Are you dreaming about Hawaii and want to know some of the most beautiful places in Hawaii tourists don’t know about? Keep scrolling to find out the best hidden gems in Hawaii worth checking out.
This list of the best hidden gems in Hawaii was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
You know that feeling when you stumble upon a place that feels like your own secret discovery? That’s exactly what I’m about to share with you.
After visiting Hawaii more than 40 times as a professional tourist and Hawaii travel expert, I’ve collected a mental map of spots that most visitors never find.
These aren’t the places you’ll see on every tour bus route. They’re the hidden corners, the secret beaches, and the off-the-beaten-path adventures that make you feel like you’ve discovered something truly special.
Want the insider scoop? Keep reading for my favorite Hawaii hidden gems across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.
Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Hawaii itineraries? Grab my comprehensive travel guides for Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island, complete with daily schedules and family-friendly activities.
Mermaid Caves, Oahu
Okay, let’s talk about one of Oahu’s most enchanting spots.
The Mermaid Caves near Nanakuli Beach Park are absolutely magical when the sunlight streams through the openings in the ceiling, creating this ethereal blue glow on the water below.
Here’s the thing though. Getting into these caves is not for everyone, and I need to be super honest about that.
You’ll need to drop down about 8 feet into the cave through a hole in the lava rock. More importantly, you’ll need the upper body strength to pull yourself back out. If you can’t do a pull-up, this probably isn’t for you.
And honestly? There’s no shame in that. The caves are beautiful even from above.
Safety is huge here. Only visit at low tide during calm conditions, ideally in summer. I’ve seen memorial plaques outside the caves for people who’ve lost their lives here, and that’s a sobering reminder to respect the ocean’s power.
If conditions are rough or you’re not confident about getting in and out, just enjoy the view from the top. You can still peek through the holes in the lava rock and see the magic below.
This is one of the top Oahu hidden gems, but it requires serious caution and good judgment.
The Elusive Wallaby Colony of Kalihi Valley, Oahu
Wait, wallabies? In Hawaii? Yes, really!
Back in 1916, someone brought three Australian wallabies to a private zoo in Kalihi. Two of them escaped into the valley, and nature did its thing.
Today, there’s a small colony of brush-tailed rock wallabies living somewhere in the steep, forested slopes of Kalihi Valley.
Now, before you go planning a wallaby safari, let me set realistic expectations. These little guys are incredibly elusive. The last confirmed sighting was years ago, though locals occasionally spot them.
They live on private property above a military base, so you can’t really go looking for them anyway.
Think of it as one of those cool “did you know?” facts about Oahu rather than something you’ll actually see.
Though hey, if you’re hiking in the area and happen to spot a small kangaroo-looking creature hopping around, you’ll know you’ve witnessed something truly rare!
The wallaby population is protected by state law, which makes sense given how few of them there are. It’s one of those quirky Hawaii secrets that makes the islands even more interesting.
The Makawao Forest, Maui
If you’re getting a little tired of beach days and want to cool off, let me tell you about one of my favorite spots in upcountry Maui.
The Makawao Forest Reserve sits at about 4,000 feet elevation, and it’s like stepping into a completely different climate zone.
The temperature drops, the air gets crisp, and suddenly you’re surrounded by towering eucalyptus trees instead of palm trees.
The Kahakapao Loop Trail is the main draw here. It’s about 6 miles of winding trail through this beautiful forest, with enough elevation gain to make you feel like you got a workout without being brutal.
The trail is shared with mountain bikers (they’ve built some amazing bike-specific trails here too), so just keep your eyes open and share the path.
What I love about this hike is how different it feels from typical Hawaii. You’ll see exotic birds, deer if you’re lucky, and tons of lush green vegetation. The kupukupu ferns growing along the trail are native to Hawaii and absolutely gorgeous.
Pack a light jacket because it’s genuinely cooler up here. And if it’s been raining, expect some muddy sections. The east side of the loop tends to be wetter than the west side.
Rent bikes if you want to tackle the trails on two wheels, or just enjoy a peaceful forest hike away from the crowds.
Mountain Tubing, Kauai
This one is hands-down one of my all-time favorite Hawaii experiences. I’ve done it multiple times, and it never gets old.
