Diamond Head Road
Diamond Head Road curves along the base of Diamond Head near Waikiki, with ocean lookouts, Kuilei Cliffs, lighthouse views and a scenic drive toward Kahala.
Oahu Scenic Drive Guide
Oahu Scenic Drives
Some of Oahu's best views are found between destinations. Scenic drives on Oahu pass ocean lookouts, beach parks, mountain valleys, historic towns and coastal roads that showcase different sides of the island. Whether you're exploring the North Shore, Windward Coast or southeastern shoreline, these routes add memorable scenery to any day on Oahu.
Scenic drive directory
Oahu Scenic Drives
Find Oahu scenic drives, from coastal routes and lookout stops to mountain roads, historic highways and easy day-drive ideas.
Farrington Highway (North Shore)
Farrington Highway on Oahu's North Shore runs from Waialua and Mokuleia toward Camp Erdman and Kaena Point, with quiet beaches, mountain views, airfield activity and a remote road-end setting.
Farrington Highway (West Shore)
Farrington Highway on Oahu's west shore follows the dry Waianae Coast past beach parks, harbor towns, mountain views and the road's final stretch toward Kaena Point.
Kahala Avenue
Kahala Avenue follows one of Oahu's best-known residential shorelines, with oceanfront homes, palms, beach access points and a quiet drive east of Diamond Head.
Kalanianaole Highway
Kalanianaole Highway is one of Oahu's best-known scenic drives, following the southeast shoreline past Hawaii Kai, Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole, Sandy Beach and Makapuu.
Nu'uanu Pali Drive
Nu'uanu Pali Drive is a short Honolulu scenic drive through cool forest, old stone walls and shaded curves near the Pali Highway and Nu'uanu Pali Lookout.
Pali Highway
Pali Highway is a scenic Oahu drive linking Honolulu with the windward side, climbing through Nu'uanu Valley to mountain views, rain forest scenery and the famous Nu'uanu Pali Lookout.
Tantalus Round Top Drive
Tantalus and Round Top Drive climb above Honolulu through forested curves, hillside homes and lookout views over Waikiki, Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor and the south shore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best scenic drives on Oahu?
Popular Oahu scenic drives include Diamond Head Road, Kalanianaole Highway, Pali Highway, Tantalus Round Top Drive and coastal North Shore routes.
Which Oahu scenic drive has the best coastal views?
Kalanianaole Highway along southeast Oahu is known for ocean cliffs, lookout points, Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole and Makapuu scenery.
Can you drive around Oahu in one day?
You can see many areas in one day, but traffic, beach stops and sightseeing time can make a full island drive feel rushed.
Which Oahu drive is best for city views?
Tantalus Round Top Drive is known for forested curves, Honolulu views, Diamond Head scenery and sunset lookout stops.
Are Oahu scenic drives easy for visitors?
Most main scenic drives are paved and easy to follow, but narrow roads, parking limits and changing weather can affect the experience.