Road Tripping on Oahu

Last week, I shared an unusual way (to some) to explore the Hawaiian islands. A road trip experience! Since we almost always suggest a car rental on the islands, why not create your own holoholo kaa (driving) adventure while you are there? Check out our suggestions below for travelers going to Oahu. Then, if you haven't already, read about the Island of Hawaii. We will share Kauai and Maui in upcoming posts.

Queen's Beach with Leahi in the background - Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Vincent Lim

If you are staying in Waikiki on Oahu, you might not need a car. However, we do encourage you to get out of Waikiki/Honolulu and explore the many other fascinating areas of the island. We can book the car ahead of time for you on your trip, or you can get just a one-day car rental from your hotel.

Couple looking from near Makapuu Lighthouse to Manana Island - Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson

From Honolulu and Waikiki, start heading eastward along the island's south coast stopping at Leahi (aka Diamond Head) State Monument, Oahu's world famous volcanic tuff cone. Take a moderately challenging hike that ends with stunning views of the city and several of its urban valleys. On Route 72, the Makapuu Point Lighthouse sits on the island's easternmost point on a bluff overlooking popular

bodysurfing spot Makapuu Beach, family-friendly Sea Life Park and Oahu's striking

Windward Coast.

Waves wash up on Waimanalo Beach - Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson

Continue on to Waimanalo Beach Park and spend some time on the beach and enjoying the sun and sand. If you want, you can return to Honolulu via the Koolau mountain range-crossing Pali Highway (Route 61). Or, you can extend your drive up the island's verdant Windward Coast on Route 83 until you reach Oahu's North Shore and its world-famous surf breaks. Idyllic picnic spots on the way up the coast include Kualoa Regional Park, Waimea Bay and Kahana Valley.

Check out this map with driving directions!