Easily the most unique state in America, the Hawaiian Islands are home to countless stunning landscapes sure to take your breath away. From stark volcanic landscapes and incredible rock formations to lush mountains and cascading waterfalls, here are 15 of the most breathtaking landscapes in Hawaii. With all of its natural beauty, including mountain ranges, gorgeous beaches, and picturesque views around every corner, it is no wonder that Hawaii is a favorite vacation spot for everyone from America’s east coast to Japan or Korea.

1. Waimea Canyon
sharkhats/Flickr
Waimea Canyon, located on Kauai, is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" — and absolutely no one is questioning why.
2. Mauna Kea Observatory
Christopher Chan/Flickr
The night sky is the most stunning when viewed from 4,200 meters high, on top of Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano found on the island of Hawaii.
3. Na Pali Coast
Paul Bica/Flickr
There’s nothing quite like this remote and beautiful stretch of coastline on Kauai’s northwest shore. Unfortunately, there is no road access to this landscape — only the dangerous Kalalau Trail, a boat, or helicopter tour.
4. All Hawaiian Rainbows... Ever
Rowent/Flickr
Though a rainbow is certainly not a place, a list of jaw-dropping places in Hawaii wouldn’t be complete without a Hawaiian rainbow, especially over the city of Honolulu.
5. Lanakai Beach
Steve Corey/Flickr
This beach, found on Oahu’s windward side, is consistently ranked as one of Hawaii’s best beaches and it's so easy to see why with its crystallien turquoise waters and fine, white sand.
6. Secret Cove
Joe Parks/Flickr
This stunning spot on Maui is the perfect way to start your day — or get married!
7. Ko'olau Mountains
John Colby/Flickr
When you are sick of looking out on the ocean, all you have to do is simply turn around and take in the beauty of this majestic Oahu mountain range.

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8. Kilauea Caldera
Howard Ignatius/Flickr
This fiery attraction is located within Hawaii Volcano National Park, and is considered to be one of the world's most active volcanoes. Talk about the beautiful power of nature!
9. Spouting Horn Kauai
Christian Arballo/Flickr
Located on Kauai’s south shore, this natural blowhole is one of the island’s most photographed spots.
10. Kaena Point
Art La Flamme/Flickr
This state park occupies the northwestern most tip of Oahu and is only accessible by foot. Lucky hikers might even spot Hawaiian monk seals and albatrosses.
11. Akaka Falls State Park
Keira Morgan
This 422-foot waterfall is one of Hawaii’s most impressive, and easily accessible to those of all ages by a paved staircase to the falls.
12. Sweetheart Rock
Andy Beal/Flickr
Located between Manele and Hulopoe Bay is a Lanai landmark, Puu Pehe, more commonly known as sweetheart rock.
13. Shark's Cove
Ken-ichi Ueda/Flickr
One of Hawaii’s favorite snorkeling destinations, found on Oahu’s North Shore, we're happy to report that Shark's Cove isn't a destination frequented by sharks.
14. Papakolea Green Sand Beach
Thomas/Flickr
Most people have heard of Hawaii's black sand beaches, but have you ever been to Hawaii Island’s lesser-known, but still impressive Green Sand Beach? It's one of the only green sand beaches in the world!
15. Kahakuloa Bay
Keppet/Flickr
Located off Maui’s Kahakili Highway, this bay is home to a small village with big, beautiful views.

There is no doubt about it: the Aloha State is full to the brim with gorgeous weather and even better views. Which of these Hawaii landscapes is your absolute favorite? Sound off in the comments, then click here to discover the 30 Places In Hawaii You Must See Before You Die.

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More to Explore

Hawaii's Varied Landscapes

Megan Shute | August 17, 2020

What makes Hawaii's landscapes so unique?

From Maui's hidden red sand beach to the rugged, volcanic formations found within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the landscapes you'll find across the Hawaiian Islands are as unique as can be expected from an island chain formed over millions of years by a series of active volcanoes.

What are some of the islands' can't-miss landscapes?

While the list above features some of the most stunning landscapes in all of Hawaii, it's missing some of our all-time favorite spots, including Mau's stark and impressive Mount Haleakala, the rugged lava rock coastline of southeastern Oahu, and the lush and verdant Waipio Valley found on the northern coast of Hawaii Island.

What are Hawaii's most impressive natural wonders?

Well, that's easy: the Hawaiian Islands are home to countless natural wonders like the ones featured above. Some other popular wonders include Thurston Lava Tube, Iao Valley, the Menehune Fishpond, and Kaneohe Bay. If we're being 100 percent honest, no matter where you look in the Aloha State, you're sure to find a natural wonder worthy of attention.

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