Driving Around Oahu
At nearly 600 square miles, Oahu is larger than most visitors expect, creating a difficult situation for guests eager to see it all. To become fully acquainted with the beautiful island of Oahu, many visitors to the Hawaiian island choose to rent a car. This freedom allows guests to tour the full loop of the island and take full advantage of Oahu’s diversity.
The entire loop takes about 4 hours to complete, not including stops along the way, but it’s a great opportunity to see all that Oahu has to offer. Due to its infamous hotel cluster and phenomenal restaurant scene, most visitors base their vacations in Honolulu, usually near Waikiki Beach. This represents a great starting point for driving around Oahu. Detailed descriptions of popular lookout points along the trail are written below.
1. Maunalua Bay Beach Park: Located near Honolulu, Maunalua Bay Beach Park is a sprawling grassy park right next to a stretch of beach. The park offers free parking and picnic tables, as well as a great view of Diamond Head.
2. Spitting Caves: Farther east, Spitting Caves is a series of small cliffs hidden within a residential neighborhood. The cliffs offer beautiful photo opportunities, but cliff diving in this area is particularly dangerous due to high winds, hidden rocks, and other hazards.
3. Hanauma Bay – Among the most scenic overlooks on Oahu, Hanauma Bay is a must-be included on any driving tour. The bay itself is crystal blue along a beautiful narrow strip of sparkling sand. If you have more time on your hands, grab a couple of snorkels and explore the bay up close.
4. Kualoa Regional Park – Further north, Kualoa Regional Park is a sprawling beach with a great view of China’s Hat Island. It is possible to kayak to the island on calm days, but quite challenging in higher winds.
5. Waimea Bay Beach Park: Waimea Bay Beach Park is another long, pristine beach with luscious crystal clear waters and shady palm trees. This park is home to the Waimea Bay jumping rock. Parking is free and the beach can get crowded in beautiful weather.
6. Mokuleia Beach Park: Located along the western shore of Oahu, Mokuleia Beach Park is so windy that it has earned a reputation as a kite-flying destination. The skies are often filled with colorful kites and streamers, making it a fun family destination.
7. Ko Olina Marina – Located on Ko Olina itself, the marina offers a change of pace from the string of beaches. Its collection of ships and boats is impressive, and several boat trips depart from this area.
Regardless of your interest, the Oahu driving tour will offer spectacular views of land and sea, a look at Oahu’s inner mountain ranges, the chance to partake in a variety of water sports, and the chance to sample some exotic foods. Make the most of your time on the island by renting a car and driving the full loop.