Although millions of visitors flock to the golden shores of Hawaii each year, there are still some gorgeous spots to discover that are off the main tourist path. OROGOLD brings you some of Hawaii’s hidden gems, offering you a blissful, authentic experience away from the crowds.

Nakalele Blowhole
Located at Nakalele Point, on the West of Maui, is an incredible natural phenomenon where seawater is forced up through a large hole in the lava shelf. The blowhole is most explosive during high tide, and is definitely worth a visit. Although it may be tempting to keep edging nearer for a closer look, OROGOLD strongly advises that you act with extreme caution, as you don’t want to end up getting sucked into the hole. The area around Nakalele Point is also great for snorkelling, so bring your snorkelling gear with you if you are taking a trip to see the blowhole.

Lanai Cathedrals
Imagine yourself standing under a grand archway of a huge stone cathedral, but with the sun’s rays shining through crystal blue water rather than a blue sky. There are two underwater cathedrals located just off the southern coast of Lanai, and both can be reached by boat. Divers are able to explore the many rooms and passageways that make up the cathedrals, seeing some amazing aquatic life, such as shrimp, lobsters, Moorish Idol fish, octopi, pyramid butterfly fish, sea turtles and much more. Since ocean conditions can sometimes be rough, with the ceiling holes causing sudden surges of water, you need to already have some diving experience behind you before being able to visit the cathedrals.

The ‘Blue Room’, Kaua’i
The Blue Room, one of Hawaii’s many unusual geological formations, is an underground cave tucked away in the lush jungles of northern Kaua’i. When sunlight hits the clear waters within the cave, the whole cave is lit with a mystical, vibrant blue light, giving it an otherworldly feel, which can only be understood when experienced. Travelers have described feeling a sense of peace immediately upon entering the cave, and the light that surrounds you really does feel magical. The cave can be reached on foot by following a short trail, but it can often be slippery so OROGOLD recommends wearing sturdy footwear.

Byodo-in Temple
Located in Oahu, the Byodo-in Temple is nestled in the beautiful Ko’oalu Mountains, and is a replica of a 950-year-old Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. Built without the use of a single nail, the temple is surrounded by a large reflecting pond, small koi ponds, wild peacocks, and breathtaking waterfalls. The temple, built in 1968, is a great way to incorporate some history and culture into your Hawaiian vacation, as well as to see a side of the islands that not many others end up seeing.

Hawaii is full of hidden gems that can make your vacation even more enjoyable. Whether you explore a mystical blue cave or dive through the passageways of an underwater cathedral, you will soon discover that there is so much more to Hawaii than long walks on the beach.