All Reviews for Top Places to Visit in Hawaii

[Reviewed by HawaiiActivities.com Staff]

Having experienced many shows across Hawaii, I must say the Magical Mystery Show in Waikiki stands out as one of the absolute best. Accompanied by my 10-year-old niece, we were both completely mesmerized by the sheer brilliance of this performance.

The ambiance and decor of the venue transported us back to the enchanting Victorian era, and it was a delightful immersion into a world of wonder and magic. Not to mention convenience of its location made it very accessible for a non-driver like me :)

However, the true highlight was the exceptional magician whose performance was nothing short of spectacular. Their mastery and skill were evident in every act, and they had the audience's attention captivated throughout the show. My niece, in particular, was enthralled and thoroughly enjoyed every moment, and was so excited when she was called up to assist!

All in all, the Magical Mystery Show in Waikiki is an absolute gem, and definitely a must-see for anyone looking to have an evening filled with enchantment and awe~

The tour was fantastic as described for beginners snorkeling, the guide Dan was amazing he made sure we are safe and helped to see amazing fishes , it was good experience.

At the end of December, it was the rainy season, so the weather was bad and cold, making it impossible to stay in the sea for even 10 minutes. I quickly headed towards the parking lot, but there was no place to take shelter from the rain, and many people were gathered under the small roof of the shop and restroom. I thought it would be nice to have a facility with a roof to take shelter during such times.

The driver-guide was kind and friendly, but since the explanations were only in English, I couldn't understand anything and felt anxious from start to finish, which made the experience zero fun. While there were some pouches with explanations about the fish, I wished they could at least prepare a minimal Japanese pouch with the day's itinerary, return time, meeting place, and precautions for Hanauma Bay. I think Japanese people who cannot speak English should not participate. Conversely, if they want to attract Japanese customers, they should prepare explanatory pouches. If they don't need Japanese customers, then it's fine to continue as they have been. At least I managed to get back.

12月末で雨期だったので、天候が悪く、寒くて、10分も海に浸かることができないほど、直ぐに着替え駐車場の方に向かったが、雨宿りするところもなく売店とトイレの小さな屋根の所に大勢でいてましてが、こんな時に雨宿りできる屋根のある施設があれば良いのにな〜と思いました。
運転手ガイドさんは、優しくて親切ではありますが、英語の説明しかないので、全くわからず最初から最後まで不安で楽しさは、0でした。魚の説明のパウチ等は、軽く回されましたが、そのパウチを準備できるならせめて最小限の日本語の1日の流れ、帰りの時間と集合場所、ハナウマベイの注意事項等のパウチを準備して欲しかった。英語のできない日本人は、参加すべきでないと思います。逆に日本人のお客さんを獲得したいなら説明パウチを準備すべきだと思います。日本人のお客さんを必要ないと思うなら今まで通りで良いかと思います。何とか帰ってこれましたから

The location is on the 4th floor of the Royal Hawaiian Center B building. It's in an easy-to-find spot in the heart of Waikiki.
First, we had the dinner buffet. Starting with stylish Hawaiian cocktails, I enjoyed a variety of dishes like roast beef and pork, and even though I was full, I made sure to indulge in dessert as well. During the meal, there were mini shows featuring hula dancing and ukulele performances between the tables, allowing us to experience the Hawaiian atmosphere.
After that, we enjoyed a theater experience reminiscent of a movie theater, showcasing Hawaiian music from old times to the present, with impressive performances of authentic hula dancing and Elvis and Michael look-alikes. The final fire show was particularly thrilling! It was exciting and captivating! It became a memorable part of our trip to Hawaii. I've seen shows in Hawaii twice before, but this was the best one yet. It was the largest Hawaiian show in Waikiki.

