HONOLULU (KHON2) -- We live in one of the most beautiful places on the planet. So, when we decide to do 'summer things', we have a cornucopia of options and choices that are breathtaking and unique.
This is why, after surveying residents on their favorite activities, KHON2.com's Unfit Adventurer has collected a list of things you need to do this summer that will increase your mental capabilities, your physical agility and your emotional flexibility.
Visit a beach
After a bit of research, here are the most popular beaches for each of Hawaiʻi's Islands.
- Oʻahu: Waikīkī Beach
- Located in Honolulu, this iconic beach is famous for its golden sand, surf-friendly waves and vibrant atmosphere.
- Hawaiʻi Island (a.k.a. Big Island): Hapuna Beach
- Situated on the Kohala Coast, Hapuna Beach is known for its expansive white sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- Maui: Kā‘anapali Beach
- Located in West Maui, Kā‘anapali Beach is renowned for its beautiful coastline, excellent swimming conditions and nearby resorts and amenities.
- Molokaʻi: Pāpōhaku Beach
- Also known as Three Mile Beach, Pāpōhaku Beach on the west end of Molokaʻi is one of the largest white-sand beaches in Hawaiʻi, known for its tranquility and stunning sunsets.
- Lānaʻi: Hulopoʻe Beach
- Situated near the Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi, Hulopoʻe Beach is famous for its pristine waters, excellent snorkeling and tide pools teeming with marine life.
- Kauaʻi: Poʻipū Beach
- Located on the south shore of Kauaʻi, Poʻipū Beach is popular for its golden sand, safe swimming areas and opportunities for snorkeling and spotting sea turtles and monk seals. But do not touch the sea turtles and monk seals. This is illegal. You must remain at 150 feet away from Hawaiʻi's sea turtles and monk seals.
These beaches are celebrated for their unique beauty and the range of activities they offer, making them the top destinations.
Hike a new trail
Here are the most popular hiking trails for each of the Hawaiʻi's Islands. You can click here to learn more about Hawaiʻi's hikes.
- Oʻahu: Diamond Head (Lēʻahi) Summit Trail
- This iconic trail offers a relatively short but steep hike to the summit of Diamond Head, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean.
- Hawaiʻi Island (a.k.a. Big Island): Kīlauea Iki Trail
- Located in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, this trail takes hikers through lush rainforest and across the floor of a solidified lava lake, with views of the still-active Kīlauea Volcano.
- Maui: Pipiwai Trail
- Found in the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park, this trail winds through bamboo forests and past stunning waterfalls, including the 400-foot Waimoku Falls.
- Molokaʻi: Kalaupapa Trail
- This challenging trail descends nearly 1,700 feet along sea cliffs to the Kalaupapa Peninsula, offering dramatic views of the ocean and access to the historic Kalaupapa National Historical Park.
- Lānaʻi: Munro Trail
- This 12.8-mile trail offers expansive views across Lānaʻi; and on clear days, you can see as many as six other Hawaiʻi Islands. The trail takes you through lush forests and up to the island’s highest point.
- Kauaʻi: Kalalau Trail
- Situated along the Nā Pali Coast, this famous 11-mile trail offers some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the world, with lush valleys, towering cliffs and secluded beaches. The hike to Hanakāpīʻai Falls, which is part of the trail, is a popular shorter option.
These trails are celebrated for their unique beauty and the diverse experiences they offer, making them the top hiking destinations.
Have a picnic
Pack a lunch and enjoy it in a local park. That's easy, but making the picnic is the hard part. Choosing themes can make this fun and exciting, allowing you and your guests to maximize every moment of fun and memory-making.
- Classic picnic: Red and white checkered blanket, wicker basket, sandwiches, fruits and lemonade.
- Beach picnic: Tropical décor, seafood, fresh fruits, cold beverages and beach games.
- Romantic picnic: Soft blanket, candles or fairy lights, wine, cheese, chocolates and a bouquet of flowers.
- Family picnic: Kid-friendly foods like sandwiches and fruit, games and activities, large picnic blanket and sunscreen.
- Gourmet picnic: Fine cheeses, charcuterie, artisan bread, wine and gourmet salads.
- BBQ picnic: Portable grill, burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob and barbecue sauces.
- Breakfast picnic: Fresh pastries, coffee, juice, fruits, yogurt and granola.
