best driving tour of oahu

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The Epicurean Traveler

Inspiring Cultural Exploration Through Culinary Travel

Oahu Road Trip Guide: 7 Places You Shouldn’t Miss

Venture beyond Honolulu to experience more of the most-visited island in Hawaii by taking an Oahu road trip!

Our one-day Oahu road trip itinerary begins and ends at the iconic Waikiki Beach. From your Honolulu hotel , set off on a scenic drive around Oahu to the famous North Shore.

Along the way, snorkel, hike, eat, or take in stunning ocean views at any or all of these must-visit places on Oahu!

Disclosure: This Oahu road trip guide contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you click on and make a purchase from one of these partner links. 

Hawaiian tourism has increased since pre-pandemic times, with more than 700,000 people visiting Hawaii in November 2022 and visitors spending 9% more at $17.4 billion. Specifically, Oahu has seen the largest increase in average visitor spending, up to 10.5% more from nearly 94,000 daily visitors.

Given the plethora of activities present on the island, it’s no surprise that tourists are spending more on their Oahu vacations.

Compared to other Hawaiian islands, Oahu is an excellent place for first-time Hawaii vacationers as it has plenty of established roads that are easy to navigate. You can easily get to the best stops on the island by following the Oahu circle drive .

On average, a day trip from Waikiki in Honolulu to the North Shore and back can take around 8 hours without significant rushing. There are many stops along the way, such as Diamond Head and the Dole Plantation . Just start early to get the full day in to enjoy the vast landscape of Oahu to its fullest!

One-Day Oahu Road Trip Itinerary Stops

Before you leave for your trip, prepare a list of places you plan to visit to avoid wasting precious daylight. Below are seven places you shouldn’t miss on your Oahu road trip.

Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is a scenic marine life sanctuary located only a 30-mile (48 km) drive away from Honolulu.

It’s a prime spot for seeing hundreds of different species of fish and coral reefs, but you may also catch a glimpse of green sea turtles that swim close to the bay.

Do note that to enter Hanauma Bay, tourists must make a reservation online on the official state park website, and even then, parking is on a first-come, first-serve basis. To make it on time for your reservation, booking it first thing in the morning is best.

If you want to spend more time snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, you might save this stop for another day of your Oahu vacation. On a Hanauma Bay snorkeling tour , you’ll be picked up from your hotel to snorkel at sunrise. Snorkeling gear will be provided, but you should bring your own snacks, reef-safe sunscreen , and a fast-drying beach towel .

Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail

If you’re looking for adventure and a workout, we recommend visiting the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail along Route 72.

The hike is moderately easy, taking around 30 minutes to an hour before rewarding you with a gorgeous view of Oahu’s Windward Coast, where you can see the Koko Head and Koko Crater.

During the whale watching season between December and May, you may want to prepare your own pair of binoculars to catch any passing animals at the Molokaʻi Channel.

Kailua Beach Park

Ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in Oahu, Kailua Beach Park should be one of your longest stops for a one-day road trip.

This beach is the best place for big groups and families, especially with its sprawling land area stretching approximately 2 miles (3.2km).

Unlike other beaches, there are several amenities, such as rentals for kitesurfing and windsurfing, bathroom facilities, beach showers, and picnic tables.

Downtown Kailua is also just five minutes from the main beach area, allowing you to pick up any snacks or necessities before heading out.

Don’t forget to pack your beach essentials , including reef-safe sunscreen , water shoes , towels , and sunglasses !

Kahuku Roadside Food Court

For food lovers, you shouldn’t miss a lunch stop at the Kahuku Roadside Food Court.

Located on the North Shore of Oahu, the food court features a large open-air pavilion with various food vendors offering their own take on traditional Hawaiian dishes and more.

Here are some of the food vendors you should try on your visit to Kahuku:

• Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck
• Famous Kahuku Shrimp Truck
• Fasay Thai Wagon
• Seven Brothers at the Mill
• Mike’s Huli Chicken
• Marie’s Baja Fish Tacos

Banzai Pipeline

For professional surfers and surfing enthusiasts, the Banzai Pipeline at Ehukai Beach offers perfect waves for training and watching surfing competitions.

The name comes from the barreling waves that curl like a pipe.

In December, these waves reach their peak, allowing winter surfers to test their might during the annual Pipeline Masters competition . Recent management changes are shifting the event towards inclusivity, allowing women to participate.

Considering how dangerous the waves can be, amateur surfers should consider coming during the summertime when the waves aren’t as strong.

Shark’s Cove

Another part of the famous North Shore is Shark’s Cove, famous for its blue waters, large reef, and impressive sea life.

Compared to Hanauma Bay, this area tends to attract a smaller crowd and is a free Oahu attraction, making it a great snorkeling alternative.

If you visit Oahu with kids, you can take them to eastern tide pools to wade in.

You should prepare to protect yourself from the sharp lava rocks by wearing water shoes and being careful when entering and exiting the water.

Dole Plantation

Starting as a fruit stand in the 1950s, the Dole Plantation has since become one of Oahu’s most visited family-friendly spots. In fact, residents are outnumbered by visitors at Dole Plantation , alongside other popular spots like Pearl Harbor National Memorial .

You can do three main activities: a self-guided garden tour, a train ride through the pineapple fields and farmland, and the pineapple maze, which spans over three acres.

Like most places in Hawaii, most of the Dole Plantation is outside and under the hot sun, so keep yourself hydrated and seek shade when it gets too hot. You can also get the famous Dole Whip pineapple soft-serve ice cream to cool off!

Map Out Your Oahu Road Trip Itinerary

Before starting your one-day Oahu road trip from Honolulu to the North Shore, you should map your driving route and plan your itinerary. To do this, you can use the Google map below that pinpoints the seven destinations we’ve discussed.

Additionally, we recommend following a GPS-guided audio driving tour. To do this, download GuideAlong’s Oahu Tours to your mobile phone. Then, select the 90-mile North Shore Loop or the 105-mile Island Circle as you set off from Honolulu.

With GuideAlong as your tour guide, you’ll be given driving directions to follow as the narrator points out scenic viewpoints, shares advice for your road trip, and tells stories about the island.

With these suggestions, we hope your Oahu road trip goes more smoothly. There are plenty of other points of interest on the island, such as the Diamond Head crater and Pearl Harbor National Memorial , but we recommend visiting these places on other days since they’re closer to the main city.  — Written by Harrison Stewart

Looking for more things to do during your Oahu vacation? Check out Viator and GetYourGuide !

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Planning a trip to Oahu? Save the pin below to your Hawaii or Oahu travel board to easily refer back to later!

Photo Credit: 

Lead photo of Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii: © Okimo /Adobe Stock.

About Erin Klema

Erin Klema is the founder and editor of The Epicurean Traveler, combining her journalism background with her passion for culinary travel. When she isn't exploring the world through unique, local culinary experiences, she enjoys cooking with her husband, planning her next trip, and reading or watching a good rom com.

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Road Trip: Drive Around Oahu in a Day

By Hawaii.com Team

A beautiful rainbow over the Oahu skyline. (Photo: Getty Images)

There are many ways to see the island of Oʻahu—take a guided tour, hitch a ride on a helicopter, or explore the coast by boat.  These are all exciting options, but we prefer sightseeing by car. The reason?  Well, you choose the route, you can linger as long as you want, and you can eat and shop along the way.

The island of Oʻahu is just the right size for taking a drive. It’s large enough that you will not run out of things to do and sights to see yet small enough that you can complete the drive in one day.

Chances are that although it’s possible to see all of the island’s postcard-worthy sights in one day, you won’t want to. You’ll meet a  honu  (turtle) and want to stay to play. You’ll discover a waterfall and decide to go for a swim. You’ll hike a mountain and find the view is a perfect background for a photoshoot of you and your someone special, and you’ll linger much longer than you intended. Nevertheless, here are our recommended stops for driving around Oʻahu in day.

Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head on Oahu. (Photo: Getty Images)

Most visitors to Hawaiʻi stay in Waikīkī. This is most likely where you’ll be starting your day. Watch surfers paddling out for their morning session or catch a wave yourself at Waikīkī beach. You can also make the short, but the steep 0.8-mile hike up Diamond Head. The trail will lead you to old military bunkers, a lighthouse, and summit views of the ocean and Oʻahu’s Southern coast. Getting outdoors and into nature is a great way to start the day!

2. Hawaiʻi Kai and Waimānalo

View of Waimanalo Beach and a lifeguard tower through ironwood trees on the windward side of Oahu. (Photo: Getty Images)

The East side of the island is an outdoor lover’s playground with Sea Life Park and Hanauma Bay being two great options for those wanting to see, swim, and play with Hawaiian marine life. If this is a priority for you, plan on spending lots of time in East Oʻahu. There will be so much to see.

Another great way to start your road trip is with a short two-mile hike up to Makapu‘u Point lighthouse. You can save Waikīkī and Diamond Head for another day and head out early for a sunrise hike. From the vantage point at Makapuʻu, you’ll gain gorgeous views of the sun coming up over the blue horizon, the coastline, Rabbit Island, Molokaʻi, and even whales if you’re there between December and May.

The drive up the coast from Makapuʻu will take you through the town of Waimānalo. Roadside cafes and eateries make this a convenient and delicious place to stop for a bite to eat. Waimānalo is a hidden treasure. Many people don’t get the opportunity to experience this local haunt, but you can.

Tempting and alluring scenic ocean view at Lanikai Beach looking out towards Na Mokulua aka the Mokulua Islands in Kailua on Oahu. (Photo: Getty Images)

Not too far up the coast from Waimānalo is the trendy beach town of Kailua. If you want to see what everybody’s been talking about, venture through Kailua to check out Lanikai beach, hike up Lanikai pillboxes for a whimsical view of the offshore Mokulua Islands or sunbathe at Kailua beach. Both Lanikai and Kailua beaches have been winners of the prestigious #1 Beach in America title.

With many restaurants to choose from and lots of healthy options, Kailua is a great place to get a good meal.  We recommend eating here before continuing your road trip, as dining options are limited along the stretch of road from Kailua to the North Shore.

4. Pali Lookout

(Photo: Kevin Allen)

Located just  mauka  (mountainside) of Kailua, there are two main reasons why you should check out Pali Lookout. One, you’ll see amazing views of the Koʻolau Mountain Range. Two, this  pali  (cliff) is the site of a major battle that took place in 1795. You’ll be able to stand where King Kamehameha I and his army defeated the Oʻahu forces before going on to unite all of the islands into one kingdom. The strong winds and crisp air here are refreshing.

5. Kāneʻohe

View of the entrance and Ko’olau Mountains as one drives through the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Park. Strolling or driving through these lush 400 acres in windward Oʻahu, you will truly agree that Hoʻomaluhia is rightfully named “a peaceful refuge.” Opened in 1982, this garden in Kāneʻohe features plantings from major tropical regions around the world. (Photo: Getty Images)

Kāneʻohe, the next stop on our drive around Oʻahu, is known for its rich, lush green landscapes. These two gorgeous stops prove it. You may have caught glimpses of the Byodo-In Temple in various shows like Hawaii Five-O and Magnum P.I. But even if you have, you’ll still be in awe when you gaze upon the Japanese temple replica and its verdant surroundings. Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Gardens is another tropical treasure with acres of Native Hawaiian plants and jaw-dropping Koʻolau mountain views.

6. North Shore

(Photo: Getty Images)

Leaving Kāneʻohe destined for Oʻahu’s epic North Shore, you’re in for a scenic one-hour drive. You’ll see lush forests, beautiful bay views, and Oʻahu’s “country” side. You will pass the small offshore island called Chinaman’s Hat as well as Kualoa Ranch where many movies have been filmed. (We highly recommend you come back to spend a day here.) You will also pass the Polynesian Cultural Center. (This is a great place to experience a lūʻau . Maybe after your day at Kualoa?)

When you see the shrimp trucks serving up yummy plates of garlic shrimp, you’ve reached the North Shore country town of Kahuku. Travel a bit more and you’ll hit Haleʻiwa and the famous 7-mile miracle which is home to several white-sand beaches of miraculous beauty, starting with Sunset Beach and ending with Haleʻiwa Beach Park. Laniakea Beach where the honu are known to rest is located here. You can swim near the honu or watch them rest on the sandy shores but please don’t touch. Honu are endangered species. During the summer, the 7-mile miracle beaches are picture-perfect for sunbathing or sunset walks. During the winter, big swells roll in, and the dangerous surf becomes a playground for the world’s best watermen. Also along this 7-mile stretch is Waimea Valley where you can walk through a botanical garden, swim at a waterfall and participate in cultural activities.

Cool off with Matsumoto Shave Ice’s rainbow of tropical shave ice flavors. Matsumoto’s is “the shave ice place” on the North Shore. They do their toppings right and now they even have an edible cracker bowl imported from Japan. Mmm!

7. Ko ʻOlina

View of Ko Olina beach and the Kohola lagoon from the hotel room. (Photo: Getty Images)

The North Shore of Oʻahu is a beautiful place to end the day, and the sunsets are just stunning. If you’ve made it this far, rest assured you’ve seen the best of Oʻahu. However, if you’ve made good time during your drive around Oʻahu, our last suggestion will be the icing on the cake. Ko ʻOlina on Oʻahu’s Westside is wild and gorgeous. An area boasting breathtaking beaches, golf, and water activities, some of Hawaiʻi’s best resorts are located here, like Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, and Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko ʻOlina. You can swim in one of the area’s four manmade lagoons, catch a traditional Hawaiian lūʻau at Paradise Cove or simply enjoy the sunset over the endless blue sea.

Your drive time back into Waikīkī from Ko ʻOlina will be about 45 minutes.  From Haleʻiwa, the drive time back into Waikīkī is just under an hour.

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Prettiest Oahu Scenic Drives to Add to Your Hawaii Bucket List

Are you planning a trip to oahu and want to explore the island keep scrolling for this list of the prettiest oahu scenic drives worth adding to your oahu itinerary., this list of oahu scenic drives was written by marcie cheung (a hawaii travel expert) and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

There are so many things to do on the island of Oahu that it can be hard to pack it all into one trip. A popular way to enjoy the breathtaking views is to go on any number of Oahu scenic drives.

Below you’ll find some of the most popular drives that allow you to see the most beautiful places in Oahu from the comfort of your car. Some of the drives are longer, and some you can enjoy on your way to your destination.

I’ll give you the one-way distance of each drive in miles and how long it takes to drive without stopping. So, keep reading to plan your ride to see the best views in Oahu!

Want the best Hawaii advice? I’ve visited over 40 times and have tons to share!

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu itinerary complete with daily schedules, fun activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

6 Best Scenic Drives in Oahu Hawaii

Best scenic drive around oahu: kamehameha highway loop.

