Road Tripping in Oahu: Best Scenic Routes and Hidden Gems to Explore by Car
Are you planning a trip to Oahu and looking for the best way to explore the island? Why not rent a car and hit the road for an unforgettable road trip adventure? With its stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and hidden gems, Oahu offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the best scenic routes and hidden gems to explore by car, so you can make the most of your Oahu road trip.
North Shore Scenic Drive
The North Shore Scenic Drive is a must-see for any road tripper in Oahu. This 27-mile stretch of road runs along the coast from Haleiwa to Kahuku and offers breathtaking views of the ocean, beaches, and rugged cliffs. Along the way, you can stop at iconic surfing spots like Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, visit charming beach towns like Haleiwa and Laie, and enjoy delicious food at local restaurants and food trucks.
Tantalus Drive
For a scenic drive through the mountains, head to Tantalus Drive in the Pu’u Ualaka’a State Park. This winding road offers panoramic views of Honolulu, Diamond Head, and the ocean, as well as lush greenery and tropical forests. You can stop at lookout points and hiking trails along the way, such as the Tantalus Lookout and the Makiki Valley Loop Trail, for a closer look at the natural beauty of Oahu.
Kaena Point State Park
For a more remote and wild experience, drive to Kaena Point State Park at the westernmost tip of Oahu. This rugged and remote area is only accessible by foot or 4-wheel drive, but it’s worth the effort for its stunning scenery and wildlife. You can hike to the point and watch for dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in the ocean, or spot rare birds and plants in the dry coastal ecosystem.
Makapu’u Point Scenic Drive
Another scenic drive in Oahu is the Makapu’u Point Scenic Drive, which runs along the southeastern coast of the island. This 6-mile road offers stunning views of the ocean, rugged cliffs, and scenic beaches, as well as access to popular attractions like the Makapu’u Lighthouse and the Makapu’u Tide Pools. You can also stop at lookout points and hiking trails along the way, such as the Makapu’u Point Lookout and the Makapu’u Tom-Tom Trail.
Kualoa Ranch
For a unique and adventurous road trip experience, head to Kualoa Ranch on the east side of Oahu. This 4,000-acre private nature reserve offers a variety of activities and attractions, including movie and TV filming locations, horseback riding, ATV tours, and zip-lining. You can drive through the scenic valley and stop at various points of interest, such as the Jurassic Park Gate and the Secret Island Beach.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a first-time visitor to Oahu, exploring the island by car is an unforgettable experience. With its diverse landscapes, stunning scenery, and hidden gems, Oahu offers endless opportunities for adventure and discovery. So why not rent a car and hit the road for an unforgettable road trip in Oahu?
Book your rental car with AutoHub Car Rentals and enjoy a wide selection of vehicles at affordable rates. Contact us today at (808) 435-4497 or visit our reservation page to book your car rental and start your Oahu road trip adventure today!