Hawaii is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, known for its stunning beaches, natural beauty, and rich culture. However, with millions of tourists visiting the islands every year, it can be challenging to find sites that are away from the crowds. Luckily, there are many hidden gems in Hawaii that are just as beautiful and exciting as the popular attractions, but with fewer people. In this article, we’ll explore some of the great sites to see away from the crowds in Hawaii.
Pololu Valley
Located on the northern coast of the Big Island, Pololu Valley is a breathtakingly beautiful spot that’s often overlooked by tourists. The valley is home to a black sand beach, surrounded by lush green cliffs, and a crystal-clear river that flows into the ocean. The area is ideal for hiking and is perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape from the crowds.
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is a 400-acre oasis located in Kaneohe on the island of Oahu. The garden is home to over 4000 species of plants, including exotic orchids, giant taro, and towering bamboo. The park is also home to a lake, which provides an idyllic backdrop for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
Kealakekua Bay
Located on the Kona Coast of the Big Island, Kealakekua Bay is a picturesque spot that’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The bay is home to an abundance of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Visitors can also hike to the Captain Cook Monument, which commemorates the spot where Captain Cook first landed in Hawaii.
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail
The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a popular hike on the eastern side of Oahu that offers stunning views of the coastline. The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels. At the end of the trail, visitors will be rewarded with panoramic views of the ocean and the historic Makapu’u Lighthouse.
Kualoa Ranch
Located on the eastern side of Oahu, Kualoa Ranch is a 4000-acre private nature reserve that’s home to lush valleys, towering mountains, and pristine beaches. The ranch offers a variety of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, ATV tours, and zip-lining. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the property, which includes stops at film locations from movies such as Jurassic Park and Godzilla.
Wai’anapanapa State Park
Wai’anapanapa State Park is a hidden gem on the eastern side of Maui that’s known for its black sand beach and stunning coastal views. The park is also home to a variety of cultural and historical sites, including ancient Hawaiian burial grounds and the ruins of an old Hawaiian village.
Koke’e State Park
Located on the island of Kauai, Koke’e State Park is a vast wilderness area that’s home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in Hawaii. The park is home to deep canyons, towering cliffs, and lush forests, and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by car, with several scenic drives and hiking trails to choose from.
Laupahoehoe Beach Park
Located on the eastern side of the Big Island, Laupahoehoe Beach Park is a serene spot that’s perfect for a quiet day by the ocean. The beach is known for its clear blue water and black sand, and is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. The park is also home to several picnic areas and is an ideal place for a relaxing day with family and friends.
Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve
Located on the island of Maui, the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve is a protected marine preserve that’s home to an abundance of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs. The reserve is also home to a variety of rare plants and animals, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers.
Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park
Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is a sacred site located on the western coast of the Big Island. The park is home to ancient Hawaiian temples, sacred burial grounds, and a reconstructed village that provides a glimpse into Hawaii’s past. Visitors can also explore the park’s hiking trails and beaches, making it a great destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Manoa Falls Trail
The Manoa Falls Trail is a scenic hike located in the Manoa Valley on the island of Oahu. The trail is surrounded by lush greenery and leads visitors to a stunning waterfall, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. The hike is relatively easy, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
Wailua Falls
Wailua Falls is a stunning waterfall located on the eastern side of Kauai. The waterfall is easily accessible by car, making it a popular destination for visitors looking for a quick and easy adventure. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery, and visitors can take a short hike to the base of the falls for an up-close view.
Pu’u Ualaka’a State Park
Pu’u Ualaka’a State Park is a scenic lookout located on the island of Oahu. The park offers panoramic views of Honolulu and the surrounding coastline, making it a popular destination for photographers and sightseers. Visitors can also explore the park’s hiking trails and picnic areas, making it an excellent destination for a day trip.
Waipio Valley
Waipio Valley is a hidden gem located on the northern coast of the Big Island. The valley is home to a stunning black sand beach, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery. Visitors can also explore the valley’s hiking trails, waterfalls, and ancient Hawaiian temples, making it an excellent destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Punaluu Beach
Punaluu Beach is a black sand beach located on the southeastern coast of the Big Island. The beach is known for its crystal-clear water and stunning views, making it a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Visitors can also explore the nearby lava fields and volcanic craters, making it an excellent destination for adventurers.
