Planning a trip to Hawaii? You’ve got two powerful options when it comes to gathering advice: insider tips from locals who know the islands by heart, or the collective wisdom of the crowds—fellow travelers who’ve been there, done that, and left honest reviews behind. Both offer incredible value. In this blog, we’re focusing on the latter, showcasing six unforgettable Hawaiian experiences that have earned near-perfect 4.9/5-star reviews on Viator.
These crowd-favorite activities span multiple islands, offering once-in-a-lifetime moments whether you’re soaring above waterfalls or diving into turquoise waters. Ready to upgrade your travel bucket list? Let’s go.
Aerial view of Na Pali coast
1. Doors-Off Helicopter Adventure Over Kauai
Island: Kauai
Tour: Hughes 500 4-Passenger Doors-Off Helicopter
If drone shots just aren’t enough for you, take it to the next level with this thrilling doors-off helicopter ride over “The Garden Isle.” Led by a former firefighting pilot, this flight offers jaw-dropping aerial views of the Na Pali Coast, the Manawaiopuna Falls (famous from Jurassic Park), and the rainforest-cloaked Mt. Waialeale, one of the wettest places on Earth.
Why guests love it:
“It was like being in a dream. Flying with the doors off gave us a completely unobstructed view of the island. Absolutely breathtaking.”
With just four seats—none in the middle—everyone gets a front-row view. If you want unforgettable photos and an adrenaline rush, this is the way to go.
2. Na Pali Coast Catamaran Tour on the Amelia K
Island: Kauai
Tour: Na Pali Boat Tour on the Amelia K
Explore the legendary Na Pali Coast by sea aboard a family-owned catamaran in our second Hawaii experience. Depending on the season, you’ll either snorkel in crystal-clear waters or spot migrating humpback whales. The tour includes a dive into magical sea caves and coastal views of Waimea Canyon, Hawaii’s answer to the Grand Canyon.
Why guests love it:
“A perfect combination of culture, fun, and scenery. The crew made us feel like part of their ohana (family) and the sunset was the cherry on top.”
Complete with lunch and refreshments, this experience is both thrilling and enriching, blending native Hawaiian stories with marine marvels.
3. Toa Luau and Waimea Valley Exploration
Island: Oahu
Tour: Toa Luau at Waimea Valley
For a deeply immersive cultural experience, the Toa Luau delivers on all fronts. Start your journey by exploring Waimea Valley’s botanical gardens and swimming beneath a waterfall. Then, prepare for a feast of Hawaiian flavors followed by an energetic show featuring fire knife dancers and traditional Polynesian storytelling.
Why guests love it:
“The waterfall swim was magical, and the luau was the most authentic we’ve been to. You can feel the pride in their culture.”
This is more than just dinner and a show—it’s a heartfelt welcome to the Hawaiian spirit.
4. Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls & Black Sand Beaches
Island: Hawaii (Big Island)
Tour: Big Island in a Day
Covering all the geological wonders of the Big Island in one epic day, this small-group tour hits the highlights: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, black sand beaches, and both Akaka and Rainbow Falls.
Why guests love it:
“We saw turtles, lava tubes, waterfalls—it was everything I dreamed Hawaii would be. Our guide’s knowledge was the icing on the cake.”
With a packed itinerary and included lunch, this tour is perfect for those wanting to maximize their experience with minimal hassle.
5. West Maui Snorkeling Cruise from Ka’anapali Beach
Island: Maui
Tour: West Maui Half Day Snorkel
Take the plunge on this half-day cruise departing from one of Maui’s most beautiful beaches. Swim among green sea turtles, vibrant reef fish, and maybe even catch a glimpse of spinner dolphins or humpback whales in season.
Why guests love it:
“Everything was seamless. Great crew, lots of turtles, and the water was so clear it felt like swimming in glass.”
With snorkel gear, breakfast, lunch, and drinks included, this is a relaxing yet adventurous way to enjoy Maui’s aquatic magic.
6. Nā Pali Coast Zodiac Raft Expedition and Snorkeling
Island: Kauai
Tour: Nā Pali Coast Zodiac Raft Expedition
Want an even wilder Hawaii experience? This Zodiac raft tour zips you along the Nā Pali Coast, letting you slip into hidden sea caves and see remote waterfalls up close. You’ll also get time to snorkel under the guidance of expert guides.
Why guests love it:
“It was an Indiana Jones-style adventure! We saw dolphins, snorkeled in a pristine spot, and the sea caves were unforgettable.”
This is a high-energy, up-close-and-personal way to experience the wild side of Hawaii’s coastline.
Why These Tours Stand Out
Each of these tours consistently ranks 4.9 out of 5 stars—an astonishingly high bar that speaks volumes. Travelers mention not just the sights but the guides’ passion, the thoughtful service, and the feeling of connection to the islands and their stories.
Common themes in guest reviews:
- Guides who treat you like family
- Authentic, local experiences
- Breathtaking scenery you won’t find anywhere else
- Seamless logistics from booking to execution
Whether it’s your first time in Hawaii or your fifteenth, these experiences deliver awe, inspiration, and a deeper appreciation of the islands.
Final Thoughts
The beauty of Hawaii isn’t just in its landscapes—it’s in the people, the stories, and the way the islands make you feel. These six top-rated experiences offer a front-row seat to that magic. And best of all, they’ve already earned the enthusiastic seal of approval from thousands of fellow travelers.
Planning your next trip? Let Hawaii.com be your trusted guide. After all, if thousands of visitors say it’s 5-star worthy, it probably is.
