The Oahu Road Trip

The Perfect Oahu Road Trip Itinerary

Oahu, known as “The Gathering Place,” offers a rich blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. Many first time travelers make the mistake of never leaving Waikiki, and miss so much of what the island has to offer. There’s no better way to explore this Hawaiian wonderland than by embarking on a road trip around the island. Buckle up, pack your snacks, and get ready to discover Oahu’s hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking views on this perfect Oahu road trip itinerary.

How long Does it Take To Drive Across Oahu?

Driving across Oahu from one side of the island to the other can vary depending on your route and traffic conditions. Here are a few examples:

1. Honolulu (South Shore) to Haleiwa (North Shore): This drive typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour via the H-2 & H1 freeways. Approximately 30 to 35 miles.
2. Honolulu to the Windward Coast (Kailua or Lanikai): This route takes around 30 to 40 minutes using the Pali Highway (Route 61) or the H-3 freeway. About 12 to 15 miles.
3. Haleiwa (North Shore) to Waimanalo (Windward Coast): If you’re driving from the North Shore to the Windward Coast, it can take about 1 to 1.5 hours. Around 40 to 45 miles.

In general, you can drive across the entire island in 1 to 2 hours, depending on your starting and ending points and traffic conditions. However, it’s worth noting that traffic in Honolulu and certain parts of the island, especially during rush hour, can significantly increase travel time. Do your best to avoid heading west from Honolulu during rush hour as your 45 minute drive could easily double.

How long Does it Take To Drive Around Oahu?

While many of Oahu’s roads go in and around the Island, driving around the entire island of Oahu on a continuous loop without stops would take about 4 to 6 hours. Note that its not possible to make a complete loop around the island as Kaʻena Point State Park blocks off the Northwest tip. The route becomes a rugged trail that is accessible only by foot or, in some sections, by off-road vehicles with proper permits. The trail offers beautiful views and is popular for hiking, but there is no drivable road that connects the two sides of the island through Ka’ena Point. The total distance to make the Oahu “loop” is approximately 96 to 110 miles, depending on the specific roads you choose, such as whether you take coastal route, stay on main highways, or detour into some of the quieter roads.

How Big is Oahu?

The island of Oahu itself is about 44 miles long and 30 miles wide at its widest point, so most drives across the island range between 30 to 50 miles, depending on the route. The island is approximately 597 square miles (making it the third largest Hawaiian Island by land area), contains around 1,300 miles of paved roads, and 227 miles of coastline.

Famous Roads In Oahu

Kamehameha Highway is one of the most scenic roads in Hawaii. Its one of the original and main highways serving suburban and rural O‘ahu, Informally known as Kam Highway, it begins at Nimitz Highway near Pearl Harbor and Hickam Air Force Base in Honolulu, serves the island’s older western suburbs, and turns north across the O‘ahu Central Valley to the North Shore.

At the North Shore, Kamehameha Highway heads northeast around the northern tip of O‘ahu, then southeast to and just beyond Kāne‘ohe Bay on the windward coast. The road was named after King Kamehameha Driving “Kam Highway” will give you views of the lush green mountains of Hawaii, sweeping ocean views, cityscape, through small towns. Kam Highway is a great option if you are looking for a scenic trip via one of Hawaii’s most famous Road’s.

Driving Around Honolulu

Most travelers to Oahu will want to begin their journey in Honolulu, the bustling heart of Oahu. Fuel up with a local breakfast in Kaimukī. Here you can enjoy island-inspired dishes from some of Hawaii’s most talented up and coming chefs. Once fueled, get in a hike or take a nap on the beach:

• Diamond Head Crater:
  • After breakfast, drive up to Diamond Head Crater. A hike up Diamond head offers panoramic views of Waikiki & the Pacific Ocean. The hike is moderately challenging but well worth the effort. It can get crowed and will require reservations, so plan ahead.
• Waikiki Beach:
  • If you prefer a more relaxed start, take a stroll along the iconic Waikiki Beach. Dip your toes in the crystal-clear water or simply enjoy the bustling energy of this world-famous beach.

