If you are searching for a country to travel to with your family and have fun, I recommend Hawaii. Hawaii’s tropical climate and laid-back Pacific Island atmosphere are only two of the state’s distinguishing characteristics. These islands offer a variety and gorgeous terrain, ranging from the lunar-like surface of the Kilauea volcano to dense woods rich with exotic flora. On the magnificent Na Pali shoreline, waterfalls cascade like tears down the mountains, while ancient rivers carved the Waimea Canyon deep into the rock of Kauai. The Big Island contains an active volcano, whereas Oahu contains Pearl Harbor and rich history.The enormous Pacific encompasses all the Islands and is teeming with marine life, providing countless chances for snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, and swimming after sunbathing. But, perhaps the island’s most distinctive aspect is its people, whose friendly disposition makes you feel as though you are genuinely in paradise. Here is a list of the top places you should take your family in Hawaii:
1. Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the world, attracts more than four million people annually and offers spectacular views of Leahi. In addition, the Duke Kahanamoku statue welcomes visitors to Waikiki, one of the best sites in Hawaii, to learn how to surf or paddle a canoe because of its small but persistent wave break. Waikiki comprises several beaches along its two-mile length, including Fort DeRussy Beach to the west, Waikiki Beach, Kuhio Beach, and Queen Surf Beach, which features quieter parts on the Diamond Head side of Waikiki.
Most of the area’s restaurants and stores are located on Kuhio and Kalakaua Avenues, while the Waikiki Beach Walk is lined with cafes and entertainment establishments. At the end of the crescent-shaped beach, Diamond Head State Monument creates a distinctive silhouette along the coast. It was previously a key vantage point for the island’s coastal defense. A difficult ascent to the top leads to the historical bunkers, artillery control station, and panoramic views.This beach is frequently packed because it is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island. Therefore, it is best to arrive early to secure a decent spot in the sand. Additionally, you should be alert in the water, as swimmers, surfers, and tour boats coexist there.
2. Hana Road, Maui
Hana Road, often known as Hana Highway, is a 52-mile picturesque highway that winds from Pia through lush forests and along the ocean to the secluded hamlet of Hana on the Hawaiian island of Maui. This excursion is more enjoyable when taken with family. However, it is worthwhile because of the vistas along the breathtaking trip, activities along the way, and the town itself. Numerous hiking paths, waterfalls, picturesque vistas, and beaches are found along the route. The route also offers breathtaking views of the cliffs and water as you go along it.
You can periodically stop over to allow you and your family time to explore short hiking trails. Driving along this route is inexpensive and enjoyable to see the breathtaking landscape. In addition, Hana’s isolation from the rest of the island has allowed it to preserve a more traditional Hawaiian culture than other towns, and I am certain you will enjoy engaging with the residents. As a precaution, you should not try this journey if you are an inexperienced driver. Due to its abrupt curves, blind spots, and low width, this roadway is among the world’s most hazardous roads. If you are ever up for a challenge, maintain your wits. It is also prudent to take turns driving, as the journey will take approximately seven hours.
3. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii’s Big Island provides a unique, up-close view of an active volcano system where lava oozes from fractures in the earth. The surrounding terrain is formed by old and new lava rock spilled over highways as a demonstration of its inexorable might. Kilauea, the Park’s focal point, has been active in recent years, including an eruption in January 2021 that produced a lava lake. As a result, visitors are warned that sections of the Park are closed during potentially dangerous earthquake activity periods.
The Park offers numerous attractions and activities, such as the Thurston Lava Tube, Devastation Trail, and the boiling Halema’uma’u crater. It has drastically diverse terrain making it one of the most interesting and unusual spots to explore in the Park. In contrast to the vast majority of the island’s verdant vegetation, the terrain here is arid but breathtaking. During the region’s most active periods, guests may experience the thrill of feeling seismic activity, hearing the boom of gas releases or even witnessing a column of ash erupting into the atmosphere.
For your safety, remember to stay on approved paths and trails during your visit. Sinkholes, fissures, and uneven cliff edges have been observed in several places in the Park. Although it may be tempting to stray from the routes, it is not advised. As long as you avoid entering restricted areas, you should be alright
4. The North Shore Of Oahu
North Shore of Oahu is another place you should consider taking your family to. This iconic surf destination attracts the best surfers in the world with its towering, perfect winter waves, while its smaller, gentler summer waves are ideal for beginners. During the peak winter months, the North Shore’s beaches host the world’s most prestigious surfing contests, including the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, the most prestigious of all. In addition, Waimea Bay, Ehukai Beach, and Sunset Beach are wonderful areas to sunbathe and stroll along the shore; nevertheless, novice surfers should avoid the large waves because they can be extremely dangerous.
