Hawaii

Hanakoa Falls is one of two large waterfalls along Na Pali Coast. While most set out for a high-paced hike on Kalalau Trail, rushing past Hanakoa Valley, those who choose to explore Hanakoa Valley and Falls will not be disappointed. To reach the beautiful Hanakoa Valley, you will take the same tr...

When we chose to visit the volcanic big island of Hawaii, we knew that seeing an active lava flow was a must do. We decided to go at sunset and into the evening, as the lava flow would be spectacular under the dark night sky - we were right.  Start by driving to Kalapana, south of Hilo, on the e...

This hike starts directly across from Banzai Pipeline, the famous barreling wave at Ehukai Beach.  It only takes half an hour to get to the pillbox so it's a great hike to do at sunset but bring a headlamp.  IF you don't hike at sunset it's still an incredibly beautiful hike with views of Pipelin...

They don't call it the butt slide trail for nothing— the Okolehao Trail (translated to iron butt, for more than just the glutes involved) —is a short drive from Princeville, just before Hanalei Bay. Filled with lush vegetation, ample wildlife, and stunning viewpoints, the full trail isn't for th...

Everyone knows that Hawaii was formed from a series of volcanoes over millions of years. But did you know that you can experience one of them up close? Well, as close as you can while staying safe, obviously. The Halema'uma'u Crater has been active since 2008 when the vent first erupted. Since t...

This is a fun hike in central Oahu that leads to multiple water falls! Bring some shoes that you don't care about because the trail is muddy and you will definitely get dirty. There is also a cliff diving spot at one of the falls. This hike is just one trail located in the Ewa Forest Preserve. Th...

Located near the northern tip of the Big Island, Waipi'o Valley is one of the most beautiful views that you can experience in all of Hawaii. Waipi'o Valley is an hour and 30 minute drive from Kona and an hour and 10 minutes from Hilo. To access the lookout, take HI-19 west to HI-240. Make sure to...

The hike to the Waimea Falls offers both the natural beauty of a tropical rainforest, as well as the unique, in situ opportunity to learn about local history. Although this hike can be crowded, it is definitely worthwhile to see and swim in this amazing Hawaiian waterfall. The approximately mile...

Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is on my list of the top ten most beautiful nature places you can drive to. Hoʻomaluhia means "to make a place of peace and tranquility."  This breathtaking gem was built in 1982 by the US Army Corps of Engineering to prevent flooding.  There’s a lot to do here, you...

This beach is a great if you're looking for a more secluded beach in Waikoloa Village.  Rarely are there more than ten people there even during sunset when people flock to the beach.   If you aren't staying at the Hilton next door then this spot is a little harder to access. There are two beach a...

Drive north along the Akoni Pule Highway for approximately 45 miles. When you reach Lapakahi State Historical Park, turn left of of the highway and find a parking spot.  The fishing village itself consists of several volcanic rock walls along the shore. It is a great stop while exploring the nort...

Access: There are two options for accessing the trailhead:  (1) Get a permit from the Division of Forestry and Wildlife Oahu so you can drive the 6-mile dirt road to the true trailhead. The permit provides you car access through the locked gate and is only available on weekends and holidays. You'...

Thurston Lava Tube Trail is a loop trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Pahala, Hawaii, Hawaii.

Mauna Kea is one of the volcanoes that helped form the Big Island of Hawai’i. However, its last eruption was around 2600 BC. Mauna Kea sits at an elevation of 13,796ft above sea level making it the second highest mountain I’ve hiked as I write this post – just shy of Mt Whitney. Interestingly, mo...

Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach is an out-and-back trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Hana, Maui, Hawaii.

Wyllie's beach is a small beach next to Anini beach. It is on the northwest side of the river mouth. There is a 0.8 mile trail down to the beach. The trail head is near the Westin Princeville. This is a handy beach for those staying in the Princeville area, as it is walkable from most vacation ho...