Hawaii Road Trip Guide: From Epic Volcanoes to Lush Waterfalls

When you think of Hawaii, you might picture relaxing on a sandy beach. But what if we told you the greatest adventure lies on the open road? A Hawaiian road trip is unlike any other. It’s a journey through lush rainforests, across vast lava fields, and up to the rim of giant volcanoes.

Driving in Hawaii gives you the freedom to discover hidden waterfalls, stop at local fruit stands, and find your own secret beaches. It’s the best way to see the real magic of the islands.

But Hawaii is a chain of islands, so you can’t drive from one to the other. Instead, you pick an island and explore its amazing roads. This guide will show you the best road trips on Hawaii’s most adventure-packed islands.

Planning Your Hawaii Driving Adventure

Before you start the engine, here are a few key things to know.

• Which Island is Best for Driving?
  • Maui: Famous for the Road to Hana, a legendary drive with waterfalls and jungle views.
  • The Big Island: Offers the most diverse scenery, from active volcanoes to black sand beaches.
  • Kauai: Known as the “Garden Isle,” it has dramatic canyons and lush northern shores.
• Renting a Car: Book your rental car far in advance, especially during busy seasons. A convertible is fun for sunny coastal drives, but a Jeep or SUV can be better for exploring more rugged areas on the Big Island.
• Best Time to Go: Hawaii is beautiful year-round. The winter months (November to March) can be a bit rainier, while the summer (June to August) is warmer and drier.

The Best Road Trips in Hawaii (Island by Island)

1. Maui: The Legendary Road to Hana

The Road to Hana isn’t just a drive; it’s an experience. This famous 64-mile highway has 620 curves and 59 bridges, taking you deep into Maui’s tropical paradise.

• The Drive: The road is narrow and winds along the coast. It’s a slow drive, so plan for a full day. The journey itself is the destination.
• Must-See Stops:
  • Twin Falls: One of the first and easiest waterfalls to access. A great spot for a quick, refreshing swim.
  • Wai’anapanapa State Park: Home to a stunning black sand beach. You need to book a reservation online in advance to enter, so plan ahead!
  • The Seven Sacred Pools (‘Ohe’o Gulch): A series of beautiful pools and waterfalls. Check if they are open for swimming when you visit.
• Tips for the Road to Hana:
  • Start Early: Leave by 7 AM to beat the traffic.
  • Pack Food and Water: There are few places to eat along the way. Local banana bread stands are a must-try!
  • Drive Safely: Take your time, pull over to let locals pass, and be respectful on the narrow roads.

2. The Big Island: A Journey Through Fire and Nature

The Big Island is twice the size of all the other Hawaiian islands combined, and its landscapes are epic. You can drive from a sunny beach to a cool mountaintop to an active volcano all in one day.

• The Drive: The island has a main highway that circles it, making it easy to plan a multi-day road trip.
• Must-See Stops:
  • Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park: This is the star of the show. Drive the Chain of Craters Road down to the sea, walk through a lava tube, and see steam vents puffing from the earth.
  • The Hamakua Coast: On the northeast side of the island, this scenic drive takes you through lush valleys to incredible waterfalls like Akaka Falls.
  • Kona Coffee Country: Drive south of Kona and stop at one of the many coffee farms for a tour and a taste of world-famous coffee.
• Tips for the Big Island:
  • Get Gas: Gas stations can be far apart in some areas, so fill up your tank when you see one.
  • Pack Layers: The temperature can change quickly, especially if you drive up to Volcanoes National Park. Bring a jacket!

3. Kauai: The Garden Isle’s Grand Drive

Kauai is wild, green, and breathtakingly beautiful. A road trip here is all about dramatic cliffs, deep canyons, and charming surf towns.

• The Drive: The main road doesn’t circle the whole island due to the rugged Na Pali Coast. Instead, you can explore the south and west shores, or the north and east shores.
• Must-See Stops:
  • Waimea Canyon: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this is a must-see. Drive up to the top and stop at the Pu’u Hinahina and Waimea Canyon lookouts for incredible views.
  • Hanalei Bay: Drive to the North Shore to visit this picture-perfect bay. The town of Hanalei is full of cute shops and restaurants.
  • Kapa’a Town: A great place to stop for lunch or to rent a bike and ride along the coastal path.
• Tips for Kauai:
  • Expect Rain: It’s called the Garden Isle for a reason! A light rain jacket is always a good idea.
  • Watch for Chickens: Wild chickens are everywhere in Kauai, even on the roads! Drive carefully.

Final Tips for Your Hawaiian Road Trip

• Embrace the Aloha Spirit: Drive with patience. If a local is driving faster behind you, pull over and let them pass. It’s the polite thing to do.
• Download Offline Maps: Cell service can be spotty in remote areas. Download maps on your phone before you go.
• Respect the ‘Aina (Land): Hawaii is a sacred place. Leave no trace, don’t take lava rocks or sand, and respect all warning signs, especially near cliffs and ocean currents.

A road trip in Hawaii is the adventure of a lifetime. So, roll down your windows, feel the warm tropical breeze, and get ready to explore the paradise that awaits around every corner. Happy driving!