- Italian picnic: Antipasto platter, pasta salad, Italian bread, olives and wine.
- Fiesta picnic: Tacos, chips and salsa, guacamole, margaritas and bright, festive decorations.
- Garden picnic: Fresh salads, herbal teas, floral arrangements and garden-themed decorations.
- Wine and cheese picnic: Assorted cheeses, crackers, fruits, wine and a rustic blanket.
- French picnic: Baguettes, brie, pâté, French pastries and sparkling water.
- Japanese picnic: Sushi, bento boxes, sake and cherry blossom decorations.
- Sports picnic: Tailgate foods like wings, chips, dips, sports drinks and a portable cooler.
- Retro picnic: Vintage décor, classic sodas, retro snacks and games like croquet or bocce.
- Healthy picnic: Fresh vegetables, hummus, whole grain wraps, smoothies and water.
- Dessert picnic: Variety of cakes, cookies, pastries, coffee and sweet decorations.
- Tea party picnic: Assorted teas, finger sandwiches, scones and vintage tea sets.
- Camping picnic: Marshmallows for roasting, hot dogs, camping gear and outdoor games.
- Cultural picnic: Foods from a specific culture or country, traditional music and cultural decorations.
These themes can help set the mood and make your picnic experience unique and enjoyable.
Read a book
Pick a book you've been wanting to read and dive in. And go to your local bookstore to get it. By supporting these local businesses, we enrich our own communities.
- Oʻahu: da Shop: Books + Curiosities
- Located in Kaimukī, da Shop is a beloved community bookstore offering a carefully curated selection of books, gifts and local products.
- Hawaiʻi Island (a.k.a.Big Island): Basically Books
- Found in Hilo, Basically Books is a popular independent bookstore known for its extensive collection of books on Hawaiian culture, history and local authors, as well as maps and gifts.
- Maui: Maui Friends of the Library Bookstore
- This nonprofit organization runs several bookstores across the island, with locations in Kahului, Lāhainā and Puʻunēnē, offering a wide range of new and gently used books at affordable prices, supporting local libraries.
- Molokaʻi: Kalele Bookstore & Divine Expressions
- Located in Kaunakakai, Kalele Bookstore & Divine Expressions is a community-focused bookstore offering a diverse selection of books, local art and gifts, emphasizing Hawaiian culture and literature.
- Lānaʻi: Lānaʻi Public & School Library
- While Lānaʻi does not have a dedicated independent bookstore, the Lānaʻi Public & School Library serves as a central hub for book lovers, offering a variety of reading materials and community programs.
- Kauaʻi: Talk Story Bookstore
- Situated in Hanapēpē, Talk Story Bookstore is the westernmost bookstore in the United States. It is known for its eclectic selection of new and used books, local authors and unique gifts, housed in a charming historic building.
These bookstores are cherished for their contributions to the local literary scene and their support of Hawaiian culture and authors.
Go camping
Spend a night or two in the great outdoors. Here are the most loved camping spots for each of our islands.
- Oʻahu: Bellows Field Beach Park
- Located in Waimānalo, Bellows Field Beach Park offers a beautiful beachfront camping experience with clear waters, soft sands and plenty of amenities. It's a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Hawaiʻi Island (a.k.a. Big Island): Nāmakanipaio Campground
- Situated within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Nāmakanipaio Campground offers a unique camping experience with the backdrop of lush forests and proximity to the park's volcanic features.
- Maui: Hosmer Grove Campground
- Located in Haleakalā National Park, Hosmer Grove Campground is set at a high elevation, offering cool temperatures, scenic views and access to the park's many hiking trails.
- Molokaʻi: Pāpōhaku Beach Park
- Pāpōhaku Beach Park on the west end of Molokaʻi features one of Hawaiʻi's largest white sand beaches, providing a serene and spacious camping experience with basic amenities.
- Lānaʻi: Hulopoʻe Beach Park
- Near the Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi, Hulopoʻe Beach Park offers designated camping areas with stunning ocean views, excellent snorkeling and well-maintained facilities.
- Kauaʻi: Kōkeʻe State Park
- Kōkeʻe State Park, located in the uplands above Waimea Canyon, offers scenic campsites with access to numerous hiking trails, beautiful vistas and rich natural and cultural history.
These camping sites are popular for their unique settings, natural beauty and the amenities they offer, making them ideal spots for enjoying the great outdoors.
