While all of the scenery found across the Hawaiian archipelago are natural wonders and your breath will undoubtedly be taken away no matter where you go, many popular spots have become overrun with people, buildings, and other unnatural encroachments. No fear, much of the islands’ natural beauty still exists, with so much to discover and much that remains untouched and has yet to be discovered. There are so many adventures just waiting to be explored, five of which we have outlined for you below.
Mu Ryang-Sa Buddhist Temple
Hidden in the lush Manoa Valley, the beautiful Korean Mu Ryang-Sa temple was built in the late 20th century and is truly awe-inspiring place. The temple and its surrounding area is a supremely peaceful spot, quiet and mystifying, especially in the early morning hours when the fog begins to lift in the valley. Explore the colorful building, its intricate statues, and the picturesque ponds, experiencing the immaculate interior and simply let your mind and body relax. A true hidden gem of Oahu, Mu Ryang-Sa Temple is a serene, beautifully maintained place not to be missed.
Kauai’s Glass Beach
During any stroll along most beaches, you’ll find various items scattered along the surf, from broken glass, to shells and even marine life making its way in or out of the water. However, you haven’t seen sea glass like this before. Located in Hanapepe on Kauai, this beach is covered with glass pebbles, in beautiful colors of blue, brown, and green smoothed over time by ocean tides. Not mentioned in most guide books and without signs directing people toward it, this beach is very secluded and private, but also difficult to find. Taking between 10 and 30 years to form each glass pebble, Glass Beach is a beautiful meeting of man and nature and a fascinating spot.
Muntro Trail
Beginning just north of Lanai City, near the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, this rustic, nearly 13-mile long trail will take you through majestic pine trees and expose you to sweeping views on the way before reaching Lanai’s highest peak, Lanaihale, at the summit where on a clear day, you can see the neighboring islands of Maui, Molokai, the Big Island, and Oahu. At over 3,000 feet in elevation, you’ll feel on top of the world and surely accomplished when you reach the peak. While the trail is not for amateurs, if you are an expert hiker, Munro Trail is a must-see.
Ono Organic Farms
Off Hana Highway on Maui, you’ll find Ono Organic Farms, also known as the Maui Exotic Fruit Farm, where a vast selection of rare tropical fruits and vegetables, chocolate, and Hawaiian coffee is grown. The farm is open to visitors, where you will be able to participate in a fruit tasting tour and learn about organic, sustainable farming. Family-owned and operated, this farm is a great way to spend an afternoon enjoying fresh food directly from the source as well as sweeping ocean views during the ride over. Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time to ensure tour availability.