Dreaming of the perfect vacation? Scenic driving in Hawaii is a must-do. From lush valleys to clear beaches, there's so much to see. This guide will show you the best routes for an unforgettable trip.
Key Takeaways
- Hawaii has many beautiful drives. Roads like the Road to Hana in Maui and the Chain of Craters on Big Island show amazing views.
- Each route gives a special experience. You can see beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes, and cliffs.
- The best time to drive is from October to May. This time has mild weather and fewer tourists.
- Drive safely by pulling over for other cars and watching for rain. Always check road conditions before long drives.
- Enjoy local customs like crossing bridges with groups of five or six cars at a time.
Iconic Routes for Every Traveler
Hawaii has many scenic routes. These drives offer stunning views and unique experiences.
Road to Hana, Maui: A Bucket-List Journey
Drive the 52-mile Road to Hana on Maui’s northeast coast. You'll see lush green cliffs, waterfalls, and beaches with sand in gold, black, and red colors. The journey takes about 2 to 4 hours one way.
Plan for a full day if you want to make a round trip.
End your drive in Hana and relax into “Hawaii time.” You can also visit Oheo Gulch nearby with terraced waterfalls perfect for swimming. This route gives you amazing views of nature and a glimpse of local life along the way.
Chain of Craters Road, Big Island: A Geology Geek’s Dream
Chain of Craters Road spans 20 miles through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The drive takes you past barren volcanic rocks, recent lava flows, and steam vents. You will see the raw power of nature up close.
The road ends at a stunning coastline with ocean cliffs and the Holei Sea Arch. At night, don't miss visiting Halemaumau Crater for glowing lava views, truly mesmerizing! This drive is perfect for geology lovers eager to explore volcanic activity on the Big Island.
Scenic Drives for Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will find Hawaii a true paradise. Drive along lush roads and discover rich landscapes.
Waimea Canyon Drive, Kauai: A Hiker’s Paradise
Waimea Canyon Drive stretches 14 miles on Kauai. Known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," it offers panoramic views with various pullouts.
Hiking trails weave through lush scenery. Some trails can be steep and muddy, so good shoes are a must.
Hamakua Coast, Big Island: Steeped in History
The Hamakua Coast connects Hilo to North Kohala. It’s rich in beaches, waterfalls, and jungle valleys. Laupahoehoe is a key stop with a memorial for the 1946 tsunami. This coast commemorates history while offering lush scenery.
Waipio Valley Lookout links to King Kamehameha I. The views are stunning and tell tales of old Hawaii. You can see green cliffs and black sand beaches here.
History comes alive on the Hamakua Coast.
Best Drives for Stunning Coastal Views
Feel the ocean breeze on these amazing drives, perfect for those who love sea views and open roads.
Honoapiilani Highway, Maui: Ideal for Whale Watching
Honoapiilani Highway offers incredible whale watching. Spot whales best from October to May. Drive the highway at sunset for views of Lanai and Molokai.
Look out for pods of humpback whales. They swim close to the shore, making it easy to see them. Bring binoculars for a better view!
Route 560, North Shore Kauai: A Photographer’s Delight
Drive along Route 560 between Princeville and Kee Beach. Taro fields and one-lane bridges give this route a unique charm. Towering green cliffs offer stunning views of Hanalei Bay.
Locals cross bridges in groups of five or six cars. Wait your turn—patience is key here! This drive is perfect for capturing the lush beauty of Kauai’s north shore.
The best camera is the one that you have with you. - Chase Jarvis
Unique Island Experiences
Discover the hidden beauty of Lanai and Molokai. Enjoy these unique drives full of adventure and stunning views.
Garden of the Gods, Lanai: Desert Landscapes
Garden of the Gods, Lanai offers a stark landscape. Accessible via rugged dirt Polihua Road, it's like stepping onto another planet. The rocky terrain has odd shapes and warm colors that give it a desert vibe.
This spot is perfect for those who love unique scenery.
Take your time to explore this otherworldly place. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes because the path can be rough. Enjoy the quiet beauty and snap photos of the fascinating rock formations under the clear sky—an unforgettable view in Hawaii’s diverse landscapes.
Kamehameha V Hwy, Molokai: For the Adventurous Soul
Kamehameha V Hwy on Molokai is perfect for thrill-seekers. The road offers stunning views of the Kalaupapa Peninsula. You'll see steep cliffs and lush valleys.
This highway honors Father Damien, canonized in 2009. It has challenging switchbacks leading to Halawa Valley. Outdoor lovers will enjoy this drive for its scenery and adventure.
Discover Hawaiian history as you travel this windy path. Kamehameha V Hwy is a true gem for any adventurous soul exploring Hawaii.
Oahu's Must-Visit Roads
Oahu offers some of the most stunning drives in Hawaii. Each road has unique views and stops, suitable for every traveler.
Pali Highway: Ko’olau Mountains' Lush Tropical Scenery
Drive on Pali Highway, Route 61. You travel through the Ko'olau Mountains, covered in green. See waterfalls and steep cliffs.
Stop at Nu'uanu Pali Lookout for amazing views of Windward Oahu. Feel the strong winds and see lush valleys below. Explore more by continuing on Kamehameha Highway to find quiet beaches and small towns.
