I went to Hawaii expecting to flop by the pool. Then things got interesting

I was not expecting to feel exhilaration in Hawaii. I packed more swimsuits than clothes and downloaded an ambitious amount of books onto my Kindle. I was prepared to fly and flop. But the Hawaii I fell in love with was an exciting and dynamic destination that gave me an epic island adventure. I taste-tested mai tai cocktails, poke bowls and lay on beaches (for professional reasons, of course).

But, while the version of me that lives in a parallel universe would love a relaxing resort holiday, I was raised on camping expeditions by parents that would much rather be out exploring. And so the itch set in, and I discovered I could not have been more wrong about Hawaii. These were five of my favourite activities.

I have been floating along a coral reef for just a few minutes when I encounter a huge turtle chilling in the clear, warm water at Black Rock, a popular snorkel spot at Kaanapali Beach on Maui. I am thrilled. I generously call out to a random swimmer to alert them and am shocked at how nonchalant they are. Then I see at least eight more turtles in the next hour and realise - this is just what happens here.

My heart rate spikes when I dive down and spy a spotted moray eel poking its fanged mouth out of a coral cave as it slithers its slimy body through. Snorkels can be rented along the beachfront for as little as $20 - just pack your sunscreen.

I have an annoying disposition where I desperately want to do something, don't because it's scary, then regret it forever.

I watch teenagers jump off the cliff and inspect the depth with my goggles on at Black Rock for ages before I decide to tackle it myself. All I can say is do it. Do it twice, do it three times. It is so much fun.

The sacred spot, Pu'u Keka'a to Hawaiians, is where one of Maui's most acclaimed high chiefs, Kahekili, excelled in the game lele kawa, or cliff jumping. He gained respect from warriors for his leaps. Legend has it that it is the place where a soul leaps into eternity.

The famous lava rock promontory is about five metres above the water, depending on the tide, with a lower launch spot about halfway up. It involves a short swim then a steep scramble up the rocks. A local at the top puts me at ease and offers to count me down before I take the plunge.

You might have heard it in Lilo and Stitch first, but I'll say it again: There's no place I'd rather be than on a surfboard out at sea. At least when in Hawaii. Find rolling, beginner-friendly waves at breaks like Canoes at Waikiki, in Honolulu, on the island of O'ahu. There are plenty of lesson options, but I grab a rental board for about $30. The water is warm and clear, the sun is shining. The hours I spend floating, chatting, following a turtle, and paddling furiously - plus the few seconds I spend actually standing up with white water surging beneath me - are bliss. Duke Kahanamoku, a decorated swimmer who popularised the sport of surfing, is immortalised in statue at Waikiki. The iconic establishment Duke's is a lovely spot to grab a mai-tai cocktail and spectate.

I also try outrigger canoe surfing at Waikiki. Four of us sit in the traditional-style vessel and use oars to surf waves with a guide.

We throw up shakas and holler with joy after sharing such a thrilling experience.

Water activities in Hawaii can be dangerous. Be aware of currents and ocean conditions, and stay within your limits.

Go around the bend - all 600 of them - on a stomach-churning but spectacular road trip from Kaanapali to Hana on the island of Maui. Our driver Chris picks us up early in the Hana and Beyond minibus for a full day of exploring. We meander through lush forest and cross more than 50 bridges before arriving at the quiet and scenic town on the eastern side of the island.

As with any good road trip, it is the journey that counts. Chris shares the history of the island and tells us his own stories about growing up here. The adventure takes us to a Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu) nesting spot. We stop in at a roadside cafe famous for its banana bread, swim at a waterfall, walk through a lava tube, take photos of "rainbow" eucalypts and eat a packed lunch by a black-sand beach.

Fight off the back-to-work scaries by recentering the mind and body with a peaceful yoga class. But you're in Hawaii, so why not add a tropical layer by trying it on a stand-up paddleboard? My instructor at Yoga Floats takes the small-group class through stretching and breathing exercises before we venture into downward dogs and warrior poses, striking the perfect balance between relaxation and challenge.

Our paddleboards are anchored in waist-deep water at a bay on the island of O'ahu with a stunning view. Taking a tumble during tree pose - or even better, watching your mate make a splash - is half of the fun. All abilities are welcome.

The writer was a guest of Aqua-Aston