For the best drive around Oahu, take a day and ride the Kamehameha Highway Loop. While you can’t drive the entire way around the island, this is a good start! In fact, many people consider this loop to be one of the most beautiful scenic routes in the world.

There are different ways people take this loop, but the traditional way to travel Oahu’s main highway is to start from Honolulu along H-1. Then turn onto H-2 before transferring to the long-stretching Kamehameha Highway north.

It’ll curve up and around the North Shore and back south along the Leeward Coast until you reach Kaneohe .

Along the way, you can plan for all kinds of family fun! Stop at  Green World Coffee Farm’s  roadside café for a cup of Hawaiian coffee. Heading north, you could check out the  Dole Pineapple Plantation or stop at  Matsumoto Shave Ice  in Haleiwa .

And on the North Shore, you must visit  Ted’s Bakery . Pick up some of their famous chocolate haupia cream pie and head to Sunset Beach Park to watch surfers ride the waves!

There’s also the northernmost Turtle Beach, where you might catch some sea turtles sunning on the sand. As you enter the Leeward Coast, consider spending a chunk of your day at the  Polynesian Cultural Center  or arriving in time for an evening luau .

And another fun stop is  Kualoa Ranch , where the likes of Jurassic Park and Lost were filmed! Take a tour or go on an adventure before heading towards Kaneohe and then home.

The Kamehameha Highway Loop is the longest on the list of Oahu scenic drives at around 3-hours if you drive it without stopping (which you shouldn’t!). It’s probably close to 70 miles. But this isn’t exact because it depends on where you start and stop before you head back to your lodgings.

Best Honolulu Scenic Drive: Diamond Head Road

Because most people stay in Honolulu and Waikiki , one of the most popular Oahu scenic drives is along Diamond Head Road. As the road curves along the foot of Diamond Head , it’s the best drive in Honolulu for cliffside ocean views.

You’ll start your drive on Kalakaua Avenue on the east side of Waikiki. It runs through the city’s popular Kapiolani Park . Here you’ll find attractions like Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium . There’s also plenty of public parking in the park, so it’s a popular starting point for drives.

At a 3-way fork, you’ll continue into Diamond Head Road and round the foot of Diamond Head. If you want to stop, you’ll need to get reservations here .

This scenic road climbs uphill, cutting into the cliffside for stunning views of the ocean. There are several scenic overpasses along the way, and people stop on the side of the road to enjoy them.

Continue downhill, and Diamond Head Road turns into Kahala Road. It’ll carry you into the upscale neighborhood of Kahala , where you’ll see beautiful million-dollar homes. Finally, you’ll finish your drive at the beautiful Waialae Beach Park .

The entire ride is about 4-miles long in 1 direction. You can complete it in about 10-minutes if you drive it straight through. But most people stop at the outlooks or the beaches along the way .

Best North Shore Drive: Farrington Highway North Shore

If you’re looking for a scenic drive to North Shore Oahu, try the northern part of Farrington Highway. You’ll start in the city of Waialua and drive west on the highway until it dead ends at the Kaena Point Trailhead .

As you make your way out of town, you can enjoy the distant verdant Waianae Mountains on the southern side of the road. You’ll pass Dillingham Airfield , where you can watch all kinds of planes and gliders land.

All along the northern shore are scenic beaches that are perfect for snorkeling and swimming. And you’ll probably see sea turtles here, too!

One of the most popular beaches along the way is the Lost Survivors Beach Camp . To find it, look for the parking lot on the airport side of the road, just after you leave the town behind.

This is a spacious, isolated beach where the show Lost was filmed! Fans of the show Lost will love coming to this iconic filming location. Just beware that it’s a short hike to the beach from the road.

Mokuleia Beach Park is another nice beach with a sandy beach and a ton of grassy lawns and picnic tables where you can spread out. Pass even more beaches, and you come to the end of this side of Farrington Highway!

At the end, there’s the Kaena Point Parking Lot and Trailhead. And here you’ll turn around.

This Oahu North Shore scenic drive is just over 8 miles long and takes about 15 minutes if you drive it straight to the Kaena Point Parking lot.

Best Leeward Coast Drive: Farrington Highway West Shore

For longer scenic drives on Oahu, consider the West Shore portion of Farrington Highway. If you’re looking for a long, leisurely drive and want to get out of the resort area, this is a great option.

You’ll start in or near Ko Olina and head northwest along Farrington Highway. You’ll pass the Mermaid Caves and several spacious sandy beach parks along the way. You can stop and enjoy a swim or just keep driving!

Cruise through towns and less developed areas, but for the best views, hold on until you leave the town of Makaha .

From here, enjoy over 7 miles of countryside until Kaena Point with the Waianae Mountains on your right and the ocean on your left. Stop at Makua Beach to watch surfers and enjoy iconic views (especially at sunset!).

After that, you’ll enter the forest reserve, where you can find trailheads off the highway. You’ll end up at Jeep Trailhead at Kaena Point State Park .

This is one of the longer rides on my list of Oahu scenic drives, at just over 18 miles long. It takes about 45-minutes to drive one way if you don’t stop.

Best Central Oahu Drive: H-2 from Pearl City to Haleiwa

If you start around Pearl City , you can enjoy another one of the best Oahu scenic drives. With this drive, I suggest planning on driving straight through to your destination, which is the surfer town of Haleiwa !

I think this is one of the best drives in Oahu because you get to see so many different terrains! From Pearl City, get on H-2 North. Enjoy a drive through the city until it fades away into the rainforest around Waipio. From the highway you’ll see the rainforest from above, making for a fascinating view.

 After Wahiawa, turn onto HI-99 North until it turns into Kamehameha Highway, and take it all the way into Haleiwa. At this intersection, the road opens up, and the land flattens out as the highway cuts through farmland.

Stop at the shops at Green World Coffee Farm for a cup of coffee. You’ll see coffee farms, cacao farms, and all kinds of fruit farms giving way to the Waianae Mountain far to the south.

As you get close to Haleiwa, the road gets a little more winding. You’ll climb hills before you cross the bridge into the cute coastal town. Take some time to explore! There are plenty of places to eat, get some shave ice, and do some souvenir shopping. Then head to the beach parks along the water.

The entire trip is about 20 miles in 1 direction and takes about 45-minutes, depending on the time of day. Try to avoid driving the highways between 3 and 6 PM, but also 6 to 8 AM during the morning commute.

Prettiest Oahu Scenic Drive: Pali Highway to the Pali Lookout

The final route on my list of Oahu scenic drives is the Pali Highway . This major road connects Honolulu to the Winward Coast. It winds through the verdant Koolau Mountain Range . This is one of the prettiest places in Oahu with rippling cliffs and sprawling tropical meadows at their feet.

Enjoy the ride to Pali Lookout as you wind through tunnels and along lush emerald mountainsides. From the lookout, you can take in breathtaking views of the Windward Coast and read educational markers. Learn about the historical significance of this 300-year-old site before getting back in the car.

On your way back to Honolulu, I suggest turning onto Nuuanu Pali Drive , a road that runs along the highway. You’ll get to experience a short 5-minute drive through a lush rainforest that’s so dense that it blocks out the sun, even during the day! Eventually, Nuuanu Pali Drive joins back up with Pali Highway.

Overall, the drive out to Pali Point is about 10-minutes or about 6 miles in 1 direction. It’s a nice trip out of the city and one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Oahu!

FAQ About Scenic Drives in Oahu

You can definitely get around Oahu without a car ! There are all kinds of great options for short-distance travel if you plan on staying close to your lodgings. But if you want to get out, explore, and do some Oahu scenic drives, you’ll need to rent a car.

You can’t drive around the entire island of Oahu, because there are impassible places on the Leeward Coast. But you can drive around most of the island in 2-3 hours if you don’t stop. But I suggest taking a whole day and enjoying stops along the way!

Driving around Oahu Island is pretty easy because the roads and highways are paved and in good condition with good sign coverage. It’s actually the only Hawaiian Island with freeways! The most you’ll have to deal with places without shoulders.

The main roads are H-1, H-2, H-3, and H-201. When you’re planning your Oahu scenic drives, you might see these roads on a map as Lunalilo Freeway and Queen Liliuokalani Freeway, Veterans Memorial Freeway, John A. Burns Freeway, and Moanalua Freeway. But locals just call them H-1 and so forth.

Which of the Best Oahu Scenic Drives Will You Take?

While I consider the Kamehameha Highway Loop to be the best scenic drive around Oahu, you have so many options! On my list, you saw drives of different lengths, some with destinations and some with countless opportunities to stop along the way.

You might plan on heading out to Kaena Point State Park for a hike or to Haleiwa to check out the shops. So why not enjoy a scenic drive along the way? Or take a day to rest from sightseeing and go for a leisurely drive through a rainforest. It’s up to you!

Looking for more Oahu travel resources? Find out the best things to do in Haleiwa , the best North Shore Oahu beaches , things to do on Oahu with kids , and top Waikiki sunset spots .

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Oahu Scenic Drive: Ultimate One-Day Itinerary in Hawaii

By: Author Dave Lee

Posted on Last updated: March 20, 2024

Are you planning a trip to the Aloha state? If your vacation to Hawaii includes Honolulu, give yourself a full day for a scenic drive through Oahu. I did this upon returning to Oahu for the first time in 30 years, having previously visited as a 13-year-old with family.

I traveled with my girlfriend this time, and we made the most of our week on the island. What follows is our one-day itinerary for a self-guided scenic drive around Oahu. It was one of the best drives of my life.

At the end of the article, I'll share a few alternative ideas to swap in if you prefer. A word of warning, though, before we continue.

Table of Contents

Rental Car Logistics

Kona coffee purveyors / b patissiere, hanauma bay, halona beach cove and blowhole, makapu'u point lighthouse trail, nu'uanu pali lookout, tropical farms macadamia nuts, kualoa ranch, hukilau cafe, giovanni's shrimp truck, dole plantation, waimea valley and waterfall, matsumoto shave ice, sunset at haleiwa beach park, alternative places to go.

While we had no trouble reserving a rental car a few days in advance, the pick-up times in Waikiki Beach were limited to 8 a.m. or later. This was the case for all the companies. I would've preferred to hit the road an hour earlier.

However, it wouldn't have been worth our time to take an Uber to the airport to get a car there, only to backtrack through downtown Honolulu to reach the east side of Oahu.

Instead, we did our best to work with this limitation. Ultimately, we saw everything we wanted on our Oahu road trip and were quite tired when we returned to our Waikiki Beach hotel. So, even if we had gotten the car earlier than 8 a.m., I don't think it would've made a big difference.

Picking up the Rental Car

Our Ford Fusion rental car was both economical and comfortable. The cost for a 24-hour rental, including insurance, fees, and taxes, was about $150.

The 24-hour rental is important because Budget doesn't accept returned cars after 3 p.m., which is odd because they don't let you pick them up before 8 a.m. Seven hours won't buy you much in the way of stops on a drive around Oahu.

To get the most out of your day and car rental, return it to the garage whenever you get back to Waikiki and then return to the Budget kiosk to drop off the keys the next day before 8 a.m. The cost would've been less had we booked the rental a few weeks earlier.

Direction of Travel

Everything I read about taking an Oahu scenic drive suggested traveling east of Honolulu and going counter-clockwise around the island. I suspect this is because it allows you to see the sunrise on the East Coast and sunset on the West Coast if you're up early.

If this is your first time driving around Oahu, drive safely . There's no rush; you're on island time, and getting in an accident would be a surefire way to ruin the trip.

Budget Tip: Save money in Oahu with Go City. Buy a 1, 2, 3, or 5-day all-inclusive pass to enjoy tours, surf lessons, and access to parks like Waimea Valley at a discounted rate. Get your Go City pass here .

Top Oahu Attractions

Since the rental car wasn't available until 8 a.m., we got breakfast at Kona Coffee Purveyors, which opens at 7 a.m. daily. This shop offers Hawaiian coffee and fresh pastries by b Patissiere, one of the best bakeries in San Francisco .

We were in Waikiki Beach for a week and saw a line outside the cafe every morning. I'm pretty sure it was for the pastries because they were incredible! My favorite was the chocolate banana almond croissant.

Kona Coffee is conveniently located in the International Market Place, the indoor/outdoor shopping mall where we picked up the rental car.

Once we'd eaten and got our car for the day, I drove east of Honolulu on Route 72 to Hanauma Bay , our first stop. This stunning nature preserve with a sandy beach offers some of Oahu's best snorkeling. I remember swimming here as a teen.

The clarity of the water and the quantity of colorful fish and coral set a high bar by which I judged all future snorkeling experiences . Unfortunately, the bay and beach were closed to visitors *unless* you had booked a snorkeling tour .

While we hadn't planned to snorkel that day, we had at least wanted to get some photos from an observation deck above the beach. Thankfully, we didn't have to wait long for a beautiful beach view.

Our Oahu scenic drive continued a few minutes east on Route 72, which led us to the lookout points for Halona Beach Cove and Blowhole on the side of Koko Crater.

The beach is not easily accessible. If you're willing to climb down steep volcanic terrain, you may have it to yourself. We were satisfied with the view from above.

When a strong enough wave hits the rocks, the Halona Blowhole spouts water up like a geyser . It was anti-climatic but still worth a quick stop on your day trip around Oahu.

Related: Planning for Hawaii on a Budget

Driving another few minutes east on Route 72 will bring you to the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail parking lot. This trail is a relatively easy uphill walk on a paved path. We took about 30 minutes to reach the top, including a few stops for photos. We saw one pair of parents carrying their baby in a harness and another pushing a stroller.

Once you reach the top, you will see gorgeous views of Oahu's Windward Coast. On a clear day, look east, and you might see Moloka'i, another Hawaiian island. This is one of the best spots on the island to spot humpback whales . Whale-watching season in Hawaii runs from December to April.

They may have come early, but the views of turquoise waters from  Makapu'u Point  were some of my favorites that day. The walk down was faster, about 15 minutes, and we were at this stop for about 75 minutes.

Our next photo-op on the Oahu scenic drive was the stunning Nu'uanu Pali lookout, a 30-minute drive from the lighthouse trail. (Take Route 71 North to 61 South, the Pali Highway.) The scenic road takes you 1,200 feet up into the Ko'olau Range, giving you a different perspective on the lush vegetation of Oahu's windward side.

To the northeast, you can see the azure waters off Kailua Beach. Equally pretty, Lanikai Beach, south of Kailua, is hidden by green hills. Give yourself 10-15 minutes in this remarkable place. The Nu'uanu Pali scenic view is included on many of Get Your Guide's most popular half-day and full-day Oahu tours .

My girlfriend, Kel, was keen to stop at a macadamia nut farm, and I'm glad we did. Tropical Farms is a great place about 30 minutes up the coast from the Nu'uanu Pali lookout. Take Route 61 North to 83 North (part of the Kamehameha Highway).

