How long does it take to drive around Hawaii?
I’ve been on multiple trips to multiple places around Hawaiian islands, but still to answer this question, it’s a bit tricky! The amount of time it takes can change significantly based on the conditions of traffic and the number of stops you wish to make.
In this article, we will discuss the specifics of scenic byways and the most important factors to keep traffic jams or gridlock away.
The answer depends on which island you’re exploring, as each has its own size, road network, and must-see attractions. Want to know how long to drive around hawaii? We’ve covered everything that you need to know.
Keep reading to know about the drive times for the major Hawaiian Islands!
Oahu
Drive Time: Approximately 4-6 hours for a full loop.
Driving on the third largest island of Hawaii, Oahu is an excellent road trip destination. Non-stop driving is about 3 hours and 30 mins.
But if you’re stopping at various attractions along the way and possibly heavy traffic jams come your way, it can take 4 to 6 hours. On these travels, which make up approximately 600 sq mi, there are diverse views including the Diamond Head Crater and Hanauma Bay.
Oahu is one of the easiest Hawaiian islands to explore, and a road trip around it is an absolute must! My favorite route starts in Honolulu follows the stunning east coast, swings by the legendary North Shore (hello, Banzai Pipeline! ), and loops back through the central plains.
With so many amazing stops—beaches (Waikiki Beach being one of my favorites), food trucks, and hikes—setting aside a full day is the way to go.
Must-See Stops On An Oahu Road Trip
An Oahu road trip is the perfect way to explore the island’s diverse beauty, from scenic beaches to historical landmarks and diverse landscapes. Here are some must-see stops on your Oahu road trip:
Waimanalo Beach
Looking for a peaceful beach away from the crowds? Waimanalo Beach is a dream. Due to the soft sand and turquoise waters, it’s ideal for swimming or simply sunbathing.
Lanikai Pillbox Hike
For epic views, I love the Lanikai Pillbox hike. It’s an easy climb and the payoff? Jaw-dropping views of the Mokulua Islands and Lanikai Beach.
Pearl Harbor
A trip to Oahu is impossible without visiting Pearl Harbor. Both the sombre memorials that stand at the USS Arizona and the Pacific Aviation Museum provide a powerful deeper dive into the island’s critical role in World War II.
Byodo-In Temple
Located in the Valley of the Temples this Buddhist temple provides a quiet getaway with amazing architecture and peaceful koi pond and beautiful Ko’olau views surrounded by lush vegetation.
North Shore
Head north for a taste of Oahu’s legendary surf culture. Get a visit to Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, where the waves, in the wintertime, can get truly epic heights. It’s also a fun spot to have a local food truck feast.
Waimea Waterfall
Start your journey on the North Shore at Waimea Falls, one of Oahu’s most famous waterfalls. A small trek into the rainforest brings you to a beautiful 45-foot waterfall, and there’s even an inviting plunge pool to cool off in.
Chinaman’s Hat Island (Mokoli’i Island)
Continuing along the coast, you’ll pass the iconic Chinaman’s Hat Island. This small, uninhabited island looks like a traditional Chinese hat and is a popular spot for kayakers and photographers. By boarding a boat or hiking into Kaneohe Bay you get a more intimate view.
Banzai Pipeline
As one of the most iconic surf breaks in the world, Banzai Pipeline on North Shore is a place that no surf-lover should miss. It is renowned for its large, churning waves which draw professional surfers worldwide. It’s a magnificent surfing spot in the winter season to see top-quality surfing.
Turtle Beach (Laniakea Beach)
Literally, right next door to Banzai Pipeline is Laniakea Beach, which is sometimes called “Turtle Beach. Here, you can often spot Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the sand, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Kualoa Ranch
No road trip around Oahu would be complete without a visit to Kualoa Ranch, a sprawling estate offering outdoor activities like ATV rides, horseback riding, and guided tours of its famous filming locations. It’s where movies like Jurassic Park were filmed, and the views of the verdant valley and dramatic cliffs are unforgettable.
No matter what you’re looking for, scenic scenes, waves, or historic sites, Oahu has it all. So grab some snacks, hit the road, and let the island surprise you!
Maui
Drive Time: 7-10 hours for a full loop, depending on the route.
Sure, you could drive the entire perimeter of Maui in about 9–10 hours without stopping—but where’s the fun in that? Plus, you’d miss out on some of the island’s best spots, like the breathtaking summit of Mount Haleakala.
To really experience Maui, I’d say plan for at least three full days, but if you can swing a week, even better!
Must-See Stops On A Maui Road Trip
Right, what are the best drives to do while you’re here? Here are my top picks:
Haleakala Summit
Haleakala is a massive dormant volcano that covers about 75% of Maui, and trust me, the drive to the summit is unreal. You’ll climb over 10,000 feet, with six distinct climate zones to navigate.
The views? Absolutely next level, especially at sunrise! Just make sure to reserve a place in advance if you want to see the sunrise or stay overnight.
