Posted in Hawaii
June 21, 2017
15 Out Of This World Summer Day Trips To Take In Hawaii
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. 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 during the summer months 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.
Read more about this world-famous surfing area here.
Read more about this world-famous surfing area here.
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.
Read more about Molokini here.
Read more about Molokini here.
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 here.
Read more about Hawaii Volcanoes National Park here.
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 here.
Read more about Makapipi Falls here.
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 here.
Read more about these dreamy islands here.
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 here.
Read more about this divine region here.
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 here.
Read more about Kauai Backcountry Adventures here.
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 here.
Read more about Punalu’u Black Sand Beach here.
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 here.
Read more about ClimbWorks here.
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 here.
Read more about Kahekili Highway here.
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 here.
Read more about Allerton Garden here.
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 here.
Read more about Greenwell Coffee Farm here.
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 here.
Read more about Atlantis Submarines here.
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 here.
Read more about Uluwehi Falls here.
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 here.
Read more about Mount Haleakala here.
So, tell us, where are you headed on your next summer day trip in Hawaii? If you’d rather hang out at the beach all summer, be sure to check out our ultimate beach bucket list.