The months of November through February are optimal for large wave surfing. However, massive waves can occasionally reach thirty feet or more, posing a threat to even seasoned surfers; therefore, surfers should constantly heed warning indications. From May through September, the waves diminish, producing a calmer environment for surfing and swimming.
The North Shore, around an hour’s drive from Waikiki, is home to various lodging options, including condo rentals and the luxury beachfront Turtle Bay Resort. Next, take a road trip to the picturesque surf hamlet of Haleiwa Town, where you can shop, dine like a local, and cool off with rainbow-flavored shave ice. Finally, you might continue driving to Laie to explore the Polynesian Cultural Center and the historic plantation village of Kahuku.
5. Haleakala National Park, Maui
Haleakala National Park in Maui provides access to the inactive, almost 10,000-foot-tall Haleakala Volcano. At sunrise, the views from the summit span the entire island and are especially breathtaking. The dormant crater is exposed, revealing a vista reminiscent of the moon, while other portions of the park are covered in subtropical rain forests that are home to endangered species.
This unique location reverberates with tales of ancient and contemporary Hawaiian culture and safeguards the connection between the land and its inhabitants. Additionally, the park protects endangered species, some of which exist nowhere else. On an exciting backcountry trip, you should visit this exceptional location with your family to restore your spirit amidst dramatic volcanic landscapes and subtropical rainforest.
Visitors can freely explore the park’s numerous hiking paths or sign up for ranger-led excursions, and the more daring can spend the night in the park, surrounded by one of Hawaii’s most breathtaking vistas. But, of course, the best way to enjoy the vacation is to hike the park’s various trails. For example, try the Halemau’u Trail and halt in the middle of Rainbow Bridge for spectacular views of the surrounding area.
6. Hapuna Beach
Hapuna Beach is a half-mile coastline on the Big Island of Hawaii and is regarded as the island’s largest beach. Follow the signs down the Kohala Coast’s western, volcanic coastline to uncover a magnificent refuge that has acquired a reputation as one of Hawaii’s finest beaches. Hapuna Beach, the largest of the island’s beaches with white sand, has been routinely ranked in international Top Ten rankings of the islands’ greatest beaches. Additionally, Hapuna provides continuously favorable conditions for swimming, bodyboarding, sunbathing, and snorkeling. During the beginning of the year, it is also possible to see whales migrating in the distance.
The crystal clear waters and vast shoreline in Hapuna beach are a year-round attraction for many tourists. It is also an accessible beach, with plentiful parking, food sellers, picnic sites, restrooms, and showers. So take a plunge in the warm waters of Hapuna Beach to beat the heat in South Kohala.
The waters are ideal for wading and snorkeling during the summer and fall; whether you’re an inexperienced swimmer or traveling with your family, you need to plan your beach earlier. Winter brings stronger waves to this beach; thus, only experienced surfers should attempt to ride the waves here.
7. Kauai’s Botanical Gardens
If your family like flowers, you should consider traveling to Kauai. It features an abundance of lush vegetation and various plants. In addition to its vast nature, Kauai is home to numerous exceptional botanic gardens that illustrate the island’s long history as a refuge for rare and beautiful plants.
Allerton Garden is the most spectacular of Kauai’s botanical parks, renowned for its beautiful blooms and great diversity of palm and fruit trees. Its most recognizable features are the fig trees, whose partially exposed roots have been featured in movies such as Jurassic Park. Book a trip with the neighboring McBryde Garden and leave at least three hours to explore.
The Princeville Botanical Gardens is a family-run enterprise that cultivates an extensive array of exotic flowers, medicinal plants, and edible plants. You can observe cacao trees, beautiful flora, and active beehives on guided gardens tours, where you can also learn about the plants. In addition, tours include samples of unprocessed and processed chocolate and honey created from the nectar of tropical flowers.
The Na ‘Aina Kai Botanical Gardens & Sculpture Park near Kilauea comprises over 200 acres of brilliant flowers, verdant foliage, and an outdoor sculpture gallery. Also, on the north shore, near Hanalei, Limahuli Garden & Preserve is open to the public. The gardens have hundreds of plant and bird species on the verge of extinction, and visitors may learn about the ancient practices used to preserve the delicate ecology.
8. Iao Valley State Monument
The Iao Valley State Monument is located in the center of Maui Island and is home to one of the most well-known monuments in Hawaii. This iconic Iao Needle rock resembles a straight pick thrusting into the sky!Iao Valley is a remarkable and well-known Maui monument with a fascinating past. In 1790, in Iao Valley, the Army of Maui and King Kamehameha I engaged in the Battle of Kepaniwai. This victory by the king profoundly altered the course of Hawaiian history.
