Learn 10 common Hawaiian words you might hear at a luau to understand, connect, and get more cultural experience at Mauka Warriors Luau.
From crystal-clear ocean waters to majestic volcanic peaks, from cloud-lined roads winding through tropical forests to sacred cultural ceremonies at Mauka Warriors Luau, Hawaii is a paradise of diverse natural beauty, where each island carries its own unique personality. If you’re planning to explore this magical tropical land, then the list of the 10 most famous tourist attractions in Hawaii below with detailed reviews will help you choose the right places and make the most of every moment.
1. Waikiki Beach (Oʻahu)
Waikiki is not just the most famous beach in Hawaii, it's the heart of tourism on Oʻahu. The beach here is long and wide, the sand is soft and white like powder, and the turquoise water stretches to the horizon. It’s an ideal place to learn to surf, take long beach walks, sunbathe, or sip a Mai Tai under the sunset glow. Waikiki is also close to the city center, making travel easy and convenient.
Waikiki Beach is the first place you should visit
Top activities:
- Surfing lessons for beginners
- Strolling along Kalakaua Avenue – a paradise of shopping and dining
- Joining an evening luau show, enjoying ukulele and fire dancing
- Renting a SUP board or catamaran to admire Honolulu from afar
Note: Waikiki gets very crowded in the afternoons and on weekends. If you prefer a quieter experience, go early in the morning or try nearby Kuhio Beach.
2. Diamond Head Crater (Oʻahu)
Diamond Head is an extinct volcanic crater located right next to Honolulu. The hiking trail to the summit is about 1.3 km long and takes around 30–60 minutes depending on your fitness level. Once you reach the top, you’ll get a panoramic view of the entire city and Waikiki Bay from over 230 meters above sea level, a breathtaking sight you won’t forget.
Stand at the top of Diamond Head and take in the majestic views all around
Top activities:
- Gentle hike, suitable for families
- Watching sunrise or sunset from the summit
- Capturing stunning 360-degree panoramic photos of Oʻahu
This is your view from the top of Diamond Head
Tip: Don’t forget to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat as it can get very sunny. There’s a rest stop along the way with interesting geological displays.
3. Haleakalā National Park (Maui)
Haleakalā means “The House of the Sun” in Hawaiian. This volcanic summit rises over 3,000 meters above sea level and is often shrouded in mist. Many visitors are willing to wake up at 2 a.m. to drive to the top and witness the moment the sun rises through a sea of clouds, an experience that is both sacred and overwhelming. If you want to visit this spot, go early to avoid the crowd, and bring a jacket since the temperature at the summit can drop below 5°C.
The House of the Sun Haleakalāin
Top activities:
- Watching sunrise or sunset from the summit
- Cycling downhill with guided tours
- Trekking across the crater, observing rare native plants and wildlife
Note: Book in advance via the national park website if you want to access the summit at sunrise.
4. Volcanoes National Park (Big Island)
This is where you can truly feel the raw power of nature. The park is home to two massive volcanoes: Mauna Loa and Kilauea. Kilauea is still active and last erupted in 2018. You can walk over hardened lava flows, explore lava tubes, or if you're lucky witness glowing red lava flowing right before your eyes.
Lucky tourists witnessed the volcanic eruption
Top activities:
- Exploring the Thurston Lava Tube beneath the earth
- Viewing glowing lava at night (if active)
- Learning about volcanic geology at the Kīlauea Visitor Center
Note: Check current park conditions before visiting, as some areas may be temporarily closed due to weather or volcanic activity.
5. Nā Pali Coast (Kauaʻi)
With towering cliffs covered in lush green forest dropping straight into the turquoise sea, Nā Pali Coast is the most magnificent destination in Kauaʻi. This place served as a backdrop for films like “Jurassic Park” and “Moana.” There are no roads into this area; you'll need to get there by boat, helicopter, or hiking.
This place will make you feel so healed
Top activities:
- Sunset boat tours along the coastline
- Kayaking along the shore during summer
- Hiking the Kalalau Trail (for experienced hikers only)
Caution: The scenery is stunning but remote. Go with a guided tour for safety.
6. Road to Hāna (Maui)
The Road to Hāna is a roughly 100km scenic drive with over 600 winding turns cutting through rainforests, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and small villages. This journey is about enjoying the views along the way, not just reaching the destination.
Hana Highway - the most beautiful road in Hawaii
Recommended stops:
- Twin Falls – a small, swimmable twin waterfall
- Wai’anapanapa State Park – home to a mysterious black sand beach
- Keʻanae Peninsula – a traditional Hawaiian village with oceanfront views
Tips: Rent a small car, drive slowly, and start early. Bring snacks and food stops are limited.
7. Pearl Harbor (Oʻahu)
Pearl Harbor marks the infamous attack on December 7, 1941 the event that brought the U.S. into World War II. You can visit the sunken battleship USS Arizona and the Aviation and Maritime Museum to gain deeper insight into this historic period.
The place where the fierce battle of Pearl Harbor took place
Top activities:
- Ferry tour to the USS Arizona Memorial
- Flight combat simulation experience at the museum
- Listening to stories from veteran guides (if you're lucky)
Note: Admission is free, but tickets are limited. You should book online a few days in advance.
8. Lanikai Beach (Oʻahu)
Lanikai means “heavenly sea” and it truly lives up to the name. The beach is quiet, the sand is soft and white, and the water is crystal clear. It’s perfect for paddling a SUP board to nearby Moku islands or simply lying back to enjoy the peaceful waves.
Lanikai Beach
Highlights:
- Watching the sunrise over the ocean
- Kayaking to the two small offshore islands
- Stunning photoshoots — perfect for weddings or Instagram
Note: No public parking available, arrive early or walk from nearby neighborhoods.
9. Waimea Canyon (Kauaʻi)
Waimea Canyon stretches 16 km, plunges nearly 900 meters deep, and features striking red rock mixed with lush greenery creating a dramatic tropical landscape unlike anywhere else. The roads are easy to navigate, making it suitable for families.
The rainbow makes the scene here even more majestic
Top activities:
- Viewing the canyon from Kalalau Lookout
- Short hike along the Waimea Canyon Trail (~1 hour)
- Exploring nearby Kokee State Park
Tips: Visit at midday on sunny days for the best red rock color. Avoid going on rainy days due to heavy fog.
10. Mauka Warriors Luau (Oʻahu)
Unlike crowded commercial luaus, Mauka Warriors Luau offers a deeply traditional evening experience: hula dancing by firelight, ancestral storytelling, imu-roasted meals, and even the chance to try traditional Polynesian tattooing with natural ink.
Mauka Warriors Luau - a place to preserve traditional Hawaiian values
Special experiences:
- Meet local artists and learn the meaning behind each tattoo
- Join sacred opening ceremonies with drum rituals
- Dinner buffet with traditional Hawaiian dishes like kalua pig, poi, and poke
Note: Seating is limited, reserve your spot several days in advance. Not suited for those seeking a loud party, but perfect for lovers of authentic culture.
We hope that with the detailed suggestions above, you’ll feel inspired to start planning your Hawaii adventure. You might skip some destinations, but to truly experience the spirit and flavor of Hawaii, don’t miss the chance to join a traditional luau at Mauka Warriors Luau.
