Big Island Scenic Drives
Chain of Craters Road
There are two scenic drives within the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Most people explore the attractions and scenic lookout points along Crater Rim Drive, which leads around Kilauea Caldera.
Macadamia Road
Macadamia Road south of Hilo leads to the Mauna Loa macadamia nut farm and visitor center. It's a fun 3-mile drive through macadamia nut orchards with fun fact signs about mac nuts along the way.
Mauna Kea Beach Drive
Mauna Kea Beach Drive is a 1.5-mile stretch of road that leads from Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy (Hwy 19), near mile marker 68, down to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and Mauna Kea Beach.
Mauna Lani Drive
Mauna Lani Drive is a 1.7-mile stretch of road that leads from Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy (Hwy 19), between mile marker 73 and 74, down to the Mauna Lani resort area and the Shops at Mauna Lani.
Old Mamalahoa Highway
The Old Mamalahoa Highway on the Big Island's Hamakua Coast is a narrow and winding coastline road that begins about 5 miles (8 km) north of Hilo.
Queen Kaahumanu Highway
Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway (Hwy 19) leads from Kailua-Kona 33 miles (53 km) north along the coast. One can see the ocean almost the entire stretch of the road, which cuts through vast volcanic lava fields.
Red Road (Kapoho-Kalapana Road)
The Red Road (also known as Kapoho-Kalapana Road 137) is a scenic coastline drive in the Puna district on the Big Island's southeastern shore.
Saddle Road
Buckle up! Slicing across the Big Island from east to west, through a high valley or "saddle" between the mountains of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, Saddle Road (also known as Hawaii Route 200) is 54 miles (87 km) of pure adventure.
Waikoloa Beach Drive
Waikoloa Beach Drive is a 2-mile stretch of road that leads from Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway down to the Hilton Waikoloa Resort, as well as several other resorts and Anaeho'omalu Bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most scenic drive on the Big Island?
Saddle Road offers dramatic views between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, while Red Road provides a lush and winding coastal experience in the Puna district.
Can I drive through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
Yes, Chain of Craters Road takes you through lava landscapes in the national park down to the coastline.
Are these scenic drives easy to access?
Most drives start from main highways like Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy (Hwy 19) or Saddle Road (Route 200) and are accessible with a standard vehicle.
Are there any roads I should avoid?
Saddle Road used to be rough but has been improved. Still, it's best to avoid driving it at night due to fog and limited visibility.
Are there beaches along these scenic drives?
Yes, especially along Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy, Mauna Lani Drive, and Waikoloa Beach Drive where you'll find famous beaches like Hapuna and Anaeho'omalu Bay.