Hawai’i is known for its stunning landscapes, crystal blue waters, and abundant outdoor activities. No matter what kinds of activities you love, whether hiking volcanoes or kayaking through ocean waves, Hawai’i offers endless activities. Here are the many fantastic outdoor activities you can enjoy while on your Hawaiian vacation!
And if you’re looking for other ideas or want a great resource for your vacation planning, download our free Vacation Guide, where you can get all the best restaurants, attractions, and things to do in Hawaii. We curated our best recommendations to make planning easy for you!
14 of the Best Outdoor Activities in Hawai’i
Jet Skiing
For adrenaline seekers, jet skiing in Hawai’i will be one of the most exciting things on your vacation. Nothing beats racing across ocean waves at thrilling speeds or exploring the shorelines as you ride.
Kayaking
When kayaking in Hawai’i, you can explore sea cliffs, hidden coves and visit parts of the islands you wouldn’t otherwise see. It can be some of the most exhilarating adventures, especially if you take your snorkeling gear and visit coral reefs and other hot spots for beautiful marine life. Check out some of the most fantastic locations for kayaking on the Big Island and kayaking on Oahu.
Paddle Boarding
If you prefer to paddle board or want to learn, Hawai’i is the perfect place and has many diverse locations. Enjoy paddle boarding through tranquil waters and take in the stunning views of the coastlines or anywhere in Hawai’i, you want to paddle!
Boating
Sunset Cruises on Oahu or the Big Island is a very romantic way to spend time on vacation. Or enjoy other kinds of boating trips. You can create unforgettable memories through various tours seeing marine life, and visiting different parts of the islands.
Fishing and Deep Sea Fishing
Fishing in Hawai’i is a popular outdoor activity year-round. Enjoy fishing on shore, piers, kayaks, boats, and deep-sea fishing. Try your luck at catching fish species like tuna, marlin, mahi mahi, and more. Charters are also available if you want to go with an experienced guide or in a group. It’s a great way to learn from the experts and have a great day.
Hiking Outdoor Activities
For some exciting land adventures where you can explore historical spots and stunning vistas, you’ll find some of the best hiking trails on Oahu, n
ot to mention exciting waterfall hikes where you can get stunning vacation photos. But also check out the Diamond Head Crater hike, which many travelers enjoy. If you’re on the Big Island, there are many exciting hikes like Volcano National Park. Hawai’i offers all levels of hiking for beginners and experts alike; just be sure to research and take the appropriate gear for the trails you’re interested in hiking.
Snorkeling
Hawai’i has some of the most exciting places to snorkel, with its coral reef teeming with diverse marine life. Try Big Island snorkeling, where you can swim with colorful fish and enjoy the crystal blue waters, or snorkel with Oahu’s sea turtles instead and find beautiful places to explore underwater! You can spend an entire day being mesmerized by the beauty beneath the surface of Hawaiian waters.
Surfing
One of the most famous activities in Hawai’i, surfing is an unforgettable experience whether you’re just starting or have been surfing for years. Surf Hawai’i’s famous North Shore surfing on Oahu, or check out Big Island surfing, and enjoy the warm waters and long tradition of Hawaiian surfing.
Swimming with Dolphins
As anyone who has swam with dolphins will tell you, nothing else is like it. If you want a genuinely unforgettable Hawaiian vacation, this outdoor activity will excite you for days. Join a guided tour and encounter some of the most playful marine creatures in the world. Swim with the dolphins and experience a profound connection with them and Hawai’i.
Golfing
Many from around the world come to enjoy the best golf courses in Hawai’i because of the breathtaking views. Experience world-class golf courses at premier golf resorts, which many consider a golfer’s paradise!
Kiteboarding Outdoor Activities
Another adrenaline-pumping outdoor activity you can enjoy in Hawai’i is kiteboarding. This fantastic sport will give you an unforgettable rush as you use the wind to carve through waves and glide about the brilliant blue ocean waters. Hawai’i has many excellent companies to provide you with the perfect experience, whether you’re brand new to the sport or have been enjoying it for years.
Ziplines are Excellent Outdoor Activities in Hawai’i
Many people have tried ziplines at some point, but if you’ve never tried it in Hawai’i, you might be missing out! Soaring through the treetops of a Hawaiian forest is unlike anything else. Once you step off that platform, you’ll see Hawai’i’s natural and unique landscapes in ways you’ve never seen before. And the unique features of the ziplines here will give you an exciting rush you’ll want to experience again and again.
Underwater Scooter
Underwater scooters are a popular sport in Hawai’i because they give you an unforgettable snorkeling experience. It resembles a giant underwater astronaut suit and lets you get close to schools of fish, coral reefs, and other marine life. You don’t need to have any experience or even know how to swim to enjoy this fantastic and fun adventure!
Beaches are the Best Outdoor Activities
Hawai’i is known for its white sandy beaches, but you might be surprised to learn it also has black sand beaches! Every Hawaiian vacation should include at least one day of relaxing or strolling along the beach in paradise. From the iconic Waikiki Beach on Oahu to the laid-back Hapuna Beach on the Big Island, there is no shortage of enjoyable experiences in the Hawaiian islands and some of the best beaches in the world.
Stay in Some of the Best Places in Hawai’i
If one day on Oahu isn’t enough for your itinerary, consider renting one of our beautiful vacation homes. Browse our rental properties on Oahu or the Big Island.
We have stylish, unique private homes with fantastic amenities. Feel right at home with fully equipped kitchens, ocean views, and convenience to shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Browse our vacation properties for your favorite, and book a stay today!