awaits you at the Hanalei Valley Lookout – the Hanalei River and expansive taro fields are flanked on either side by majestic mountains and waterfalls. Just off Highway 56/560, this picturesque lookout point proves that it’s not always about the ocean views.
A small beach and untouched valley surrounded by towering cliffs, Nualolo Kai is not only home to a large barrier reef, but also to one of the most extensive and well-preserved archaeological sites in all of Hawaii. Nualolo Kai is the site of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village, as well as an extensive Heiau (Hawaiian temple).
Located on Kauai’s north shore is 203 acres of protected land, where the Pacific golden plover, Laysan albatross, and the nene – the Hawaii state bird – live. The Kilauea Lighthouse is just a short walk from the parking lot. First illuminated on May 1, 1913, it is the northernmost point of the inhabited Hawaiian Islands.
Some of the best food in Hawaii comes from unassuming food trucks on the side of the road, and nowhere is that truer than Wishing Well Shave Ice, a Hanalei favorite. With a wide variety of organic shave ice flavors, refreshing acai bowls, and that perfect cup of coffee, Wishing Well is a must-visit.
This geological formation is surrounded by high rock walls and features an open ceiling to the sky. You can view the sea cave from above, or enter it on a boat tour. The light from the cave's open ceiling penetrates the water and creates an ethereal blue hue that changes colors with the moving sun. See what it’s like inside this gorgeous sea cave:
Located in the town of Princeville on Kauai’s north shore is a unique tide pool known as Queen’s Bath once used as a bathing spot for Hawaiian royalty. A sinkhole surrounded by igneous rock, this incredible geological formation is not only a vibrant turquoise pool set in the striking black lava shoreline, but it is also a dangerous lava bench exposed to deadly high surf. It is closed during the winter.
Built in 1912, the green, spired church is often regarded as the most photographed building in Hanalei, Kauai – and no one is questioning why. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, inside the home you’ll find a wall clock that was installed in 1866, and still keeps perfect time.
Located in Haena State Park, Ke'e Beach marks the end of the Kuhio Highway, the furthest you can drive on Kauai's north shore. A protected reef makes this an idyllic spot for snorkeling and swimming during the summer. Get an aerial view of this stunning beach:
Situated on Kauai’s north shore in a tropical valley is Limahuli Gardens, one of our favorite hidden gems in Hawaii. It overlooks the ocean and Makana Mountain, and features lava rock terraces built by ancient Hawaiians in order to cultivate taro.
Located just off Kuhio Highway within Haena State Park is this magical cave, which offers a sandy floor, low ceiling, and the lore of an evil spirit dwelling within. Rumor has it that during a conflict between the Menehune and Polynesian settlers, the Menehune used this secret tunnel to escape to the north shore. After they were all through, they created a collapse and trapped the Polynesians inside. The cave has a large opening, is at least 100 feet deep, and is perfect to explore with children - just don’t forget your flashlight!
Which of these hidden gems in Hawaii are you planning to visit? Let us know in the comments. While you're visiting Kaua'i, be sure to explore the other islands as well and see all the wonderful things to do in Hawaii.
There are so many incredible buildings in Hawaii with iconic architecture. But the Iolani Palace in Hawaii looks like it could have been plucked right out of a Harry Potter book! With all of its stunning details, this palace in Hawaii must be visited up close.
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Iolani Palace Hawaii looks like it was dreamed up out of a book of fairy tales.
If you didn’t know better, you would think a building this artistic and majestic could be from Harry Potter! The arches, the stonework, and the little details bring this palace to life.
The Iolani Palace in Hawaii has been around for more than 140 years.
It is lavishly decorated in crimson and gold, the kings and queens of the Hawaiian monarch held balls, formal receptions, and diplomatic receptions in this gorgeous room.
The State Dining Room is equally as impressive, with high ceilings, tall windows framed in deep red, and gold accents.
Self-led tours are popular at the palace, and children under 5 are free to visit. Tours start at $25 per person and go up depending on who you spend time with and where you explore.
The incredible palace is open to visiting in person five days a week.
Join them Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 9 a.m. through 4 p.m. Self-led tours are available each day, and Docent-led tours are available Wednesdays and Thursdays.
If you have a chance to see the Iolani Palace up close, don’t miss out.
This critical piece of Hawaiian history is just as majestic today as it was more than 100 years ago. And it looks like it could be lifted from the pages of a fairy tale! If you’re looking for a castle in Hawaii, this palace will give you all of the formal, palace feels that you are looking for.
Have you ever visited the Iolani Palace in Hawaii? What did you think? Does it look like it belongs in a Harry Potter book? Let us know in the comments below!
