I recommend getting the NRA course -- if not instead of Hunter's Ed, at least shortly afterward. The Hunter's Ed course doesn't include any hands-on live-fire training.
Absolutely agree with this recommendation, and would even go as far as recommending both courses for those who have never handled a firearm, or have not shot a weapon in decades. In their handgun safety course, Hawaii Defense Fund (HDF) exposes the student to semi-automatic handguns, as well as revolvers, in different calibers, and teaches the student safe handling procedures such as unloading, verifying that a weapon is unloaded, and the process of loading a magazine. Passing the HDF handgun safety course, can be followed with more advanced courses. It would be great if they could offer a CCW course in HI, when such laws are passed in the state.
A completed Hunter's Ed certificate is necessary for obtain a hunting license. This offers holders the option of entering hunting ranges with their shotguns, during approved times of the year. This is a different type of experience than what you can find at the Koko Head Shooting Complex. At the HDF open shoot, you may not be able to use birdshot, afaik. Slugs are allowed. There is a gun club which has sponsored events (on the weekend) at KHSC for skeet shooting, but I do not belong to that club. If anyone knows how to sign up for that event, please post here.