The Hawaiian Islands are known for a few things: phenomenal beaches, warm, tropical weather, and stunning sceneries. But not all views are created equal, and these 12 incredible landscapes throughout Hawaii are undeniably iconic.
- Diamond Head
Eric Tessmer/Flickr This volcanic tuff cone is perhaps the most well-known landmark on Oahu. The view of Diamond Head via airplane is iconic, the hike to the summit is mentioned in every guidebook, and you can even see the volcano from the famous beaches of Waikiki.
- Waimea Canyon
Ali Eminov/Flickr Affectionately referred to as the “Grand Canyon of The Pacific,” I don’t quite have the words to describe how absolutely breathtaking the views are.
- Oheo Gulch
Navin Rajagopalan/Flickr Also known as the seven sacred pools, this Maui landmark is one you’ve got to see in your lifetime. If weather permits, you can even swim in these absolutely heavenly pools.
- Mauna Kea
Alan L/Flickr The view from atop Mauna Kea is second to none. Visit the summit for an iconic sunset, and stay for the incredible stargazing opportunity.
- Molokai Sea Cliffs
Versello/Flickr The sea cliffs, which reach heights of 2,000 feet, are the highest in the world. The cliffs surround the former leper colony of Kalaupapa, which can only be reached via mule or airplane.
- Waimanalo Beach
Beth/Flickr Waimanalo Beach, which is the longest beach on Oahu, was named the best beach in the United States, as compiled by a coastal science professor known as Dr. Beach. The crystal blue waters, pristine white sand, and secluded location make it a must-visit for any beach bum.
- Na Pali Coast
Patrickmoos/Flickr Kauai’s iconic Na Pali Coast is what dreams are made of – emerald green cliffs, cascading waterfalls into deep, narrow valleys, and the brilliant blue hue of the Pacific abound. Too bad the views are only accessible via a difficult hiking trail, and boat, kayak or helicopter tours.
- Akaka Falls
Alan Strakey/Flickr Due to easy access, a constant stream of water, and its 440-foot plummet, Akaka Falls is perhaps Hawaii’s most iconic and picturesque waterfall.
- Haleakala National Park
David Schroeder/Flickr This massive shield volcano forms approximately 75 percent of Maui. Haleakala National Park is a destination for anyone seeking adventure, and the stark volcanic landscape coupled with the sub-tropical rainforest make this a truly one of a kind place.
- Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
Alicia0928/Flickr With panoramic views of the Ko’olau Mountains and Kaneohe Bay on Oahu’s windward coast, this lookout is a must-stop on any tour of the island.
- Sweetheart Rock
Andy Beal/Flickr Perhaps one of the most iconic landmarks on the small island of Lanai is Puu Pehe, affectionately referred to as sweetheart rock.
- Road to Hana
Fanch DeLhucas/Flickr The 52-mile road to Hana is known for its scenic views, tropical landscape, and stunning waterfalls, but also for the twists, hairpin turns, and bridges you will encounter along the way.
Tell us, which one of these iconic sceneries in Hawaii is your favorite?
Eric Tessmer/Flickr
This volcanic tuff cone is perhaps the most well-known landmark on Oahu. The view of Diamond Head via airplane is iconic, the hike to the summit is mentioned in every guidebook, and you can even see the volcano from the famous beaches of Waikiki.
Ali Eminov/Flickr
Affectionately referred to as the “Grand Canyon of The Pacific,” I don’t quite have the words to describe how absolutely breathtaking the views are.
Navin Rajagopalan/Flickr
Also known as the seven sacred pools, this Maui landmark is one you’ve got to see in your lifetime. If weather permits, you can even swim in these absolutely heavenly pools.
Alan L/Flickr
The view from atop Mauna Kea is second to none. Visit the summit for an iconic sunset, and stay for the incredible stargazing opportunity.
Versello/Flickr
The sea cliffs, which reach heights of 2,000 feet, are the highest in the world. The cliffs surround the former leper colony of Kalaupapa, which can only be reached via mule or airplane.
Beth/Flickr
Waimanalo Beach, which is the longest beach on Oahu, was named the best beach in the United States, as compiled by a coastal science professor known as Dr. Beach. The crystal blue waters, pristine white sand, and secluded location make it a must-visit for any beach bum.
Patrickmoos/Flickr
Kauai’s iconic Na Pali Coast is what dreams are made of – emerald green cliffs, cascading waterfalls into deep, narrow valleys, and the brilliant blue hue of the Pacific abound. Too bad the views are only accessible via a difficult hiking trail, and boat, kayak or helicopter tours.
Alan Strakey/Flickr
Due to easy access, a constant stream of water, and its 440-foot plummet, Akaka Falls is perhaps Hawaii’s most iconic and picturesque waterfall.
David Schroeder/Flickr
This massive shield volcano forms approximately 75 percent of Maui. Haleakala National Park is a destination for anyone seeking adventure, and the stark volcanic landscape coupled with the sub-tropical rainforest make this a truly one of a kind place.
Alicia0928/Flickr
With panoramic views of the Ko’olau Mountains and Kaneohe Bay on Oahu’s windward coast, this lookout is a must-stop on any tour of the island.
Andy Beal/Flickr
Perhaps one of the most iconic landmarks on the small island of Lanai is Puu Pehe, affectionately referred to as sweetheart rock.
Fanch DeLhucas/Flickr
The 52-mile road to Hana is known for its scenic views, tropical landscape, and stunning waterfalls, but also for the twists, hairpin turns, and bridges you will encounter along the way.
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