Papakolea Beach
Papakolea Beach, also known as Green Sand Beach, is a unique beach located on the Big Island of Hawaii. What makes it unique is its green sand, which is created by a type of volcanic mineral called olivine. The beach is surrounded by tall cliffs, and getting there requires a 2.5-mile hike or a four-wheel-drive vehicle ride. The hike can be challenging due to the hot sun, strong winds, and steep hills, so it’s essential to bring plenty of water and sun protection.
Once you reach the beach, the green sand is a sight to behold. The beach itself is small and secluded, making it an ideal spot for a picnic or a quiet day by the water. Snorkeling is also popular here, as the waters are crystal clear and home to a variety of marine life.
Akaka Falls State Park
Akaka Falls State Park is located on the east side of the Big Island and is home to two stunning waterfalls: Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls. The main attraction is Akaka Falls, which drops 442 feet into a lush gorge. A short, paved hike takes visitors through the park, past lush vegetation, streams, and smaller waterfalls, before reaching the main event. The park is also home to many exotic plants and birds, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
The park is less crowded than other popular destinations, so it’s an excellent place to enjoy nature without the crowds. The hike is relatively easy and suitable for visitors of all ages, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially on hot days.
Ke’e Beach
Ke’e Beach is located on the north shore of Kauai and is the last beach accessible by car on the island’s north shore. The beach is nestled in a lush valley and is surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal clear waters. The beach is popular with snorkelers and swimmers, as the waters are calm and home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish.
Hiking is also popular here, as the famous Kalalau Trail starts at the beach and takes visitors through the Napali Coast State Wilderness Park. The hike is challenging and requires a permit, but the views of the rugged coastline and the ocean are worth it.
Due to its secluded location, Ke’e Beach is typically less crowded than other popular beaches on the island. The beach is also surrounded by lush vegetation and offers shade, making it an ideal spot for a picnic or a relaxing day by the water.
Kiholo Bay
Kiholo Bay is located on the west coast of the Big Island and is a secluded, untouched paradise. The bay is a mixture of black lava rock, crystal clear water, and white sand, making it a unique and beautiful spot to visit. The beach is accessible by a 20-minute hike or by kayak or paddleboard, making it a great spot for adventurous visitors.
The beach is surrounded by a lava field, and the contrast between the black rocks and the crystal clear water is stunning. Snorkeling is popular here, as the waters are home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, manta rays, and colorful fish. Visitors can also explore the nearby lagoon and freshwater pools, which are home to many native birds and animals.
Kiholo Bay is typically less crowded than other popular beaches on the island, so it’s an excellent place to enjoy the beauty of Hawaii without the crowds. It’s important to note that the area is undeveloped, so visitors should bring their own food, water, and sunscreen.
Molokini Crater
Located off the coast of Maui, this crescent-shaped volcanic crater is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. The clear, turquoise waters offer stunning views of colorful fish, coral reefs, and other marine life. Since the crater is only accessible by boat, it tends to be less crowded than some of the more popular beach destinations on Maui.
Waimea Canyon
Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this impressive natural wonder on Kauai offers breathtaking views of deep canyons, towering waterfalls, and verdant valleys. Visitors can explore the canyon by hiking or driving along the scenic Waimea Canyon Drive, which offers plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views.
Kalaupapa National Historical Park
This remote park on Molokai was once home to a leper colony, and is now a national historical site that offers a glimpse into the history of the Hawaiian Islands. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park, which includes a hike down to the settlement and a visit to the St. Philomena Church, which was built by Father Damien, a priest who dedicated his life to caring for the lepers.
Polihale State Park
Located on the west side of Kauai, this remote beach offers miles of pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. Since it’s only accessible by a dirt road, it tends to be less crowded than some of the more popular beaches on the island. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and even camp overnight at the park’s campground.
Hawaii is full of hidden gems that are away from the crowds and offer visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty and cultural history of the islands. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day by the ocean or an adventure in the wilderness, Hawaii has something for everyone. So why not venture off the beaten path and discover some of the great sites to see away from the crowds in Hawaii?