Top Things to do in Hawaii
Top 10 Nature & Wildlife Areas in Hawaii, United States
[object Object]
Restaurants in Hawaii
1. Kalalau Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,655 reviews
This place is temporarily closed. Kauai's hiking trail along the Na Pali coast.
Reviewed By wolverineJACK21 - Midland, United States
My family just got back from Kauai. We stayed near the NaPali coast. We had anyone from age 29-64 with us. There is a new rule now where you MUST have a park pass weeks ahead of time before being able to hike the Kalalau trail. We made this mistake and got sent away the first time. If you can’t get a pass, the best way to get access to the park is via the shuttle. The shuttle pass comes with entry to the park which is nice. The shuttle system is actually pretty efficient too. We took our shuttle from Princeville. After arriving, you have a 0.5 mile easy hike to the trailhead. There are bathrooms and a beach with a lifeguard here. If you want to hike, the trail itself is well marked and reasonably safe for the first two miles. It is mainly rocks but is wide and easily hike-able for people of all ages. There are tiny streams that you may have to step over but nothing too crazy. At the end, you hike down to a river. We went during the winter and the river was too high and too fast to cross. I recommend bring water shoes in a backpack to cross the river so that your hiking shoes aren’t soaked. It was at least waist high when we went. There is a small beach that you can hike down to which is nice. Overall, this trail is beautiful. I’m bummed we couldn’t make it to the waterfall on the other side of the river but highly recommend this.
2. Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve
3. Kamakou Preserve
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 25 reviews
Molokai's rain forest preserve.
Reviewed By nerissa21 - New York City, United States
Wow! Worth the trip to Moloka’i! Rent a good 4WD l. We parked close to the entrance of the Preserve and hikes all the way to the trail (as the road gets really muddy after some rain). Though you can drive all the way to the Pepe’Opae trailhead at the end of the road with a good vehicle. We passed by fragrant Eucalyptus groves, tall Ironwood pines. The Wailuku Lookout was gorgeous after the clouds cleared up in the afternoon (last 2 pics). The Pepe’Opae trail itself was a trip back in time with moss covered trees, ferns. At the end, there is a beautiful lookout. We had the trail all to ourselves! It was wet and boggy at parts, but the beauty of the trail is so worth it! Would return to Moloka’i just for this hike.
4. Na Pali Coast State Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,954 reviews
A scenic area offering beautiful beaches and dramatic cliffs.
Reviewed By kalisTravelGuide - Pennsylvania, United States
I was lucky enough to view Kauai's 17 miles of coastline on the northwest sides by boat. The view is riveting. I could barely take my eyes off for fear I was going to miss it. The vast cliffs are very memorable and full of untouched natural beauty. I'd even say magical.
5. Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2,146 reviews
The Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden is a 501(c)(3) Scientific and Educational non-profit, whose mission is to serve as a nature preserve and sanctuary, a living seed bank, and a study center for trees and plants of the tropical world. The Garden is dedicated to the collection and display of the world's tropical plants, and to the education of both children and adults about the plight of the world's rainforests. At a time when rainforest plants are disappearing at an alarming rate, the Garden is working to preserve as many species as possible for the benefit of future generations.
Reviewed By Paola010 - Oklahoma City, United States
This garden was an unexpected treat on a tour that included other attractions. Located on Onomea Bay, we reached it from the shipping port of Hilo. Admittedly, it was a long 500' walk down and then back up, but well worth it. (And, if you can't make it back up, a tram will bring you back for $10). It had it all, orchids growing on tree trunks and in their own little orchid garden, sparkling streams, a lush pool, unusual shades of anthurium, many varieties of ginger and dozens of other colorful plants and flowers. Eventually the path leads to a lovely view of the ocean, fringed by palms. Just delightful.
6. Midway Atoll
7. Lanai Cat Sanctuary
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 498 reviews
Longing for the cat you left at home? Don't miss Lanai`s open-air sanctuary, a happy haven for spayed and neutered cats. Imagine a large playground in paradise, where over 600 cats romp and play in Hawaii's sunshine, and snooze under shady trees. Purring cats of all shapes and sizes eagerly await your visit. Our caregivers, who joyfully care for the cats, would love to meet you too. If you're interested in adopting a cat, we love matchmaking!
Reviewed By RMaxwellSAU
The Lana’i Cat Sanctuary is a wonderful place to visit on Lana’i. There are over 600 cats that have been rescued around the island and brought to the sanctuary to live. They spay and neuter the animals to help control the population and the sanctuary keeps the cat safe as well as protects endangered birds on the island. They fly in a veterinarian twice a month so the cats are well cared for and their medical needs are met. If you are an animal lover and especially enjoy cats, this is the perfect place to spend a few hours. Bring a box of treats with you and find a seat among the many options available and soon you’ll be surrounded.
8. Kona Cloud Forest
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 175 reviews
Reviewed By renata623 - Los Angeles, United States
Took this nature walk with my teens, sister and her husband. All 5 of us loved it. It was a magical place. Kelly, who guided us so was so passionate about the forest and shared so much with us about the plants, nature and local history. The beauty of this place and it's unique trees and plants make it a must in Kona. This is a very special place to visit.
9. Parrots in Paradise Sanctuary
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 21 reviews
Parrots in Paradise Sanctuary is a non-profit rescue and permanent housing facility for nearly 100 displaced parrots in Hawaii. Visiting the sanctuary is fun and educational as you stroll through the beautiful sanctuary grounds in a personalized small group with hands on experience. Your donation to visit is 100% tax deductible which supports these displaced parrots in Hawaii.
Reviewed By wheretohangmyhat
We spent several hours at Parrots in Paradise. The love and care these precious birds receive from Gerry and his parents, Gerry and Dorothy, is a gift not just to the birds, but an example of the good in the world, and don’t we all need that. This family will an inspiration to us for the rest of our lives.
10. Honolua Bay
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 915 reviews
Reviewed By Shutterbug444
Honolua Bay is a great place to snorkel! There is free parking just off the main road but it's hit and miss getting a spot because it's a popular spot. Getting here early is a good idea. From there, you walk through a beautiful and peaceful rainforest, which is the Honolua Bay access trail, to reach the bay. I had as much fun exploring the rainforest as I did at the bay. There are many chickens and baby chicks running around.
