From exploring the lush gardens to relaxing on the beautiful beaches, Hawaii has plenty of fun things to do. But as a vegan, it’s essential to find cruelty-free activities that align with your values. Fortunately, Hawaii is a place that caters to everyone, including those who choose to follow a plant-based lifestyle. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, there are many things to do and see that are vegan-friendly. In this post, we’ll explore 43 different vegan-friendly activities that will allow you to fully experience the beauty and culture of Hawaii without compromising your beliefs. So, get ready to discover all that Hawaii offers, cruelty-free style!
For more information about Hawaii, check out out list of the best vegan-friendly resorts in Hawaii and our list of the best 100% vegan restaurants in Hawaii.
Take a hike in the beautiful Manoa Valley
The Manoa Valley is a beautiful area with lush greenery and tropical plants. Many hiking trails in the valley lead to beautiful waterfalls and scenic overlooks. Exploring Hawaii’s natural beauty and getting some exercise can be achieved simultaneously by hiking.
Explore the lush gardens at the Lyon Arboretum
The Lyon Arboretum is a botanical garden located in the Manoa Valley. The garden features a variety of tropical plants and flowers, including many endangered species. Taking a self-guided tour or joining a guided tour are both options for visitors.
Relax on the beach at Waikiki
Renowned worldwide, Waikiki Beach is among the most iconic beaches with crystal clear blue water and soft sand. Visitors can swim in the ocean, lounge on the beach, or opt for an invigorating surfing lesson.
Take a surfing lesson in Waikiki
Surfing is a popular activity in Hawaii, and Waikiki Beach is a great place to learn how to surf. Many surf schools and instructors in the area can teach visitors how to catch a wave.
Snorkel in Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is an underwater park and protected area for marine life conservation that boasts crystal-clear waters and thriving marine creatures. Those who visit the bay can rent snorkeling gear and delve into the world of coral reefs and fish.
Take a sunset cruise
Picturesque sunsets are a distinctive aspect of Hawaii, and a sunset cruise is a fantastic way to relish them. Visitors can take a sunset cruise on a catamaran or sailboat and enjoy the views of the ocean and the coastline.
Visit the Hawaii State Art Museum
The Hawaii State Art Museum is located in downtown Honolulu and features a collection of contemporary Hawaiian art. The museum is excellent for learning about Hawaiian culture and history through art.
Learn about Hawaiian history and culture at the Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Hawaii and the Pacific. The museum features exhibits on Hawaiian culture, history, and natural history.
Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art
The Honolulu Museum of Art is located in Honolulu’s arts district. The museum features a collection of Asian, American, and European art. Visitors can also take art classes and attend lectures and events.
Take a tour of Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor is a historic site that was attacked by the Japanese in 1941, leading the United States to enter World War II. Visitors can tour the USS Arizona Memorial and learn about the history of the attack and the war.
Explore the scenic beauty of Diamond Head
Diamond Head is a volcanic crater located on the island of Oahu. Visitors can hike to the top of the crater and enjoy the panoramic views of the island.
Visit the USS Arizona Memorial
The USS Arizona Memorial serves as a monument to honor the sailors and marines who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Pearl Harbor attack. Visitors can tour the memorial and learn about the history of the attack and the war.
Take a helicopter tour of the island
Witnessing the island from a unique vantage point is made possible with a helicopter tour. Visitors can tour the island and see the beaches, mountains, and rainforests from the air.
Take a day trip to the North Shore
The North Shore is a beautiful Oahu area known for its beaches and surfing. Visitors can take a day trip to the North Shore, enjoy the scenic drive, visit the beaches, and watch the surfers ride the waves.
Watch the sunset at Haleiwa Beach Park
Haleiwa Beach Park is a beautiful beach on the North Shore of Oahu. Visitors can watch the sunset from the beach and enjoy the views of the ocean and the mountains.
Visit the Waimea Valley
Waimea Valley is a lush, green valley on the North Shore of Oahu. Visitors can hike through the valley, swim in the waterfall pool, and learn about Hawaiian culture and history at the visitor center.
Take a whale-watching tour during the winter months
Humpback whales make their way to the waters surrounding Hawaii during the winter months. Visitors can take a whale-watching tour and see these majestic creatures up close.
Explore the Nuuanu Pali Lookout
The Nuuanu Pali Lookout is a scenic overlook that offers views of the windward side of Oahu. Visitors can take a hike to the lookout and enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline.
Visit the Hawaii Plantation Village
The Hawaii Plantation Village is a living museum that tells the story of Hawaii’s plantation era. Visitors can tour the restored plantation homes and learn about the history of Hawaii’s sugarcane industry.