The Iao Valley State Monument is about three miles from Wailuku. Furthermore, Kahului is around 5 miles away. Since you will be traveling with your family, you may take a taxi from Kahului to Iao Valley State Monument. However, most visitors choose to rent a car and drive around Maui. This liberty permits people to travel anyplace they like and explore it thoroughly. One of the greatest and most convenient options is to join a tour of the Iao Valley State Monument. Professional guides will show you the most beautiful corners of the valley and teach you the area’s history, making your time in Hawaii; much more unforgettable!
Iao Valley State Monument is home to the renowned Iao Needle Lookout Path and Ethnobotanical Loop hiking trail. It is only 0.6 miles long and is an easy Maui trek. The paved trail leads hikers to a vantage point from which they may view the breathtaking panorama of the Iao Needle before passing through the ethnobotanical garden.
9. Kona Coffee Historical Farm
The Kona Coffee Farm is a museum that focuses on plantation life in the early twentieth century. It is the only farm in the country committed to preserving the history and traditions of coffee farming. The grounds are filled with costumed interpreters engaged in daily occupations, such as food preparation and farming, and always willing to answer any inquiries from the visitors.
As one of the state’s unique places of attraction, this farm’s highly interactive displays make it a lot of fun. You will get the opportunity to make your coffee, perform a few home chores in an old-fashioned manner, and experience life on a plantation in the early 20th century. You are free to visit the coffee-producing estate, where you may perhaps spot a Kona Nightingale. There are also modern Kona coffee growers’ excursions, including plantation visits at Hula Daddy and tours of Mountain Thunder Plantation’s roasting factory.
It is a wonderful location to consider visiting with your family. It will be a wonderful experience for you, and you will also gain valuable knowledge. As most of the tour will be outside, remember to bring lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes. If you are prone to sunburn, a hat or sunscreen can help you avoid it.
10. Hanauma Bay
You should take your family to Hanauma Bay in Hawaii, especially if you enjoy snorkeling. It is also a terrific place to learn a great deal, especially if you are all nature enthusiasts. Hanauma Bay is a sheltered bay with a long history of popularity among snorkelers. The bay is believed to have been formed by volcanic activity. After overuse caused pollution and harm to the sensitive reef environment, the bay has been restored to its former glory and is once again open to visitors.
The Hanauma Bay Education Center is an excellent site to learn about the bay, and several snorkeling rental shops offer courses so tourists can experience the coral system and its creatures up close. Once a popular tourist activity, feeding tropical fish frozen peas is now prohibited. In addition, all first-time visitors must watch a nine-minute video on marine life, safety rules, and preservation to preserve the region for future generations. The park’s kiosk offers equipment rentals, including life jackets and snorkeling equipment. This location will astound you, and there are several options for family bonding.
11. Princeville Botanical Gardens
Hidden in the jungle valleys of Princeville on Kauai’s North Shore, dramatic topography, natural landscaping, and careful cultivation have resulted in a paradisiacal garden. Princeville Botanical Gardens, despite its age, is home to some of the healthiest species on Kauai, with a broad collection similar to those of other attractive gardens on the Garden Island. In addition to native and “canoe” species, the gardens contain effective medicinals, rare and endangered flowers, and economically useful plants from worldwide.
This botanical garden is the ideal destination for a short, relaxing vacation with your family in Hawaii. You will enjoy a three-hour walking tour of Princeville Botanical Gardens that encompasses every inch of the grounds at an affordable cost. It includes samples of fruit and honey, as well as chocolate! In addition, you will be able to slowly wander around the fields of medical plants, endangered flowers, and fruit trees. It will be a wonderful experience, especially for flower-loving children.
Remember to wear lightweight, breathable clothing, good walking shoes, insect repellant, and a sun hat when taking a stroll through the garden. Some walks lack shade, so it may be prudent to bring sunscreen just in case. However, there is little cause for concern, as you and your family will receive the proper direction to enjoy the trip.
12. Waimea Canyon State Park
Waimea Canyon State Park is where you should take your family if you plan a trip to Hawaii, particularly if you enjoy nature and hiking. It is located on the west side of Kauai and is commonly known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The canyon is nearly 10 miles in length, reaches depths of 3,600 feet, and is at times one mile wide. Puu ka Pele and Puu Hina Hina are the best vantage points for seeing this stunning display.
It is a magnificent location that I urge you to visit. The canyon’s environment consists of multicolored rock strata and several breathtaking waterfalls, creating a breathtakingly distinctive panorama. In addition, guided trips along the numerous difficult hiking trails and rafting cruises explore the river below. The nearby Kokee State has more trails for hikers of various skill levels.
The park’s paths give spectacular views of the canyons. The Cliff Trail is simple and rewarding for novice hikers, as it concludes with a breathtaking view of the canyons. With its towering heights and tight trails, Kohua Ridge is simply exhilarating for more experienced hikers. Additionally, it concludes with unrivaled vistas of the park’s environs. Remember to stay safe and observe all safety procedures.
