Though the Hawaiian Islands may be home to endless summer weather, we still get look forward to the days when the water warms up, temperatures increase, and the sun shines brightly overhead. We’ve cultivated a list of the best day trips in Hawaii. From beautiful kayaking trips and swimming under waterfalls to hiking through the mountains and partaking in scenic drives across the state, there are certain activities best enjoyed when the days are long and our worries don’t seem quite as daunting.
While Oahu’s north shore is known for its massive waves and professional surf competitions during the winter months, this beautiful stretch of coastline still has so much to offer during the summer months. From the best acai bowls and shave ice in Haleiwa to snorkel spots, secluded beaches and phenomenal hiking, you could spend a year exploring the north shore without visiting the same place twice. We definitely would!
Read more about this world-famous surfing area, the perfect 2. Go snorkeling at one of the world’s most famous dive spots.
Located just 2.5 miles off the shores of Maui's Makena State Park is Molokini, all that remains of an ancient crescent-shaped cinder cone that last erupted more than 230,000 years ago. Divers and snorkelers from around the world flock to this beautiful islet to experience its crystal clear waters and plethora of vibrant sea life. Because Molokini is rock, and not soil, there is nothing to wash into the water and inhibit visibility. In fact, you can often see more than 150 feet into the ocean. It’s a beautiful place to explore!
Read more about Molokini, one of our favorite
With more than 323,000 acres to explore, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the state’s largest national park – and it’s still growing! The park is also home to Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the world’s most massive subaerial volcano. A trip to Hawaii Volcanoes isn’t complete without a visit to the Kilauea Caldera, a trip down the Thurston Lava Tube, a walk through the lava fields, a drive down the Chain of Craters Road, and, of course, as much hiking as you can handle!
Read more about Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and all the amazing things you can do there.
Located near Mile Marker 25 on Maui’s Hana Highway, Makapipi Falls is visible from the highway’s bridge, giving drivers a unique vantage point you won’t find anywhere else. While the waterfall is gorgeous from above, it is even better once you tackle the short, yet steep, hike down to the water’s edge to check it out up close.
Read more about Makapipi Falls, 5. Kayak out to the Mokulua Islands.
Located less than a mile offshore on the Windward coast of Oahu lie two tiny little islets. The Mokulua Islands, affectionately referred to as simply "the mokes," are one of the Oahu’s most popular day trip destinations, and rightfully so. These dreamy little islands – and the turquoise water you must paddle through to reach them – are absolutely incredible, and easy to reach regardless of skill.
Read more about these dreamy islands, one of the 6. Relax in Upcountry Maui.
The Valley Isle is a place of uninterrupted natural beauty, and nowhere is that more true than upcountry Maui, on the slopes of Mount Haleakala. While it is easy to say that this area of Maui, comprised of Makawao, Pukalani, Kula and Ulapalakua, is known for its magic landscapes and stunning vistas, there are some killer attractions to check out while you’re there - from wineries and farms to restaurants and shops.
Read more about this divine region, one of our favorite Hawaii 7. Go tubing down Kauai’s natural lazy river.
Head to Kauai Backcountry Adventures for an incredible trek that takes adventurers tubing through an old sugar cane plantation irrigation canal and tunnel system – perfect for individuals of all ages. With gently flowing waters, breathtaking scenery, and some pretty stellar tunnels – one of which is nearly one mile long – to explore, this tubing tour is as relaxing as it is exciting.
Read more about Kauai Backcountry Adventures, the best way to experience this
Nestled on the shoreline between Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Naalehu town on the Big Island, Punalu’u is perhaps the world’s most famous black sand beach, and an absolute must-visit for anyone living on - or vacationing to - the Big Island.
Read more about Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, easily one of the best 9. Go ziplining through the Hawaiian jungle.
Located on Oahu’s north shore at Keana Farms, Climb Works is home to the longest ziplines on the island. The ziplining tour lasts approximately three hours, and includes eight tandem ziplines, starting with the short and sweet 500-foot line, and ending with the adventure park’s 2,400-foot line.
Read more about ClimbWorks, home to one of the 10. Drive down Hawaii’s loneliest highway.
Living in the shadow of Maui’s famous Hana Highway is the island’s Kahekili Highway – a road just as pretty and perhaps even more dangerous than its famous neighbor. This is easily the loneliest road in Hawaii, and it is an absolute must-visit for anyone who loves long, winding drives along the coast.
Read more about Kahekili Highway, home to Hawaiian adventure and one of the best11. Stroll through the well-known Allerton Garden.
Upon entering the enchanting Allerton Garden, you are sure to fall head over heels in love with this incredible destination. Established and curated by Robert Allerton, this 80-acre garden is tucked into the Lawai Valley on the southern shores of Kauai, and is transected by Lawai Stream. Overlooking Kukuiula Bay, the garden is not only surrounded by incredible natural beauty, but is home to an extensive variety of plant collections.
