 Fun Things to do in Hawaii
With so many attractions and tours to choose from, planning your Hawaii vacation activities  can be overwhelming. Here are a few suggestions from our local staff, who know the Islands well.
Hit the Beach!
Hawaii is home to some of the worlds most beautiful beaches, which makes going to the beach one of the best free things to do in Hawaii. Get a map of the area as soon as you arrive and ask your hotel concierge for advice. It’s important to know what season it is and what that means for the beach you’re planning on visiting.
The South Shores offer small gentle waves in the winter and larger sets in the summer, while the North Shores are just the opposite, featuring some of the biggest waves in the world during the winter months – quite a sight to see, but no swimming allowed!
 Learn to Surf
Surfing originated as the sport of ancient Hawaiian royalty. What better place to learn to surf? You can find surfing lessons on every Island. Children as young as eight can join and the lessons are usually conducted by professional surfers and lifeguard/CPR trained watermen.
Go to a Luau
A luau is a “must do” Hawaii activity – at least once. This traditional Hawaiian feast is much more than food; it’s a cultural experience that can’t be beat. Depending on the luau you choose, you’ll often have the opportunity to arrive early and learn ancient Hawaiian crafts and games before the luau even begins. Dinner is typically a buffet style meal, which includes traditional Hawaiian food plus some more familiar fare like steamed fish and salads. The show begins once everyone is seated with their meal. A variety of dances from all across Polynesia are featured, from the gentle swaying hula hips of Hawaii to the dramatic fire knife dance of Samoa. Attending a Luau in Hawaii is highly recommended!
Get Out on the Water
Or in the water! Whether you want to dive in and get wet, or just sail along for the scenic ride, it’s well worth the trip. Hawaii’s ocean is teaming with wildlife just waiting to be discovered. Go on a Dolphin Encounter and sail along with spinner dolphins as they surf the wake of your boat. Or get in the water with them on a Snorkeling Tour .
Visit a Museum
For those who wish to know about Hawaii’s past, there are many museums to visit as well as attractions that give tours. One often missed that is just spectacular is ‘Iolani Palace on Oahu. Once the official residence of Hawaiian royalty, guided tours of this beautiful palace are offered Tuesday through Saturday and reservations are required. Another royal palace worth visiting is on the Big Island of Hawaii – Hulihe’e Palace once served as a vacation retreat for Hawaii’s ali’i. The Kauai Museum in Lihue features a little of everything, from ancient artifacts to nostalgic treasures from Hawaii’s plantation days. For a peak into Hawaii’s more recent history, on Maui, the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum features information and exhibits about the sugar industry. And of course, if you’re on Oahu, be sure to visit Pearl Harbor , where there are numerous tours available, including the USS Arizona Memorial.
 Enjoy the Local Food
Perhaps the most important part of any vacation is enjoying the local food. The mix of cultures in Hawaii has provided a wide variety of things to try while you’re here, from traditional Hawaiian food and the Asian inspired local “plate lunch” to malasadas (Portuguese doughnuts) and shave ice (Hawaiian snow cone). You don’t need to spend a lot of money either. The Shrimp Trucks in Kahuku for example offer a huge plate of locally farmed shrimp in garlic butter sauce, rice and salad for $10-$13.
Make Reservations in Advance – Don’t Miss Out!
Guarantee your spot on the most exclusive things to do in Hawaii. Reservations and tickets are available at HawaiiActivities.com – the knowledgeable, local staff will help you plan all of your Hawaii activities so you’ll have tickets in hand and won’t have to worry about a thing once you’re here.
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