Explore more of Hawaii on this summer-filled Oahu road trip!
Hawaii is known for its beautiful islands and everything summer-y! It’s a go-to destination for anyone looking to have a good summer experience. One of the usual agendas of travelers is to go island hopping since Hawaii has numerous islands that travelers can enjoy. But just to spice things up a bit, how does a Hawaii road trip sound? It will be a new experience that goes beyond riding boat after boat to see the islands. On your Hawaii road trip, you’ll get to see different beaches, try more local food, take on different activities, and choose among a variety of souvenir items that each destination has to offer! Here’s a bonus: you’ll stop by and visit different attractions too, like hiking and sightseeing spots.
Among Hawaii’s beautiful islands is Oahu, home to the state’s capital, Honolulu. There are many iconic sites to see on Oahu (which we’ll break down later on!) and surely, there’s more to Hawaii than its waters. So for this guide, we’ll take you on a 7-day Oahu road trip!
7-Day Oahu Road Trip Itinerary
- Driving time: 4-5 hours in total
- Distance: More or less 140 miles
- Duration: 7 days
- Route: Sample Google Maps guide
- Here’s a checklist of things to bring
No. of Stop | Location | Distance |
|---|---|---|
First Stop | Hanauma Bay | 11.1 miles from Oahu Ave. via I-H-1 and HI-72 |
Second Stop | Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail | 4.5 miles from Hanauma Bay via Makapuu Lighthouse Rd and HI-72 |
Third Stop | Kailua Beach | 10.3 miles from Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail via Lihiwai Rd, HI-630 W/HI-65 W, and HI-83 N |
Fourth Stop | 16.2 miles from Kailua Beach via HI-83, HI-63 N/State Hwy 83, Anoi Rd, and Luluku Rd | |
Fifth Stop | Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden | 11.5 miles from Kualoa Ranch via Luluku Rd, Anoi Rd, HI-63 S/HI-83 N, HI-83 W, and Hui Iwa St. |
Sixth Stop | Byodo-In Temple | 4.4 miles from Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden via Vly Of The Temples Street, HI-83 W, and Ke Nui Rd |
Seventh Stop | Banzai Pipeline | 31.2 miles from Byodo-In Temple via HI-99 S and Plantation Rd |
Eighth Stop | Dole Plantation | 15.7 miles from Banzai Pipeline via I-H-2 S in Wahiawa, I-H-1 W, Makakilo Dr., State Hwy 901, and Midway St. |
Ninth Stop | Coral Crater Adventure Park | 21 miles from Dole Plantation via I-H-1 E, I-H-201 E, Punahou St., and Kalakaua Ave. |
Last Stop | 24.5 miles from Coral Crater Adventure Park via I-H-1 E |
Drive around Oahu 🚘
There are so many places to visit in Oahu by car and as your travel buddy, we’ve broken down some of the stops that you simply can’t miss. If you’re ready, let’s get to the list!
Day 1: Hanauma Bay & Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail
Photo Credit: @cosminserban on Unsplash
After renting a car, kickstart your Oahu road trip to your first stop — Hanauma Bay! This famous marine sanctuary and snorkeling spot in Hawaii is one that you can’t miss if you want to marvel at an abundance of green sea turtles, parrotfishes, angel fishes, and the humuhumunukunukuapua’a or reef triggerfish, the Hawaii State Fish! The clear and pristine waters of Hanauma Bay are good for both beginners and expert snorkelers. Feel free to bring your own snorkeling gear but if you forget to bring your own or don’t have your own set, there are snorkeling gear rentals available at the bay!
Klook Tip: It’s best to arrive before 09:00 to avoid heavy crowds!
Photo Credit: @little_plant on Unsplash
Next stop, Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail! If you’re up for a little bit of workout and adventure, then this stop at Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is for you. This hiking and walking trail along sea cliffs will take you about an hour or so but it will all be worth it once you reach the observation point and lighthouse, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Oahu’s southeastern coastline like Koko Head and Koko Crater. Don’t worry so much about the trail since it will be nice and paved throughout! Some travelers even run up and down to squeeze in a good workout session. Just make sure to bring lots of drinking water because it will be a hot hike up.
Klook Tip: Bring binoculars if you want to spot some whales and seabirds!
For your first night, you can stay at Waimanalo Beach Cottages for good mountain views and a terrace that overlooks the ocean, so expect to hear ocean waves every morning! The hotel is near Waimanalo Beach where you can go sunbathing, swimming, or snorkeling. There’s also free parking within the premises so you won’t need to worry about where to leave your car while you snooze. Prices start at 344.20 USD per night.
