You Must Visit These 12 Hidden Gems of Hawaii

We partnered with OPI on this post that shows you how to get away from the tourist traps and find the real gems of Hawaii.

Traveling to Hawaii is likely on the top of your must-do list, but the problem is, it's on everyone else's too! Since overwhelming crowds can take away from what should be a relaxing and blissful experience, why not stay off the tourist path and have your own exciting adventures? We've rounded up 12 of the best hidden spots in Hawaii that give you your dream vacation, free of frustrating crowds. Source: Shutterstock

Underground Caves
Shutterstock

Underground Caves

Hawaii is filled with underground caves, many of them lava tubes, and several of them can be explored with or without a guide. Check out what the caves have to offer, and explore fun tours here.

Red Sand Beach
Flickr user Paul Bica

Red Sand Beach

Red Sand Beach on Kaihalulu Bay is a pocket beach on the island of Maui on Kaʻuiki Head. It's a dramatic and beautiful hidden cove that will give you full-on beach bliss all to yourself.

Redwood Trail at Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area
Shutterstock

Redwood Trail at Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area

If you love a good hike, you can walk or bike through this gorgeous, two-mile trail at the Polipoli State Park in Kula. The hike begins at the Polipoli campground at 6,200 feet above sea level, and you'll descend through a winding trail surrounded by towering Redwood trees, cedars, and pines. Take a look at a complete guide here.

Wallaby Colony
Shutterstock

Wallaby Colony

Almost a hundred years ago, two wallabies escaped from their confinement in a zoo, and, well, nature took its course. Now, Kalihi Valley on Oahu is said to be home to a small colony of these adorable minimarsupials, which are native to Australia.

The Blue Room
Only in Hawaii

The Blue Room

This hidden spot is located on Kauai’s North Shore, and its unique location allows sunlight to shine through its clear waters, creating an otherworldly blue light inside the cave.

Zoe the Golden Zebra
Three Ring Ranch

Zoe the Golden Zebra

Black with white stripes or white with . . . gold stripes? Head to the Three Ring Ranch, an exotic animal sanctuary in Kailua-Kona, to see this rare beauty, whose unique color is caused by a pigmentation abnormality called amelanosis. The ranch rescues and rehabilitates a wide range of animals from birds to zebras, making this a great destination for animal-lovers and kids.

Pu’u o Mahuka Heiau
Flickr user Benjamin Chun

Pu’u o Mahuka Heiau

Translated as "hill of escape," this historic site is the largest Hawaiian temple on the island of Oahu. Built in the 1600s, this sacred spot is a peaceful destination for some historical exploration while you're in Hawaii.

Bamboo Forest
Shutterstock

Bamboo Forest

Did you know that an entire forest of bamboo trees existed? It does in Kula. This one-of-a-kind hike is off the beaten path, and you'll be able to enjoy the serenity and pure awesomeness without sifting through huge crowds.

Paako Cove
Flickr user Eric

Paako Cove

Otherwise known as "secret beach," Paako Cove is an easily accessible yet relatively unknown location in Hawaii, making it the ultimate solo or romantic getaway.

The Byodo-In Temple
Shutterstock

The Byodo-In Temple

The Byodo-In Temple is one of the most unique destinations to see if you're hoping to incorporate some history into your Hawaiian vacation. Built in 1968, this temple was established to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii. Home to wild peacocks, the beautiful grounds of this landmark include a large reflecting pond, meditation niches, and small waterfalls.

Nakalele Blowhole
Shutterstock

Nakalele Blowhole

This cool spot in Maui is known for a large blowhole that produces geyser-like spouts from the tides and waves. It's definitely worth a stop if you're driving through the Northern tip of Maui, and some of the best snorkeling spots on the island are along the route.

Venus Pool
Flickr user Andrew K. Smith

Venus Pool

If you're not brave enough to jump off a cliff into this deep-blue pool of water, you can at least take in the breathtaking site of one of Maui's most spectacular natural pools.

OPI Has 12 More Reasons to Visit Hawaii