Visit a museum or art gallery
Take the time and opportunity to explore Hawaiʻi's culture and history.
- Oʻahu
- Bishop Museum (Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum): Located in Honolulu, Bishop Museum is the largest museum in Hawaiʻi and is dedicated to studying and preserving the history and culture of Hawaiʻi and the Pacific. It houses an extensive collection of Hawaiian artifacts and royal family heirlooms.
- Honolulu Museum of Art: HoMA has a great deal of art and music events taking place this summer. Click here to find out more.
- Hawaiʻi Island (a.k.a. Big Island): Lyman Museum and Mission House
- Situated in Hilo, the Lyman Museum offers exhibits on the natural history and cultural heritage of Hawaiʻi. The adjacent Mission House, built in 1839, provides a glimpse into the lives of early missionary families.
- Maui: Maui Ocean Center
- Located in Wailuku, the Maui Ocean Center is an aquarium and marine science center that showcases the diverse marine life found in Hawaiʻi's waters. It features a large collection of live coral, reef fish, sharks and other marine creatures.
- Molokaʻi: Molokaʻi Museum and Cultural Center
- This museum, located in Kalaʻe, offers insights into Molokaʻi's history and culture, with exhibits on the island's plantation era, the Kalaupapa settlement and local art and artifacts. The museum is housed in the restored R.W. Meyer Sugar Mill.
- Lānaʻi: Lānaʻi Culture & Heritage Center
- Located in Lānaʻi City, this museum preserves and shares the history, culture and heritage of Lānaʻi. It features exhibits on the island's Hawaiian roots, its plantation era and the natural environment.
- Kauaʻi: Kauaʻi Museum
- Situated in Līhuʻe, the Kauaʻi Museum offers exhibits on the island's history, culture and art. It features collections on Hawaiian artifacts, the island's geological formation and the impact of various cultures on Kauaʻi.
These museums are celebrated for their dedication to preserving and showcasing the unique history, culture and natural environment.
Volunteer
Give back to your community by volunteering your time. Here are the most popular volunteer opportunities.
- Oʻahu: Hawaiian Humane Society
- Located in Honolulu, the Hawaiian Humane Society offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, including animal care, community outreach and assisting with adoption events.
- Hawaiʻi Island (a.k.a. Big Island): Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
- Volunteers can participate in conservation efforts, educational programs and cultural preservation activities within the park, helping to protect and maintain the natural and cultural resources of this unique environment.
- Maui: Maui Ocean Center Marine Institute
- This organization focuses on marine conservation, including rescuing and rehabilitating sea turtles, conducting research and offering educational programs. Volunteers can assist with beach cleanups, turtle monitoring and outreach events.
- Molokaʻi: Molokaʻi Land Trust
- The Molokaʻi Land Trust works to protect and restore the island’s natural and cultural resources. Volunteers can help with native plant restoration, invasive species removal and community education projects.
- Lānaʻi: Lānaʻi Cat Sanctuary
- The Lānaʻi Cat Sanctuary provides a safe haven for stray and feral cats on the island. Volunteers can help with feeding, cleaning, socializing the cats and maintaining the sanctuary grounds.
- Kauaʻi: National Tropical Botanical Garden
- Located in Poʻipū, the National Tropical Botanical Garden offers volunteer opportunities in garden maintenance, plant conservation, educational tours and special events, helping to preserve and showcase the island’s unique flora.
These organizations are popular for their impactful work and the variety of volunteer opportunities they offer, allowing individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the environment.
Explore your hometown
Visit local attractions you’ve never been to before. Here are some ideas that may help you dig into the local options for residents to explore and have fun.
- Oʻahu: Kaʻena Point State Park
- Located at the westernmost tip of Oʻahu, Kaʻena Point is a remote and scenic area known for its rugged coastline, native plants and seabird colonies. Residents can hike along the coastal trails, explore tide pools and experience the natural beauty and tranquility of one of the island's most unspoiled areas. The area is also rich in cultural significance, with ancient Hawaiian legends associated with the site.
- Maui: ʻĪao Valley State Monument
- Located near Wailuku, ʻĪao Valley is a lush, scenic area with significant historical and cultural importance. Residents can hike through the valley, explore the botanical garden and learn about the Battle of Kepaniwai, a key event in Hawaiian history.
