5 must do tourist activities when visiting the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii is full of amazing scenery, thrilling activities and delicious cuisine to try. When visiting the islands there is something special about experiencing them as a local would and there are so many small businesses to support. I have read a lot of travel advice about going off the beaten path and trying the undiscovered aspects of a destination and I do agree with this. However, sometimes when you dream up a vacation some iconic adventures and places come to mind. There are 5 touristy activities in Hawaii that I say are must dos!

1. Drink a mai tai while watching the sunset

   The sunsets in Hawaii are something direct from a dream sequence. There is nothing like the way the burning red orange sun slithers down the blue sky before it falls behind the ocean line. Just before it tucks in for the night, it can give out one last green light, known as the green flash. Its such a quick moment that if you blink you could miss it. It is an incredibly romantic moment to see and can make for an awesome photo opportunity. My advice is to grab a mai tai to sip on and find a spot with a clear view of the ocean meeting the horizon. It is sure to be a moment you will not forget on your Hawaiian vacation.

2. Snorkel at Molokini Crater

   Snorkeling and Hawaii have become synonymous with each other. There are so many beaches to snorkel at and every island has its best spots. No spot, however, is more iconic and more beautiful then Molokini Crater. This snorkel excursion is only accessible by boat which is offered by many tour excursion out of the harbor of Maui. Molokini is a half submerged volcano crater and boast over 250 different species of fish around its crystal clear waters. No Maui vacation is complete without a visit to this special place.

3. Eat shave ice

   Did you know that it is not "shaved ice" but instead called "shave ice" and is definitely not to be confused with a snow cone? This special Hawaiian treat consist of fluffy ice that has been shaved down so finely to where it is the consistence of actual snow. It is then topped with flavor syrup. You can find small shacks selling this treat on the side of the local roads, in shopping centers or sometimes outside of the local grocery store. My family's absolute favorite shave ice is on Kauai. If you plan to visit Kauai on your next trip make sure to stop in Koloa Town and pick out a unique homemade flavor at The Fresh Shave and don't forget your mustache!

4. Dine at a Dukes Restaurant

   On the islands of Oahu, Maui and Kauai you will find a Dukes Restaurant in the heart of the tourist area. These restaurant locations boast some of the best ocean side dining on the islands. They also feature the barefoot bar that is essentially on the beach and usually features nightly music. With a large menu featuring classic Hawaiian favorites and fresh fish, there are many choices including a great kids menu. Although I will not say that the food is absolutely to die for, I have yet to have a meal at Dukes that i did not enjoy. And of course the Mai Tais will keep you coming back every time you visit the islands. But in the end, let's face it, you eat at Dukes for the ambiance and of course the view!

5. Attend a luau

   This is one of the most iconic activities you can do on a Hawaiian vacation. I have heard some travelers say that it is not worth the money and yes tickets can get quite pricey depending on who is hosting the event. However, it is one of those experiences you will forever remember and for me always is my favorite part of our Hawaiian vacation. From the welcome mai tais and leis, to the smoking of the kalua pig, to the beautiful hula dancers and the incredible fire dancers, it is a night packed full of all the things that make Hawaii so special. Even my kids at very young ages were mesmerized by the music and dancers and of course the fire sticks. A luau was also what finally made my daughter walk at 18 months old when she decided to get up and start dancing. It really is a magical experience and in my opinion, completely worth the money!