Picture this: You’re floating on an inner tube through hand-dug irrigation canals that were built in the 1870s for sugar cane plantations.
You’re cruising through lush rainforest, drifting through tunnels with your headlamp lighting the way, and the only sounds are flowing water and your group’s laughter echoing off the tunnel walls.
It’s such a cool way to see a part of Kauai that’s completely inaccessible to most visitors.
The tour takes you through 17,000 acres of private land that used to be the Lihue Plantation. Your guides share stories about the history while you bounce down these old flumes and channels.
What makes it even better? It’s genuinely fun for all ages. I’ve seen everyone from young kids to grandparents having an absolute blast.
The water moves at a gentle pace, you’re provided with gloves and helmets with headlamps, and the guides are there to help you navigate.
At the end, there’s a picnic lunch and a natural swimming hole where you can cool off. Trust me, after floating through those tunnels, a refreshing swim hits the spot.
This is Kauai Backcountry Adventures’ signature tour, and honestly, it’s one of those things to do in Kauai with kids that adults love just as much. Book this tour on Hawaii Tours before it sells out (it fills up fast, especially in summer).
Go Inside the Kilauea Crater, Big Island
Here’s something amazing: As of November 2025, Kilauea is putting on an absolutely incredible show.
Since December 2024, the volcano has been erupting in episodic lava fountains that reach up to 1,500 feet in the air.
Think about that. That’s taller than the Empire State Building! This is the most dramatic lava fountaining Kilauea has produced since the 1980s.
The eruption happens in episodes, with spectacular fountains shooting up for hours or days, then pausing to recharge before doing it again.
It’s all contained within Halema’uma’u crater at the summit, which makes it safe to view from designated areas in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
If you’re lucky enough to be on the Big Island right now, you have a front-row seat to one of nature’s most powerful displays. Check the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory for current eruption status before you go.
When there’s no active lava, you can hike the Kilauea Iki Trail. This 4-mile loop takes you across a solidified lava lake, through a misty rainforest, and into the heart of a volcanic crater.
It’s surreal walking across what was a bubbling lava lake just decades ago.
The Big Island’s volcanic activity is constantly changing, which is what makes it so fascinating.
Check out my guide to the best Big Island volcano tours for more ways to experience this incredible landscape.
Spitting Cave (China Walls), Oahu
Out in the residential neighborhood of Hawaii Kai, there’s this dramatic stretch of coastline that locals call the Spitting Cave or China Walls.
The cliffs here are made of volcanic rock, and when the waves crash into the cave formations, water gets forced through openings and literally “spits” out with incredible force. Sometimes it creates these beautiful rainbows in the mist.
It’s a popular spot for experienced cliff divers who jump from 70 feet up into the deep water below.
Just watching them is enough to get your adrenaline pumping, and I definitely don’t recommend trying it yourself unless you’re a trained professional.
This is one of those spots that’s equal parts beautiful and dangerous. The ocean conditions here can change quickly, and the currents are strong.
Enjoy the stunning views and the dramatic coastline, but keep a safe distance from the edge.
It’s definitely one of the best Oahu Instagram spots if you’re looking for dramatic ocean scenery away from the typical tourist beaches.
Corsair Plane Wreck Dive Site, Oahu
Most people visiting Oahu hit up Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, and Diamond Head. But did you know there’s a World War II plane wreck sitting at the bottom of the ocean just three miles from the Hawaii Kai marina?
Back in 1948, a pilot flying this Corsair aircraft had to make an emergency water landing when his engine failed.
He managed to land the plane on the water and get rescued, but the aircraft sank and has been sitting on the ocean floor ever since.
Today, the wreck sits about 115 feet underwater, which makes it an advanced dive site. The currents can be strong, and you need to know what you’re doing down there. But for experienced divers, it’s an incredible piece of living history.
If you’ve never scuba dived before but this sounds cool, let it be your motivation to get certified! There are plenty of dive shops on Oahu that can help you work toward exploring wrecks like this.
Even if you’re not ready for this particular dive, there are tons of amazing snorkeling spots on Oahu that are perfect for all skill levels.