While they weren't offering tours when we visited, they had free samples of their nuts and macadamia nut coffee. My favorite was the onion and garlic.

Go a few minutes north on Route 83, and you'll see the dramatic entrance to Kualoa Ranch . This Hawaiian ranch is world-famous for being the site where scenes from Hollywood films such as Jurassic Park, Jumanji, and 50 First Dates were shot.

Tours are costly and sell out well in advance. For example, the 2.5-hour Jurassic Adventure tour, which takes guests to the Hakipu'u and Ka'a'awa Valleys, is $140. Other activities include horseback riding , electric mountain bikes , and ATVs. Even though we stopped to look, I already knew no tours were available that day.

If you want to incorporate a tour at Kualoa Ranch during your scenic drive around Oahu, you may need to book weeks ahead. Given the time required, I suggest going on a standalone day trip. The Ranch offers roundtrip transportation from Waikiki hotels for $30 per person, so you don't need a rental car to get there.

Speaking of 50 First Dates, a romantic comedy starring Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler, many scenes are shot in a fictional Hukilau Cafe.

There's a cafe by the same name in Laie, a 25-minute drive north of Kualoa Ranch (on Route 83 North). However, this isn't the location where the scenes were filmed.

Despite that fact, or regardless of it, former Go Backpacking contributor and food blogger superstar Mark Wiens (and I) still went in the hopes of enjoying a typical Hawaiian meal.

You can read about Mark's experience at Hukilau Cafe here . On my drive around Oahu, the restaurant was closed for lunch that day, so I missed out on trying their food.

That was fine since I also had eyes on Giovanni's Shrimp Truck a few minutes north on Route 83. Giovanni's was one of the first shrimp food trucks on Oahu's North Shore to make a name for itself. There's a lunch line every day, year after year, and that was certainly the case when we stopped by around noon.

It took about 15-20 minutes to get our food. I ordered shrimp with butter and lemon while Kel got their signature shrimp scampi (i.e., garlic shrimp).

A third option is the hot and spicy shrimp plate. All three are the same size, come with white rice, and cost $15. By this point in the trip, I felt hungry, so I quickly worked on the dozen medium-sized shrimp.

Related: Best Places to Eat in Oahu

One of the places I remember best from visiting Oahu as a teen was the Dole Plantation . Tasting the fresh-picked pineapple was unforgettable. I can also remember seeing the inside of a canning facility and the shape of machines used to remove pineapple cores.

Thirty years later, the Dole Plantation became a much bigger tourist attraction, and a stop is included on many Oahu island tours . You can ride a train around the plantation to learn about pineapples and navigate a giant maze on foot. However, we were more interested in dessert—the Dole pineapple whip dessert, to be specific.

A Dole whip is pineapple-flavored soft-serve ice cream, and we paid one dollar extra for fresh pineapple chunks to be added. Behind the gift shop, where you can buy the dessert and all forms of pineapple paraphernalia, there's a patio and small garden that are free to enjoy.

Our daylight hours were running out by mid-afternoon, and we desperately wanted to swim under Waimea Falls . The Falls are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, and it was about 3 p.m. when we left the Dole Plantation.

We backtracked along Route 99 and Route 83 North to Waimea Bay, where we turned right on Waimea Valley Road, which provides access to Waimea Valley . From there, it was an easy 30-minute walk on paved paths through the botanical garden to reach Oahu's best-known waterfall.

There are some rustic changing rooms and bathrooms and a small hut where a gentleman handed out life jackets required to swim there. He said we'd arrived at this beautiful place at the best time of day when most visitors had already left.

Kel and I enjoyed a 15-minute swim in the freshwater pool before drying off, changing, and returning to the car for another North Shore food experience.

Heading south on Route 83 for a few minutes brought us to Haleiwa town, still on Oahu's North Shore. Here, you'll find many cute shops, restaurants, and the historic Matsumoto Shave Ice.

Matsumoto has been serving their refreshing dessert since 1951. On a typical day, they'll make 1,000 for customers. President Obama has been seen getting shaved ice here, so you know it's good!

They have special machines to shave the ice and dozens of housemade flavored syrups to choose from. There are many places to buy shave ice on Oahu, but Matsumoto's is one of the best.

Related: 5 Hawaiian Fusion Foods

I'd initially planned to watch the sun go down at Sunset Beach Park on the North Shore. This beach is just a minute or two up the road from the Banzai Pipeline beach, a mecca for surfers worldwide. However, upon arrival, we found parking at both beaches extremely limited, and many cars already occupied the spots.

Instead, we left the shave ice shop for nearby Haleiwa Beach Park , which has plenty of parking. A rainbow appeared inland, to the west, while we watched the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Stand-up paddleboarders could be seen gently floating on the water in the distance.

Once the sun went down over the horizon, we hopped in the car and drove back to Waikiki Beach, marking the end of the drive. Despite an unexpected torrential downpour, it took about one hour. The day made for one of the best scenic drives I've experienced in the United States.

Related: Beauty of Oahu Island

Hopefully, our Oahu scenic drive gave you some ideas to make your one-day tour of the island a reality. Follow it, and you'll see some of the most beautiful places on the island.

There are lots more interesting stops on Oahu than one day will allow; however, I thought I'd share a few alternatives to what we did.

If you prefer to try malasadas (Portuguese donuts) for breakfast, head to Leonard's Bakery instead of Kona Coffee Purveyors. Leonard's is open from 5:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

If you come to Honolulu from the east, such as the mainland United States, Canada, or Europe, jetlag may cause you to wake up very early.

Consider taking advantage of this by doing a sunrise hike at the Diamond Head crater . We did this on a different day than our drive around Oahu and used Uber.

It was a 30-minute hike to the top of the crater; our reward was breathtaking views. Allow 15-20 minutes to get back down. Check the official website for travel advisories and hours.

The Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie is a popular destination on the eastern side of Oahu. Here, you can learn about the local cultural traditions through live shows, tours, and food.

I recommend leaving Pearl Harbor for another day, as you must reserve a time slot for the USS Arizona. Visiting the USS Missouri battleship alone can take an additional hour or two.

Dave is the Founder and Editor in Chief of Go Backpacking and Feastio . He's been to 66 countries and lived in Colombia and Peru. Read the full story of how he became a travel blogger.

Planning a trip? Go Backpacking recommends:

• G Adventures for small group tours.
• Hostelworld for booking hostels.

O'ahu's Top Scenic Drives

Feb 27, 2013 • 4 min read

The island of Oʻahu offers much more for adventurous travellers than just the historic streets of Honolulu and Waikiki's beach resorts. Hitting the island’s roads allows you full licence to check out some of Hawai‘i's most spectacular scenic drives. Along the way, you’ll see everything from plunging cliffs and cloud forests to world-famous surfing beaches and small towns overflowing with genuine aloha.

Over misty mountains on the Pali Highway

Oʻahu's shortest scenic drive, the Pali Hwy (Hwy 61) never fails to deliver cinematic panoramas. From Honolulu, the road twists up into the verdant peaks of the Koʻolau Range, making a painterly backdrop for downtown's skyscrapers.

Pull over at Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside for a quick stroll out to a celebrated viewpoint, spying on the emerald valleys and aquamarine bays of the Windward Coast. Just 10 miles after leaving the city, the highway rolls downhill into the laid-back beach town of Kailua , where you can go windsurfing or rent a kayak and paddle to deserted offshore islands. Don't worry: you'll still have time to drive back over the pali (cliffs) to Waikiki for sunset mai tais and a Hawaiian music and hula show.

Windward Coast's wild beaches & ancient valleys

Hawai‘i's version of a two-lane country road, the Kamehameha Hwy (Hwy 83) traces the serpentine curves of the misty Windward Coast for 30 miles, passing small farms, ancient fishponds and untamed beaches.

Start off in Kane‘ohe, wandering the lush Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden or visiting vermillion-painted Byodo-in, a faithful replica of a traditional Japanese temple (be sure to ring the bronze bell outside for luck). Pull over at Kualoa Ranch for a tour of famous TV and movie locations, as seen in Lost and Jurassic Park. Across the road is uncrowded Kualoa Regional Park , which has a quiet swimming beach with dramatic scenery, including views of Mokoliʻi Island, also known as Chinaman’s Hat for its unique shape.

Keep motoring up this postcard-worthy coast, stopping to photograph Kaʻaʻawa's Crouching Lion rock formation, which appears in Hawaiian legends. Past Laʻie's Polynesian Cultural Center lie the rugged beaches of Maleakahana State Recreation Area , an inviting area for swimming, snorkelling and camping. Hungry yet? Wind up your Windward Coast road trip at Kahuku's famous roadside shrimp trucks, where you can chow down on a plate of fresh crustaceans stir-fried with garlic and butter.

Surf's up on the North Shore

Oʻahu's renowned North Shore beaches are where surf pros from around the world battle giant winter waves, drawing thousands of spectators. During summer these same waters become almost glassy, giving you amazing chances to snorkel, scuba dive and even swim with sea turtles.

Start your scenic drive at Turtle Bay, where the crystal-clear waters of Kuilima Cove are gentle enough for kids to splash in. Across from Sunset Beach, stop at famous Ted's Bakery for a local plate lunch and a slice of coconut haupia pie. Cruise down the Kamehameha Hwy (Hwy 83) past Banzai Pipeline surf break to Pupukea Beach, where you can snorkel or dive in summer at Sharks Cove and in hidden sea caves. In winter, gape at the monster swells of Waimea Bay, opposite Waimea Valley park, where the whole family can hike to a waterfall-fed pool that’s great for swimming, try their hands at Hawaiian crafts or learn a few hula dancing moves.

You've saved the best for last: Haleʻiwa, epicentre of the North Shore's surfing scene, just 15 miles from Turtle Bay. Shop for a bikini or rent a surfboard, then stick around to watch sunset over the boat harbour. Or escape civilization entirely by driving out past the unpeopled beaches of Mokuleʻia, as seen in the hit TV show Lost , toward end-of-the-road Kaʻena Point. There at the island's lonely northwestern tip, ancient Hawaiians believed that lost souls would leap into the afterlife if their ʻaumakua (animal guardian spirits) did not appear to lead them home.

Beyond the Gold Coast: Diamond Head to Makapuʻu Point

Next door to Waikiki, this drive packs tons of adventure - both on land and at sea - into just 15 paved miles. All along Oʻahu's southeastern shore, movie stars and millionaires have built oceanfront mansions, including heiress Doris Duke's estate Shangri La , now a museum of Islamic art.

Start off early in the morning at Diamond Head State Monument . Tackle the 0.8-mile trail that ascends this ancient volcanic tuff cone, with sweeping views of the coast from a windy summit. Or head straight to Hanauma Bay , a nature preserve and underwater marine park for snorkelling and scuba diving in a giant outdoor fishbowl. For more watersports thrills, check out the adventure tours offered by outfitters at the marina in picturesque Hawaiʻi Kai, also a tasty lunch stop.

As the curving Kalanianaʻole Hwy (Hwy 72) leaves the glitzy suburbs behind, the scenery quotient skyrockets, especially at lookouts such as the Halona Blowhole , where the ocean blasts up through lava rocks, and atop the Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail , where you can watch migratory humpback whales swim by offshore in winter. Don't miss gazing upon the adrenaline-charging waves of Sandy Beach, where President Barack Obama used to hang out when he was growing up in Honolulu – but stay safely on the shore. These famous waves are for experienced experts only.

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The Ultimate Road Trip around Oahu, Hawaii

by Emily Cass | Oct 19, 2017 | North America | 8 comments

Hawaii is one of our all-time favourite destinations. It’s the perfect mix of island living with the attractions of a city. You have the option to relax, explore, shop, eat, drink and cruise the entire island in just a day.

There are many ways to get around Oahu. Guided tours, public buses or mopeds but we strongly, strongly suggest renting a Mustang convertible or a Jeep Wrangler for a self-guided, hair down, music-pumping road trip along the scenic Kalaniana’ole and Kamehameha highways.

If you prefer to be on a tour and have someone else drive, check out the Oahu Majestic Full-Day Circle Island Tour .

Oahu is small enough you can get around in one day, but large enough to have plenty of things to see and do. It is possible to do all of these suggested stops in a day, but keep in mind it would involve jumping in and out of the car all day, without a lot of relaxing, so pick and choose based on your interests.

Below you can see an interactive map of the spots outlined below. We suggest driving anti-clockwise to hug the coast.

Go at your own pace, stop when something beautiful pops up (there’s a lot!) and follow no set plan. Freedom at its finest.

Here are our recommended stops!

You’re bound to start your day at this world-renowned beach. 80% of tourists are based in this area and it is where the most action/ hotels /restaurants and of course, people are. It’s not for everyone but in our opinion, it’s still a very buzzing, beautiful place to spend at least a day, especially for sunset.

View Hotels in Honolulu.

Booking.com

• Budget: Waikiki Beachside Hostel
• Mid Range: The Modern Honolulu
• Luxury: Halekulani

A Day in Waikiki

Start the morning off with a long stroll along Waikiki Beach,  starting at the lagoons in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village and continuing down the beach towards the Honolulu Zoo (or vice versa). The earlier you go, the fewer people to navigate. Take a break halfway to relax on the golden sand, people watch (very fun & funny!) and then grab a surf or paddleboard from one of the rentals and head out to catch some waves. There are tonnes of people (mainly beginners) in the water so be careful.

Sit down for lunch at the Cheesecake Factory (the portions are out of this world huge, so get sharing or come starving) and don’t forget to try one of their outrageously delicious cheesecakes. Caramel Turtle flavour for the win. Stretch your bank account with the endless shopping or duck into the Honolulu Cookie Company for some free samples. As the sun starts to set, sip a cocktail at the Ala Moana Hotel , the oldest hotel in Waikiki or at  Dukes, a staple tiki bar with live music. For dinner, head to Lulu’s for the best coconut shrimp & more live entertainment from 6:30 pm. Looking for something a little more upscale?  Roys Waikiki  will do the trick with high-end Hawaiian fare.

Waikiki Sunset Boat Cruise

Who doesn’t love drinking in the sun on a boat? In Hawaii! Yes, please!

If you have more time, we’d recommend going out on one of the many boat tours leaving from Waikiki Beach. For 2 hours and only $40 USD or $45 during sunset. They give you unlimited booze (beer, spirits, soft drinks, water) combined with an awesome boat ride. If you’re lucky you can see whales and dolphins. You can’t miss the bright yellow boats docked right out the front of Dukes. They leave every couple of hours.

If you prefer certainty,  book a sunset cruise !