Read more about Allerton Garden, the 12. Drink Kona coffee on this beautiful farm tour.
Only grown in a small section of fertile volcanic soil on Hawaii Island’s Kona coast, Kona coffee is definitely a cut above any coffee you can find, well, pretty much anywhere – and nowhere will you find a better cup of authentic Kona coffee than at the famous Greenwell Farms. Anyone can stop by the farm to take a personal walking tour through the coffee fields, and the processing facilities, while experiencing all that goes into the operation of a working Hawaiian farm.
Read more about Greenwell Coffee Farm, a 13. Head underwater on this epic submarine tour.
In Hawaii, there is no better submarine tour to take than Atlantis’ Waikiki tour, where guests can explore the vast Pacific Ocean on the Atlantis XIV - the world’s largest passenger submarine, which can accommodate 64 passengers. On this grand two-hour adventure, you’ll peer through large viewports and check out a variety of coral and vibrant marine life, as well as a few sunken ships.
Read more about Atlantis Submarines, the best 14. Make the journey to this amazing secret waterfall.
Often known as Secret Falls to locals and visitors alike for some unknown reason (the waterfall is in no way a secret, at least not anymore), the journey to this remote waterfall is a popular day adventure on Kauai’s east side. The name Uluwehi translates to "lush, flourishing plants" in Hawaiian - an apt description for a waterfall located in such a beautiful, green setting only accessible via both a a kayak trip and a muddy hike.
Read more about Uluwehi Falls, a stunning natural beauty filled 15. Experience the beauty that is Mount Haleakala.
Just 27 square miles short of equaling the entire size of Oahu, Mount Haleakala is a gentle giant – a dormant volcano that has inspired those who make the journey to its summit for centuries. The name Haleakala directly translates to "house of the sun" in Hawaiian. A fitting name, considering the sunrises and sunsets from the summit are second to none.
Read more about Mount Haleakala, a ultimate beach bucket list.
Address: Hawaii, USA
Address: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96785, USA
Address: O‘ahu, Hawaii, USA
Address: Makapipi Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA
Address: Na Mokulua, Kailua, HI 96734, USA
Address: Molokini, Hawaii, USA
Address: Kauai Backcountry Adventures, 3-4131 Kuhio Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
Address: Kahekili Highway, Kahekili Hwy, Wailuku, HI 96793, USA
Address: Keana Road, Keana Rd, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA
Address: Punaluu, HI 96717, USA
Address: Waikiki, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
Address: Allerton Garden, 4425 Lawai Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, USA
Address: Secret Falls Retreat, 5663 Ohelo Rd, Kapa?a, HI 96746, USA
Address: Haleakal? Visitor Center, Haleakala Hwy, Kula, HI 96790, USA
Address: Greenwell Mountain Road, Greenwell Mountain Rd, Captain Cook, HI 96704, USA
Address: Makawao, HI, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Day Trips In Hawaii
July 01, 2022
Megan McDonald
Which Hawaiian island is best for a day trip?
Each island has its perks, but Oahu is great for tons of tourist driven day trip adventure. With tons of sightseeing activities, including Pearl Harbor, Waikiki, and trails all around the island, this is a great spot to base your Hawaiian adventure from. There’s also plenty of great water activities, including surfing on the famous North Shore of Oahu.
Can you take day trips to other islands in Hawaii?
Absolutely! There are plenty of small charters that will take you “island hopping,” where you can spend the day exploring the neighboring islands. This is a great opportunity if you want a home base in Oahu, but can’t bear to miss out on many of the exciting things to do on the nearby islands of Maui or the Big Island.
Address: Hawaii, USA
Address: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96785, USA
Address: O‘ahu, Hawaii, USA
Address: Makapipi Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA
Address: Na Mokulua, Kailua, HI 96734, USA
Address: Molokini, Hawaii, USA
Address: Kauai Backcountry Adventures, 3-4131 Kuhio Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
Address: Kahekili Highway, Kahekili Hwy, Wailuku, HI 96793, USA
Address: Keana Road, Keana Rd, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA
Address: Punaluu, HI 96717, USA
Address: Waikiki, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
Address: Allerton Garden, 4425 Lawai Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, USA
Address: Secret Falls Retreat, 5663 Ohelo Rd, Kapa?a, HI 96746, USA
Address: Haleakal? Visitor Center, Haleakala Hwy, Kula, HI 96790, USA
Address: Greenwell Mountain Road, Greenwell Mountain Rd, Captain Cook, HI 96704, USA
Address: Makawao, HI, USA
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With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
