Adventure Tourism in Hawai’i

Adventure tourism in Hawai’i is basically the only other kind of tourism there is, aside from rest and relaxation. Surrounded by natural beauty, wonders and a slew of ways to connect with the region’s incredible landscape, adventure tourism is a mainstay on the islands.

Air

Take in all the Hawai’ian Islands by helicopter. Look down over the lush forests, rushing waterfalls, flowing hot lava and incredible cliffs lining Oahu, Kauai, Maui and the Big Island. Enjoy the birds-eye view with a Blue Hawaiian Helicopter tour, boasting quiet rides over all four major islands. Search by island and point of interest to narrow down your tour options.

For a bit of land and air, zipline through Maui’s scenic rainforests or head to the Kualoa Private Reserve on Oahu for a treetop view of the coast.

Sea

Snorkeling is an easy way to explore the incredible shores of each Hawai’ian Island, but Maui is one of the few where you can swim inside a crater. Strap on your gear and swim through the crystal-blue waters of the Molokini Crater. Sail with Trilogy Excursions, searching for sea turtles and the clear, shallow waters of the Maui crater.

Kayaking excursions and rentals are found nearly anywhere you visit in Hawai’i. Add a little history to your day out on the water with a kayak excursion to the site of Captain James Cook’s last days in 1779. Just south of Kailua Village on Big Island, hike Captain Cook Monument Trail toward the beach to rent kayaks and hit the water, or book a guide with the help of your resort and paddle from Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park.

Land

Hiking is a mainstay for Hawai’ian tourists. Kick it up a notch, exploring the many incredible volcanoes of the Big Island. Head to Halema’uma’u Crater on a hike, or enjoy a tour through Hawaii Forest and Trail. Between the expert-level Kilauea lava tour and lower-impact Hawaii Volcanoes National Park hike, there is something for all levels.

Horseback riding may not be your first though for Hawaiian adventure activities, but it is a great way to explore the land. Check out Ponoholo Ranch on Kohala Mountain and visit ancient ruins on horseback while enjoying Maui’s ocean views alongside grazing livestock.