Hike Diamond Head

Hiking Diamond Head is definitely a must do when visiting Oahu, especially first thing in the morning. In the early 1900’s, the military claimed Diamond Head as a site for code defence, creating the paths, tunnels and stairs that still today are part of the terrain. The 1.5-mile hike which takes anywhere from 1.5 2 hours can be tackled by almost anyone. I couldn’t help but sing “the ants go marching one by one hurrah hurrah” as we hiked up the windy, steep hill alongside the hoards of other tourists. See here for more of the  best Hikes in Oahu .

There are viewpoints the whole way up but the best, most incredible view lies at the very top after you’ve climbed up 74 stairs, followed by 99 extremely steep stairs, through a relatively dark tunnel. Bring water and avoid doing this in the middle of the day!

Gates are locked at 6:00 pm daily and the last entrance in is at 4:30 pm. $5.00 per car or $1 per person for pedestrians.

Hanauma Bay

The first stop after Diamond Head will be Hanauma Bay   which is snorkel heaven on the southwest coast of Oahu. This bay is formed within a volcanic cone and has more than 400 species of Hawaiian marine life. You can choose to cool off here after you’ve hiked Diamond Head or just stop here for the view. Entrance to the park is $7.50 per person but for parking is only $1. If you leave within 15 minutes, they will give your $1 back ;). If you’re feeling extra energized before or after your snorkelling at Hanauma Bay you can hike Koko Crater Trail   (shown below). We’ve never done it but we’ve heard it’s rather tough!

Please note Hanauma Bay is closed on Tuesdays!

The Lava Tube

This is one of Oahu’s “secrets”. Thanks to our local friends Mike and Lara, we were introduced to the Lava Tube. You can find this just past the Lanai Lookout (park in that car park). Take the road to the right and go over the barricade on the left side. It looks as though there’s nothing there but just keep going. Walk 10m down a small hill, most likely covered in rubbish, then turn to your left and you should find a small narrow hole leading right out to the ocean. Ssssh, it’s a secret, don’t tell anyone!

Sandy Beach Park

As soon as you turn the corner from the Lava Tube, it’ll be hard to keep your jaw off the floor of the car. The views were immediately stunning and on a clear day, you can see the neighbouring island of Moloka’i.

Not only can you enjoy the fine sand between your toes and the incredibly blue water at Sandy Beach Park , you can also grab a bite to eat at one of the food trucks parked in the car park. If you love Mexican, Leilani’s Island Tacos   should be your next stop. 2 HUGE tacos full of flavour for only $10!

Be careful though, this beach is known to have dangerous shore breaks that only locals dare to tackle.

Lanikai Beach 

You know when someone says “take me to my happy place”? For me, that is  Lanikai Beach , one of, if not my favourite beach in Oahu.

The water is always perfect, it’s never too crowded (although it is becoming a little more popular than it was last time we visited) and it seems like a world away from it all. Bring yourself a ‘lilo’ aka pool float and enjoy the moment & sunshine. There’s little beach parking so you’ll have to drive the backstreets to find parking. If the weather is clear, take the short hike up to Pillbox Hike to overlook the beaches below.

Kailua Beach Park

1 mile on from Lanikai is Kailua Beach Park . A popular calm beach 2.5 miles long. Kailua has picnic tables, large grassy areas, showers and bathrooms and free parking making it a perfect place for a family day out. Stop by Kailua town, just 5 minutes from the beach to grab yourself some things for a picnic.

Tropical Farms

Who doesn’t love a free sample? Just when you’re starting to get peckish, stop into Tropical Farms . A macadamia nut farm selling a gigantic variety of nuts and a whole lot of free samples! They also have free Kuna Coffee to try which Jacob greatly appreciated. It’s tough staying awake in Hawaii ;). Just be aware, ALL the tour buses come here so you will have to share those samples with a few others! You don’t need longer than 10-15 minutes in here, get in, get fed and get out 🙂

North Shore

North Shore = Blue Crush   (the 2002 movie). At least that’s what I think about when the North Shore comes to mind but there’s plenty more to the North Shore than the waves of Pipeline.

Getting to the North Shore along the Kamehameha requires driving along both the coast and the countryside of Oahu. You’ll pass by Kualoa Ranch  where many movies have been filmed and continue along the roads surrounded by stunning mountain backdrops that make you feel you’re living in the world of Jurassic Park. If you have more time  The Polynesian Cultural Centre is a great place to experience a typical a Lūʻau  – a typical Hawaiian feast but you’ll need more time for this.

Stop in for a cocktail and/or lunch at Turtle Bay Resort,  a secluded resort on the tip of Oahu. This resort is one of the few hotels in the North Shore and due to its remoteness, it can be very relaxing but also rather far away from anything else. If you’ve got a spare $400 a night, why not treat yourself to a night or two. Take us too! (But take note that helicopters fly over every 10minutes!)

Continuing on you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches along the North Shore. For 5 mi/8km beginning at Sunset Beach , there is no shortage of places to stop.  Banzai Pipeline is one of North Shore’s most famous beaches and is well known for its ridiculously large waves and surf competitions during the winter months. So impressive! During the rest of the year, the waves are at a “normal” level but the currents can be strong.

Further on past pipeline is  Shark’s Cove (opposite this beach is a small carpark with food trucks),  Waimea Bay (rock jumping has become a popular activity) and  Laniakea Beach also known as “Turtle Beach” where turtles make a regular appearance on the sand to lay eggs. It’s impossible to miss this as you’ll notice the cars all gathered around.

Haleiwa is the place to spend the afternoon after a day at one of many surrounding North Shore beaches. This old historic town has a relaxed local ambience which is a far cry from Waikiki. There are a lot of surf shops, boutique stores, restaurants & art galleries. Grab a meal at   Haleiwa Beach House or shrimp from the famous  Giovani’s Shrimp Truck .

Next up?  Shave Ice ! No trip to Hawaii is complete without at least one shave ice. Matsumoto’s Shave Ice first opened its doors in 1951 and since then has been serving exotically flavoured shave ice to people from all around the world. For something so simple, it tastes so delicious and highly refreshing. Frozen ice covered in sugary flavours. Mmm.

The thing that makes Shave Ice so different in Hawaii is the option to add ice cream on top? Like it isn’t cold enough already! I hate to say it, but this is definitely one of those essential stops and a great way to cool down.  Warning: Don’t ever call it a snow cone! Those Hawaiian locals will have something to say about that ;).

Dole Plantation

As nighttime soon approaches it’s time to make your way through central Oahu down the Kamehameha HWY towards Waikiki but not without one last stop at the Dole Plantation . I mean, sure some may say this is a “tourist” trap but it was still worth the stop if anything just for the Dole Whip Icecream! Did you know… In 2008, Guinness World Records named Dole’s Pineapple Garden Maze the world’s largest maze made up of 14,000 colourful Hawaiian plants. Operating hours are 9:30 am – 5:30 pm.

Pearl Harbour

Photo credit: Wikipedia

The infamous Pearl Harbour  is a place to remember, honour and understand the heroes of Pearl Harbour – the site of the WWII surprise attack by the Japanese. You can visit the Pearl Harbor Museums, the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine, USS Missouri Battleship, Pacific Aviation Museum and plenty more. It was a very moving experience and definitely worth the visit.

Top Pearl Harbour Tours

Now head back to Waikiki and tomorrow, maybe you could go surfing or scuba diving. See Expedia for hotels for scuba divers .

• Don’t leave anything valuable in your car at any time.
• Car rentals are reasonably priced (considering) but we found Alamo to have the cheapest car rentals of all the companies. We’ve used them on every occasion we’ve been in Hawaii, picking up & dropping off at the airport.
• One-way drop off fees are pretty steep and begin at $50 USD. Try rent the car from the same place that you wish to drop it off (ie. the airport or in Waikiki).
• Drive anti-clockwise to have the ocean always on the right side of you.
• Don’t forget to use sunscreen when you’re driving. It’s a killer with the roof down.

Hawaii, this is not the first and it will definitely not be the last time we see you! Mahalo!

Married Days Survived; 935

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Girl you need to gate this content and sell it!

Thanks Sarah! I’ll look into it 🙂

Hey! Loved your post. My name is Lauren and my friend and I will be in Oahu from 8/18-8/25. How long did this road trip take you? Any recommondation on accomodation in Oahu (wakiki, lani kai, north shore, etc)? We are looking for a younger crowd. Also any hole in the wall restaurants or bars??

Hey Lauren! Thanks for reading! The road trip was done in a day, it’s not that big. Of course, if you want to spend longer at each place it can be broken up into 2 days but we did it all in a day. Not including the time we spent in Waikiki of course.

As for accommodation, it really depends on what you want. If you stay on the North Shore you are far away from the hub of Waikiki for bars, restaurants and shopping, however, some people find Waikiki to be too busy. Lanikai is beautiful but again, it’s more residental so if you have car then it’s fine but if you’re after nightlife and a bustling atmopshere then we would suggest staying in Waikiki. Do you have a budget in mind?

Yes you are right plenty of more things are pending to see there. Nice Guide.

Oahu blends cosmopolitan luxury and breathtaking scenery more than any other Hawaiian island. The state’s capital city, Honolulu, showcases the island’s urban appeal. Nearby you’ll find a host of cultural and historic sites, from the ornate Iolani Palace to the austere USS Arizona Memorial at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. In the nearby Waikiki neighborhood, a skyline of high-rises and resorts contrasts with sprawling white sand beaches. For a taste of rural Hawaii, visit the North Shore. Here, you’ll find the most brilliant blue waters and meandering hikes. But those three spots aren’t Oahu’s only must-see locales. Its top-notch restaurants, vibrant cultural events and wild nightlife further showcase this island as a “Gathering Place” of Hawaiian culture. https://e-web.top/best-hawaiian-islands/

Amazing! This blog looks just like my old one! It’s on a completely different subject but it has pretty much the same page layout and design. Wonderful choice of colors!

Way cool, some valid points! I appreciate you making this article available, the rest of the site is also high quality. Have a fun.

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How to Road-Trip Around Oahu

I didn’t know much about Oahu before I visited. Everyone told me it was worth it for Pearl Harbor but to spend the rest of my time elsewhere in Hawaii . Maui and Kauai were where the action was, they said.

But Oahu was home to Honolulu’s international airport, from which I was catching an onward flight to Taiwan . Since I had limited time, going to multiple islands wasn’t feasible.

Fortunately, after spending a full week on Oahu, I can say this: everyone was wrong.

Maybe they just let their preconceived notions get the better of them .

Or maybe they just didn’t give the place a chance.

But whatever the reason, I’m here to tell you that Oahu has some magic. Sure, it’s quite developed, has terrible traffic, and huge crowds. And yeah, maybe it’s not as “raw” as the other islands (I assume that’s why people like them).

But there are plenty of spots in Oahu where you can live that Hawaiian dream and there are tons of things to see and do ( even if you’re visiting Oahu with kids ).

I spent a week round-tripping the island (which, given how small it is, turned out to be quite easy). My plan was simple: sit on a beach as long as I could, eat my body weight in poke (diced raw fish, pronounced “po-keh”), and hike.

Along the way, I also binged on shrimp, drank the best piña colada of my life, and took notes so you can do even better when you visit!  

Driving Oahu: A Road-Trip Itinerary

That said, I actually don’t think a traditional road trip is the best idea. Oahu is smaller than you think — you can drive end to end in under two hours — so everything listed below can really be done as a day trip from one base or another, which will save you packing and unpacking, as well moving from place to place too often (especially since the east and west coasts don’t have a lot of affordable accommodations).

Base yourself on the North Shore for a couple of days and then in Honolulu (in the south) for a couple of days (or vice versa).  

Day 1: Honolulu to Kailua (28 miles)

Where to Eat:

• Teddy’s Bigger Burgers
• Any of the food trucks on the way north
• Buzz’s Steakhouse (for dinner)

Where to Stay: Airbnb is the best option, since there aren’t many hotels or hostels in Kailua. Book early though, as there isn’t a lot to choose from.  

Day 2: Kailua to Haleiwa (50 miles)

If you have some time in the morning, Kailua and Lanikai beaches are both beautiful (they’re right next to each other and on the way from the pillbox hike). Not a lot of people, white sand, blue water. They’re heaven.

As you leave this area to head north, visit the Ho‘oamaluhia Botanical Garden (it’s free!), which is also home to a lake filled with tropical plants.

Afterward, drive up the east coast toward the North Shore. Along the way, you can stop at the Kualoa Ranch, where many movies have been filmed. If you do a tour, I suggest the 90-minute Hollywood Movie Sites Tour (which includes scenes from Jurassic Park !), as you don’t need much more time than that to see the ranch. (It’s expensive, though, so if you’re on a budget, I’d skip it.)

As you keep going north, you’ll find a ton of beaches and hikes (there are plenty of signs for everything). I really enjoyed the Hau‘ula Loop Trail especially, which is about 10 miles north of Kualoa. It’s really overgrown, so you’ll feel like you’re very much in the jungle (meaning you’ll also need to bring bug spray). And like most hikes here, there’s a scenic viewpoint!

Then drive around the northern tip of Oahu to Haleiwa, your base of operations while on the North Shore.

Where to Eat Along the Way:

• Kalapawai Café and Deli
• Fresh Catch Kaneohe
• Shrimp Shack
• Seven Brothers
• Ken’s Fresh Fish
• Fumi’s Shrimp

Where to Stay: Airbnb is again the best option, as there aren’t many hotels or hostels in Haleiwa. Book early here too.  

Days 3 & 4: North Shore (Base: Haleiwa)

You can learn to surf here (two-hour lessons begin at just $80 USD) or hike the Ka‘ena Point Trail (west of Haleiwa) and/or the ‘Ehukai Pillbox (east of Haleiwa). The latter is pretty muddy, so bring appropriate shoes.

Haleiwa itself is a sleepy little tourist town with a bunch of restaurants, shops, and parks. There’s not much to do in the town itself other than eat and window-shop.

If you do just one hike, though, I definitely recommend the Ka‘ena Point Trail, which was one of the best experiences I had. It’s a scenic, two-hour coastal walk to the northwestern tip of Oahu, where you will find a protected biological area with seals and native birds. At the tip, you can see all the way down the west side of the island — a magical view. Bring sunscreen and water, as the whole trail is exposed to the sun.

• Ted’s Bakery
• Sunrise Shack
• Hale‘iwa Joe’s
• Matsumoto Shave Ice
• Ray’s Kiawe
• Kono’s
• Jenny’s Shrimp Truck
• Giovanni’s Shrimp

Day 5: Dole Plantation, Oahu’s West Side, Honolulu (60 miles)

Afterward, continue south toward Honolulu and then head west on the H1 road to the west coast for some deserted local beaches, such as Ma‘ili, Ewa, Makua, or Yokohama. Stop at Countryside Café for some incredible diner food. The portions are pretty large, so you can share them.