場所はロイアルハワイセンターB館の4階です。ワイキキの中心地でわかりやすい場所にあります。
まずは夕食ブッフェ。おしゃれなハワイのカクテルなどに始まり、ローストビーフ、ポークなど一通り食べたらお腹がいっぱいになりましたが、デザートもしっかりいただきました。食事中もテーブルの間でフラダンスやウクレレなどのミニショーがあり、ハワイらしい雰囲気を味わえました。
その後、映画館のようなシアターで古い年代から現代までのハワイ音楽、本格的なフラダンスやエルビス、マイケルそっくりさんの圧巻の演出で楽しかったです。特に最後のファイアーショーは迫力満点！ハラハラドキドキで見ごたえあり！！ハワイならではの旅の思い出になりました。ハワイでは過去に2回ショーを見ていますが、今回が一番良かったです。ワイキキ最大のハワイアンショーでした。

The buffet meal and the rock and roll show were experienced from regular seats, not VIP or third-floor seats. The venue was not very large, and perhaps because it was a weekday with fewer guests, we were seated together in the central area, making the regular seats quite good with a strong sense of presence. On the contrary, I thought the front row of the VIP seats was almost too close to the stage. It was great to enjoy the hula dance with various costumes and a look back at its history, providing a quintessential Hawaiian experience. I also enjoyed the impersonation show of Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson. Michael Jackson showcased his unique dance moves. I couldn't help but laugh when Elvis wiped the sweat from his body and threw his scarf. There was also a powerful display of traditional fire arts. The buffet wasn't extremely high quality, but there were no issues, and there was plenty of local food. The quantity and variety were sufficient.

ビュッフェの食事とロックアフラショーで、VIP席や３階席でない普通席での観劇です。会場はあまり大きくなく、客があまり多くない平日だったからか、中央エリアにまとめて座ったため、普通席でも十分に臨場感ある良い席でした。逆にVIP席の最前列はステージに近すぎるくらいだと思いました。フラダンスをいろんな衣装や歴史を振り返る趣向で楽しめて、ハワイらしいベタな体験ができて良かったです。プレスリーとマイケルジャクソンのそっくりさんショーも楽しめました。マイケルジャクソンは特有のダンスを披露。特にプレスリーは体の汗をぬぐってスカーフを投げる所まで再現していたのに笑っちゃいました。火を使った伝統芸の迫力もありました。ビュッフェはものすごく高品質というほどではありませんが、問題はなく、ローカルフードも多かったです。量や品数は十分でした。

I don't understand Japanese at all, but it was a fun cruise. We go quite far offshore. It's great that drinks are free. Since we go further offshore than I expected, the waves might be a bit concerning, so those who are prone to motion sickness might want to take some medication before boarding.

日本語は全く通じませんが、楽しいクルーズでした。けっこう沖合までいきます。飲み物がフリーなのはありがたいです。思ったより沖合にいくためか、少し波が気になりますので、酔いやすい方は酔い止めを飲んで乗船した方が良いかもしれません。

I booked a two-hour horseback riding experience. The guide gives instructions in broken Japanese, which is reassuring. Since there are parts of the route that are the same, the two hours might feel a bit long.

２時間の乗馬体験を申し込みました。先導する方は片言ですが日本語で指示しいてくれるので安心です。同じルートを通る場所もあるので、２時間だと少し長く感じるかもしれません。

The team at Waikiki Sailing were a well-oiled sailing machine! The directions provided in the confirmation email were clear and easy to follow. Check in was smooth and the beach boarding only splashed us up to our shins. We decided to sit on the catamaran netting on a particularly windy day and were warned about getting splashed multiple times. We endured the soaking and had an amazing time, plus the crew helped grab our empties and snacks so we could continue to enjoy. I recommend Waikiki Sailing 10,000 times over!

The fireworks on Friday were amazing. I stayed at the Hilton, but I got a bit lost finding the meeting place, which turned into a bit of an adventure, but that was fun too!

金曜日の花火は、最高でした。
ヒルトン宿泊でしたが集合場所が、少し迷ってしまい珍道中でしたがそれも楽しかったです♪

Despite the heavy rain, we went on the Raptor Tour.

It was great to explore the magnificent grounds without any dust.

