While temperatures drop in most of the U.S., many seniors consider visiting Hawaii. They envision soft trade winds as girls in grass skirts hula to the beat of native ukes. By the shore, bronzed surfers ride the waves, while in the distant sea, dolphins and whales frolic.

That’s all true, but Hawaii also offers endless creative things to do. The average December and January daytime temperatures are in the mid-70s. So, if you want a warm, tropical vacation that gets senior traveler adrenalin flowing, here are a few hints:

Kilauea Volcano: Hike overland to the few nearby spots where tourists are allowed. Fly over in a helicopter or ride a boat to watch from a safe distance.

Deep-Sea Fish: Take chartered boats, depart from Lahaina, Maui, and set your line out for Blue Marlin. Not interested in keeping your catch? There is a tag and release program just for you.

Whale Watching: Join a chartered boat trip or just watch with binoculars from Oahu North Shore high points. See the huge humpbacks swim by.

Scuba Dive: The underwater world off Kona's coast is a scuba fantasy. Canyons and cliffs of lava, submerged caves and brilliant coral reefs teeming with wildly-colored sea life are there. Another great dive is located near Waianae Harbor on Oahu. Hike: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is filled with hiking trails, offering awesome view of lava flows. Another great hike is at Pololu Valley, where you can wade inside a 500-foot waterfall. Be sure to bring your camera.

Swim with Dolphins: Dolphin Quest interactive program at the Oahu Hilton Waikoloa Village allows you to interact with trained, friendly dolphins.

Zipline: A treetop ride darts you through the treetops on a scenic experience you’ll never forget. Try it on Maui at the Kapalua Resort. The zip is almost two miles long and you'll scream in delight all the way.

Tour A Plantation: Visit the Dole Plantation on Oahu and learn all about pineapples. For a vision of earlier times, see vintage sugar and coffee plantations.

Parasailing: For the brave of heart and those who enjoy life on the edge, take a parasailing class and go airborne at Kailua on Hawaii.

Rappel: Maui Canyon Adventures offers rappelling down waterfalls into spectacular canyons. Swim beneath the waterfalls in pristine pools under the warmth of the Maui sun.

Surf: Learn to surf from the some of the best in the world on all Hawaii beaches. Find the perfect wave just for you.

Kayak and Canoe: Kayak to the Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay on Hawaii. Take a two-hour canoe ride tour at the Polo Beach in Wailea, Maui.

Jackass Trail: Take a mule train and visit Hawaii’s beautiful Kalaupapa Peninsula, where lepers once spent their last days. Accessible only by mule or on foot, it’s one of the most unspoiled places left on earth.

Beach Camping: Relax and fish beneath salt-encrusted pine trees on Hawaii. The fragrant air gives you a voracious appetite for whatever you catch, and the waves lull you to sleep at night.

Natural Hot Tubs: On Hawaii, soak at Ahalanui Pond, where water is 90 degrees and crystal clear. For details and more ideas on your island adventures, go to www.gohawaii.com