Visit the Foster Botanical Garden
The Foster Botanical Garden is a botanical garden located in downtown Honolulu. The garden features a collection of tropical plants and trees, including the world’s most extensive collection of palms.
Attend a farmers market
Hawaii is known for its fresh, local produce, and there are many farmers markets around the island. Visitors can attend a farmers market and sample fresh fruits and vegetables.
Explore the Lanikai Pillbox Hike
The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is a scenic hike that leads to a series of old military pillboxes. Visitors can enjoy the panoramic views of the ocean and the coastline from the top of the hike.
Visit the Halona Blowhole
The Halona Blowhole is a natural rock formation that shoots water into the air. Visitors can watch the water spout and enjoy the scenic views of the coastline.
Take a kayak tour
Kayaking can be a fun way to explore the coastline and the ocean. Visitors can take a kayak tour and paddle along the shore, stopping to snorkel and explore the underwater world.
Visit the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Hanauma Bay is a protected underwater park and marine life conservation area. Visitors can snorkel and explore the coral reefs and fish or relax on the beach.
Take a stand-up paddleboarding lesson
Stand-up paddleboarding is a popular activity in Hawaii. Visitors can take a lesson and learn how to paddleboard in the calm waters of the bay or the ocean.
Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center is a living museum showcasing the culture and traditions of Polynesia. Visitors can see traditional dance and music performances, sample Polynesian food, and learn about the islands’ history.
Explore the Maunawili Falls Trail
The Maunawili Falls Trail is a beautiful hike that leads to a waterfall. Visitors can enjoy the lush vegetation and scenic views along the hike and then take a refreshing dip in the waterfall pool.
Take a zip-line tour
Zip lining is a thrilling way to see the island from a different perspective. Visitors can take a zip line tour and soar through the treetops, enjoying the scenic mountains and ocean views.
Visit the Waikele Premium Outlets
The Waikele Premium Outlets is an open-air shopping center with various stores and restaurants. Visitors can shop for souvenirs, clothing, and gifts and then enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants.
Go on a snorkeling and diving tour
Hawaii is known for its abundant marine life, and a snorkeling or diving tour is a great way to see it up close. Visitors can tour and explore the coral reefs, fish, and other marine creatures.
Explore the Malaekahana State Recreation Area
The Malaekahana State Recreation Area is a beautiful beach park on the North Shore of Oahu. Visitors can enjoy the beach, picnic areas, hiking trails, and even camping overnight.
Take a food tour
Hawaii boasts of its delectable cuisine, and indulging in a food tour is a beautiful way to taste the local delicacies. Visitors can tour and try Hawaiian specialties like poke, plate lunch, and shaved ice.
Visit the Diamond Head State Monument
The Diamond Head State Monument is a popular hiking destination on the island of Oahu. Visitors can hike to the top of the volcanic crater and enjoy the panoramic views of the island.
Take a catamaran tour
Catamaran tours are a popular way to explore the waters around Hawaii. Visitors can take a tour and enjoy the scenic views of the coastline or even go snorkeling or swimming.
Explore the Koko Crater Trail
Reaching the summit of Koko Crater, the Koko Crater Trail is a demanding hike. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the ocean and the coastline along the way.
Take a photography tour
Hawaii is a beautiful place to take photographs, and a photography tour is a great way to capture the island’s natural beauty. Visitors can tour and learn about photography while taking pictures of scenic landscapes.
Take a trip to the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet
The Aloha Stadium Swap Meet is a large outdoor market where visitors can shop for souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts. It is an excellent destination to discover exclusive gifts and souvenirs to bring back home.
Visit the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail
The Makapuu Lighthouse Trail is a scenic hike that leads to a lighthouse. Visitors can enjoy the panoramic views of the ocean and the coastline along the way.
Take a helicopter tour of Kauai
Kauai is known for its incredible natural beauty, and a helicopter tour is a great way to see it from the air. Visitors can tour and see the waterfalls, mountains, and beaches from above.
Explore the Kaena Point Trail
The Kaena Point Trail is a scenic hike that leads to the westernmost point of Oahu. Visitors can relish the exquisite sights of the ocean and the coastline and may even encounter some wildlife, such as monk seals and seabirds.
Take a cooking class
Hawaii is known for its delicious cuisine; visitors can learn how to make some of their favorite dishes by taking a cooking class. Visitors can learn about the local ingredients and cooking techniques while enjoying delicious food.
Visit the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival
The Hawaii Food and Wine Festival is an annual event that showcases the best of Hawaii’s cuisine and wine. Visitors can enjoy delicious food and wine from some of Hawaii’s top chefs and winemakers.