Road To Hana
Road to Hana, if there is one drive that Maui is widely known for, it is. This 50+ mile trek follows through lush rainforests, waterfalls, and along spectacular cliff faces.
With more than 600 hairpin turns in 50+ one-lane bridges, it’s an adventure and 100% worth it. Any car or a scooter will be sufficient for the long stretch, but if you want to finish the full loop (i.e. the back road to Hana), a 4WD vehicle will be the best option.
Pi’ilani Highway (Back Road to Hana)
And not to mention that complete loop, the Pi’ilani Highway (Highway 31) isn’t for the timid of heart. It’s got some sketchy dirt roads and intense hairpin turns.
However, if you’re up for the challenge (and have a solid 4WD), you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of rugged mountains, rolling farmland, and even otherworldly lava fields. This drive is a must for those who want to experience all of Maui’s varied scenery.
West Maui Loop
Another epic run is the West Maui Loop, a drive around the West Maui Forest Reserve. This route encompasses the infamous Highway 340—the most dangerous road in the US. But if you’re confident behind the wheel, the coastal views are so worth it.
Also, this part of the island is good for whale watching! Make sure to get the weather report, as heavy rain can be hazardous.
More Scenic Drives Worth Checking Out
Maui has a treasure trove of great roads, and I wasn’t going to leave these out. If you have some time in hand, do check out these places:
Iao Valley: A quick and easy drive with stunning scenery, perfect for a short day trip.
Upcountry Maui: A serene, undiscovered road trip that leads you along the slopes of Haleakalā’s underside.
If you’re up for exploring beyond the typical tourist spots, don’t be afraid to venture off the main roads—you never know what hidden gems you’ll find!
Big Island (Hawaii Island)
Drive Time: 8-10 hours for a full loop.
Because it is the largest island, the duration of drive time for exploring the entire Big Island of Hawaii is the longest. Driving along Highways 19 and 11 lets you see black sand beaches, basalt fields, and tropical rainforests.
Significant stops include Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hilo Hawaii, Kona, and Waipio Valley. A through loop with stops is capable of filling an entire day and beyond.
Must-See Stops On A Big Island Road Trip
For those with less time but an interest in the best of the Big Island, this one-day road trip hits the main attractions.
Kona
Begin in Kona with breakfast and a walk through the town. Stock up on snacks at the farmer’s market before heading to South Point, the southernmost point in the U.S., where you’ll find dramatic ocean views and local fishermen.
Green Sand Beach
Hike (or go by 4WD shuttle) to this spectacular olive-green sand beach. The beach is famous for a very special, rare green sand which contains olivine crystals, a mineral created during volcanic eruptions.
Apart from that breathtaking green sand, the landscape directly surrounding the beach provides evocative coastal scenery and an impression of privacy. It’s the ideal place to get away from the masses and be something truly special. Bring good shoes and plenty of water!
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Explore steaming vents, lava fields, and scenic overlooks. (If time permits, drive to the coast to view its history as lava reached the water’s edge).
Hilo
Hilo is a beautiful town on the Big Island of Hawaii, known for its lush beautiful landscapes, various waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage. Pull over for dinner in Hilo, window shop at boutiques, or have lunch at the farmer’s market. Short on time? Use Saddle Road to go back to Kona.
Optional Stops (if time & energy allow)
Mauna Kea Observatory (45 min from Hilo): Enjoy amazing stargazing at the premier observatory.
Waipio Valley Lookout (1.5 hours drive from Hilo): Breathtaking valley immersion; guided tours necessary to access inside.
Hawi (1.25 h from Waipio): Cosy north town, ideal for sunset viewing and then back to Kona.
This itinerary might look like a lot to cover the entire island but trust me, it’s totally doable. Just make sure to adjust as needed and enjoy the adventure!
Kauai
Drive Time: 3-4 hours (one-way to major points).
Kauai, “the Garden Isle,” lacks a continuous roadway around the island, because the Nā Pali Coast is too rugged.
However, the primary traveling is between the north shore (Hanalei) and the south shore (Poipu) with excursions to Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Park.
Also, let me warn you, that it may require several days to roam the island adequately, with each drive providing spectacular scenery. But, while it may seem like it’s impossible to get it all in one day in Kauai, believe me, it’s possible!
Driving around the island itself takes around 2 hours (and that’s before even stopping, anywhere). The most effective way to get the best out of the experience is to do some work on the journey beforehand and choose some favorite destinations to visit.
I am always advising scenic lookouts, landmarks, waterfalls, canyons, and small towns. That way you can experience the island’s beauty and its local culture.
Must-See Landmarks in Kauai Trip
Kauai offers stunning landscapes and natural beauty that make it a must-see destination. Here are some of its top landmarks:
Waimea Canyon
They ain’t kidding when they call it “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Waimea Canyon is absolutely stunning—its massive cliffs and deep valleys stretch as far as the eye can see, bursting with rich red, green, and orange hues.