- Molokaʻi: Kalaupapa National Historical Park
- Accessible via a steep trail or a guided tour, this remote park preserves the history of the Kalaupapa leprosy settlement. Residents can explore the poignant history, the natural beauty and the resilient community that once lived there.
- Lānaʻi: Kaunolū Village
- Located on the southern coast of Lānaʻi, Kaunolū Village is an ancient Hawaiian fishing village and a significant archaeological site. Residents can explore the ruins, including petroglyphs and the sacred site of Kahekili's Leap.
- Kauaʻi: Waimea Canyon State Park
- Known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon offers breathtaking views, hiking trails and rich geological history. It is a unique place for residents to appreciate the natural beauty and explore the diverse landscapes of their island.
These unique locations provide you with opportunities to delve into the natural, cultural and historical aspects of our islands.
Watch a sunrise or sunset
Find a beautiful spot and enjoy the view. Here are the most popular spots to watch a sunrise or sunset on each of our Islands.
- Oʻahu: Lēʻahi (Diamond Head)
- For sunrise: Hiking to the summit of Lēʻahi offers breathtaking views of the sunrise over Waikīkī and the eastern shores of Oʻahu. The panoramic views make it a popular spot for early risers.
- Hawaiʻi Island (a.k.a. Big Island): Mauna Kea Summit
- For sunset: Watching the sunset from the summit of Mauna Kea is a spectacular experience. At nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, it offers unobstructed views of the horizon and a breathtaking celestial display after dark.
- Maui: Haleakalā National Park
- For sunrise: The summit of Haleakalā is renowned for its stunning sunrise views. Visitors often drive up in the early hours to watch the sun rise above the clouds, creating a magical and unforgettable scene.
- Molokaʻi: Pāpōhaku Beach
- For sunset: This expansive, remote beach on Molokaʻi's west side offers serene and beautiful sunset views over the Pacific Ocean. It's a tranquil spot to watch the sky change colors as the sun dips below the horizon.
- Lānaʻi: Hulopoʻe Beach
- For sunset: Hulopoʻe Beach is known for its pristine beauty and excellent sunset views. The beach offers a peaceful setting to watch the sun set over the ocean, often with spinner dolphins playing in the bay.
- Kauaʻi: Keʻe Beach
- For sunset: Located at the end of the road on Kauaʻi's north shore, Keʻe Beach provides stunning sunset views with the dramatic Nā Pali Coast as a backdrop. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors to enjoy the evening light show.
These spots are celebrated for their breathtaking views and the serene experience they offer, making them the top destinations for watching the sunrise or sunset.
Visit a farmer's market
Buy fresh, local produce and goods. Here are the most popular farmers' markets on each island.
- Oʻahu: KCC Farmers' Market
- Located at Kapiʻolani Community College in Honolulu, the KCC Farmers' Market is one of the largest and most popular on Oʻahu. It features a wide variety of local produce, prepared foods and unique products from local vendors.
- Hawaiʻi Island (a.k.a. Big Island): Hilo Farmers Market
- Situated in downtown Hilo, the Hilo Farmers Market is a bustling market that operates daily, with its largest gatherings on Wednesdays and Saturdays. It offers an extensive selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, crafts and local delicacies.
- Maui: Maui Swap Meet
- Held at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College in Kahului, the Maui Swap Meet is a popular Saturday event that features local produce, handmade crafts, clothing and food. It attracts both locals and tourists with its diverse offerings.
- Molokaʻi: Molokaʻi Farmers' Market
- Located in Kaunakakai, the Molokaʻi Farmers' Market takes place on Saturdays and is the island’s main market. It offers fresh local produce, baked goods, crafts and various local products, providing a community-focused shopping experience.
- Lānaʻi: Lānaʻi Farmers Market
- The Lānaʻi Farmers Market is held in Dole Park in Lānaʻi City on Saturdays. It features locally grown fruits and vegetables, homemade foods and crafts, fostering a sense of community among residents and visitors.
- Kauaʻi: Kauaʻi Community Market
- Located at Kauaʻi Community College in Līhuʻe, the Kauaʻi Community Market is held on Saturdays and showcases a wide variety of local produce, flowers, prepared foods and handcrafted items. It's a collaboration between the college and local farmers to promote local agriculture.
These farmers' markets are celebrated for their vibrant atmospheres, diverse selections of local goods and their roles in supporting local farmers and artisans.
The most important thing to do this summer? Have fun!