I would love to go again on a nice day.

雨が降り頻る中、ラプターツアーを敢行。
砂埃がない分、しっかりと雨をかぶりました。

雄大な敷地内を廻れて最高でした。

天気が良い日にもう一度行きたいです。

The riverboat cruise was a great experience. The riverboat ride was gentle and relaxing. The views were exceptional. Our host gave us a background of the area, which was interesting, and also let us enjoy the peaceful silence as well. Seeing the kayakers on the river was enjoyable. My only advice would be to wear good shoes with traction. The walk up to the grotto can be a little slippery due to moisture and moss. The entertainment that took place at the destination of the grotto, was really entertaining. Enjoy the ride!

It was unfortunately rainy, but I was able to fully enjoy the Fern Grotto. By the time we arrived at Waimea Canyon, the weather had cleared up, and I was able to appreciate the great outdoors. Since everything was in English, I couldn't catch all the explanations, but I had a fulfilling day shopping at places like Kauai Coffee.

あいにくの雨でしたが、シダの洞窟も満喫できました。ワイメア渓谷に到着するころには良いお天気となり、大自然を満喫できました。英語のみなので、解説は全部聞き取ることはできませんでしたが、カウアイコーヒーなどでお買物もして充実した一日でした。

Had a great time on this 3 hour tour.
Amazing and helpful staff.
Helped us snorkel, paddle board.
Juice and Lunch was delicious.
Live Band incredible.
Loved the Christmas decorations!

The guide was a Japanese person named Fumi! Riding the Segway was fun, but what I really liked was how he explained the details about the city and shared its history, which helped me learn more about Hawaii✨ He also took photos for us, and he was really good at it. If I come back to Hawaii, I will definitely do this again☺️

ガイドは日本人のフミさんでした！
セグウェイ自体も楽しいけど、詳しく街中のこと説明してくれたり歴史とか知れてハワイに詳しくなれるのがいい✨
あと写真をとってくれるんだけど、すごく上手でまたハワイきたら絶対やります☺️

So much fun. the bbq burgers were good. The 1st stop is not worth it to snorkel, not much to see, just enjoy the sandbar and the volleyball. the 2nd spot was good snorkeling b/c it was at a reef. Don't swim over top of it though. just around it. you can make it all the way around it with plenty of time to spare. It was very fun. The water was a little cold, but not too bad but thats probably because I went the week of Thanksgiving. They give you the gear you need, my suggestion is to fit the mask before you get down to the water. they give you full foot fins to use. The crew was super helpful and really nice. I definitely recommend!!

First of all, the perfect starry planetarium. The journey to the summit of Haleakalā is too precious to waste on a nap in preparation for the sunrise and downhill! While the stories from the high-energy guide and driver are important, the night sky through the window is like a treasure chest turned upside down with stars, stars, and more stars, sometimes shooting stars! The Big Dipper, Cassiopeia, Orion! I was moved to see so many stars in Orion's belly!

Next, the sunrise. It cleanses the soul! Amidst the sea of clouds, the sunrise shines brilliantly, perfectly aligned. It was a moment of awe for everyone waiting for the sunrise. It's not exactly the North Wind and the Sun, but after enduring the extreme cold, both body and mind become warm. As for cold weather measures, make sure to avoid any skin exposure! I recommend complete protection with socks, leg warmers, gloves, and a mask, leaving only the area around your eyes exposed.

Finally, the downhill. It's like a roller coaster! Once it starts, it doesn't stop! It's a refreshing cycling experience. While enjoying the magnificent scenery, of course, safe driving goes without saying, but it feels like pedaling is unnecessary, and before you know it, you become the wind of Maui.

The reason I rated this four stars instead of five, despite all these comments, is as follows. The downhill truly feels like a roller coaster. It lasts only about 10 minutes, which goes by in an instant, and that's a bit disappointing. The cycling mentioned after lunch didn't happen, which left me wanting more. Although I repeated the same course twice this time, I wished for different attractions, like a roller coaster and a Viking-style ride, rather than two rides on the same roller coaster. I would have liked some cycling time through the town, even if it meant pedaling after lunch.

