2025 Hawaii Bucket List
Ready to escape to paradise? Oahu is a playground for culture, cuisine and adventure! This bucket list will guide you towards 10 unforgettable experiences that will make your 2025 Hawaiian vacation truly epic
Watch a surf competition on the north shore. Winter brings monster waves in Hawaii. Set up a blanket on the beach and watch these daring athletes take on 30+ footers! Here’s a list of 2025 surf events.
Experience the spirit of aloha at a traditional luau. Enjoy a feast of local delicacies, witness captivating hula performances, and listen to the soulful melodies of Hawaiian music. There are several great options to choose from, but Paradise Cove Luau is a visitor favorite – learn how you can save 10%!
Hike Mt. Ka’ala and enjoy great views atop the tallest peak on Oahu! It’s about 7 miles round trip and 4000ft elevation, so be sure to get an early start and bring plenty of water. Looking for an easier option? There are loads of shorter trails for all levels.
Watch the most vibrant and dramatic sunset on the west side. While the beach is an excellent place to enjoy the views, you can’t beat watching the sun descend from a catamaran sailboat with a cocktail in hand! Here’s our top sunset viewing spots.
Volunteer and pay it forward! Volunteer with a local organization and contribute to the preservation of Hawaii’s natural beauty. Opportunities include beach cleanups, tree planting, and wetland restoration.
Watch an epic whale breach in winter – Humpback season is from December to March! Try to catch a glimpse of a spout from the shore, or get an even better view from a boat on the water. Read our whale watching guide for the best chance at spotting these magnificent creatures.
Camp under the stars. With excellent year-round weather, you can comfortably sleep in a tent or a hammock any month of the year. There are plenty of campgrounds around the island, but Melekahana is one of the best.
Go island hopping! Hop on a 20 – 45 minute flight and you can be in another world without even leaving the state. From the incredible volcanoes on Big Island to the pristine beaches of Maui to the magical Waimea Canyon of Kauai, each your perfect weekend getaway awaits! Southwest and Hawaiian Airlines both offer frequent daily flights and excellent deals.
Try a new cuisine or restaurant! Food should be on every bucket list. If you haven’t tried authentic Hawaiian cuisine yet, this list explains what to order. And if you’re searching for a new date night spot, here are our top picks.
Get adventurous and try something new! Parasailing, snorkeling, zip-lining and shark diving are just a few activities guaranteed to give you an adrenaline rush.
There you have it! Ten ideas to make 2025 the best year yet. Do you have a must-do activity that didn’t make the list? Share with us on social media @koolinaoceanadventures.