Outdoor Recreation

You were warned about the concrete jungle of Waikiki; about the tangle of high-rise resorts, upscale stores, and more free hula shows than you could shake a stick at. But you braved its whirlwind of glitter and light, and survived it—nay, dominated it. Ready for a real adventure?

Hawaii has nearly 400,000 acres of national and state parks and hundreds of miles of trails along which you may be the only hiker. It has deserts where NASA astronauts have trained for moon landings, lush rainforests, rolling grasslands, 51 mi. of coastal reef, and over 110 species of fish that are found nowhere else in the world. It is a stopping point in winter for migratory whales that play, breach, and spout in the water. Some of the best and biggest surf breaks in the world are found on the North Shore of Oahu and attract top-notch, world-famous surfers at the height of the winter surf season.

If this guidebook is your atlas, think of this section as your compass, map legend, and index rolled into one. We’ll tell you how to cut through camping red tape, point out some of the best places to go when you want to hit the surf, and, above all, show you how to keep safe while enjoying the outdoors.

• Land

Hawaii is located in the Pacific Ocean, about 2400 mi. (3900km) southwest of the coast of California. It is the most isolated populated landmass in the entire world. At approximately the same latitude ...more

• Flora And Fauna

Hawaii is a natural marvel. Because the archipelago was never part of a larger landmass, none of the plants and animals that exist in Hawaii today originated there. It was not until after the lava cooled ...more

• Camping In Hawaii

Oceanfront campsites afford travelers the opportunity to enjoy a million-dollar view at a fraction of the price of a hotel. Hawaii’s temperate climate only adds to the appeal and ease of camping. Many ...more

• Wilderness Safety

Staying warm, dry, and well-hydrated is key to a happy and safe experience in Hawaii’s wilderness. For any hike, prepare yourself for an emergency by packing a first-aid kit, a reflector, a whistle ...more

• Outdoor Activities

Let’s face it. While we may claim that there are a many reasons to come to Hawaii, only one stands out in your mind: the beaches. The glorious crescents of sand that see millions of sunbathers, snorkelers ...more

• Surfing

The best surfing is almost always in the winter, when the biggest waves roll in along the northern shores of the islands. The surfing spots we list here run the gamut from the easiest surf to breaks ...more

• Snorkeling And Scuba

Many of the snorkeling spots are also good places to dive. OAHU Hanauma Bay , Keawaula Bay , Makaha B.P. , Nanakuli B.P. , Pupukea B.P. , Shark’s Cove , Swanzy B.P. , Three Tables B. , Waimanalo ...more

• Bodyboarding

Many places listed as bodyboarding beaches may be great for bodysurfing, too. OAHU Kalama B. , Keawaula Bay , Kuhio B. , Maili B.P. , Makapuu B.P. , Nunakali B.P., Sandy B. , Queen’s Surf , Waimanalo ...more

• Stunning Sunsets

OAHU Ala Moana B.P. , Makaha B.P. , Sans Souci B. . THE BIG ISLAND Hapuna B. , Makalawena B. , Papakolea Green Sands B. , Waialea B. . MAUI Dig Me B. , Launiupoko Park , Little B. ...more

• Everything Else

ATV TOURS Oahu: Kualoa Ranch . Maui: Maui ATV . Lanai: Adventure Lanai Ecocentre . DOLPHIN OR WHALE WATCHING Oahu: Deep Ecology . Maui: Pacific Whale Foundation . Molokai: Molokai Action ...more

• Useful Resources

A variety of publishing companies offer hiking guidebooks to meet the needs of novices or experts. Hawaii Trail and Mountain Club. Oahu-based hiking club founded in 1910 to explore and enjoy Hawaii’s ...more

• Organized Adventure Trips

Organized adventure tours offer another way of exploring the wild. Activities include hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. Tourism bureaus often can suggest parks, trails, and outfitters ...more