先ずは、満点の満天プラネタリウム。ハレアカラ山頂までの道程は、日の出＆ダウンヒルに備え仮眠、なんてことはもったいない！ハイテンションのガイド兼ドライバーの話も大切ですが、窓越しの夜空は、宝石箱をひっくり返した星、星、星、時に流れ星！北斗七星、カシオペア、オリオン！オリオンのお腹にこんなに星があるの、と感動！

次に、御来光。心洗われます！雲海が漂うなか、燦々とSUNRISE、ベクトル一致でしょうね。日の出待ちのすべての人が待ちわびた御来光に感動してた瞬間です。北風と太陽じゃないけど、極寒に耐えた後、心身共にホットになります。で、極寒対策ですが、決して肌の露出をされないように！目の周り以外は、ソックス、レッグウォーマー、手袋、マスクと完全防備をオススメします。

最後に、ダウンヒル。私はジェットコースター♪走り出したら止まらないよ♪爽快なサイクリングです。壮大な景観を眺めながら、もちろん安全運転は言うまでもありませんが、ペダルは必要？って感じで、知らず知らずのうちにマウイの風になってます。

ここまでコメントして、星５つでなく、星４つにした理由は以下です。ダウンヒルが、まさしくジェットコースターなんです。僅か10分かな、あっという間なんでよね、ここが少し残念。説明にある昼食後のサイクリングも無かったのが物足りないです。今回、同じコースを２本繰り返したこともありますが、同じジェットコースター２回より、ジェットコースターとバイキング的な異なるアトラクションを望んでしまうので、昼食後のペダルを漕いでも良いので、街並みのサイクリングタイムが欲しかったですね～。

The magic shows I attended in Hawaii (30 years ago and 10 years ago) were so wonderful that I tried to find and book one, but it seems the magician from back then has retired. This time, I saw a different Japanese magician for the first time, and he was an amazing performer, just as good as the previous ones, allowing me to have a very fulfilling time. It was great to watch up close, and the entertaining talk created a fantastic atmosphere. However, I was disappointed that I couldn't figure out the right timing for when to go to the restroom or order additional drinks. Also, the introduction before the show started and the waiting time after the gathering was quite long. Furthermore, I found it inappropriate to be standing in line while being offered cocktails; it felt rather rude. If possible, drinks should be served at the venue.

これまでハワイに来た時に(30年前、10年前)観たマジックショーがあまりにもすばらしかったので、探して申込もうとしましたが、当時のマジシャンは引退されたようでした。今回初めて異なる日本人マジシャンを観ましたが、まさるとも劣らぬ素晴らしいマジシャンで、とても充実した時間を過ごせました。至近距離で観させて頂いた事、トークが面白く幻想的な雰囲気である事が良かったです。トイレに行きたい時や飲み物の追加注文等の可否のタイミングが良く分からなかったのは残念でした。又、本番が始まるまでの導入部と集合時間以降の待ち時間が長い。又立って並んで待っている時に飲み物のカクテルを飲ませるのは頂けない、寧ろ失礼かと思います。どうせなら飲み物は会場で。

The weather was nice and the sea was calm on the day of the event, so it felt really good to ascend high into the sky. The view of Waikiki Beach from the sea was also very beautiful. I felt like I got a great deal being able to see both Waikiki from the sky and the sea. Everyone who participated was friendly and we had enjoyable conversations; it was truly a wonderful experience. I would like to participate again next time I visit Hawaii.

