You could spend your time in Hawaii lazing on the beach with a cold drink in your hand. But to do so means missing out on all the fun activities that the islands have to offer and which contribute to the Hawaiian experience. Here’s a list of the ten most popular activities for tourists. Not everyone will be interested in all of them, but remember that they are all part of the island experience and it is worthwhile being adventurous and trying something you may not think you will like. The results may surprise you.

This is so obvious it barely needs saying, but it is the reason that most people visit Hawaii. Waikiki Beach is world-famous and is known for epitomizing the Hawaiian beach lifestyle. It is not inexpensive by any means, but it offers the ultimate beach experience and is something that must be experienced.

Another unique experience is taking a sunset cruise down the coast and enjoying gourmet cuisine and wines while watching the lights of Honolulu slowly drift by. A not to be missed romantic experience for all age groups.

For something totally different fly over Kauai in a helicopter and get a bird’s eye view of the stunning scenery. Most of the island is not accessible by foot and this is the best way to see all those parts of the island that you would otherwise miss, including the majestic mountains with the verdant green slopes. Experienced pilots will tell you about the places you fly over and what makes them so special.

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In winter, humpback whales leave their Alaskan home to mate, give birth and nurse their young in the mild waters off Hawaii. A catamaran day trip to where the schools of whales have their temporary homes is a fascinating experience and a great way to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures of the sea.

For golfers, the islands’ many world class golf courses are a must. And even if you are not someone who enjoys the game, just walking around the courses with dramatic landscapes, incredible vegetation and lush green fairways is a soothing and at the same time invigorating experience.

Everyone loves a good party and few are better than a luau. This is the ultimate Polynesian sensory experience which combines the history of the people, their music and dance with the rich colors of the islands. Fire-dancing, hulas, grass skirts, warriors with vividly painted faces all contribute to this one of a kind experience. And of course, there is the food – extremely appealing and unique to the islands.

Forget the big shops and malls and spend a day exploring the small quaint stores and artist studios where you will find the local art, shirts dyed with the local red dirt to give a unique look, local nuts, CDs made by the local musicians, handmade jewelry, handicrafts, Polynesian-style furniture, tropical flowers and much more. Also visit the many restaurants. Hawaii is today a mix of cultures and you will find fusion food that incorporates Chinese, Korean, Japanese and European influences to produce a cuisine you will not find on the mainland.

Rent a car from Kahului airport on Maui and drive to Hana where you will find magnificent waterfalls and great hiking trails. But getting there is half the fun and as you drive you will pass through tropical rainforests and pass by beaches covered by unusual black sand.

Surfing was invented in the islands and the image of surfers hanging 10 is one that everyone associates with Hawaii. If you are a surfer, this is where you will find some of the best surfing in the world. And if you are not, why not try your hand at it? Surfing lessons for beginners are easily available at places where the waves are not high and you can learn this addictive sport in complete safety.

A five-hour kayaking trip down the Wailua River on Kauai is a fun experience for the whole family. The trip takes about half a day and includes a hike to the waterfalls and a chance to swim in the clear water pools at the base of the falls.

Hawaii vacation planner at www.to-hawaii.com.