Everyone who has ever been to Hawaii knows that it’s all about the beaches and the sunsets. Of course, Hawaii’s beaches are silky smooth ribbons of white and its waters are aquamarine gems to swim, snorkel and play in; but there is more to Hawaii than just its pristine beaches and indescribable sunsets.
There are also, of course, volcanoes complete with lava flow, rainforests and waterfalls. Don’t forget to throw in some winding twisting roads that will leave your hair standing on end. From waterfalls to winding roads, here are some of the best of the best Hawaii has to offer.
Hanakapi’ai Falls
For some, it’s the vision of a magnificent waterfall that makes the destination so exhilarating. For others, it’s more about the journey. Some hikers love the trail as much as the pot of gold at the end – the breathtaking waterfall. Others enjoy the experience of being in a remote and secluded location.
The Na Pali coast, for some, is referred to as one of the most beautiful coasts there is. If you choose to hike in the Na Pali coast, your trek may begin with the Kalalau Trail, leading you to Hanakapi’ai beach and then up further toward the Hanakapi’ai Falls.
This trail is not for the faint of heart as conditions can sometimes be laden with slippery mud, steep inclines and declines, as well as narrow foot pathways and loosened rock underfoot. Make sure to bring appropriate supplies of water, and be prepared to view one of the most majestic waterfalls as it cascades over and dives into a deep pool below.
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is 80 feet of exquisite beauty located in Hilo, Hawaii. As the water majestically plunges into the river below, you have a good chance at capturing a shot of a rainbow gracing its dive. Rainbow Falls is surrounded by lush tropics. The falls lead into the Wailuku River where there is some possible royal history attached to it.
If you seek an easier visit to see one of the most magical falls, then Rainbow Falls is definitely for you. Visit Wailuku River State Park for a picture-perfect postcard view of one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in a lush tropical setting you will ever set sights on.
Pools of Ohe’o
You may have heard the term, “The Seven Sacred Pools” while exploring your visit to Hawaii. The pools belonging to the Haleakala National Park in Maui offer you beautiful waterfalls leading into several pools in which you can play and swim. Stunning and exhilarating are two perfect words to describe the experience of visiting the Seven Sacred Pools.
These pools are quite popular and just as crowded. So if you enjoy having a one-of-a-kind experience in a pool of wonder and enjoy sharing it with many others, the Seven Sacred Pools are sure not to disappoint.
Akaka Falls
This waterfall lives in beautiful Akaka Falls State Park. When you visit the park, you have the opportunity to take a hike that will fill all your senses. Breathe in the scent of wild orchids as you make your way through a lush rainforest. From there, continue your hike to view one of the smaller water falls known as Kahuna Falls. Go forward and loop around until you are in awe of the spectacular Akaka Falls which is known to be more than a 400 foot drop, giving the appearance that it is a secret treasure in the middle of everything. Take it all it as you view this waterfall plummeting downward into its pool and admire the beauty and majesty of nature.
If all this magnificence is not enough for you and you seek even more adventure, why not spin your wheels on Maui’s famous Hana Coast.
Hana’s Maui Coast
High above Hana’s Maui’s coast, dotted with black sand beaches, you will find the road to Hana. If you want somewhere to leave all your cares behind, this is the place to do it. As you drive over the slithering cliffs of the road to Hana, there’s nothing else to think about other than the drive itself.
Here, you can experience the view of Hawaii’s beautiful oceans and lush greeneries while getting a thrill-rush of a ride all the while. This coast offers more than 50 miles of winding curves, with just as many bridges – some of which are only big enough for one lane – as it snakes around until you come to a stop. Enjoy the feeling of being in the middle of the most beautiful nowhere you have ever seen. Leave your cares behind and understand that there are places like this on earth that are few and far between.
Waimea Canyon Drive
If the thought of Hana’s Maui Coast terrifies you a bit too much, then try your way on Waimea Canyon Drive. While there are curves, turns and cliffs, most people who have traveled this road say it’s more for the tame at heart as opposed to the road to Hana. The Waimea Canyon will remind you of all the glory and beauty of the Grand Canyon only smaller scale. With rugged terrain and an impressive and dramatic view of Kauai’s landscape, you can view the canyon at the overlook.
From rugged terrain with winding, serpentine curves to majestic rainbow waterfalls, these place are sure to leave an impression on your heart and mind. Be sure to check to see current conditions and openings on all before you go.