当日は天気も良く海も穏やかだったので､空に向かって高く高く登って行く感じがとても気持ちよかったです。海のから見るワイキキビーチもとても綺麗でした。空から海から両方のワイキキが見れてお得感を感じました。一緒に参加した皆さんとも和気あいあいで楽しく会話して､ほんとに良い体験でした。ハワイに来た際は次回も参加したいと思います。

I signed up for a plan that included a buffet. The buffet was plentiful with delicious options like roast beef and fruits, and the atmosphere was wonderfully Hawaiian. There were also lovely shows featuring traditional hula and fire dancing. The music consisted of well-known songs and was performed beautifully, allowing us to enjoy ourselves throughout! I was particularly moved by "My Way." The venue is centrally located, making it very accessible, and I highly recommend it. I would love to go again when I visit Hawaii. Thank you for the wonderful memories.

ビュッフェ付きのプランで申し込みました。ビュッフェはローストビーフやフルーツなど、盛りだくさんでとても美味しく、雰囲気もハワイアンの素敵な雰囲気でした。
また、フラやファイアーダンスなど伝統を感じられる素敵なショーでした。
ミュージックもどれも有名な曲でとても上手で、始終楽しむことができました！マイウェイは特に感動しました。
会場も中心地にあり、行きやすくとてもオススメです。またハワイに行ったら行きたいと思います。素敵な思い出をありがとうございます。

I'm not sure if it was the timing, but it wasn't as shallow as it looked in the photos; however, it was a beautiful sandbar. It was the first time for my whole family to go snorkeling, but thanks to the guide's clear explanations in Japanese and their company while diving, we were able to see many turtles and fish, creating wonderful memories. I definitely want to participate again next time.

時期的に違うのかわかりませんが、写真で見ていたほどの浅瀬ではありませんでしたが、きれいなサンドバーでした。
家族全員が初めてのシュノーケリングでしたが、添乗員のわかりやすい日本語の説明や一緒に潜って頂き、沢山の亀や魚を見れ最高の思い出を作れました。
また、次回も是非参加したいです。

Crew went out of their way to ensure we saw whales. They were very knowledgeable and answered questions

We would definitely do this again! We were picked up at our hotel. The tour guide showed us many places on the way, and was very knowledgeable, as well as entertaining.
When we were on the top of Haleakala, he took us all over the national park, then to a private spot to experience the sunset above the clouds.
Then he had his telescopes set up for us to view all sorts of stars, constellations and planets. He used a laser pointer to point out everything so we knew exectly what we were looking at. I was most impressed when he showed us Jupiter and Saturn - they were exquisite!

Three cheers for tour guide Yoshikazu Yamauchi - he is the best!

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing Veltra Sandbar Ocean Sports and I must say it exceeded my expectations. From the moment I engaged with the staff, I was impressed by their friendliness and the professionalism. Their team not only delivered on its promises but also provided a seamless and user-friendly seevices.

The customer support was exceptional, demonstrating a commitment to customer satisfaction. Any queries I had were promptly addressed.

My overall experience was nothing short of fantastic.

Thank you

Convenient location, friendly crew and family friendly

We had 6 adults and 2 toddlers, this was the perfect activity for all of us to do. Short enough, interesting and interactive.

The reservation was canceled due to strong winds on the day of the activity. Being over 60 years old, I was quite sensitive to the weather and felt there were risks involved. If I could get a refund, I would have preferred to cancel, but since I came to Hawaii, I reconsidered and decided to rebook for the next day. Honestly, I was quite scared until the last minute, but the handsome local staff created a friendly atmosphere and guided us, allowing me to have a very safe, enjoyable, and thrilling experience. It was an activity that made me want to do it again if I had the chance.

予約した当日は突風のために中止に。60歳過ぎの老人という事もあり、気候にデリケートでリスクをはらみそうで、返金されるならいっその事キャンセルしても良かったのですが、ハワイに来たからには、らしいアクティビティをと思い直し、やむなく翌日に再予約。直前までは正直怖怖でしたが、イケメンの現地スタッフの方々が和気あいあいとしたムードで手解きしてくれましたので大変安全に楽しくスリルある体験をさせて頂きました。余裕があればリピしたいと思わせしめるアクティビティでした。

This event of sending our beloved brother and nephew to their ultimate resting place gave a wonderful closure.

