Oahu has a mix of coastal highways, mountain roads, and charming town routes that make exploring by car a rewarding experience. The best Oahu scenic drives feature ocean views, lush landscapes, and access to some of Hawaii’s most iconic landmarks.
You can see turquoise waters along the Windward Coast and rugged cliffs near the North Shore. Each route reveals a different side of the island.
You can follow well-known routes like the Kamehameha Highway Loop for a full-day journey. If you prefer, choose shorter drives that focus on specific regions.
Many roads reach famous beaches, historic sites, and lookout points perfect for quick stops and photos. The variety of scenery makes it easy to plan a trip for any schedule or interest.
You can cruise past pineapple fields, wind through rainforest valleys, or stop at coastal overlooks. Each drive lets you experience Oahu’s natural beauty at your own pace.
Top Scenic Drives on Oahu
You can explore steep mountain ridges, oceanfront roads, and historic lookouts without leaving your car. These routes pass through coastal towns, beaches, and lush valleys.
You will find easy access to well-known landmarks and natural scenery.
H-3 Highway and the Koolau Mountain Range
The H-3 Highway cuts through the heart of Oʻahu and links Honolulu to Kaneohe. It passes through the Koolau Mountain Range and gives drivers close-up views of steep green cliffs and deep valleys.
The drive includes elevated sections and tunnels, including the 5,165-foot-long Tetsuo Harano Tunnel. On clear days, you can see Kaneohe Bay as you exit toward the windward side.
This road is part of Highway 3 and stands out for its engineering and scenery. Early mornings or late afternoons usually have lighter traffic and better views.
Pali Highway and Pali Lookout
The Pali Highway connects Honolulu to Kailua and climbs quickly into the mountains. The highlight is the Pali Lookout, a historic site with sweeping views of the windward coast.
From the lookout, you can see Kaneohe, the coastline, and the Koolau cliffs. Strong winds are common, so bring a light jacket.
The drive is short but scenic, with dense forest and steep ridges on both sides. The Pali Lookout is free to visit, though parking fees apply.
Kamehameha Highway and the North Shore
The Kamehameha Highway runs along much of Oʻahu’s coastline and ranks among the most popular Oahu scenic drives. The stretch from Haleiwa to Turtle Bay passes famous surf beaches like Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, and Banzai Pipeline.
In winter, large waves attract surfers from around the world. In summer, the water is calmer and better for swimming and snorkeling.
Small towns along the North Shore have food trucks, fruit stands, and local shops. The road is two lanes for most of the way, so traffic can be slow during peak surf season.
Diamond Head Road and the South Shore
Diamond Head Road curves around the base of Diamond Head, a volcanic crater near Waikiki. The route offers ocean views on one side and the crater’s slopes on the other.
Several pullouts let you stop and take photos of the coastline and Waikiki Beach in the distance. Early mornings have softer light and fewer cars.
This short drive connects easily to other South Shore routes, making it a convenient addition to a day in Honolulu. The Diamond Head Road area also has access points for hiking trails into the crater.
Must-See Stops and Viewpoints
You can find quiet coastal roads, unique cultural landmarks, and ocean views that change with every turn. From airport-side lookouts to bays, cliffs, and temples, each location gives a distinct glimpse into Oahu’s scenery and history.
Lagoon Drive and Honolulu Airport
Lagoon Drive runs along the edge of Honolulu Airport and gives an unexpected view of both the runway and the Pacific Ocean. Visitors often park at the end of the road to watch planes take off and land.
This spot also shows the Honolulu skyline and the Koʻolau Mountain Range. Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light for photos.
It’s a quick stop and a memorable one for aviation fans or anyone looking for a peaceful water view near the city.
Hanauma Bay and Halona Blowhole
Hanauma Bay is a marine life conservation area known for its curved shoreline and coral reef. Snorkelers often spot tropical fish in the shallow waters.
Entry is limited, so arrive early. A short drive toward Hawaii Kai brings you to the Halona Blowhole.
This natural rock formation shoots seawater upward when waves hit it just right. The best viewing happens during high surf.
Nearby, the Halona Beach Cove is a small sandy inlet tucked between cliffs. You can see it from the lookout, and it is known for clear, calm water on low-surf days.
Makapu’u Lighthouse and Waimanalo Beach
The Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail is a paved, uphill walk with views of the southeastern coastline. On clear days, you can see offshore islets and even whales in winter.
The red-roofed lighthouse is not open to the public, but the viewing area offers a great photo spot. Just north is Waimanalo Beach, a long stretch of soft sand and turquoise water.
The beach is less crowded than those in Waikiki and is good for swimming and picnics. The drive between Makapu’u and Waimanalo passes rugged cliffs and ocean views, making it a scenic link between the two stops.