Suggested eats near Waimanalo Beach Cottages: Ono Steaks and Shrimp Shack for steak and seafood or Kalapawai Cafe & Deli for sandwiches and lots of seafood!
Day 2: Kailua Beach & Kualoa Ranch
Photo Credit: @ingridmartinussen on Unsplash
Just because it’s a road trip doesn’t mean that you won’t be stopping by at least one of Oahu’s beautiful beaches. On this route, one of the stops is Kailua Beach, one of Oahu’s top beaches! White powdery sand, turquoise blue waters, and a big space for different beach activities like beach volleyball and picnicking — it’s a good stop for big groups and even families going on a road trip. You can also try some water activities like kite surfing and kayaking while you’re at it! If you can, try to go early in the morning so you can catch the beautiful sunrise view.
Klook Tip: There are picnic tables on the beach so it’s best to set up your things first before enjoying the beach!
After Kailua Beach, head onto Hawaii’s famous nature reserve, Kualoa Ranch! Take time to explore Kualoa Ranch’s deep and scenic valleys, gardens, and even an island. They also have a gift shop if you’re looking for souvenirs to give to your friends and loved ones or even just to keep for yourself. And did we mention that Jurassic Park and Godzilla were filmed here? You can visit some movie sites on the ranch so make sure to take lots of photos for keeps! Other activities that you can do here include horseback riding, ziplining, and ATV riding.
Klook Tip: Since this is a famous tourist spot, book your entrance slots two to three weeks ahead!
Head onto Paradise Bay Resort for your second night to get away from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu. Aside from its peaceful location, the resort is surrounded by nature and you’ll wake up to the sound of birds! After a tiring day, feel free to hop into the pool or join their yoga classes. Prices start at 188 USD per night.
Suggested eats near Paradise Bay Resort: Waiahole Poi Factory for local food or Haleiwa Joe’s At Haiku Gardens for ribs and seafood!
Day 3: Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden & Byodo-In Temple
Photo Credit: @wild_away on Unsplash
Starting off your road trip’s third day is a stop at Oahu’s largest botanical garden, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden! Have a relaxing and chill day as you walk through this garden that almost feels like a jungle with all the trees and plants surrounding it! Get to know different types of native Hawaiian plants like naupaka, and other plants and trees such as dombeya, kukui, gumbo limbo, and talipot palm. Get to know more about Oahu’s flora and fauna in this nature-filled and educational adventure at Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden!
Klook Tip: Make sure to be in your most comfortable attire (especially your shoes!) because a lot of walking will be involved!
Photo Credit: @little_plant on Unsplash
Your next stop is at Byodo-In Temple, a replica of a temple in Uji, Japan! This temple is considered as one of the hidden gems in Hawaii because of its location and the beauty that the temple and its gardens hold. The Byodo-In Temple stands against the breathtaking backdrop of Oahu’s Ko'olau Mountains. Inside the area, you’ll spot a five-foot brass bell that is customary for visitors to ring before entering the temple. There’s also an 18-foot Buddha that you can approach to light incense and offer a prayer. If you feel like strolling around, the garden’s open and you’ll even see some peacocks and turtles roaming around the koi pond!
Klook Tip: It’s best to be silent while in Byodo-In Temple’s premises to show respect for those who are praying.
Enjoy your third day to the fullest by renting out Modern Luxury Beach House! Get ready to wake up to a beautiful garden view where you can take a morning or even night stroll. The beach house is only two minutes away from the beach, so enjoy free access to the beach for swimming, sunbathing, or even playing beach sports. You also get free parking, WiFi, and unlimited access to the tennis court! Prices start at 472 USD per night.
Suggested eats near Modern Luxury Beach House: Baci Bistro for Italian food or Uahi Island Grill for anything grilled!
Day 4: Banzai Pipeline
Photo Credit: @jfroelich on Unsplash
Located off Ehukai Beach, the Banzai Pipeline is a good stop if you wish to see professional surfers train or watch surfing competitions! The Banzai Pipeline is known for its perfect waves which is why it’s a hot spot for surfers and even beachgoers alike. It’s a nice place to relax, sunbathe, and just watch the waves as the sun sets. During summertime, when the waves are not as strong as usual, you can even go snorkeling!
Klook Tip: If you’re planning to stay here for an entire day, make sure to bring your own mat or blanket so you have your own space to lie down, read a book, or even have a picnic!