Then head back into Honolulu, as there’s not a lot of accommodation along the west coast. If you do want to stay longer, you’ll find some listings on Airbnb and Booking.com if you book far in advance. Otherwise, there are a few hotels in Kapolei if you don’t want to drive all the way to Honolulu.  

Days 6 & 7: Honolulu

Consider going on a hike on Diamond Head, a volcanic cone on the east side of town. It offers an incredible view of the city, though it’s one of the more popular trails in the area, so if you aren’t there early enough to beat the crowds, you’ll basically be walking in a slow-moving line up the mountain. If you are short on time, skip it.

Other Things to Do:

• A free walking tour with Hawaii Free Tours (call ahead, since they only run when they have bookings).
• Pearl Harbor – This is a must. It’s not even up for debate. You have to go.
• Iolani Palace, the former royal residence of Hawaii’s monarchs.
• Soak in the sun on Waikiki Beach or other nearby beaches, such as Ala Moana, which is popular with locals.

There’s also an Islamic art museum, which is supposed to be great, but I didn’t make it there.

• The Pig and the Lady
• Mei Sum Dim Sum
• Shirokiya Japan Village Walk
• Rainbow Drive-In
• Leonard’s Bakey
• Ono Seafood

Where to Stay:

• The Beach – This hostel is right on the beach, includes free breakfast, and has plenty of space to relax and meet other travelers.
• Polynesian Hostel Beach Club Waikiki – The accommodations here are basic, but the staff are super friendly and helpful, and they organize lots of events.

Additionally, head to the Royal Hawaiian Hotel for the best piña colada of your life. It’s not cheap ($15 USD a pop), but it is sooo good! Every one of my friends who didn’t order one got it as their second drink. (Fun fact: My grandfather was stationed in Oahu during WWII and went back to Oahu often. The Royal Hawaiian was his favorite hotel. It’s pretty cool that it’s still there!)  

Average costs

How much do things cost on Oahu? Here are some typical prices (in USD):

• Hostel dorm – $27
• Airbnb – $100+/night for a one-bedroom or studio
• Hotel – $175–250/night for a mid-range boutique hotel
• Car rental – as low as $20/day, plus insurance
• Gas – $3–3.50/gallon
• Poke bowl – $12–15
• Takeout meal – $10–14
• Sit-down meal at a fancy restaurant (with drinks) – $50+
• Local lunch – $15
• McDonalds – $6 for a value meal
• Groceries – $75 for one person for a week
• Beer (at a restaurant) – $8–10 ($2–3 at the Japanese Walk!)
• Piña colada – $10-15
• Coffee – $5
• Surfboard rental – $25/day
• Snorkel gear rental – $15/day
• Scuba dive prices – $125

Budget Tips

Oahu is pretty expensive. Most everything has to be imported, so if it can’t be grown nearby or caught in the ocean, expect to pay a lot. But it’s not impossible to save money. Here are a few ways to cut your expenses:

• Hike and enjoy the beaches. Nature is free!
• Buy your own food from supermarkets so you can cook your own meals or have picnics. Sure, there are plenty of world-class restaurants here, but if you want to keep your food costs down, you should cook some meals. The poke at supermarkets is delicious anyway!
• If you do eat out, hit the food trucks. Most cost around $10 USD for a meal — much cheaper than sit-down restaurants.
• If you’re going to buy alcohol, do so at Japanese markets, where you can find beer for only $2–3 USD (compared to $8 USD at bars).
• Skip ride-sharing websites like Getaround or Turo (where you rent cars from private owners). They are usually cheaper than the big rental companies, but on Oahu, hosts charge you an added fee for dropping the car at the airport. I found the traditional car rental companies to be much cheaper, with rates as low as $20 USD a day.
• Get your gas at Hele stations. They were consistently the cheapest on the island.

While Oahu is often crowded and overly commercial, there were a lot of wonderful things to do and see. To me, the best parts were the food and the hiking — with so many hikes, you could spend weeks here. My favorite part of Oahu was the North Shore, so I recommend you spend a few days there at least. I certainly look forward to returning!

Book Your Trip to Hawaii: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. My favorite places to stay are:

• Polynesian Hostel Beach Club Waikiki
• Waikiki Beachside Hostel

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Need a Rental Car? Discover Cars is a budget-friendly international car rental website. No matter where you’re headed, they’ll be able to find the best — and cheapest — rental for your trip!

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money too.

Need an Affordable RV for Your Road Trip? RVshare lets you rent RVs from private individuals all around the country, saving you tons of money in the process. It’s like Airbnb for RVs.

Want More Information on Hawaii? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Hawaii for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Oahu Scenic Drives - Plan Your Perfect Oahu Road Trip Itinerary

Home » Hawaii Travel Tips » Oahu Scenic Drives – Plan Your Perfect Oahu Road Trip Itinerary

All you need to know to plan your Oahu road trip

As the third largest Hawaiian island, Oahu, Hawaii has a lot to offer. The most populated of all the islands, Oahu can feel a little crowded at times and like a concrete jungle. Many come to Oahu as just a stopover to continue onto another island, but many come only to explore Oahu. The less crowded months are April to June and September to December.

If it is your first visit to Oahu, you may consider splitting your stay between Waikiki Beach in Honolulu and the North Shore side like Haleiwa area, or Ko Olina on the windward side of Oahu.

Go explore this State Capital Island of Oahu, it’s worth a road trip, or two.

One of the most popular ways to start a driving tour in Oahu is to download the Shaka Guide . This is a great way to learn about everything as you drive, and find places you may not discover any other way.

Is driving in Oahu, Hawaii easy?

Generally yes, driving is easy on the island of Oahu. However, traffic in and around the city of Honolulu has been known to get quite slow and congested. Be aware of the times you need to travel those routes and plan accordingly with local rush hour.

Can you drive all the way around Oahu, Hawaii?

You can’t drive completely around this island. The highway ends on either side of Ka'Ena Point, but you can drive to most of it and make a full day of driving half the island.

How long does it take to drive around Oahu?

The Oahu circle drive can take you 4-6 hours, but that depends on which route you take and if you don’t stop much. From Waikiki, Honolulu to the North Shore and back, is a full day but not overwhelming, give yourself 8 hours.

How Many miles does it take to drive around Oahu?

Oahu circle drive.

One of the best drives in Oahu is the circle tour, where you drive around the island. Research where you would like to go first. If you get to Hanauma Bay and realize you never want to leave, well there goes the day. For this day, pick places to stop that aren’t gonna take up too much time.

Most begin and end this journey in Waikiki. It is smart to start early to get the full day in and return in the daylight. Head out of Waikiki towards Diamond Head and follow the shoreline (Hwy 72) around to Kailua. Going this direction first, keeps you away from Honolulu’s morning traffic. Hwy 72 eventually connects with Hwy 83 and you can follow this all the way to the North Shore of Oahu.

Once at the North Shore, you can stop at one of the famous roadside food trucks, get your lunch and head over to Sunset or Ehukai Beach to watch the surfers do their thing at Banzai Pipeline. Just past here is the quaint surfing town of Haleiwa, another great place to grab some lunch or shave ice.

At this point, most would head back on Hwy 99 through the center of Oahu to Honolulu. However, if you have the time, drive to the end of Hwy 930 towards Ka’ena Point. This historic place is called the ‘leaping place for souls’, where the spirits of recently passed people meet their ancestors, the scenery is breathtaking and worthy of its name. With a small airport nearby, you may even see gliders and skydivers floating down from above.

Once you are heading back south on Hwy 99, it’s a 50 minute drive back from Haleiwa to Honolulu . If you have some energy left there is the Dole Plantation, it’s a great stop for families. As well there is a local rum distillery near this area, never drink and drive, but you can purchase some for drinks later on the lanai. This full circle Oahu drive, will give you an idea of the vast landscape Oahu has to offer and that it’s not all concrete, like Honolulu is now.

Points of interest along the way:

• Sandy Beach – a boogie boarder’s dream, but not for the faint of heart and not for children or weak swimmers.
• Makapu’u Lighthouse – a great family activity, this 2 mile paved path along a seacliff offers many stopping points to rest and take in the view. This is a great place to whale watch from December to May.
• Kailua Bay & Lanikai Beach – this quaint little town of Kailua has one of the most picturesque beaches in all of Hawaii, Lanikai Beach. Just under 30 minutes to drive here, it is worth a day trip for the scenic drive alone.
• Kualoa Ranch – this park, movie set, ranch has an entry fee and is very family friendly. They offer jungle and movie tours to see sites from Jurassic Park and Lost.
• Polynesian Cultural Center – a learning and entertainment center for the Polynesian culture. With 42 acres of lush gardens, this place is not a quick stop. You may want to book tickets to their luau and spend more time here.
• North Shore Beaches – this seven mile stretch of beaches includes the infamous Bonzai Pipeline and its world class surfing competitions. Sunset Beach and E are great places to watch the surfers. You don’t go here to swim.
• Sharks Cove – a popular snorkeling spot in the spring and summer months, with plenty of marine life. Don’t be afraid of the name, sharks rarely visit. Another great spot to find North Shore food trucks.
• Laniakea Beach – also known as Turtle Beach, during the summer months the beach will be full of resting Honu (turtles). Respect them and keep your distance, there are big fines if you get too close.
• Haleiwa – This north shore surfing town has a very laid back vibe, where the plantation style buildings will take you back to old Hawaii. Check out the local restaurants, art galleries and even get a shave ice while visiting.
• Dole Pineapple Plantation – world’s largest corn maze, train and huge gift shop, offering many sweet treats based around this local fruit.

Scenic Drives in Oahu

Here are some day trip ideas from Waikiki. As well, if you are only on Oahu for a stopover, why sit at HNL airport when you can go explore:

• Diamond Head – a 5 minute drive from Waikiki, there is a small fee to park your car. There is a moderate hike to the top that can get steep at times, with places to rest and great views from the summit. Gates close late afternoon, best to hike in the morning before the afternoon sun.
• Hanauma Bay – a 20 minute drive from Waikiki is this natural protected cove where snorkeling is safe and abundant with marine life. There is an admission fee to enter and it’s closed on certain days.
• Halona Blowhole – a 30 minute drive outside Waikiki, this landmark is a great photo shoot spot. Water can reach up to 30 feet high with the right wave.
• Manoa Falls – a 20 minute drive from Waikiki, the hike up is beautiful, but you can’t swim here due to the water being infected with disease.
• Pearl Harbor – a 30 minute drive from Waikiki, this historic landmark is a must do for history buffs. Arrive early to get free parking, check out the visitor center and the USS Arizona Memorial. Take an expert guided tour, to really learn about its history.
• Ko Olina – a 40-90 minute drive from Waikiki (depending on traffic). This West side area is a great place to spend a day away from the big city. Two major resorts are located here, along with 4 man made lagoons that are very family friendly.

Road Trip Tips

• Never leave valuables in the car unattended, leave them at your accommodation.
• Full tank of fuel before departure.
• Cash for parking and roadside vendors.
• Audio books are a great tool for bored children, find ones that teach them about what they are seeing.
• Don’t want to be the driver? Take a driving tour or photography tour, this way you can relax and enjoy the day.
• Road trip essentials include; charged phone/camera, proper footwear, swimsuit and towel, sunscreen and bug spray, water and snacks.
• Purchase the Shaka Guide and have a self-directed tour.

Finally, once you’ve settled on Oahu as an island of choice, it’s time to plan your visit to some historical sites, famous beaches and world renowned restaurants. Hawaii is not the largest of states, but this one island does have a diverse topography of valleys and mountains, that gives way to great hiking trails. Plan a day driving, then hiking to a waterfall through some lush jungle vegetation or even a bamboo forest.

With both commercial establishments and natural backcountry beauty, Oahu is bound to excite both the international city shopper and the outdoorsy adventure type. It’s time to go on a road trip around Oahu !

Driving Tour of Oahu's Southeast Shore

Take an Oahu Road Trip

Melinda Podor / Getty Images

A road trip may not be the first thing that comes to mind while planning an island getaway, but trusts us, it's one of the best ways to experience Oahu. The journey east past  Diamond Head  towards the southeast shore has continued to be the most popular driving tour on the island, and we've got all the important information to help get you there (while enjoying stops along the way, of course).

With the stops you'll be making, you'll want to allow yourself a full day to see and do everything. This Google map will help you plan your trip.

Kalaniana'ole Highway to Hawaii Kai

Whether you're staying in Honolulu or in one of the hotels, resorts or condominium properties in Waikiki, you'll want to make your way to H1 East. For a slightly more scenic beginning, you can drive down Kalakaua Avenue and make a right turn onto Diamond Head Road at the foot of the mountain.

Diamond Head Road wraps around the ocean side of Diamond Head and has some lovely viewpoints. The road changes into Kahala Avenue as it proceeds through one of the wealthiest neighborhoods on the island. Keep your eyes out for signs to H1. You'll be making a left onto Kealaolu Avenue which will take you right up to the highway.

Heading east on the H1, the highway ends and turns into the Kalaniana'ole Highway (or Route 72). This it will be your home for most of the day's trip. On this first part of your drive, you'll be driving through many of the commuter neighborhoods of Oahu. Most of the folks who live here commute to work in Honolulu or Waikiki, and many work in the hotels in which you're staying.

Just past the neighborhood of Hawaii Kai, and up the long hill with Koko Head Crater to your left, keep your eyes out for signs to our first stop at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Depending on traffic, the route you took and where you're staying, it should have taken you about a half hour to 45 minutes to reach this stop.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Located about 10 miles east of Waikiki just off the main coastal road (Kalaniana'ole Highway, Route 72), Hanauma Bay is the first Marine Life Conservation District in the State of Hawaii. It costs $1.00 per car to park and $7.50 per person to enter the Preserve.

Visitors are required to view a nine minute film before heading down to the beach, where you'll have access to some of the best snorkeling in all of Hawaii. In the video, you'll learn about the importance of preserving Hawaii's delicate marine environment and rules that must be followed when swimming near coral.

The Preserve is closed every Tuesday. In addition, admission is limited to a set number of people, so be sure to arrive early.

As you leave Hanauma Bay, make a right turn back onto the highway. Your next stop is less than two miles away.

Halona Blowhole

Just north of Hanauma Bay off the Kalaniana'ole Highway you'll find the pullout for the Halona Blowhole.

The blowhole results when waves are forced into an underwater lava tube and the pressure forces a stream of water to "blow" out of the other end shooting into the air. The Blowhole is most exciting when surf is active on this side of the island.

There are some days when it is blowing water high into the sky and other days when it is quite quiet. The viewing area and parking lot here have recently been redone.

Just to the right is the Halona Beach Cove, also known as Cockroach Cove where the famous love scene between Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr in the 1953 movie From Here to Eternity was filmed.

Visible from the Blowhole lookout and less than a half mile away is your next stop, Sandy Beach Park.