One’uli Beach (Naupaka Beach), Maui
When people think of black sand beaches in Hawaii, they usually picture the famous one near Hana. But there’s another black sand beach in South Maui that hardly anyone visits, and it’s stunning.
One’uli Beach (also called Naupaka Beach) is part of Makena State Park, tucked away on the north side of the Pu’u Ola’i cinder cone.
The sand here isn’t completely black. It’s more like a mix of black, red, and white, created from eroded lava and volcanic ash.
What makes this beach special is how uncrowded it usually is. To get here, you’ll drive down a short dirt road (any car can handle it), which automatically filters out a lot of tourists. This means you often get the beach largely to yourself.
The swimming can be tricky because there’s a hard lava shelf at the water’s edge rather than a gradual sandy entry. But the snorkeling is excellent if you can navigate past that initial entry. Sea turtles love this area, so keep your eyes open.
There’s one porta-potty but no other facilities, so bring everything you need. Pack an umbrella if you’re planning to stay a while because there’s zero natural shade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prettiest island in Hawaii?
Most people would say Kauai is the prettiest island. The dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, the red and green layers of Waimea Canyon, and the lush valleys scattered across the island create absolutely breathtaking scenery.
But honestly? Every island has its own unique beauty. Kauai is the greenest and most dramatic, but Maui’s beaches, the Big Island’s volcanoes, and Oahu’s mountains all have their own special magic.
What is the most beautiful place in Hawaii?
That depends on what you love! Some people think nothing beats the volcanic landscapes at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Others are obsessed with the Na Pali Coast.
I have a soft spot for the clear waters of Kailua Beach on Oahu and Lanikai Beach’s offshore islands. Beauty is so subjective in Hawaii because there’s such incredible variety.
What is the least touristy island in Hawaii?
Molokai, hands down. This small island doesn’t have luxury resorts or even a single stoplight. It’s the most authentic Hawaiian experience you’ll find in the islands.
If you want to escape crowds completely, Molokai is your answer. Just be prepared for a much more rustic experience with fewer dining and activity options.
What are some other off-the-beaten-path places in Hawaii?
There are so many! Try mountain tubing on Kauai, diving with manta rays on the Big Island, watching sunrise from Haleakala Crater on Maui, or kayaking out to the Mokulua Islands on Oahu.
Want more ideas? Listen to my Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast where I share tons of hidden gem recommendations.
Planning Your Hidden Gems Adventure
Look, I get it. Planning a Hawaii trip can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to balance the must-see spots with these hidden gems that make a trip truly special.
That’s exactly why I created my comprehensive Hawaii travel guides. These take all the guesswork out of your planning.
Each guide includes day-by-day itineraries, exact driving directions, where to eat, and all my insider tips for experiencing Hawaii like a local rather than a tourist.
Not sure where to start? Grab my free 5-day email course on how to travel to Hawaii like a pro. I’ll walk you through everything from choosing the right island to saving money on your trip.
And if you want personalized help planning your specific trip? I offer Hawaii travel consultations where we’ll video chat and I’ll give you customized recommendations based on your family’s interests and travel style.
After 40+ visits to Hawaii, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t, and I love helping families create their perfect Hawaiian vacation.
Ready to capture those hidden gem moments? Book a family photo session with Flytographer and save $20 when you use my link. Trust me, you’ll want professional photos of your family at these stunning spots.
Need a rental car to reach these hidden gems? Check out Discount Hawaii Car Rental for the best rates on the islands.
Final Thoughts
These eight hidden gems are just the beginning. Every time I visit Hawaii, I discover new secret spots, whether it’s a local’s favorite food truck, a quiet beach tucked away from the main road, or a hiking trail that takes my breath away.
The magic of Hawaii isn’t just in the famous attractions (though those are incredible too). It’s in these off-the-beaten-path discoveries that make you feel like you’ve found something truly special.
So get out there and explore! Just remember to travel respectfully, follow safety guidelines (especially for places like the Mermaid Caves and Spitting Cave), and leave every place better than you found it.
Have fun discovering your own Hawaiian hidden gems. I can’t wait to hear about them!
Looking for more things to do in Hawaii? Find out the best Oahu hidden gems, best Kauai waterfalls, and guide to Secret Island Oahu.
