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Local Picks - Things To Do in Hawaii

If you want to experience Hawaii beyond the usual tourist spots, this is the place to start. All the recommendations here come straight from our Hawaii Local Expert team, people who live and breathe island life every day. We don’t rely on algorithms or paid placements, these are genuine picks based on firsthand knowledge.

Our choices reflect what locals love to do, whether it’s a sunrise paddle on the gentle east shore of Oahu, a hike up a quiet trail in Kona, or grabbing malasadas from a bakery that’s been around for decades. One local tip: timing matters. Try visiting less crowded spots early in the morning or during weekday mornings to see the islands at their most peaceful.
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Local tip from Hawaii

If you’re in Maui, a simple but overlooked local favorite is the fruit stand along the Hana Highway just past Ke‘anae. Stop there in the morning for fresh coconut water and banana bread that isn’t in any guidebook. Locals often time their drives to avoid the mid-day congestion and enjoy a quiet paddle in the nearby bays when the water is calm. It’s a small detail, but beating the crowd changes your whole day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers about how and why we choose these local picks in Hawaii.

Our local editorial team, all residents of Hawaii, carefully handpicks these recommendations based on their personal experience living on the islands.

We update the list regularly to reflect new discoveries, seasonal changes, and current conditions that locals know about.

No. The local picks are completely independent, chosen solely on what residents truly enjoy and recommend.

Yes, because locals often favor lesser-known places that offer a more genuine Hawaii experience, away from typical tourist crowds.

Absolutely. For example, certain beaches or trails are better at specific times of year, and locals factor that in when making picks.

There’s a mix to suit different interests, from relaxed beach visits to hikes and cultural spots that locals enjoy across age groups.

Explore Things To Do Categories

City Tours (1922 places) If you're spending time in Hawaii, city tours can be so much more than just seeing the usual landmarks. Imagine wandering through Chinatown in Honolulu, where every corner smells like fresh poke and g Explore
Attractions & Tickets (1636 places) If you’re heading to Hawaii and wondering where to snag tickets for the cool stuff, you’ve come to the right place. There’s a lot more than just beaches here,think hiking to hidden waterfalls on Explore
Nature & Wildlife Tours (1450 places) If you want to see Hawaii beyond the usual beaches, nature and wildlife tours are the way to go. From hiking through the ohia forests on the Big Island to kayaking alongside spinner dolphins off Maui Explore
Family-Friendly Experiences (1352 places) If you’re traveling to Hawaii with kids, you’re in luck. Families can find everything from easy beach days with calm waters to gentle hikes that even little legs can handle. Kids love the tide poo Explore
Day Cruises (1056 places) If you want a break from beaches and hiking, a day cruise in Hawaii can show you a whole new side of the islands. There’s something special about gliding along the coast, the wind in your hair and w Explore
Safari / Nature Tours (1056 places) If you want to get off the beaten path in Hawaii, nature tours are the way to go. Think about hopping on a boat near Kona to snorkel with manta rays after dark,there’s nothing else quite like watchi Explore
Hiking & Trekking (992) • Zipline / Ropes / Caving (664) • Tastings (636) • Day Trips (574) •

Top Things To Do in Hawaii

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Top Things To Do in Hawaii

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