Sandy Beach Park

Just down the road from the Halona Blowhole is the long and often very windy Sandy Beach Park .

It's a great place to stop and watch folks fly their kites, and there are always plenty of surfers and body boarders testing the surf.

The waters off Sandy Beach produce very strong and erratic currents and undertow. It is only for very experienced surfers and body boarders. It is, however, a great place to watch the best of them do their thing in the water.

Continue heading north on the highway for a little over two miles and you'll reach our next stop.

Makapuu Point and Lighthouse

Just past the Hawaii Kai Golf Course, you'll come to Makapu'u Point . A parking area has recently been built to accommodate folks who want to take the moderate 2-mile hike up to the point and the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse. You'll see the driveway to the parking area on your right.

The hike is relatively easy, although it's best in the morning when the sun is less strong. It takes a little over an hour roundtrip.

The view of the coast in both directions is amazing. It's a great place to see whales in season. On a clear day you can see the island of Moloka'i in the distance.

If you take the hike, be sure to lock your car and remove all of your valuables.

After exiting the parking area, make a right and head up the hill. There is another pullout on your right with some great coastal views, a perfect alternative if you don't have time to do the full hike.

As the road leads back down from Makapu'u Point keep your eye out to the left for Sea Life Park.

Sea Life Park

Sea Life Park is a world-class marine attraction featuring educational displays and live entertainment with dolphins, sea lions and penguins.

You may not have time to stop here on this trip, since it is almost a full day experience in itself, but take time to pull in and check our their current hours and prices. They offer several different programs and options. For several of them advance reservations are advised.

Waimanalo Bay State Recreation Area

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

About four miles further along the highway takes you to the community of Waimanalo, home to about 4,000 people and the beautiful Waimanalo Beach.

You can park in the Waimanalo Beach parking lot, however, much of it has been taken over by homeless people who live there in tents and makeshift houses. A better bet is to drive a bit further down the highway and look for signs for the Waimanalo Bay State Recreation Area . The parking lot here is accessed off a short road into a wooded area. Don't leave any valuables in your car since you won't be able to see it from the beach.

Over 5 miles in length with lovely, soft white sand, Waimanalo Beach is rarely crowded on weekdays. It's a great place to meet and talk to a local enjoying this wonderful spot. The swimming is generally excellent since there are rarely large waves.

This beach was made famous by Hawaiian singer "IZ" or Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's music video for his classic song, White Sandy Beach.

After Waimanalo the highway bends inland. You'll pass by Bellows Air Force Station on your right. When you reach Kailua Road you can either make a left and follow the signs for the Pali Highway to return to Honolulu and Waikiki or make a right and take a detour to visit Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach Park.

Kailua and Kailua Beach Park

Kailua and Lanikai are two, primarily residential, neighborhoods on the east side of the island. After Honolulu and Waikiki, Kailua is the next largest town on the island and it has some great shopping.

Nearby Kailua Beach Park is a very popular recreational beach with excellent swimming. You'll also likely see several windsurfers and an outrigger canoe club practicing. This beach has lifeguards, a picnic area, restrooms with showers, and concessions.

Lanikai Beach

Separated from Kailua by Alala Point, your next stop should be Lanikai Beach .

Both Kailua Beach Park and Lanikai Beach have been named Best Beach in America by Dr. Beach , aka coastal expert Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman.

Lanikai is truly a superb beach, but visiting it is often difficult since parking in Lanikai is very difficult.

Lanikai is a small, exclusive community with one looping road. Beach access is only available by a limited number of public access walkways. From the beach you'll have great views of the Mokuluas, two small islands approximately three quarters of a mile off the coast.

Heading Home

When your day is done, simply retrace your steps to Kailua Road and follow the signs to the Pali Highway which will take you back to Honolulu.

Before you go, be sure to bookmark our large Google map of this trip for your reference as you drive.

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DIY Oahu Circle Island Tour MAP + LIST :: Scenic self-drive around Oahu

If you’re short on time and looking to circle the island of Oahu for a day as part of a self-guided driving tour, there are definitely enough places to visit and things to do on Oahu to fill up your whole day!

Scenic driving on Oahu

This is an abbreviated version of things to do in Oahu  for your Oahu tour.

If you won’t be renting a car, here’s one of the best circle island tours on Oahu .

All the planning is done for you, and you will learn a lot!

Island driving = slow driving

Keep in mind that driving around the island takes time.

The time can be due to traffic, and it can also just generally be due to maximum speed on the island.

The highest speed limit you’ll find anywhere on Oahu is 55mph, and often you will be going below that.

So take it slow and take it all in!

And the earlier in the day you start, the more you can experience!

Your GPS device can also be cause for delay.

You can use the GPS on your phone as a guide, but it’s not definitive. Sometimes it might get confused and send you in the wrong direction.

But don’t get stressed!

You’re in Hawaii!

It’s all in the experience!

Just another reason to make sure you aren’t on a specific time table when you’re planning for an island road trip!

Now here first is a quick list.

Oahu circle island tour driving map

• Diamond Head Crater
• Hanauma Bay
• Koko Head Hike
• Makapuu Lighthouse Trail
• Lanikai Pillboxes
• Mokulua Islands
• Pearl Harbor
• Dole Pineapple Plantation
• Laniakea Beach
• Sharks Cove

Paid circle island tours

It’s definitely possible to rent a car and have a great day driving yourself around Oahu!

But if you want to get even more out of your trip around the island, you may also consider taking an organized tour. This can be a good way to learn more about Oahu and Hawaiian culture too.

Interactive map of Oahu

Now here is an interactive Oahu circle island tour map with points of interest.

Do you like maps? Also see the Oahu snorkeling map and  Oahu hikes map .

OAHU CIRCLE ISLAND TOUR

OAHU TOUR: Diamond Head Hike

OAHU TOUR: Hanauma Bay snorkeling

OAHU TOUR: Koko Head Hike

OAHU TOUR: Makapuu Lighthouse Trail

OAHU TOUR: Lanikai Pillbox Hike

OAHU TOUR: Mokulua Islands

OAHU TOUR: Pearl Harbor

OAHU TOUR: Dole Plantation

OAHU TOUR: Waimea Bay

OAHU TOUR: Turtle Beach

OAHU TOUR: Sharks Cove snorkeling

HAPPY OAHU ISLAND DRIVING!

Best shoes for your active vacation, swimwear for snorkeling and beach.

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Oahu Tour: Self-Guided Drive

Tour Details

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Welcome to the oahu tour.

Welcome to the beautiful Hawaiian island of O’ahu! Featuring the vibrant city of Honolulu, lush jungles that have appeared in blockbusters like Jurassic Park , and the most stunning beaches in the world, the Oahu tour truly has a little bit of everything. Cruise around this tropical paradise, hike its best trails, and learn about its incredible conflict-strewn history, all from the comfort of your vehicle or rental!

We are proud to be an official Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau member.

Preview the Tour

Your tour around this island begins in Honolulu, near Pearl Harbor. You’ll hear about the “day that will live in infamy” as well as the unexpected history of Honolulu.

Next is Aloha Tower, one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Continuing, you’ll see Iolani Palace, the luxurious former home of Hawaii’s monarchs, as well as a statue of King Kamehameha the Great.

The first beach on the Oahu tour is Ala Moana Beach, a pristine stretch of sand that was once used to dump garbage! But don’t worry, it’s almost impossibly clean these days. Waikiki Beach follows it. This is where surfing superstar Duke Kanahamoku started before he transformed the world of surfing forever.

Leaving the beaches behind for a moment, you’ll see Diamond Head State Park, an enormous volcanic crater, and Hawaii’s most famous park. You’ve got to see this one up close to appreciate it truly!

Continuing toward the volcanic China Walls, you’ll hear the dramatic tale of Kamehameha’s rise to power, and his rival, Kalanikūpule, who was even willing to kill his own family to take control for himself.

Next, at the Hanauma Bay Lookout, you’ll find some of the most spectacular views on O’ahu. Be sure to have your camera at the ready! For a less crowded spot, follow the route to the next lookout, which most visitors miss.

After passing some seriously scenic shoreline, you’ll see Rabbit Island just off the coast and learn about the utterly failed rabbit farm that once operated here. Then you’ll come to Waimānalo Beach, the perfect stop for anyone seeking a little seclusion.

As you approach the town of Kailua, where former President Obama spent his winter vacations, you’ll hear a dramatic account of the Battle of Nu’uanu, which earned Kamehameha the title of King of Hawaii once and for all. And if you’re a kayaker, you won’t want to miss Kailua’s beach!

Up next, you’ll catch a glimpse of the last remaining Heiau on O’ahu. These ancient temples were deeply sacred to the Hawaiians and still hold a great deal of significance today.

After that, you’ll find a trail to one of Oahu Tours’ famous waterfalls. If you’re craving more nature, the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden will be just ahead, offering a staggering 400 acres of carefully cultivated flora.

You might not expect a vast Buddhist temple in Hawaii, but that’s the next stop! After checking out the Byodo-In Temple, you’ll reach the Kualoa Ranch. A show biz favorite, this ranch has appeared in everything from Jurassic Park to Hawaii Five-O and much more!

Feeling peckish? You’ll soon arrive at Hukilau Marketplace, a quaint cluster of restaurants and gift shops that retains its original 1950s charm.

Wildlife enthusiasts will love what comes next: a colossal wildlife refuge and Turtle Beach, frequented by the enormous Hawaiian green sea turtles. Then it’s on to Sunset Beach, the perfect spot to catch the day’s final rays of light. You’ll then head to the historic Dole Plantation, where the tour concludes.

Get access to 12 additional stops on the Oahu Bonus Tour at absolutely no additional cost. When you purchase the main tour and input the password in the app, you will see the main + bonus tour.

Additional stops include:

• Jackass Ginger Pool
• Queen Emma Summer Palace
• Kapena Falls
• Liliʻuokalani Botanical Garden
• Foster Botanical Garden
• Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Wayside
• Round Top Forest Reserve
• Tantalus Lookout – Puu Ualakaa State Park
• Mānoa Falls Trail
• Manoa Falls Trail 2
• Manoa Falls
• Waikiki Walking Tour
• Honolulu Walking Tour

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Oahu Driving Tour Map

Where To Start?

Tour Start point: Pearl Harbor National Memorial, 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818, USA

How Does It Work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
• Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

What You'll See

Welcome to o'ahu.

Get ready for a totally comprehensive tour of Hawaii's most populous island: O'ahu. Home to the city of Honolulu, this island is chock full of culture, natural beauty, and fascinating history--all of which you'll experience during your drive!

Pearl Harbor

The tour begins in Pearl Harbor, where a surprise attack on December 7th, 1941 changed the course of history.

As you drive through Honolulu, you'll learn about the city's unexpectedly humble origins, and how it became the hub it is today.

Bishop Museum

One of the first landmarks you'll pass is the Bishop Museum. This isn't just the largest museum in Hawaii, but also has a surprisingly sweet love story behind it!

Aloha Tower

Get a good look at the Aloha Tower next. This iconic waterside tower once greeted all travelers arriving in Honolulu, because everyone arrived by boat.

Iolani Palace/King Kamehameha Statue

Next, you'll pass the impressive Iolani Palace, once home to Hawaiian royalty, as well as a statue of King Kamahamaha, a hero you'll hear plenty about along the way.

Ala Moana Beach/ Regional Park

The first beach you'll see is Ala Moana Beach, a pristine stretch of sand which, believe it or not, used to be a garbage dump! But don't worry, it's perfectly clean now, and great for swimming.

King David Kal?kaua Statue

Next, you'll pass a statue of King David Kalakaua, Hawaii's last king.

Waikiki Beach and Duke Kahanamoku

The next beach you'll reach is Waikiki Beach, made famous by the legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku. Duke is responsible for bringing surfing to the world at large and bringing major recognition to this beach.

Kapi’olani Park

Your route takes you next past Kapi'olani Park, another beautiful space which was once little more than a soggy bit of marshland.

Diamond Head State Monument

After that, you'll come to Diamond Head State Monument, an immense crater left by a volcanic explosion. It's now become Hawaii's most popular park!

Diamond Head Beach Park

You'll also see Diamond Head Beach, which sparkles unlike any other beach around. Back in the 1800s, explorers actually thought the calcite crystals in the sand here were diamonds!

China Walls

As you continue, you'll reach the China Walls, an impressive formation of natural walls which some say rival the Great Wall of China!

Hanauma Bay Lookout

Get some unbeatable views up next at Hanauma Bay Lookout, and don't forget to snap a few pictures while you're there!

Lanai Lookout

Lanai Lookout is next, and it's especially good if you're trying to get away from the crowd.

Halona Blowhole Lookout

The next lookout, Halona Blowhole Lookout, offers views of a peculiar rock formation which shoots water into the air when waves crash against it.

Pele's Chair

If you trek along the shore a bit, you'll come to Pele's Chair, a natural formation which some believe to be the chair of Pele, a volcanic goddess.

Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline and Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail

Up next is Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, which is exactly what it sounds like. If you're a fan of ocean views, this makes for a wonderful stroll.

Rabbit Island

As you drive, you'll catch sight of Rabbit Island. Once home to a rabbit farm, this island is now mostly untouched by humans.

Waimānalo Beach

Travelers seeking a pristine beach that doesn't see the same crowds as others will love Waimanalo Beach, a stretch of white sand sheltered by a wall of ironwood trees.

Up next is the unassuming town of Kailua. Unassuming, that is, except for the fact that former president Barack Obama spent his winters here!

Kailua Beach

Your route takes you next to Kailua Beach, a favorite spot among kayakers and swimmers alike.

Ulupō Heiau State Historic Site

Next, you'll pass the Ulupo Heiau State Historic Site. This increidble archaeological site is home to an ancient Hawaiian temple called a Heiau, which is almost 500 years old!

Golf on O’ahu

You'll also pass the Pali Golf Course and hear all about the plentiful offerings for golfers on O'ahu.

Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout/Likeke Falls/Likeke Falls Trailhead

After that, you'll arrive at Nu'uanu Pali Lookout, a splendid vista which is also right near a trail leading to some sparkling waterfalls.

Lulumahu Falls

Looking for more waterfalls? You'll find one at the end of a trail up ahead, which leads to the gorgeous, secluded Lulumahu Falls.

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

Up next is the Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, home to a staggering 400 acres of tropical flora from all over the world. There's even a campground within the garden!

Continuing on, you'll reach the town of He'eia and hear the wild legend behind its name.

The Byodo-In Temple

You won't want to miss the next stop, an elaborate Buddhist temple called the Byodo-In Temple. It was built as an exact to-scale replica of the temples one would find in Japan!

Kualoa Ranch

As you drive, you'll pass Kualoa Ranch, a sprawling jungle ranch which has been the filming location for countless Hollywood hits, including Jurassic Park, Hawaii Five-O, and Lost!