Tantalus Scenic Drive: Breathtaking Overlooks
Minutes from downtown Honolulu, Tantalus Scenic Drive offers stunning views. You'll see lush tropical scenery and breathtaking overlooks.
Tantalus Scenic Drive lets you take in the beauty of Oahu. It's a great place to watch sunsets and view the city lights at night.
The best spot near Honolulu for stunning views.
Explore winding roads that snake through thick forests. Look for native plants and birds along the way!
The North Shore
The North Shore is a must-see in Hawaii. Start your drive on Pali Highway. Stop at Nuuanu Pali Lookout for amazing views.
Drive along Kamehameha Highway to find uncrowded beaches and small towns. See famous surf spots like Pipeline and Waimea Bay. Visit Mokolii Island and the Polynesian Cultural Center for more experiences.
Enjoy fresh seafood at the North Shore Tacos at Pupukea. Explore Sharks Cove for snorkeling adventures with sea turtles. End your day relaxing at Turtle Bay Resort.
Farrington Highway
Farrington Highway is a must-visit road on Oahu. You will see varied landscapes and get unique experiences here. Explore secluded beaches, catch vibrant sunsets, and walk through tropical rainforests.
Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or shopping at local stores.
The drive also passes volcanic craters offering stunning views. Rent a vehicle to fully enjoy the attractions. This highway lets you experience Hawaii away from crowded tourist spots—pure paradise on wheels!
Tips for Enjoying Hawaii’s Scenic Drives
7. Tips for Enjoying Hawaii’s Scenic Drives: Plan your trips during sunrise or sunset for the best views, check road conditions in advance, and always bring water and snacks.
Best Times to Travel
Hawaii is best traveled from October to May. During this time, the weather is mild and perfect for whale watching on the Honoapiilani Highway in Maui. The months of April and November are quieter with fewer tourists.
The sunrise at Haleakala National Park is a must-see. Plan your visit early morning to catch this spectacular view. For safe driving, avoid peak traffic hours and check road conditions before setting out on long drives like the Road to Hana or Chain of Craters Road.
Safety Tips for Driving in Hawaii
Drive with care on narrow roads. Many scenic routes in Hawaii are narrow and winding. Always pull over to let other cars pass. It’s a local custom.
Watch for sudden rain. Roads can get slippery quickly, especially near the mountains. Slow down when it rains.
Cross bridges safely in groups of five or six cars at a time, this is local etiquette.
Keep headlights on during low light conditions such as dawn or dusk; this improves visibility significantly.
Never stop your car in the middle of traffic to take pictures, even if the view is amazing - find safe parking first.
Check volcanic activity before driving near Halemaumau Crater to avoid hazards like ash or toxic gas emissions from Kīlauea volcano.
Conclusion
Hawaii offers scenic drives that are unforgettable. From the lush Road to Hana in Maui to the rugged Chain of Craters on Big Island, each route is unique. Enjoy coastal views, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes.
Take these drives for a true island adventure. Your journey through paradise awaits!
FAQs
Q: What are the best scenic drives in Hawaii?
A: Some of the best scenic drives in Hawaii include the Hana Highway, the road to Haleakala National Park, and the scenic roads on Oahu’s Windward Coast. Each drive offers unique views and experiences of the Hawaiian Islands.
Q: What should I expect on the Hana Highway?
A: The Hana Highway is renowned for its breathtaking coastal views, lush rainforests, and numerous waterfalls. Expect winding roads, many curves, and scenic overlooks, as well as opportunities to stop and hike to hidden gems along the way.
Q: What is the best scenic drive in Oahu?
A: The best scenic drives in Oahu include the route along the North Shore through Haleiwa, which offers stunning views of world-famous surf spots and opportunities to stop at local eateries. The drive around the shores of Oahu is also highly recommended for its picturesque coastline.
Q: Can I hike along the scenic drives in Hawaii?
A: Yes, many scenic drives in Hawaii have hiking trails accessible from the road. For instance, the Crater Rim Drive in Haleakala National Park offers several hiking opportunities with stunning views of the crater.
Q: What is the Spirit of Aloha?
A: The Spirit of Aloha is a warm and welcoming attitude that is central to Hawaiian culture. It reflects the kindness and hospitality of the locals and enhances the experience when exploring the best scenic drives in Hawaii.
Q: Where can I find red sand beaches on my road trips?
A: Red sand beaches can be found on the Big Island near Hana, particularly at places like Kaihalulu Beach. These unique beaches are often visible from the road and offer a striking contrast to the typical golden sand beaches.
Q: What is the best time to take a scenic drive in Hawaii?
A: The best time to take a scenic drive in Hawaii is during the dry season, which typically runs from April to October. This will provide clearer skies and better visibility for enjoying the stunning views along the way.
Q: Are there any specific sights along the way on Oahu's Windward Coast?
A: Yes, Oahu’s Windward Coast features several notable sights including the beautiful beaches of Kailua and Lanikai, the iconic Chinaman's Hat, and the lush green hills that make for unforgettable scenic views.
Q: How do I prepare for a road trip in Hawaii?
A: To prepare for a road trip in Hawaii, make sure to check the conditions of the roads, plan your stops at various scenic points, and bring supplies such as water, snacks, and a camera to capture the unforgettable scenic views.