1. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
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This national park is home to two active volcanoes: Mauna Loa and Kīlauea. It’s one of the few places on Earth where you can witness the creation of new land in real time.
2. Mauna Kea
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At 13,803 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea Volcano is the tallest mountain on Earth when measured from its base on the ocean floor to its summit. It’s a sacred mountain for Native Hawaiians and an important site for astronomical research.
3. Hulihe‘e Palace
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Located in Kailua Kona, this former vacation home of Hawaiian royalty now operates as a museum preserving the stories, furnishings and artifacts of Native Hawaiian leaders.
4. Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau (City of Refuge)
Once a place of sanctuary for those who violated sacred laws, this national historic landmark offers a powerful glimpse into ancient Hawaiian justice and spirituality.
5. Kealakekua Bay
Allan Baxter / Getty Images
You can visit this marine life conservation district and historic site where Captain James Cook first landed in Hawaii (and ultimately met his end). The bay is ideal for snorkeling, kayaking and exploring rich underwater life.
We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.