Kualoa Rock Beach

Kualoa Rock Beach, up next, offers some great lounging opportunities, though swimmers will find the rocky shore a bit uncomfortable to wade along.

Kahana Bay Beach Park

The next beach, Kahana Bay Beach, isn't just a great stretch of sand, but is also packed with history! Archaeologists have found all sorts of pre-contact relics buried in the sand here.

Ahupua'a ‘O Kahana State Park

Ahupua'a 'O Kahana State Park is next, offering plenty of lush greenery and stunning hikes for those looking to stretch their legs.

Maunawila Heiau

Continuing on, you'll pass the remnants of another Heiau, though this one hasn't held up to the ravages of time quite as well as the last one.

Hukilau Marketplace

Those looking to stop for a snack or a souvenir will want to stop at the next landmark: Hukilau Marketplace. This iconic market styles itself just like a classic 1950s Hawaiian market would.

Mālaekahana State Recreation

Beach campers will absolutely want to stop at the next spot, Malaekahana State Recreation Area. This shoreline camping area makes for some seriously memorable mornings!

Gunstock Ranch

After that, you'll pass Gunstock Ranch, where you can take a ride on horseback if you want to change up your travels a bit!

James Campbell Wildlife Refuge

Next is the James Campbell Wildlife Refuge, where you'll learn the legend of how some of O'ahu's most recognizable birds got their iconic plumage.

Turtle Beach

After that is Turtle Beach, which is exactly what you'd expect. If you're here at the right time, you're bound to see some sea turtles!

Kawela Bay Beach Park

Continue driving to Kawela Bay Beach, home to some of the calmest waters on the island thanks to an offshore reef.

Sunset Beach Park

If the day is winding down, one of the best spots to be is your next stop: Sunset Beach. This is, hands down, one of the best spots on the island to catch a proper Hawaiian sunset.

Banzai Pipeline

As you drive, you'll pass the infamous Banzai Pipeline. This death-defying surf break has challenged some of the most famous surfers around for years, and not all of them survive it.

Shark’s Cove

After that is Shark's Cove. Don't worry though, it gets its name not because sharks infest the waters, but instead because it looks a little bit like a shark when viewed from above.

Waimea Bay/Waimea Bay Beach Park/Waimea Valley

One of the last beaches on your tour is Waimea Bay. This isn't just any beach, but has been featured in high-octane Hollywood adventures like Point Break!

Haleʻiwa Beach Park

The final beach you'll see is Hale'iwa Beach, which has some BBQs and picnic tables for folks looking to wind down with a picturesque picnic.

Dole Plantation

Your final stop is at the historic Dole Plantation, a window back in time which also features a train ride and the world's largest maze for some fun family activities. The tour concludes here.

Bonus Tour Stop 1: Jackass Ginger Pool

About a half-mile down the hiking trail to your left is one of Oahu’s most popular and idyllic swimming holes. In Hawaiian, this place is called Kahuailanawai - “site of tranquil water”. But it was renamed Jackass Ginger Pool about a hundred years ago by local youths who spotted a donkey tied up in a patch of ginger next to the pond itself.

Bonus Tour Stop 2: Queen Emma Summer Palace

To your left, the big white building with columns out front is Hānaiakamalama, the favorite retreat of Hawaii’s Queen Emma and her family. Born in 1836 to a native Hawaiian father and a white mother, she married King Kamehameha IV and reigned as his queen until his death in 1863. During her time as queen, she and her son Albert spent time here at the summer palace, where she organized many of her humanitarian efforts.

Bonus Tour Stop 3: Kapena Falls

Coming up on your right is the trailhead for Kapena Falls, the island’s most accessible waterfall. It’s only a half-mile round trip to the falls and back, so it’s a nice quick stop if you’d like to see it for yourself. Just don’t go in the water - there are some nasty bacteria that live in this particular stream.

Bonus Tour Stop 4: Liliʻuokalani Botanical Garden

To your right is Lili’uokalani Botanical Garden, the smallest of Honolulu’s five famous botanical gardens. This particular garden was gifted to the city by its namesake, Queen Lili’uokalani, the last monarch of Hawaii.

Bonus Tour Stop 5: Foster Botanical Garden

Across the street from the Lili’uokalani Garden is a similar park, called the Foster Botanical Garden. In the 1850s, this land was leased to a German botanist named William Hillebrand, who planted a wide variety of unique trees and plants on the property.

Bonus Tour Stop 6: Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Wayside

Just up ahead is the entrance to Pu’u ‘Ualaka’a State Park, located on the sides of Mount Tantalus, an extinct cinder cone leftover from volcanic explosions about 50,000 years ago, long before there was anybody living on the islands. Here you’ll see some of the gorgeous natural forests that Hawaii is so famous for.

Bonus Tour Stop 7: Viewpoint

This viewing area to your right is well worth stopping at. From here, you can look out over the whole city of Honolulu, which is especially beautiful at night.

Bonus Tour Stop 8: Round Top Forest Reserve

Mount Tantalus is just one part of the Round Top Forest Reserve, which holds 99 acres of protected forest land here on Oahu. If you go walking along some of the trails here in the reserve, you’ll see plenty of plants and animals native to Hawaii.

Bonus Tour Stop 9: Tantalus Lookout - Puu Ualakaa State Park

You’ve reached the top of Mount Tantalus, the best sunset lookout on the whole island. This grassy hill on top of the cinder cone offers incredible panoramic views of Waikiki, Diamond Head, and the rest of the surrounding area. Feel free to take some time and enjoy the view.

Bonus Tour Stop 10: Mānoa Falls Trail

If you park here, you can reach the trailhead for the Manoa Falls Trail, one of the oldest and most popular hiking spots on Oahu. The trails out here date back to the ancient Hawaiians, who would follow these paths through the forest to hunt and gather plants. At the end of this trail is Manoa Falls, a 150 foot waterfall that the indigenous Hawaiians used as a natural shower.

Bonus Tour Stop 11: Manoa Falls Trail 2

As you walk through the forest here, it’s easy to feel like you’re in a whole other world from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu. The trail you’re walking on now has been in use for over a thousand years, so allow yourself to be transported back.

Bonus Tour Stop 12: Manoa Falls

Just up ahead are the Manoa Falls, the last stop on the tour. With a height of 150 ft, it’s easy to see why so many people come here to check out the waterfall. Fans of blockbuster movies might also recognize Manoa Falls from a scene in Jurassic World where the two child stars leap from the top of the falls to escape the deadly Indominus Rex.

Preview The Tour

  which side of oahu is the best for tourists.

The North Shore of Oahu is popular among tourists for its beautiful beaches and famous surf spots. Read more here .

  Which Hawaiian island is known for having the best beaches?

Maui is often considered to have some of the best beaches in Hawaii, with picturesque spots like Wailea Beach and Kaanapali Beach.

  Oahu vs. Maui: Which one is better for a vacation?

The choice between Oahu and Maui depends on personal preferences; Oahu offers a mix of urban attractions and beautiful beaches, while Maui is renowned for its natural beauty and more laid-back atmosphere.

  What is the best month to visit Oahu, Hawaii?

The months of April, May, September, and October are considered the best times to visit Oahu due to fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

  What is the significance of the Iolani Palace in Honolulu?

The Iolani Palace is historically significant as the luxurious former residence of Hawaiian monarchs, representing the monarchy’s history in Hawaii.

  Which famous surf spot is located near Waikiki Beach?

Duke Kahanamoku, the surfing superstar, started at Waikiki Beach before transforming the world of surfing forever.

  What can visitors expect to see at Diamond Head State Park?

At Diamond Head State Park, visitors can explore an enormous volcanic crater and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

  What historical event earned Kamehameha the title of King of Hawaii?

The Battle of Nu’uanu, a significant battle in Hawaiian history, earned Kamehameha the title of King of Hawaii.

  Where can visitors catch a glimpse of the last remaining Heiau on O’ahu?

Visitors can catch a glimpse of the last remaining Heiau on O’ahu during the tour, where these ancient temples still hold great significance.

Inclusions and Exclusions

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The 5 Best Oahu Circle Island Tours

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

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Ditch the need for a rental car by going on one of the best Oahu circle island tours! Take in the best stops on the island with a local guide who does the driving, talks story, and is your private photographer.

While we enjoy making Hawaii island itineraries and sharing them with you, we would be doing you wrong by not recommending an Oahu circle island tour.

Here are our reasons for doing an Oahu circle island tour during your visit:

• Pick the Oahu circle island tour right for you! Large group, private, adventure, small group, Pearl Harbor included, etc.
• They are a great way to see the whole island in one day and then go back to your favorite part of the island.
• Let a local guide share their island knowledge, history, and stories. Plus, they will know the best stops based on the weather.
• Skip a rental car on Oahu and those $50-a-night parking fees by exploring the island with a circle island tour.
• Do the tour on your first day. You will have a better understanding of the island’s geography, where to go back, and the history of the island.
• A photographer is included! Your guide is also your photographer to help capture those Hawaii memories

When it comes to guided tours, Oahu circle island tours are your one-stop shop for the North Shore and sights like Diamond Head and Makapu’u Lighthouse! You’ll get to see some of the best of the Gathering Place without the hassle of planning and driving, which is also great if you’re short on time. 

Ready to explore the best of Oahu? Join one of these Oahu circle island tours and get to adventuring!  Our quick list is below!

Here are the best Oahu circle island tours (in our opinion): – Are you looking for an adventure tour ? Take a private tour that you can customize with hiking, waterfall swims, snorkeling, and more! – A private tour of Oahu with two 1.5-hour activities and multiple photo spots. – Best large group tour (45 passengers) at a good price. – Are you staying in Ko Olina in West Oahu? This tour will pick you up at your Ko Olina resort (Disney’s Aulani, Four Seasons, Marriott, etc) – Small group tour (13 people) without the private tour price

When you book an Oahu circle island tour on our website, you are getting the best price and you are booking directly with the local tour company.

By booking here, you are helping us provide more quality reviews . Mahalo!

The Best Oahu Circle Island Tours

Full disclosure, we have been on some of these circle island tours but not all of them. But, we have thoroughly researched all of these tour companies and gotten feedback from our newsletter community.

We are confident you will enjoy these Oahu circle island tours as we looked at the following characteristics:

• Value: a quality tour at a good price
• The best online reviews and comments
• They have the best Oahu stops and activities
• Their local guides are knowledgeable, fun, and professional
• They have quality and comfortable vehicles

Watch our experience on our favorite Oahu circle island tour below to help you better understand what to expect on your day around the island.

Best Large Group Oahu Circle Island Tour

Hop on this 10-hour Oahu adventure that’s perfect for big families and groups. Oahu Nature Tours Ultimate Circle Island Tour accommodates up to 45 people and is a jam-packed day of sightseeing!

The tour includes lunch and access to Waimea Valley . Some of the notable stops include Diamond Head Crater, Halona Blowhole, sea turtles at Halona Beach, Makapu’u Lighthouse, Mokoli’i Island, North Shore shrimp farms, and the Dole Plantation. 

One of the coolest things about this Circle Island tour is that they bring along an expert nature guide to point out Hawaii’s unique flora and fauna, alongside information on Oahu’s rich history, geology, and heritage. 

This tour includes roundtrip transportation – they’ll pick you up from your hotel in Honolulu – and lunch from Fumi’s Shrimp Stand, with delicious options like lemon pepper shrimp and chicken katsu. You’ll also walk away with a 152-page, pocket nature guide as a souvenir!

Don’t forget your rain ponchos! Hawaii’s variable weather won’t stop you as this tour operates rain or shine. You’ll also want to wear comfortable shoes ( we like Tevas ) although you’ll only clock about 1.5 miles throughout the day. Guests must be 3 years and older. 

Best Oahu Private Tours

A private tour of Oahu is a special treat! We love customizing our itinerary and having the flexibility of a private guide for the day. This is one of those times when splurging is well worth it!

Some of the best parts of a private tour is that you get to pick exactly what you want to see and do (or they’ll choose for you), you’ll be picked up right at your accommodation, and you have your tour guide all to yourself for any burning questions. 

Here are two of our favorite companies for private tours of Oahu.

Mahina Hawaii

Mahina Hawaii runs completely private, 8-hour tours of Oahu, whether you want to do a full Circle Island Tour or focus on one specific area. The entire tour is tailored to what your group wants to see and they choose locations based on both your preferences and current weather conditions. 

Although the itinerary is fully customizable, some options include snorkeling, hiking to waterfalls, cliff jumping, local food tastings, and traditional sightseeing at destinations like the Byodo-in Temple. Because this tour is just for you and your group, you can stop anywhere along the way, whether it is planned or spur of the moment.

Your private guide, transportation, snacks, water, snorkel equipment, and GoPro photos and videos are all included. Although lunch isn’t provided they have many delicious recommendations to choose from along the way.

If you have more than 7 in your group, you’ll need to let them know when you book the tour. They can get more van and local guides to fit your group size. 

We went out with them on one of our Oahu trips and had a blast!

Halia Tours

Halia Tours operates a 9-hour circle island tour that can accommodate groups of up to 10. Each tour aims to include two 1.5-hour activities and 3 to 5 photo stops with plenty of time to grab snacks and a bite to eat along the way.

Because this is a private tour, your itinerary is fully customizable to circumnavigate Oahu’s Koolau Range. Just some of the activity options include Oahu’s world-famous beaches, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking to Diamond Head or the Waimea Valley waterfall, scenic lookouts, and downtown Honolulu stops like the Bishop’s Museum. You can even “theme” your tour around foodie hot spots and shopping. 

Although they are a private tour group and guests can “go anywhere” they emphasized not entering local neighborhoods or heading to unsafe areas. Food, drinks, rentals, and any additional entrance fees are a la carte. 

If you’re looking for a half-day option, they can also do a “ mini tour ” that will have you back at your hotel, sipping Mai Tais by the early afternoon. They have flat rate pricing for groups of 1-5 or 5-10, which might affect your decision if you’re a smaller group.

Best Oahu Circle Island Tour from Ko Olina

Most group tours on Oahu leave from Waikiki. If you’re staying in Ko Olina Resort (Disney’s Aulani, Marriott, Four Seasons) , E Noa is your best option! Offering a 9-hour, group circle island tour for up to 25 guests, this group size feels a little less “big box” than the large tours and allows for plenty of time to truly experience all of the wonderful Oahu highlights along the way. 

You’ll avoid Honolulu traffic, stopping at sights like Nu’uanu Pali Lookout, Byodo-In Temple, Tropical Farms for macadamia nut cultivation, Waimea Valley, and end at the Dole Plantation.

Lunch and all of your admission fees are included in the price which makes this a great value. You’ll also be riding in style in a mini-bus with A/C and pick up and drop off from your hotel. Don’t forget to bring along your bathing suit and comfortable walking shoes.

