O'ahu Scenic Drive

Experience the beauty of O'ahu on an unforgettable scenic drive! Starting in Honolulu and ending in Kahuku, this 71 km journey takes you along some of the island's most stunning sights. You'll witness magnificent landscapes, stunning beaches and lush rainforests. The best time of year to make this drive is during the summer, when the weather is perfect for outdoor exploration. The road is in excellent condition, with some parts curvy and narrow, so please be aware of your speed. The journey takes about a day, and is suitable for all drivers, though a high budget is recommended. You'll come away with a high level of experience and memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready to explore O'ahu on a scenic drive!

Honolulu, the capital of the United States in the state of Hawaii, is a great starting point for the O'ahu Scenic Drive. This drive offers some of the most beautiful views, taking you around the entire island. For those travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is Honolulu International Airport (HNL), which offers car rentals for those wanting to take the O'ahu Scenic Drive. The rental car agencies are located on the ground floor of the main terminal. Once you have your rental car, you can start your journey around the island. Honolulu has a lot to offer, from its stunning beaches to its rich culture and history. Some of the most popular sights to visit include the historic Iolani Palace, the Waikiki Aquarium, and the world-famous Pearl Harbor. No visit to Honolulu would be complete without spending some time in the city's Chinatown district, which features a variety of restaurants, shops, and art galleries. This vibrant district is a great place to explore and experience the local culture. The O'ahu Scenic Drive is a great way to experience the beauty of Honolulu and its surroundings. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and historic sites, Honolulu is a great place to start your journey.

Welcome to your stage of the road trip from Honolulu to Kailua! This scenic route is just 19 km and takes less than an hour to drive. As you begin your journey, be sure to take in the city's iconic sights, such as Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, and Iolani Palace. As you make your way to Kailua, take in the beautiful views of the city's lush, green countryside and sparkling blue waters. Along the way, take time to explore historical sites like the Byodo-In Temple, the Kailua Beach Park, and the Lanikai Pillbox Hike. Enjoy the natural beauty of the area with its majestic mountains and picturesque valleys. Make sure to take pictures of the stunning views along the way! When you arrive in Kailua, take some time to explore the Kailua Pier and the Lanikai Beach Park. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Bon voyage!

Let's embark on an exciting road trip from Kailua to Kahuku! This 52 km stretch of road will take you less than 2 hours to drive, and you'll be sure to find some interesting sights along the way. Keep an eye out for the historical sites and for the scenic road, as you wind through some sections and navigate the narrow roads. If you're looking for something to do, the Kailua Beach Park is a great starting point. With clear blue waters and a stunning backdrop, it's the perfect place to take a few photos and start your journey. Further up, you'll find the Laie Hawaii Temple, a beautiful and iconic building with lots of history to explore. As you make your way to Kahuku, you'll find a number of other attractions, including the Turtle Bay Resort and the Polynesian Cultural Center. Both offer unique experiences that can't be found anywhere else in Hawaii. When you reach Kahuku, you can check out the Kahuku Superette, a local favorite for delicious Hawaiian food. Or, if you're looking for a more laid-back experience, take a stroll along the beautiful beaches and enjoy the stunning views. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along this route, consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Hop in the car and get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Kailua to Kahuku!

Kahuku is a small town located on the northern coast of the island of O’ahu in the United States. It is the perfect end point of the “O’ahu Scenic Drive”, a beautiful road trip you can take to explore the island’s stunning natural beauty. Kahuku is a great spot to relax and take in the sights. Its beaches are popular for their crystal clear waters and beautiful sunsets. In addition, the town is home to several interesting attractions, including the famous Kahuku Shrimp Trucks, where you can enjoy some of the best seafood O’ahu has to offer. Be sure to also check out the historic Kahuku Sugar Mill, as well as the nearby La’ie Point State Park, where you can take in the majestic views of the ocean. For those traveling by car, Kahuku is easily accessible via the H-1 Freeway. The closest international airport is Honolulu International Airport (HNL), which is about 45 minutes away by car. At the end of the “O’ahu Scenic Drive”, Kahuku offers visitors a unique and memorable experience. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a chance to explore some of O’ahu’s most iconic attractions, Kahuku is the perfect destination.

Before you set off

The drive from Honolulu to Kahuku on the island of O'ahu is a visual feast spanning approximately 71 kilometers (44 miles). This route is not just a journey from point A to B, but a passage through some of Hawai'i's most iconic scenery—a fusion of urban charm, lush landscapes, and the Pacific's azure expanse.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Starting in Honolulu, the state's capital, explore the historic 'Iolani Palace and the poignant USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor.
• Drive up to the North Shore, a surfer's paradise, especially during winter months when waves can reach epic proportions, drawing surf enthusiasts worldwide.
• Stop by Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, a volcanic crater turned snorkeling haven known for its high clarity waters and diverse marine ecosystem. It's crucial to respect the delicate environment here.
• Visit Lanikai Beach, celebrated for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, offering a picturesque view of the Mokulua Islands.
• Kualoa Ranch presents more than just verdant valleys; it's a cultural touchstone, offering insights into native Hawaiian traditions and history, plus thrilling adventures from horseback riding to ziplining.

Best Time to Go:

The summer season (May to October) is typically the best time to embark on this Road Trip, with sunny skies and calm ocean conditions making it ideal for beach activities and sightseeing. However, the winter months (November to April) provide a different allure, especially for those interested in watching the world-class surfing competitions on the North Shore.

Potential Risks:

While the Roads are in good condition, some stretches can be challenging with narrow, winding paths; caution is essential. Additionally, Hawaii's weather can be quite capricious, with the possibility of sudden rain showers, so be prepared with appropriate gear and a flexible itinerary.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• While the journey can be done in a day, taking your time to explore can turn this drive into a multi-day adventure.
• This Road Trip is accessible to drivers of all skill levels, thanks to the well-maintained Roads.
• Budgeting for this Trip should account for possible excursions, dining, and parking fees, which can add up given the tourist-centric economy of the region.
• The route's exceptional conditions offer a comfortable drive, with signage to guide travelers to key attractions.

A good choice for:

The drive from Honolulu to Kahuku on O'ahu is a rich tapestry of Hawaiian culture, natural splendor, and exhilarating activities. It's a journey that invites you to immerse yourself in the island's beauty and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it's the historical resonance of Honolulu or the untamed shores of the North Shore, each mile unveils a new facet of paradise for the quintessential Hawaiian Road Trip experience.