Hawaii: Turtles, Lava Tubes & Epic Hikes

When you think of Hawaii, images of lush green landscapes and expansive blue oceans come to mind instantly. Having trotted around the globe, from the rugged terrains of the Himalayas to the serene beaches of the Caribbean, I’ve developed a keen sense for adventures that do not just trip but transformative experiences.

Hawaii’s unique blend of land and water adventures has been a recurring theme in my travel diary. As a developer who spends hours coding, getting out into nature isn’t just a break; it’s a reset button.

Let me dive into some of Hawaii’s extraordinary experiences, blending adrenaline-packed activities with awe-inspiring natural beauty.

In this article

Snorkeling with sea turtles: a surreal experience

In Hawaii, the pristine waters are more than just a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. They are a gateway to an undersea wonderland, mainly when you can snorkel with sea turtles. On my last trip to the islands, I embarked on a snorkeling adventure off the coast of Maui. The water’s clarity and the surface’s biodiversity were mesmerizing.

The Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle, locally known as Honu, is more than just wildlife; it’s a spiritual symbol in Hawaiian culture, representing good luck and longevity.

Floating quietly alongside these majestic creatures, I felt a sense of peace and connection to the ocean like never before. With their gentle eyes and graceful flippers, the turtles moved with such serenity, reminding me of nature’s delicate balance.

Snorkeling spots like Turtle Town and Molokini Crater are not just tourist destinations; they are natural sanctuaries where you can witness the rich marine life Hawaii harbors. From vibrant coral reefs to schools of tropical fish dancing around you, the underwater experience is akin to entering a different realm.

A journey through lava tubes: spelunking in Hawaii

Contrary to the serene experience underwater, Hawaii offers a starkly different adventure beneath its rugged landscape – spelunking through lava tubes. These natural phenomena are formed by flowing lava beneath the earth’s surface that hardens on the outside while leaving a hollow tube as the lava flows out.

Exploring these caves is like walking through the veins of the island, with each step taking you deeper into its fiery history.

On the Big Island, the Kazumura Cave, the world’s most extended and bottomless lava tube, presents a spelunking experience like no other. Clad in a helmet with a headlamp, crawling through tight spaces, and walking in pitch darkness, the thrill is unparalleled. It feels like a journey to the earth’s center, with formations and lava rock colors that tell tales of volcanic eruptions from centuries ago.

Spelunking in Hawaii isn’t just for extreme adventurers. Guided tours cater to all experience levels and provide a glimpse into the geological marvels that shaped these islands. Traversing these underground passages is a humbling experience, as you feel the raw power of nature that once sculpted the landscapes above.

Hiking Hawaii’s emerald peaks

Hawaii’s landscapes are a hiker’s paradise, offering trails that traverse through rainforests, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints. One of my most memorable hikes was on the Nā Pali Coast of Kauai, along the Kalalau Trail. This trail is not for the faint of heart. With steep inclines, narrow pathways, and sheer drops, it tests your limits in every way.

However, the payoff is extraordinary. Reaching vistas that overlook the emerald cliffs dropping sharply into the azure waters below, the views are postcard-perfect. The trail takes you through lush valleys, past ancient Hawaiian ruins, and to secluded beaches that are inaccessible by any other means.

What makes hiking in Hawaii unique is the biodiversity. You can transition from a tropical rainforest to a dry, desert-like landscape within a single hike.

The Haleakalā Crater hike on Maui offers a surreal experience of walking on volcanic ash in a barren landscape that feels extraterrestrial. The diversity of flora and fauna along the trails is a constant reminder of Hawaii’s rich natural heritage.

Embracing the ocean: stand-up paddleboarding and scuba diving

While my heart lies in trekking and exploring the depths of caves, the allure of Hawaii’s oceans is irresistible. Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) in the tranquil waters of Lanikai Beach on Oahu offers a meditative experience, with the Mokulua Islands in the distance providing a breathtaking backdrop.

It’s a fantastic way to start the morning, greeting the sunrise on a paddleboard with the calm ocean beneath you and the horizon stretching out endlessly.

Hawaii’s scuba diving scene is world-class for those seeking more profound adventures. Diving off the coast of Lanai, I encountered an underwater topography of lava formations, tunnels, and arches teeming with marine life. Night dives bring a different realm, with nocturnal creatures and fluorescent corals illuminating the dark waters.

The diversity of dive sites in Hawaii caters to all levels of divers, from beginners to the experienced. Each island offers unique underwater attractions, including wreck dives, manta ray night dives, and even the chance to dive with sharks. The connection to the sea is a significant part of Hawaiian culture, and diving here allows you to witness the harmony between the islands’ inhabitants and the ocean.

From diving with sea turtles to crawling through lava tubes and standing atop mist-covered peaks, Hawaii presents a symphony of natural experiences that resonate deep within the soul. These adventures have quenched my thirst for the extreme and deepened my appreciation for the planet’s exquisite beauty and the need to preserve it for future generations.

As I share these stories on my blog, I hope to inspire you to step out of the ordinary to find your adventure in Hawaii or wherever your heart may lead you.