The Na Pali Coast
The Na Pali Coast is pure magic. There is a sense that one is transported to a scene out of a film, owing to the expansive, towering cliffs, cascades of waterfalls, and turquoise waters. It’s an experience you’ll never forget to see in person! And if you can catch the sunset here? Pure perfection.
Koloa Town
If you love history and small-town charm, Koloa Town is a must-visit. This little gem is full of cute stores, fancy restaurants, and interesting history. It’s just the right spot to grab a snack, stroll through galleries, or just relax under the gentle island breezes.
Allerton Garden
For a more peaceful escape, Allerton Botanical Garden is the perfect spot. This green paradise is adorned with exotic plants, tall trees, and beautiful gardens. Walking through the garden feels like stepping into a tropical wonderland.
Each of these locations adds something special to your Oahu adventure, from waterfalls and wildlife to iconic surf spots and historical sites. Enjoy the diversity of experiences on this island!
Must Carry Items On Your Hawaiian Road Trip
People tend to understand the importance of packing mindfully. You need to be smart if you’re planning to drive around all the Hawaiian islands. There are some tips that I follow religiously to make sure my trip is very pleasant throughout the trip.
- First, I make sure to bring all my travel essentials, including my driver’s license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and passport or ID.
- Secondly, I always have a GPS or a good map, and my mobile phone with a good navigation app on standby and a car charger ensuring full power.
- Also, as car repairs can occur anywhere, I carry a spare tire, jack, jumper cables, a simple kit, and my own vehicle’s owner’s manual in case of repairs as well as roadside assistance information.
- To be convenient and secure I have per case a first-aid box, a flashlight with spare batteries, emergency triangles, and flares.
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and sunglasses keep me protected, and reusable containers of water and assorted snacks and drinks help me stay hydrated and fuelled.
- As for clothing, I opt for lightweight, breathable, and comfortable clothing perfect for Hawaii’s warm weather, plus a jacket for cooler spots like Mauna Kea or evening breezes.
- A swimsuit is essential for beach breaks, and I either have strong walkers or flip-flops so I’m prepared for anything. Because weather conditions might be changed on the island, I carry a raincoat at all times.
- Personal items like toiletries, medications, and hygiene essentials go in my bag, along with cash and credit or debit cards for gas, food, and entrance fees.
- If I’m planning for beach time, I might throw in snorkeling gear, water shoes, a beach towel, and a small umbrella for shade. For wildlife enthusiasts, binoculars are great for spotting dolphins or whales.
- If I’m camping instead of booking a hotel, I’ll also pack a sleeping bag, travel pillow, tent, and any necessary camping gear.
All that stuff and I’m ready for a really good road trip around Hawaii!
Traffic Consideration While Driving Around Hawaii
Driving safely in Hawaii generally is easy, but there are things to consider. For example, airport arrivals at Honolulu Airport are known to cause heavier traffic near Maunalua Bay Beach Park, so parking in advance of arrival and searching for street parking is recommended in case a suitable spot isn’t available right in front of the park.
Don’t forget that weekends usually have a higher number of visitors and, consequently higher traffic, particularly near locations known for breathtaking views and natural beauty, and those locations that are popular kite-flying spots.
As an alternative transport, it is a great idea to rent a car or a scooter, from a reputed company, offering a safe way to drive during the trip around the island this lovely place.
Things to Consider When Driving in Hawaii
Speed Limits: Hawaii speed limits are always less than mainland, usually about 35-55 mph on the highway. Take your time to enjoy the scenery.
Stops and Detours: Between beaches, lookouts, food trucks, and cultural sites, you’ll likely stop often, extending your total travel time.
Weather: Rain can make some roads slippery, especially in lush areas like Hana or Kauai’s north shore.
Rental Cars & Scooters: If you are driving on dirt roads or bad road conditions (e.g., parts of Lanai or around the Big Island), see if your rental agreement permits it.
Conclusion
It is, of course, feasible to drive around a few of the Hawaiian islands in a single day but to do so would be to fly by a site. For a complete immersing experience, schedule your drives wide open for stops and exploration and take it easy. After all, part of the magic of Hawaii lies in the trip, not just in the trip itself. No matter the island you select for visiting, the experience will be unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive around Hawaii?
The time it takes to drive around Hawaii depends on which island you’re on. On Oahu, it can go up to 4-6 hours, depending on traffic. At the west Maui, expect to travel about 7-10 hours. It can take 8-10 hours to drive around the Big Island, but Kauai, smaller, you can circumnavigate in 3-4 hours.
Is it possible to drive all of Hawaii in one day?
Although it is possible to drive around every island in a day, you should consider traffic, stops for sightseeing, and road conditions. To get the complete experience, maybe it’s best to break it up over two days and not feel rushed.
What is the best time of day to drive around Hawaii?
The prime time to go is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when traffic is light, especially on high-traffic routes such as those in the loop of Oahu and Maui.