Scenic Drives On Oahu: Hawaii Kai

Leave the city behind and head towards the Windward Coast, where lush landscapes and stunning beaches await. When driving from town, you will pass some of Oahu’s most

• Hanauma Bay:
  • Pro Tip: Set an alarm to make a reservation 2 days in advance. If you missed your window, show up at open to try and enter with out a reservation. Hanauma Bay is a nature preserve, and home to vibrant coral reefs and a variety of marine life. As a result, it requires visitors to follow some basic rules such as using only reef safe sunscreen, and watching a informational video. All snorkel gear can be rented on site.
• Makapu’u Lookout:
  • Continue your drive along the coast and pull over at Makapu’u Lookout. A paved, but highly elevated path. The reward is sweeping views of the windward coast, and the islands of Maui and Molokai on a clear day. A great spot for whale watching. Bring plenty of water. This 2 mile round trip hike is around 500 feet of elevation making it moderately difficult
• Koko Crater Botanical Garden:
  • Not to be confused with the Koko Krater Stairs which remains one of Oahu’s most challenging summits. The Koko Crater botanical garden sits inside the 200-acre crater with a lake & beach . The garden is planted with 60 acres of blooming plants, cacti & foliage. This garden focuses on the cultivation of rare and endangered dryland plants while focusing on Xeriscape concepts. These are used to transform this dry landscape into a garden where plants suitable to desert-like conditions can flourish.
    

Famous Roads In Hawaii:

Next, make your way to Oahu’s famous North Shore, a haven for surfers and nature lovers alike.

• Kualoa Ranch: Before reaching the North Shore, consider a detour to Kualoa Ranch. Known as “Jurassic Valley,” this private nature reserve offers a variety of tours, from ATV rides to movie site visits.
• Kahuku Shrimp Trucks: Once on the North Shore, grab lunch from one of the many Kahuku Shrimp Trucks. Giovanni’s is a local favorite, known for its garlicky shrimp scampi.
• Sunset Beach: After lunch, head to Sunset Beach. Here you can relax on the golden sands or watch the surfers tackle massive Quicksilver waves during the winter months.
• Waimea Bay: Stop by Waimea Bay, another iconic surf spot. If you’re visiting in the summer, the waves are calmer, making it perfect for swimming and cliff jumping.

North Shore Day Trip Historic Haleiwa

Continue your journey to the charming town of Haleiwa, the cultural hub of the North Shore.

• Matsumoto Shave Ice: No trip to Haleiwa is complete without a stop at
• Coffee Gallery: A featured business from our post about the North Shores Best Coffee. The Coffee Gallery is the perfect place get your afternoon caffeeine.
• Haleiwa Art Galleries: Explore the local art galleries and boutiques. Haleiwa is known for its vibrant art scene, and you’ll find unique souvenirs and local crafts.

Oahu Scenic Drives Central Oahu

As you head back towards Honolulu, take a scenic drive through Central Oahu.

• Dole Plantation: Visit the Dole Plantation for a taste of Hawaii’s pineapple heritage. Take the Pineapple Express Train Tour or navigate the world’s largest pineapple maze.
• Wahiawa Botanical Garden: If you have time, stop by the Wahiawa Botanical Garden. This hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat with tropical plants and towering trees.

West Side Sunsets to End Your Scenic Drives

Finish your road trip on Oahu’s leeward coast, where you’ll witness some of the island’s most stunning sunsets.

• Ko Olina Lagoons: Stop by the Ko Olina Lagoons. A series of man-made coves perfect for a relaxing swim or a sunset stroll.
• Kaena Point: For the adventurous, drive out to Kaena Point, the westernmost tip of Oahu. The rugged coastline and untouched natural beauty make it a perfect spot for watching the sunset.

Dinner in Town to End Your Honolulu Scenic Drives

Return to Honolulu for a well-deserved dinner. For a memorable dining experience, try Alan Wong’s for upscale Hawaiian cuisine. For smoething more traditional, try Helena’s Hawaiian Food.

The Oahu road trip is likely to be a highlight of any vacation on the island. The perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re hiking volcanic craters, surfing the North Shore’s waves, or savoring local flavors. An Oahu road trip truly has something for everyone. So grab your keys, hit the road, and experience the magic of the island at your own pace.