With heart-pumping adventures on land, in the sea, and even up in the sky, there’s no shortage of excitement for adrenaline junkies in Hawaii, from the islands of O’ahu to Maui, Kauai and, of course, the Big Island. Dive with apex predators, test your limits by jumping nearly 100 feet off a rocky cliff, or soar above the volcanoes on a paraglider.
From scaling towering peaks to exploring hidden waterfalls, here are seven once-in-a-lifetime experiences that will leave you breathless.
Get Up Close and Personal with Sharks on O’ahu
Dive into the fascinating world of sharks in Hawaii. Revered as ‘aumākua, or family gods and ancestors, they are essential to the island’s rich heritage and traditions. Book a cage diving tour with one of the many shark diving tours across the islands; some of the most popular experiences are with Haleiwa Shark Cage Dive, North Shore Shark Dive, and Oahu Shark Cage Dive.
You’ll set off in the morning and head a few miles offshore, where your experienced guide will explain the do’s and don’ts of diving before prepping the cage. Then, as you descend into the depths, you’ll experience the heart-pounding thrill of sharks swimming right past the bars of your cage, from Mako and Tiger sharks to possibly a Great White!
Fly High Ziplining on O’ahu, Kauai, and Maui
Are you ready to soar through Hawaii’s tropical forests and experience an adventure like no other? With speeds reaching up to 50 mph, ziplining offers an exhilarating way to explore the stunning island landscapes, from soaring through dense canopies to speeding over cascading waterfalls and lush valleys. Outfitters Kauai offers the longest and most scenic zipline on the island, with breathtaking views that will transport you into famous movie scenes like Jurassic Park and Pirates of the Caribbean.
You’ll take off from the state’s tallest launch pad, 50 feet high, and fly through the impressive peaks of the Haupu Mountain Range. But the fun doesn’t stop there! CLIMB Works Keana Farms on O’ahu and Skyline Hawaii on Maui also offer thrilling zipline experiences that will leave you breathless.
Cliff Diving Thrills Across Hawaii’s Big Island, O’ahu, and Maui
Feel the rush of adrenaline as you dive off a rugged cliffside and into the sparkling blue waters below. With no need for special gear or a tour guide, it’s just you, the open air and the thrill of the jump. Looking for the ultimate cliff diving experience? Check out the Leap of Faith on O’ahu’s southwest coast. With an 85-foot drop and a high danger rating, this dive is not for the faint of heart.
But for those seeking a tamer jump, check out Spitting Caves nearby, featuring a 70-foot drop and plenty of ledges for smaller jumps. And don’t miss out on other must-try dives like South Point on the Big Island and Black Rock and Twin Falls on Maui.
Explore the Mysteries of the Deep Shipwreck Diving
Prepare to be transported back in time as you dive deep into the ocean and explore the mysteries of Hawaii’s shipwrecks off the coast of O’ahu. You’ll weave and wind through the corridors of sunken vessels, surrounded by the stunning beauty of Hawaii’s marine life. Meet reef sharks, swim alongside six-foot sea turtles, and discover more hidden treasures with each dive. One of the must-see shipwrecks is the Sea Tiger, a former Chinese trading vessel that smuggled immigrants into Hawaii.
Sunk for diving purposes, this 90 ft deep wreck offers 150 ft of incredible exploration. Another exciting dive spot is San Pedro and YO 257, two shipwrecks just 100 ft apart, covered in vibrant coral and teeming with schools of fish and various eel species.
Soar Above the Shores Paragliding on Maui
Are you ready to experience Maui like never before? Tandem paragliding is the perfect way to see the island’s stunning Central Valley and the majestic Mount Haleakala from a bird’s eye view. You’ll be attached to an experienced flyer, so you can relax and enjoy the ride. Launch at a dizzying height of 4,500 ft, and don’t forget to capture the fantastic views with your camera.
The descent back to the ground is just as thrilling as the ascent, with a 3,000 ft drop. Paragliding Maui offers two exhilarating rides from their Echos launch, leaving you feeling like you’re on top of the world.
Gliding above Paradise while Parasailing in Honolulu
Imagine soaring through the sky, 500 feet above the turquoise waters of Waikiki Beach and the stunning Diamond Head, all while being safely tethered to a boat cruising along the scenic coast of Honolulu.
It’s like being a bird, but better as you witness the vibrant marine life and stunning volcanic crater from new heights—book with experienced companies like Hawaiian Parasail Inc. for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Conquer the Wild: Off-Road ATV Excursions on Maui and Kauai
Book an off-road ATV tour to explore Hawaii’s backcountry and immerse yourself in its natural beauty. Maui Off-Road offers the “ride of your life” through 1400 acres of rugged terrain in Kapalua, tackling hairpin turns and tight lines through the lush jungle, all while taking in the stunning beauty of Molokai, Lanai, and the surrounding sea. This former pineapple farm offers hills, river crossings, and bamboo forest runs for a truly unique adventure.
If that’s not enough, Kipu Ranch Adventures on Kauai offers a heart-pumping guided tour through 3,000 acres of private ranch. As an eco-conscious adventure, they take pride in showcasing blockbuster scenery, including a bamboo jungle and a secluded waterfall.