Stay at Kalani Hawaii Private Lodging for your fourth night. The property is only a few minutes away from Sunset Beach, a surfing competition beach where you can go snorkeling and windsurfing! If you want to stay in the area and just relax, there are hammocks available for you to use if you want to take a nap or read a book. It’s important to note that some units offer air conditioning and some don’t, it’s all up to your preference. Prices start at 253.62 USD per night.
Suggested eats near Kalani Hawaii Private Lodging: Ted’s Bakery for sandwiches, pastries, and lunch plates or Sunrise Shack for fruit smoothies and Açaí bowls!
Day 5: Dole Plantation
For your fifth day, get ready to go to a place that’s featured in the Guinness Book of World Records! The Dole Plantation houses a large maze that’s free for you to explore and *might* get lost in, but it’s all worth it because if you complete the maze in record time, you’ll be given a prize! After taking on the great maze, hop on the Pineapple Express train that will take you through the Dole Plantation’s pineapple history, Hawaii’s agriculture, and James Dole’s life. Towards the end of your train ride, you’ll be given a sample slice of pineapple — what a way to end a trip!
Klook Tip: Stop by the gift shop to get the best and freshest basket of pineapples!
You can stay the night at Beach Side Studio by Shark’s Cove. You get a whole apartment to yourself that comes with a balcony, garden view, free WiFi, and parking. It’s also only a few minutes away from Ke Iki beach, where you can go for a swim or dive after you visit the Dole Plantation. Beach Side Studio is also close to a local market where you can shop for food and souvenirs! Prices start at 288.44 USD per night.
Suggested eats near Beach Side Studio by Shark’s Cove: Pupukea Grill for poke bowls and grilled seafood or Sandy’s Sandwiches for burgers and healthy sandwiches!
Day 6: Coral Crater Adventure Park
Photo Credit: Jeff Vinluan on Pexels
Your sixth day will be filled with good and active adventure! Coral Crater Adventure Park offers six ziplines, two climbing walls, an aerial adventure tower, a freefall, king swing, rappelling area, tactical laser gun shooting, and ATVs. If you love outdoor and thrilling activities, then spending a day here will be worth it! If you’re someone who fears heights and thrilling activities, then this is your chance to overcome your fears. It’s also fun to do these activities alone, but moments like this are best enjoyed with your loved ones!
Klook Tip: They host monthly events like the Zombie Apocalypse and Romantic Night Zip Lining so make sure to try those out!
For your sixth night, Embassy Suites by Hilton Oahu Kapolei is the place to stay at! The units come with a beautiful city view, free WiFi, and air conditioning. Pets are allowed to stay in the suite as well if you’re bringing your pet with you. What you’ll love about this accommodation is that it comes with a free breakfast! There are beaches like Nimitz Beach and One’ula Beach Park only a few minutes away if you wanna catch the sunrise or sunset! Prices start at 346.91 USD per night.
Suggested eats near Embassy Suites by Hilton Oahu Kapolei: Teddy’s for big burgers and shakes or Hawaii Pot for noodles and hot pot!
Day 7: Waikiki Beach
There’s no better way to end your 7-day Oahu road trip than stopping by at Waikiki Beach! This beach is a tourist hot spot because there are so many things to do here like trying out different water activities such as surfing, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and sailing. There are also some notable restaurants that you can visit like STRIPSTEAK Waikiki for a good ribeye, Paia Fish Market for fresh seafood, and Island Vintage Shave Ice for dessert! If you suddenly feel like shopping, drop by Luxury Row for high-end and luxury brands like Gucci and Chanel and Waikiki Beach Walk for locally-made products like apparel and accessories that you can buy for yourself or your loved ones!
Klook Tip: They have surf competitions, canoe races, and hula dance performances that you can watch for free!
Bamboo Waikiki is the place to stay for your last day! They offer city, ocean, and sea views for their rooms so pick whichever room view you would love to wake up to. They also have a pool and fitness gym that you can use! It’s only a few minutes away from Royal-Moana Beach if you want to go for a quick swim. The beach is dog-friendly too! Prices start at 217.47 USD per night.
Suggested eats near Bamboo Waikiki: Beachhouse - Moana Surfrider for a fancy seafood lunch or dinner or Hula Grill for burgers, steaks, and pies!
Now that you have a great 7-day Oahu adventure mapped out for you, the next step is to check out these Hawaii travel restrictions and requirements so you can be set and ready before booking your trip. After that, you can finally pack your bags for this road trip! Good thing we have this summer trip checklist ready to guide you through packing. Aloha!
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