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If asked what you associate with beaches, the first place that would come to is Hawaii. What makes Hawaii memorable, however, is that it is a isolated paradise filled with enchantment. It has tropical weather year-round, a rich native culture and history, beautiful flora, and a volcano that’s as active as the ocean surrounding it. While Hawaii is a chain of small islands, there are many activities available in the sea and sky, and everywhere in between.

Following are the top 9 things you must do on your Hawaiian Islands Vacation:

9. Visit World War II Remains: Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona

To get to know a place, you must first know its history. Visiting Pearl Harbor then is a must for all tourists to pay tribute to the war heroes who died during the bombing of December 7, 1941. This naval base used to play a major role in US military strategy and is a significant part of the nation’s history. Today, it is one of the top tourist attractions in Hawaii. You may also proceed at the Arizona Memorial and for yourself the remains of the sunken USS Arizona below the glass floor. The best thing in touring these places is that the entrance is free to both!

The history of a place is as important as the place itself. All tourists should visit Pearl Harbor, the longstanding tribute to the war heroes who died during the bombing of December 7, 1941. The Pearl Harbor naval base once played a major role in US military strategy and is significant in America’s history. Now, it is one of the top tourist attractions in Hawaii. From here, you could continue onto the Arizona Memorial, and view the sunken remains of the USS Arizona through the glass floor. Best part about these places? Entrance is free.

8. Experience a Polynesian Luau

The Hawaiian vacation experience is rendered incomplete without attending a Polynesian Luau. It is a showcase of Hawaiian cuisine and culture through a grand feast filled with lots of food and entertainment. Dishes normally served include kalua pork and teriyaki chicken. If you’re daring, you may even try a local delicacy known simply as, poi, a concoction made out of the root plant, taro. While enjoying your meal, you will also be delighted by the traditional Polynesian music, fire dancers and hula maidens swaying in grass skirts.

7. Go Volcano Watching

Hawaii is popular for its volcanoes, both dormant and active. If looking to vacation on the Big Island, the Volcanoes National Park, located on the southern end, is a must-see,. Here, you can find two of the world’s most fascinating volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea. Mauna Loa is the world’s largest dormant volcano, reaching a staggering height of 13,677 feet high. Kilauea is an active volcano, which produces steam and flowing lava that gives birth to interesting volcanic formations.

6. See Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon is on Kauai, located at the Koke’e State Park. It is the largest canyon in the Pacific, earning the nickname “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” It is approximately 10 miles long, and 3,600 feet deep. The canyon is the result of centuries of flooding due to the flowing rivers of the dormant Mount Waiealeale. The canyon walls show traces of carving by volcanic lava which create interesting patterns and formations.

5. Watch whales and dolphins

If you want to see whales up-close, go to the Big Island between the months of December and April. Some areas of the coast attract humpback whales after their migration in the cold regions. The island is also home for other species like killer whales and ***** whales. If you want to see dolphins instead, you can visit Oahu Island during the first week of May as plenty of dolphins draw together off the coast.

4. Enjoy a Helicopter Ride

Hawaii’s beauty knows no bounds. If looking to experience all of its wonders at a single time, consider taking a helicopter tour. The aerial view allows you to see the entire state of Hawaii and help deepen your own appreciation for the islands.

3. Try Snorkeling

Each island of Hawaii has its own share of the unique sea life. Of all its sites, however, the crescent-shpaed island of Molokini, located Maui, tops them all. It is a marine life park, and is considered one of the top 10 snorkeling spots in the world. Beneath the waves lie rainbows of fish, some of which are indigenous to Hawaii, making this activity a learning adventure. If you don’t know how to snorkel, the world beneath the waves is not closed off. Instead, consider renting a boat with a glass bottom to view the sea life underneath!

2. Chill out on the beach

A Hawaii vacation is nothing without a trip to the beach! The beach is visible from every part of the island, and the turquoise waves beckon to everyone who sees them. The most popular and iconic beach would be Waikiki Beach, located at the south of Oahu and is home to some of the most luxurious Hawaiian hotels. The beach leaves two options: engaging in the seaside fun or to lay back, relax, and tan in the warm Hawaiian sun. Either way guarantees fun!

1. Surf! Ride the Waves

Of course, surfing rises to the top of the list of activities to do. Hawaii is popular to surfers because of its endless supply of waves. Although it is possible to surf on any of the islands, the North Shore of Oahu beats all. Waves there can reach heights of 30 feet, especially during the first three months of the year, as well as the last. If you want to learn how to surf, Maui is the best option. The gentle waves here make this island ideal for beginners.

A Hawaiian vacation is truly unforgettable. It’s no wonder that it keeps bringing in millions of tourists. Aside from all the activities available, the warmth and hospitality of the Hawaiian people add to the experience. There is no other place on earth where you are greeted with warm smiles and aloha. It is truly heaven on earth.