Where to Find Your Zen on the Hawaiian Islands
By Sophie Cole
Hawai‘i has it all. Jaw-dropping scenery, an aloha spirit that uplifts the soul, a rich and inspiring culture that deeply respects nature, and world-famous beaches that draw visitors from all corners of the world. And with a variety of nature-based wellness activities across the Hawaiian Islands, this paradise in the Pacific is the dream destination for those looking to connect with nature and find some inner peace.
Whether your idea of zen is soaking in the serenity while forest bathing, a rejuvenating Polynesian-style massage, or an adventurous sunrise hike before the rest of the world stirs, we have you covered. And with wellness activities across three of Hawai‘i’s most popular islands—O’ahu, Maui, and Kaua‘i—you can embark on an extended wellness break with some island hopping in between or cherry-pick your very favorite mindful activities on your preferred Hawaiian island.
Forest Bathing in an Artist’s Garden
At the core of Hawaiian culture lies a profound reverence and deep respect for the ‘āina (land), as is indicated by the popular saying “aloha ‘āina,” which translates to “love of the land.” This philosophy influences the lives of many Native Hawaiians, as they have a strong connection to nature and a heartfelt appreciation for its rich life-giving qualities.
The abundant natural beauty of the Hawaiian Islands makes it an ideal location for shinrin-yoku, also known as “forest bathing.” Originating in Japan during the 1980s, this practice is a form of mindful ecotherapy that involves walking through a natural environment or forest to help rejuvenate the body, mind, and soul.
On eastern O‘ahu, join one of Phyllis Look’s Forest Bathing Hawai‘i tours. As Hawai‘i’s first certified forest therapy guide, she finds joy in connecting people with themselves and the natural world. Her two-hour forest bathing experience involves a gentle and mindful stroll through a garden designed and created by Hawaiian artist Hiroshi Tagami. You’ll also get to visit the on-site art gallery, featuring artworks by Tagami, Michael Powell, and other talents.
Or opt for the four-hour experience that includes forest bathing, a hike, and guided cultural insight. During the first half-mile of the hike through a eucalyptus forest, the guide shares mo‘olelo (stories) about the ancient Wai‘anae mountains. The pace then slows during the next half-mile, during which you’ll be presented with several optional sensory “invitations” to deepen your connection with nature. The walk concludes with a tea ceremony overlooking some unexpected views, before returning to the camp with a renewed sense of aliveness.
Tranquil Temple Visit in a Lush Valley
An air of serenity and peace radiates throughout the Valley of the Temples. Nestled in a lush basin on O’ahu’s Windward Coast, this sacred site is the final resting place for many of Hawai‘i’s deceased. Behind a maze of cemeteries sits the majestic centerpiece, Byodo-In, a scale replica of a 900-year-old temple in Uji, Japan. This impressive feat of architecture—made entirely without nails—houses an 18-foot-tall golden Buddha, before which visitors can light incense and pray.
The surrounding temple grounds are rich with nature, adding to the zen-like ambiance. Peacocks and black swans roam free in the gardens while turtles sunbathe by the koi-filled pond. As you stroll around the serene site, notice the resonant drone of the bon-sho (sacred bell), rung by visitors before they enter the temple—believed to bring happiness, blessings, and longevity. And for added zen, visit the meditation pavilion, behind Byodo-In. This tranquil space, away from the crowds, is the perfect place to relax, meditate, or simply admire the stunning view
Lomi Lomi Massage in a Serene Spa Setting
Lomi lomi is so much more than your regular massage. It’s an ancient healing art form, native to the Hawaiian Islands, that’s believed to have originated in ancient Polynesia more than 1,000 years ago. Part-massage, part-bodywork session, lomi lomi is a deeply spiritual practice that features fluid, rhythmic strokes reflecting the ebb and flow of the ocean’s waves. It can help the receiver to anchor themselves in the present moment, enhance blood circulation, and promote relaxation.
Experience a lomi lomi treatment at Ho‘omana Spa Maui, a Hawaiian-owned and -operated spa retreat center on central Maui. Native Hawaiian Jeana Iwalani Naluai and her husband, Justin, operate this tranquil escape from their home, where they have four treatment rooms, a bathhouse, and a native botanical garden. Ho‘omana Spa—recognized for its 2025 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award—combines ancient Hawaiian wisdom with modern-day practices.