Reminder, this tour departs from Ko Olina on the west side of Oahu.

Undecided about where to stay? Which Part of Oahu Should You Stay: Waikiki or Ko Olina or North Shore Where to Stay on Oahu: the Best Locations and Hotels Hawaii Hotel vs Airbnb: How to Decide What’s Best For Your Hawaii Vacation

Best Small Group Oahu Circle Island Tour

Pineapple Exp ’ small group circle island tour is the perfect option for those who want a more intimate experience without the private tour sticker shock.

Not only will you have plenty of time to stop and truly experience each place but your guide will be more readily available for questions and to drop some knowledge.

You’ll travel around Oahu with up to just 13 other vacationers on this 9-hour journey. Just some of your stops along the way are popular sights like Diamond Head State Monument, Byodo-In Temple, Makapu’u Point, Haleiwa Town Center, Dole Plantation, and North Shore Macadamia Nut Company. You’ll also stop at a few places that some of the other tours don’t such as Secret Turtle Beach and the Halona Blowhole.

Transportation to and from your hotel, water, snorkeling equipment, and Dole Whip are all included and all ages are welcome. You’re also gifted a Hawaiian pineapple at the end! How awesome is that? 

Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit, comfy walking shoes, and reef-safe sunscreen!

Thinking of staying on the North Shore? The Best North Shore Oahu Hotels and Vacation Rentals 21 Amazing Things to Do on Oahu’s North Shore A Local Resident’s 10 Free Things To Do on North Shore Oahu

What to Expect on an Oahu Circle Island Tour

Oahu circle island tour itinerary (sample).

Wondering what you’ll see on an Oahu Circle Island Tour? Here’s an idea of what you can expect… 

• Tours typically start in Honolulu and head east in a counter-clockwise direction around the island. 
• First stops are often Diamond Head Crater and Makapu’u Point, continuing north to Byodo-In Temple and one of the macadamia nut farms (yum!). 
• You’ll then explore the North Shore including the town of Haleiwa and Waimea Valley. 
• Most tours finish up at the Dole Plantation for a sweet treat on your way back to Honolulu.

We highly recommend saving Pearl Harbor for a day of its own. Circle island tours that include a stop at Pearl Harbor are exceptionally long and it takes up a good chunk of the day that could be spent seeing other sights on Oahu.

We have a separate list of Pearl Harbor Tours if you’re interested in a guided option or you can easily visit on your own .

How long is an Oahu circle island tour?

Plan to be gone for an entire day on one of Oahu’s circle island tours. Most options range anywhere from 8 to 10 hours in total, with the majority of tours taking around 9 hours on average. Tours typically pick you up from (or near) your hotel early in the morning and drop you off just in time for dinner.

What is the best way to tour Oahu?

Hopping on a circle island guided tour is one of the best ways to see Oahu. These tours include most of the famous sites on the island, so you can tick off a bunch of different activities in one go. You’ll also have the added benefit of a professional guide, who can give you background on local history and culture, and you won’t have to worry about any planning.  

If you’re thinking about DIYing the same route with a rental car, we highly recommend following our Oahu itinerary ! Keep in mind that renting a car can be a little bit of a hassle and comes with some “hidden” fees like overnight parking at your hotel.

What is the most scenic part of Oahu?

We couldn’t give the award for the most scenic part of Oahu to just one place. The whole island is very beautiful! 

Our two favorites for scenery on the island are the North Shore and Windward Oahu. 

The North Shore is a must for its more down-to-earth, local vibes and lush scenery. Winter brings big waves and surfing competitions that are exciting to see. A visit in summer means you can enjoy the stunning beaches from both the sand and the water. 

Windward Oahu has a truly stunning stretch of coastline between Kualoa and Kailua. The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden also makes for an incredible stop and is one of the most scenic spots we’ve found on Oahu. Picture 400 acres of gardens to explore with plants from around the world, all with the backdrop of Oahu’s jagged, Ko’olau Range.

Keep exploring: Is There a Best Time to Visit Oahu? The 4 Best Months 40 Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii (we will surprise you!) 10 Best Beaches on Oahu: Secluded, White Sand, Find It All 34 Great Things to Do in Honolulu (that are actually IN Honolulu)

If you love the idea of a circle island tour so you don’t have to worry about planning, then you are going to love our itineraries . The best beaches, restaurants, hotels, vacation rentals, tours, and fully planned excursion days are at your fingertips. Skip the countless hours of research and planning, leave it to us, and go have an amazing vacation!

we are very very pleased with the itinerary you have put together. Well worth the money as I think this would have taken days and days to research ourselves .  You two do a great job putting this together and it’s much appreciated. Robert K.

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the oahu itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Oahu.

Thanks for reading The Hawaii Vacation Guide! I'm the co-founder, with my wife Erica, of the best Hawaii travel guide on the internet in our biased opinions. We enjoy traveling throughout Hawaii after living on Maui and Oahu. We share our adventures, travel tips and resources, and honest reviews so you can easily plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Editing our videos, teaching the kids how to snorkel, and learning about the 'aina (land) and Hawaii culture are my favorite things to do. Have a wonderful trip to the Aloha State.

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Oahu sightseeing tour and driving map via the Pali Lookout

UPDATE : Since we originally wrote the DIY day trip guides to Oahu, obtaining reservations at Pearl Harbor for the boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial have become much more difficult to secure with a reservation time that fits within our already-ambitious plans. As such, to minimize the stress, it probably makes more sense to choose a guided, day-trip tours that includes roundtrip airfare . Here are some fully guided tours that we are aware of:

• Day trip from Kauai including USS Arizona Memorial – Tour
• Day trip from Big Island to Oahu, including USS Arizona Memorial – Tour
• Day trip from Maui to Oahu, including USS Arizona Memorial – Tour

This Oahu day trip plan is designed for you to see many of Oahu’s top attractions in one day. Fly into Honolulu airport from one of the other Hawaiian Islands. Spend the day discovering Oahu. Then, fly back to the island where you’re staying.

This day trip plan starts from HNL airport in Honolulu, Oahu. From there, you go to the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument where you can visit the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor. After a solemn stop at Punchbowl and a visit to one of the island’s most beloved bakeries, you’ll then head outside of the hustle and bustle of Honolulu to see amazing views along the windward and north shores of Oahu.

This particular plan goes to the Pali Lookout  and then onwards . (We have a different plan that goes to Halona Blowhole Lookout and Makapuu Lookout . All the other stops are the same. To help you decide which plan you prefer, see this link .)

* Due to Google Map limitations (only 10 destinations per map) we have to split the directions into two separate maps. So, consider the second portion the continuation of the first. *

First Portion of Oahu Tour Drive

Here’s the written explanation of the first half of the Oahu drive tour map:

• Start from Honolulu (HNL) airport. Rent a car. Your actual starting location may be different depending on where your rental car company is. For simplicity, we’ve started the directions from the main airport address. You can modify the starting point to customize it to your actual starting point.
• Go to Pearl Harbor National Memorial Park. See our article with tips for visiting Pearl Harbor also review the national park’s website . You can take in the views and snap photos from the shoreline where you can see the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri which are positioned near each other. The USS Bowfin submarine is also in Pearl Harbor at the northern end (towards the Ford Island Bridge) of the Pearl Harbor National Memorial Park grounds. Additionally you can tour the open air museum. Taking in the views and checking out the museum is all free and does not require a ticket. If you want to take the boat ride out to the USS Arizona Memorial, you must have a reservation with a specific time. Ticketing/reservations have become increasingly tricky since we originally wrote this article. If you are able to get an early morning reservation for the boat ride, allow 1.5 hours for your time here. If not, allow 45 minutes. Note that if you do not have a reservation, inquire upon arrival for any standby opportunities.  [If you get a reservation that keeps you here longer than 1.5 hours, bear in mind that you may have to adjust this plan to keep you on time.]
• Punchbowl, the National Cemetery of the Pacific. From this peaceful, resting place, you can contemplate the ultimate sacrifices. From here, there’s also a sweeping view of Honolulu — including one of Oahu’s most iconic mountains — Diamond Head. See more details about visiting Punchbowl . Allow 30 minutes here.
• A mid-morning snack may be in order, so we recommend a stop at nearby Liliha Bakery. They’re known throughout Hawaii and beyond for their Coco Puffs . Plan on 15 minutes at this bakery.
• The Nuuanu Pali Lookout , gets you out of the city of Honolulu out to those green mountains. There is a parking fee so check the park’s page for current fees and policies. Plan on 15 minutes here.
• Lanikai Beach is the next stop, but not the last, in our Oahu tour. With it’s powdery, white sand and turquoise waters, Lanikai is thought to be one of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches. There’s no parking lot for Lanikai. You must find off street parking and one of the beach access paths. Make sure that you are respectful in where you park and do not trespass. The Google Map directions only get you to the general area. Allow 30 minutes to park and see Lanikai.

Note that this first portion of the drive tour will take approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. If your visit to Oahu is constrained by a same day arrival and departure flight, take note of how much time has actually elapsed so that you can plan accordingly.

Second Portion of Oahu Tour Drive

> From this  link to second portion of map  you can customize stops, print directions and/or download directions to your smart phone.

Now, we’ll move to the second portion of your Oahu driving tour. Note that the only reason we’ve split the drive into two halves is that Google Maps limits the number of destinations to 10 per map.

• Starting from Lanikai Beach, we’re heading north to on Oahu’s windward side.
• Byodo-In Temple and its setting is truly a stunning sight. There is a nominal fee to visit. As of January, 2017, the fee is $3 per adult, $2 per senior and $1 per child. See our post about Byodo-In Temple . Allow up to 30 minutes here.
• A stop at Kualoa Beach Park will give you an opportunity to stop to view Mokoli’i, which is more commonly known as Chinaman’s Hat. It’s one of Oahu’s more iconic views. See our post about stopping at Kualoa Beach Park . Allow 15 minutes here.
• Laie Point is next. Allow up to 15 minutes here.
• Lunch options in Kahuku and beyond –  If you like shrimp, the North Shore Oahu shrimp truck’s are famous. As you continue north on Highway 83, you’ll see the shrimp trucks on the right.  There are several options in Kahuku as you can see from this Yelp link . As we don’t have a favorite shrimp truck, we’re just going to identify Kahuku, in general, on the map. We suggest sharing a plate as we have another food stop about 30 minutes down the road. If you don’t like shrimp, a couple more options that are close by are restaurants at Turtle Bay Resort (parking fee that might be validated is possible) on the right side of Highway 83 and Ted’s Bakery on the left side of Highway 83. Allow 30 minutes to get lunch.
• Along the North Shore of Oahu, there are many picturesque beaches. We’ve identified Sunset Beach on the map. Stop there, if you like, or pick another one along the way. FYI – the Banzai Pipeline at Ehukai Beach Park is just a mile further down from Sunset Beach. Another potential point of interest on the North Shore is the beach where the hit television show LOST was filmed. You can find directions to the “ LOST  beach” here . Allow 30 minutes to enjoy one or two North Shore Beaches.
• Our next stop is for Hawaii’s famous shave ice at Matsumoto’s in the surfer town of Haleiwa.
• Alas, it’s time to make our way back to the airport. You will drive past pineapple fields, coffee and other fruit fields on the way.

Including driving time and stops and getting back to the airport, the second portion of the driving tour will take five hours.

Important Notes:

• The combined driving time and time spent at each stop is estimated to take 9 hours and 30 minutes.
• Allow time to get from the gate to the rental car site. We estimate that will take roughly 30 minutes.
• Allow at least  one hour and 30 minutes to get gas, return your rental car, take the shuttle to the airport terminal, get boarding passes, go through security and get to your gate.
• With the tour time plus the allowances getting your rental car, returning it, etc. You should plan a minimum of 11 hours and 30 minutes on Oahu. Adding an extra cushion of time wouldn’t hurt at all.
• The drive times are generated by Google Maps. They do not take into account traffic jams or stoppages. As best we can, we have tried to avoid typical traffic jams. So, if you get caught in an extended delay, you may have to adjust the sightseeing plans accordingly.
• We’ve listed scenic stops, but the entire drive is rather scenic.
• Don’t leave valuables unattended in your rental car.
• Take note of what you can and can’t carry into the Pearl Harbor  monuments.
• Bring your smart phone charger to top up battery life that navigation tends to quickly consume.
• Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat and perhaps a light rain proof jacket. You’ll likely want a jacket at the Pali Lookout.

What about Waikiki Beach?

Why haven’t we included Waikiki Beach? There are several reasons why we’ve not included Waikiki but the most important one is that finding convenient and inexpensive parking can be a challenge.  To drive there, find parking and walk to the beach to soak in the views and snap photos will probably add another hour or more on top our already lengthy schedule. If you want to visit Waikiki Beach, it’s more efficient to do so by modifying our Oahu driving tour via Halona Blowhole and Makapuu Lookout .

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THE BEST Day Trips from Waikiki to Honolulu

Day trips from waikiki to honolulu.

• Waikiki to Honolulu
• Waikiki to Haleiwa
• Waikiki to Aiea
• Waikiki to Kahuku
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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3. Best of Oahu Full-Day Small-Group Island Tour

4. Private Oahu Tour | Up to 14 People | Beaches, Food & Aloha

5. Oahu Premium Quality Tour: Island Highlights in Small Group

6. Experience Best of Oahu in One Unforgettable Day | Circle Island

7. South-East Oahu Adventure Private Tour

8. Deluxe Pearl Harbor and Famous Waikiki Beach Tour from Kona

9. Full Day Pearl Harbor and Famous Waikiki Beach Tour from Maui

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Half Day Pearl Harbor with USS Arizona Memorial and City Tour

Circle Island North Shore Adventure Tour + Snorkeling

Waikiki Trolley Blue Line Coastline & Local Grindz Hop-on Hop-off

Hidden Gems of Oahu Circle Island Tour with Byodo In Temple

Oahu Grand Circle Island Audio Driving Tour

Hawaiian Food Tour by Bike in Oahu

Full-Day Guided Adventure in Koko Head Stairs and Southeast O'ahu

Oahu Off the Beaten Path Sacred Sites Small-Group Tour from Honolulu

Day Trip from Oahu to Kauai: Waimea Canyon & Wailua River

North Shore Adventure Shuttle

Circle Island Adventure Tour with Custom Itinerary

Day Trip from Oahu to Hilo: Active Volcanoes

Pearl Harbor with USS Arizona, City Tour + Local Restaurant Lunch

Oahu Cultural Food Slingshot Private Tour

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Private luxury tour of Oahu island

Full-Day Tour to Kailua Hawaii with Return Trip Shuttle

Guided E-Bike and Kayak Tour to Mokulua Islands in Kailua, Oahu

Oahu Aloha Slingshot Tour

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