Thank you Captain Rich and your wonderful crew and staff for all your assistant in every step of the way. They were very attentive and made sure everything were in line and ready to go.
The service turned out so beautiful w/ a perfect weather and sail….

We would love to come and sail with you & your crew again in the future!!!!

Much Mahalos from our families

In the past, I had made reservations twice in Hawaii Kai, Honolulu, but both times I had to cancel due to weather conditions, which made me anxious. However, this time the weather was favorable, and I was finally able to experience the thrilling ride I had longed for.

After setting sail, we were rocked by the waves during the transfer to the experience location, and some people felt seasick. I felt a bit anxious when I heard screams during takeoff, but I felt reassured after hearing about the experience during the flight and the feedback after returning to the boat.

When it was our turn, we were fully prepared and were able to enjoy ourselves to the fullest. During the flight, we were able to take photos (no videos), which became a wonderful keepsake. Thank you!

過去にハワイカイ、ホノルルで過去2回予約するも、どちらも天候等でやむなくキャンセルとなり不安でしたが、今回は天候にも恵まれ、念願イリングイリングを体験できました。
出航後、体験場所への移動中は波に揺られ、船酔いする方もおられましたが、最初の方が離陸？する際の悲鳴に少し不安な気持ちを持ちましたが、フライト中の様子や帰船後に感想を聞いたりして安心しました。
自分達の順になり、準備万端で思い切り楽しむことが出来ました。
フライト中には写真（動画はなし）撮影もしていただき、良い記念となりありがとうございました。

The weather on December 2 suddenly turned bad in the afternoon. I was looking forward to it, but my spirits dropped thinking I wouldn't be able to see the sunset or the starry sky. However, the clouds moved, and sunlight broke through the gaps, which was lucky. The sea of clouds was also wonderful. And the starry sky was perfect. Even though I'm not good at English, there were many Japanese travelers on the same bus, so I felt comfortable participating with the foreign guide.

12月2日の天気は午後から急に悪天候。
楽しみにしてたが、夕陽も星空も見れないかとテンションはだだ下がり。
でも、雲が流れ隙間から夕陽が差し、ラッキー。雲海もすばらしい。
そして、星空もバッチリ。英語が苦手な私も同じバスの日本人旅行者の方も大勢いらして外人ガイドでも安心して参加できた。

The mountain side was cloudy, and I was worried about the weather, but it was great that the sea was sunny. The meeting place was at a building with a sign for "Ocean Voyage." We handed our tickets to the staff to check in, took a commemorative photo, and then boarded the bus. The photo was taken by a staff member, and after the tour, the photos were presented, and if you liked one, you could purchase it. Therefore, you cannot refuse the photo session, or you won't be able to board the bus.

In addition to the bus driver, a guide explains in English with jokes and music. We took a ferry across Morii Pond and boarded a catamaran to cruise Kaneohe Bay. Once we got offshore, the waves became larger, and the boat rocked up and down. Depending on the situation, the front of the boat can get splashed by waves, so caution is needed, but it was fun. When we stopped the boat's engine on the way back, sea turtles came close. I was lucky to encounter large turtles four times.

山側は曇っていて天候が心配でしたが、海は晴れて良かったです。
集合場所は「Ocean Voyage」の看板がある建物で行われ、スタッフにチケットを渡して受付を済ませ、記念撮影をしてからバスに乗ります。記念撮影は撮影スタッフが行い、ツアー終了後に写真が提示され、気に入ったら購入するシステムです。そのため、撮影を拒む事はできず、バスに乗れません。
バスの運転手の他にガイドがジョークと音楽を交えて英語で説明します。
モリイ池を渡る渡し船とカネオヘ湾をクルーズする双胴船に乗ります。
沖合に出ると波が大きくなり、船は上下に揺れます。船の前は場合によっては波をかぶって濡れるので注意が必要ですが、楽しいです。
帰りに船のエンジンを止めるとウミガメが寄ってきます。
私は4回も大きなカメに遭遇できてラッキーでした。