Unwind with their signature lomi lomi massage, which includes a hot stone foot massage and coconut rosemary scalp treatment. Or opt for the lomi ‘ili ‘ili hot stone massage and enjoy the heated lava stones that are used for added comfort and warmth, helping to promote deep relaxation.
Haleakalā Sunrise Hike on a Dormant Volcano
There’s something quite soul stirring about seeing the sun slowly ascend above the clouds. And where better to witness nature’s grandest show than Haleakalā National Park, also known as the House of the Sun.
According to legend, Haleakalā—Maui’s highest peak—is where demigod Maui lassoed the sun to slow its movement through the sky so his mother (Mina) had more time to dry her kapa (cloth) and grow food. With that fable playing in the back of your mind, it’s a magical sight to behold: the sun rising above the 10,000-foot dormant volcano, emitting shades of crimson and deep orange against the morning’s light blue sky. Mark Twain described it as “the most sublime spectacle I have ever witnessed.”
Park reservations are required in advance for sunrise viewing, and there is a mixture of short and long summit trails. The park entrance opens at 3 a.m., allowing early risers enough time to reach Maui’s highest point in time for the sunrise (which can vary between 5:45 a.m. and 7 a.m., depending on the time of the year). Expect to begin the sunrise hike in darkness, before dawn, when an element of stillness, peace, and tranquility fills the early morning air.
Honeybee or Chocolate Tour on a Local Farm
Kaua‘i, also known as the Garden Isle, is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands, and is abundant with tropical rainforests, emerald-green mountains, and diverse plant life. Spending time in nature, appreciating the ‘āina, and learning about its natural resources, can be a rich and rejuvenating experience.
Discover some of the island’s natural gifts—chocolate and honey—with a visit to Lydgate Farms, a 46-acre cacao estate on eastern Kaua‘i. Operated by a fifth-generation family, the Lydgates regard themselves as custodians of the land, employing sustainable agricultural practices to uphold mālama ‘āina (care for the land).
During the chocolate farm tour, learn about cacao fruits, native plants, and tropical flowers. There is also an opportunity to experience Hawai‘i-made chocolate and taste locally grown fruits.
Or join their Inside the Hive honey and bee tour, where you’ll learn about beekeeping and the steps involved to create this naturally sweet delicacy. You’ll even get to don a protective bee suit, peek inside a busy beehive, and discover the fascinating world of Apis mellifera—the honeybee. And, of course, tasting honey fresh from the comb makes this tour all the sweeter.
Nāpali Coast Visit, by Sea or Air
Along Kaua‘i’s rugged northern shore lies one of nature’s finest masterpieces: the Nāpali Coast. Spanning approximately 17 miles, this mountainous shoreline features cathedral-like cliffs that are best appreciated by sea or air. A visit to the Nāpali Coast, whether by boat or plane, is likely to evoke a sense of awe, inner calm, and deeper connection to Hawai‘i’s nature-rich ‘āina.
Kaua‘i’ Sea Tours offers adrenaline-fueled raft tours on speedy and nimble Zodiac rafts. The Nā Pali Beach Landing Adventure, lasting more than six hours and available from May to October, allows you to explore Nāpali’s majestic coastline, waterfalls, and sea caves up close. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for spinner dolphins and sea turtles. The highlight of the trip (weather dependent) is an exclusive beach landing at Nu‘alolo Kai—an ancient Hawai‘i fishing village accessible only by boat and with a special permit.
With more than 70 percent of Kaua‘i being unreachable by land, the ultimate way to discover the island’s breathtakingly beautiful scenery is from the sky. Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours offers a one-hour private Kaua‘i experience designed for two to three passengers. A once-in-a-lifetime experience, this soul-rejuvenating helicopter tour provides a rare opportunity to view Manawaiopuna Falls, also known as the Jurassic Falls, Olokele Canyon, Waimea Canyon—often referred to as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific—and the stunning Nāpali coastline.
Whether you’re celebrating a big anniversary or birthday—or you’re just ready for a relaxing vacation—the Hawaiian Islands make for a perfect Getaway.
