10 Incredible Hidden Gems In Hawaii You’ll Want To Discover This Year
By Megan McDonald|Published January 08, 2024
×
Megan McDonald
Author
Megan McDonald is a writer, photographer, and owner of humu media, an Alaska-based digital media agency. She spends her free time traveling with her husband and daughter around the US and the world.
Hawaii is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and aloha spirit. But beyond the well-trodden tourist paths lie hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From the haunting beauty of lava flows to serene gardens and unique red-sand beaches, Hawaii offers a multitude of lesser-known wonders. Here are ten incredible hidden gems in Hawaii you’ll want to discover:
Experience the awe-inspiring power of nature at the Kalapana Lava Flows on the Big Island. The area, once a town, was overrun by lava in the 1980s and has since become a stark and beautiful landscape of hardened lava. Visitors can hike the trails to witness the fiery molten streams and the new land being formed.
It’s the perfect place to go off the beaten path in Hawaii.
Editors Note: It is important to check conditions to see if lava is currently flowing before committing to the 12-mile round-trip hike to experience the Kalapana Lava Flows.
Tucked away in the Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area, the Redwood Trail is a unique forest escape. Here, amidst the tropical climate of Maui, you'll find a grove of towering California redwoods. The cool, misty atmosphere and gentle trails offer a peaceful retreat from the island's beaches. It’s one of the best secret getaways in Hawaii.
Dive into history with an underwater visit to the Corsair Plane Wreck off the coast of Oahu. This World War II-era plane sits on the ocean floor, now a vibrant artificial reef teeming with marine life. It's an eerie and fascinating dive site for experienced divers.
It’s one of the best kept secrets in Hawaii.
Advertisement
4. Sunrise from the Summit of Maui's Mount Haleakala
Join the early risers on a pilgrimage to witness an unforgettable sunrise from the summit of Mount Haleakala. At over 10,000 feet, the summit provides a breathtaking view of the awakening island below. The experience is otherworldly, with the sun rising in a symphony of color above the clouds.
It’s one of the best hidden beautiful places in Hawaii
Discover the lush Allerton Garden in the Lawai Valley of Kauai. This garden paradise features artistic landscaping and rare tropical plants collected worldwide. It's a tranquil haven of water features, elegant statues, and shaded pathways.
Definitely one of the best non touristy things to do in Hawaii.
Visit the home of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire, at the Kilauea Caldera in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The caldera is an active volcano with steaming vents, lava tubes, and desolate landscapes. It's a powerful reminder of the islands' ever-changing nature.
It’s one of the more unique places to visit in Hawaii.
MacKenzie State Park on the Big Island offers rugged coastline views and dense ironwood forests. It's known for its high sea cliffs and deep, wind-swept tree tunnels. The park provides a quiet spot to enjoy the ocean's majesty away from the crowds.
We think it’s one of the cool places to visit in Hawaii.
Hidden away on the eastern shore of Maui is the striking Red Sand Beach in Kaihalulu Bay. The red cinder cone surrounding the beach erodes into the ocean, creating a stunning contrast with the blue waters. It's a secluded spot, accessible only via a short but steep trail.
It’s one of the best hidden gems in Hawaii.
Find a piece of Korean heritage in Hawaii at the Mu-Ryang-Sa Buddhist Temple. Nestled in the hills of Oahu, this temple is known for its traditional architecture and peaceful surroundings. It's a place for reflection and understanding, offering a quiet escape and beautiful city views.
A destination that is off the beaten path in Hawaii.
Visit Isaac Hale Beach Park for a unique beach experience where you can see the forces of creation and destruction at play. Located near the recent lava flows, this area offers thermal hot ponds, new black sand beaches, and opportunities to see the raw beauty of volcanic activity. It’s also a great surfing spot.
It’s one of our favorite secret getaways in Hawaii
Hawaii’s hidden gems provide a deeper look into the island’s diverse landscapes and culture. Beyond the postcard-perfect beaches and resorts, these lesser-known spots offer tranquility, adventure, and a connection to the natural world and historical past. Whether hiking to a volcanic crater, walking through a redwood forest, or watching the sunrise from atop a sacred mountain, these experiences will surely make your visit to Hawaii unforgettable. So pack your spirit of adventure and discover these incredible hidden treasures!