13. Hamakua Heritage Corridor
Following the Hawaii Belt Road from Hilo to the Waipio Valley Lookout along the Hamakua Coast, which passes the rainy, windward slopes of Mauna Kea, is one of the most spectacular journeys in Hawaii. The road, known as the Hamakua Heritage Corridor drive, stretches for 45 kilometers through quaint ancient plantation communities and past roaring waterfalls, offering expansive vistas of the northeast coast of the Big Island.Along the course, the highway crosses several massive cantilever bridges that straddle deep ravines. As a result, there are several opportunities to take in the breathtaking ocean views. In addition to major and minor waterfalls, botanical gardens, and a variety of interesting shops and inviting eateries, the route encompasses all of these features.
At the beginning of the drive just north of Hilo, the four-mile Onomea Scenic Drive offers a fascinating detour off Route 19. The region’s rich vegetation includes moss-covered bridges and stunning views of Onomea Bay. It is also the location of the famed Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, which contains thousands of kinds of tropical plants from throughout the world. Along the path is Akaka Falls, one of the most stunning waterfalls in Hawaii, which cascades 442 feet down the mountain into a deep gorge. The 100-foot Kahuna Falls is nearby. Hakalau, home to the World Botanical Gardens, is home to another stunning botanical park along the itinerary. This botanical garden contains more than 5,000 types of tropical flora and is the largest in Hawaii.
A second diversion off Route 19 leads to Laupahoehoe Point, where you may explore the rugged coastline, featuring intriguing tidepools and picturesque sea cliffs. Visit the Laupahoehoe Train Museum and then hike through the forest at the Kalopa State Recreation Area. Beyond Laupahoehoe is the quaint and picturesque village of Honokaa, which is a fantastic place to stop for lunch due to its abundance of restaurants. Finally, you will reach the Waipio Valley Lookout, from which you may gaze thousands of feet down into this valley formerly inhabited by ancient chiefs and nobility.
14. Halawa Valley, Molokai
Molokai, the fifth largest island in Hawaii, is only 38 miles long and 10 miles wide at its widest point. It is home to the world’s highest sea cliffs and longest continuous fringing reef. Molokai stays faithful to its island roots, as many of its inhabitants are of Native Hawaiian descent and continue to retain their rural way of life out of love for the land. Molokai is an island of outdoor adventure where Hawaii’s heritage comes to life.
With its towering green sea cliffs and aquamarine waters, one could assume this island is uninhabited. But its pristine landscapes and stunning perspectives make it a strong contender for the title of one of the top locations to visit in Hawaii.
This island is more rustic and less commercial than other islands, so you should consider this before bringing your family there. However, if you are willing to forego five-star resorts and upscale dining, you should not miss out on experiencing the true aloha lifestyle. It will be quite an adventure, and there will be ample time and possibilities for family bonding.
15. Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea, the highest point on Hawaii’s Big Island, is far from the lush paradise below. The peak, which you can access with a four-wheel-drive vehicle, is frequently covered in snow during the winter. At its peak, astronomers go there to study the cosmos, and Hawaiians visit in search of ancient spiritual ties. It is one of the clearest sites on Earth for viewing the night sky and offers visitors a rare chance to experience the polar tundra in Hawaii.
Before you and your family ascend this mountain, there are a few things you must know. First, it is advised that children under 16 years old, pregnant women, and people in poor health do not ascend above the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station, located at 9,200 feet. The Visitor Information Station is an intriguing destination in its own right; it is the best amateur observatory in the world, with several telescopes for viewing. In addition, the Onizuka Center offers free nightly stargazing sessions from 6 to 10 p.m.
Snowboarding is also possible, but only for individuals in strong physical condition. There are no lifts, so you must climb the mountain on foot, although Mauna Kea is frequented by intrepid snowboarders willing to put out the effort.Remember that the weather on Mauna Kea fluctuates widely and can change rapidly. It is not rare for summit winds to exceed 120 mph, and there have even been snowstorms in the summer. Additionally, you should be aware that there will be around 40 percent less oxygen at an altitude of 14,000 feet than at sea level.
Conclusion
After reading this essay, I believe you understand why I suggested that if you seek a place to take your family on vacation, you consider Hawaii. There are numerous must-see locations on the islands, ranging from world-class beaches to expansive wildlife preserves. The numerous volcanoes and intriguing museums are also must-see attractions. Even the local cuisine and culture are Hawaiian, so you will truly value the new experiences. You can opt to visit one of the many destinations listed above. Depending on your desired experience, you will have a good time with your family. Ensure that the eventual destination is one that everyone in the family desires. Before making this selection, you should examine several variables. Consider, for instance, your financial position, your family’s health, and everyone’s best interests. Your family’s safety should take precedence over participation in dangerous sports. I hope this post has provided you with the information you were seeking and that you will get the time and plan before visiting Hawaii with your family.