Natural Wonders of Hawaii | Sightseeing | Go Hawaii

Natural Wonders

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Natural Wonders of Hawaiʻi

A visit to Hawaiʻi begs the question: what isn’t a natural wonder? Just about any of our stunning beaches and emerald-green mountains could qualify, but there are a few special places that stand above the rest. On your next visit, make some time to explore these amazing Hawaiian treasures.

Nāpali Coast, Kauaʻi
Emerald-green pinnacles, hidden beaches and cascading waterfalls are just a few of the natural wonders you’ll see along this spectacular shoreline on Kauaʻi’s North Coast. For unbeatable vistas, book a boat tour and explore the many secret sea caves. Or, make an epic approach by air with an adrenaline-pumping helicopter ride. 

Waimea Canyon, Kauaʻi
Called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon stretches 14 miles long and plunges 3,600 feet deep, providing panoramic views of crested buttes, rugged crags and other geologic features of Kauaʻi's dramatic interior. Neighboring Kōkeʻe State Park offers another 45 miles of incredible hiking trails, plus an informative natural history museum.

Lēʻahi (Diamond Head), Oʻahu
This state monument has become an iconic symbol of Hawaiʻi, and the backdrop for countless photos snapped on Waikīkī Beach. Dubbed “Diamond Head” by 19th-century British sailors who mistook glittering calcite crystals for diamonds on the crater’s slopes, Lēʻahi is also an accessible day-hiking destination with some of the best views on Oʻahu.

Puʻu Pehe, Lānaʻi
Rising 80 feet from the ocean at the meeting place of Mānele Bay and Hulopoʻe Bay, this unusual rock formation is steeped in Hawaiian lore of a lovesick god.

Hāna Highway, Maui
The journey is the destination on this scenic (and sometimes white-knuckle) drive through some of the state’s most spectacular scenery. The legendary Hāna Highway (HI-360) twists and turns through rainforests, waterfalls and dramatic seascapes, connected by more than 50 bridges and 600 curves. Start early and plan on lots of stops en route to the peaceful town of Hāna, a quaint holdover of old Hawaiʻi. 

Pāpōhaku Beach Park, Molokaʻi
At three miles long and up to 100 yards wide in some spots, this secluded beach in rugged West Molokaʻi is one of the largest white-sand beaches in Hawaiʻi.

Maunakea, Island of Hawaiʻi
Take a stargazing tour atop the largest sea mountain in the world, measuring over 33,000 feet from the ocean floor. Here, experts and visitors are treated to a show few have experienced; at this elevation, and because of the clear air and minimal light pollution, the stars can light the sky like glitter.