Hawaii's tropical landscape, mild temperatures and picturesque scenery are all the motivation you'll need to get out and enjoy the state's vast array of outdoor opportunities. With so much to do and see on each of Hawaii's four major islands, you'll want to plan ahead to make sure you don't miss anything.
Location and Climate
Hawaii's island chain, located in the south Pacific Ocean, is 2,500 miles from the mainland United States. Temperatures on Hawaii's four major islands---Maui, Oahu, the Big Island of Hawaii and Kauai---rarely stray from the 70s, and warm breezes blow for much of the year, creating ideal conditions for outdoor adventures.
Maui
Hana Highway, or the Road to Hana, is a 68-mile stretch on Maui's eastern coast. The highway is mostly two lanes with tight curves and one-lane bridges, and a one-way trip from Kahului generally takes three hours. Along the way are dozens of trails that lead to waterfalls and pools. Less than two miles short of Hana is the turnoff to Waianapanapa State Park, home to a black-sand beach, cliffside trails and a pathway through the park that leads to a series of caves and pools.
Oahu
Turquoise-colored waters and brilliant white-sand beaches await in Lanikai on Oahu's windward coast. The warm ocean waters at Lanikai Beach are relatively calm and clear, perfect conditions for swimming and snorkeling. Take an outrigger canoe or a kayak out on the same waters where many of the island's canoe clubs practice, and paddle out for a closer look at the two offshore islets, Na Mokulua, state bird sanctuaries with restricted access.
Big Island
Volcanoes National Park, located on the eastern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, offers up-close views of volcanic activity both past and present. Hike through lava tubes and around craters on trails throughout the park. At sunset, or just afterward, drive to the end of Chain of Craters Road and hike out to view the lava flow spewing from Kilauea Volcano. Be sure to bring a flashlight and wear good shoes or hiking boots, as much of the trail to the viewing area is dried lava beds.
Kauai
Kauai's Na Pali Coast on the northwest side of the island is a hidden treasure. There are no roads to reach the sheer cliffs that rise up out of the clear waters of the Pacific Ocean, so this 15-mile stretch of coastline is only accessible by hiking, kayaking, sailing, canoeing or joining one of the island's many boat tours. Na Pali's hiking trails range from a four-mile trek to a strenuous 11-mile trail starting at Kee Beach. If you plan to hike Na Pali, be sure to pack provisions and be prepared for rocky terrain and muddy trails.
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