Byodo-In Temple and Valley of the Temples
The Byodo-In Temple sits at the base of the Koʻolau Mountains in Kāneʻohe. Built to honor the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii, it is a smaller-scale replica of a 950-year-old temple in Japan.
Visitors can ring the large brass bell before entering. The surrounding Valley of the Temples Memorial Park has landscaped grounds and views toward Kāneʻohe Bay.
The temple’s koi ponds, bridges, and gardens create a quiet setting away from the main roads. You can reach the temple via Kahekili Highway or Kailua Road through Kaneohe.
Both routes offer glimpses of the coastline and mountain ridges. For more details on scenic routes, check this guide to Oahu’s best scenic drives.
Exploring the North Shore and Beyond
You can follow the coastline from small surf towns to remote beaches where the road ends. Along the way, you will pass famous surf breaks, quiet coves, and rural communities that show a slower side of Oahu.
Haleiwa and Waimea Bay
Haleiwa is a historic town with plantation-era buildings and local shops. Visitors often stop here for fresh shrimp plates, shave ice, or to browse art galleries.
The town serves as the gateway to the North Shore. A short drive north leads to Waimea Bay, a popular spot for swimming in summer and big wave surfing in winter.
Waves here can reach over 20 feet during peak surf season. Nearby, Waimea Valley has a botanical garden and a short hike to a waterfall where swimming is allowed when conditions are safe.
Parking can be limited, so arriving early helps.
Banzai Pipeline and Turtle Bay
The Banzai Pipeline at Ehukai Beach Park is one of the most famous surf spots in the world. In winter, people gather to watch professional surfers tackle powerful waves close to shore.
In calmer months, the beach becomes a good spot for bodyboarding and sunbathing. The reef here is shallow, so swimming needs caution.
Farther east, Turtle Bay Resort sits on a peninsula with beaches on both sides. Even non-guests can access public shoreline areas.
The calm coves near Turtle Bay are good for snorkeling, especially in summer. Walking trails around the resort lead to scenic points with views toward Mokolii, also called Chinaman’s Hat.
These paths are flat and easy to follow.
Kaena Point and Waialua
Kaena Point marks the western tip of Oahu. You can reach it only by hiking along the coast from the North Shore or Waianae side.
The trail passes tide pools, seabird nesting areas, and rugged lava cliffs. From the North Shore, the hike starts near Mokuleia Beach and follows an unpaved path.
There is no shade, so bring water and sun protection. The nearby town of Waialua is quieter than Haleiwa but has a few cafes and a farmers’ market.
Driving here along Farrington Highway gives views of open fields and distant mountains. On the Waianae side, the drive toward Kaena Point passes Ko Olina and several small beach parks before the road ends.
Tips for the Perfect Oahu Road Trip
You can make the most of your Oahu road trip by timing your drives well and following local road customs. Plan stops that match your interests.
Coastal views, historic landmarks, and short hikes can all fit into one day with the right route.
Best Times and Routes
Early mornings usually have lighter traffic and cooler temperatures, making it easier to enjoy scenic drives on Oahu. Midday is busier, especially near downtown Honolulu and popular beaches.
Many travelers choose the Oahu circle drive for a full-day trip. It connects the south shore, windward coast, and North Shore.
Shorter options include the Tantalus Round Top Drive for city and ocean views from the Tantalus Lookout. For those interested in historical and nature stops, start near Diamond Head State Monument and follow the coast past Kuilei Cliffs and the Amelia Earhart Memorial for great photo opportunities.
On clear days, you can even see Lanai and Molokai from certain viewpoints.
Safety and Local Etiquette
Watch for narrow roads, sharp turns, and sudden rain showers, especially on mountain routes like Nu‘uanu Pali Drive. Speed limits are usually lower than on the mainland, and police strictly enforce them.
Let faster cars pass when it is safe. Locals appreciate it when visitors use turnouts instead of holding up traffic.
Park only in marked areas to help protect fragile coastal and forest areas. Slow down near crosswalks, especially in towns like Haleʻiwa and Kailua.
Always wear seat belts. Using a phone while driving is illegal unless you use a hands-free device.
Recommended Activities and Stops
A well-planned route can combine sightseeing, history, and outdoor fun. Many travelers visit Pearl Harbor early in the day.
Afterward, they head east toward coastal lookouts. Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay is popular, but you need to make reservations.
Nearby, you can explore a natural lava tube along the coast. For sunset views, the Tantalus Quarry area offers a quiet alternative to crowded beaches.
Food trucks on the North Shore serve fresh seafood. They make a great stop before you return to Honolulu.
If you have extra time, walk around downtown Honolulu to see historic buildings and local shops.
