Oahu Scenic Drives
Diamond Head Road
Diamond Head Road encircles south Oahu's popular landmark, Diamond Head. From the coastline stretch of the road at Kuilei Cliffs Lookout one can watch whales in season and enjoy great views.
Farrington Highway (North Shore)
The stretch of Farrington Highway on Oahu's north shore begins in Waialua and dead ends right before Kaena Point State Park. It leads along a few scenic beach parks and Dillingham Airfield.
Farrington Highway (West Shore)
The stretch of Farrington Highway on Oahu's west shore begins near Ko Olina and ends right before Kaena Point State Park begins. The two-lane road leads along the entire west shore.
Kahala Avenue
Kahala Avenue leads through one of Oahu's most expensive neighborhoods. Most of the homes here are $1 million and up. These are all big mansions surrounded by carefully manicured gardens.
Kalanianaole Highway
The stretch of Kalanianaole Highway between Hawaii Kai and Waimanalo is a scenic cliff road with many lookout points along the way, including views of Halona Blowhole and Eternity Beach.
Nu'uanu Pali Drive
Nu'uanu Pali Drive is a canopy-covered road. If you don't have time for a rainforest hike, drive along this road and enjoy the lush vegetation. This area is also home to a popular Hawaiian spooky legend.
Pali Highway
The Pali Highway connects Honolulu with the two main towns on Windward Oahu, Kailua and Kaneohe. The views after the two Pali tunnels are amazing. Plan a stop at the Pali Lookout.
Tantalus Round Top Drive
Round Top Drive is one of the best roads to enjoy panoramic bird's eye views of Honolulu. The winding, canopy-covered road leads in a loop up Mt. Tantalus and back down with scenic lookout points along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most scenic roads on Oahu?
Top scenic drives include Kalanianaole Highway, Tantalus Round Top Drive, Nu'uanu Pali Drive, Diamond Head Road, and Farrington Highway (both West and North Shore stretches).
Is the Pali Highway scenic?
Yes, especially after the Pali tunnels when approaching the Windward side. The views of the Ko'olau Mountains and the coast are stunning, and the Pali Lookout is a must-stop.
Can you drive all the way around Oahu?
Not entirely. The road is interrupted at Ka'ena Point, so you must turn back on both the North Shore and West Side sections of Farrington Highway.
Is Round Top Drive worth doing?
Yes! Tantalus Round Top Drive offers sweeping views of Honolulu, Diamond Head, and the Pacific Ocean from above. It's a lush, winding, and shaded drive - ideal for sunset views.
Do I need a 4WD vehicle for these drives?
No, all of these scenic drives are paved and accessible with a regular car. However, some roads are narrow and winding, so drive cautiously.