Things to See While Driving Around Oʻahu
It isn’t necessary to leave Waikīkī to have a great time on your Oʻahu vacation—beaches, dining, shopping, and activities are all right here. But if you have a rental car, it’s a great opportunity to explore the island’s lookouts, beaches, small towns, and scenic drives at your own pace.
Times shown are drive times from Waikīkī and can vary with traffic.
South & Southeast Oʻahu
Diamond Head Lookout
From Waikīkī, follow Kalākaua past Kapiʻolani Park and up Diamond Head Road. Park along the ocean side and take in classic blue-on-blue views with surfers below. In winter (Dec–Mar), sunrise comes up over the water. A paved path leads down to Diamond Head Beach—windier and rockier than Waikīkī, but great for wave watching.
Hanauma Bay
Excellent for all-level snorkeling. Go early for parking. Entry is limited and tickets must be reserved in advance (ages 13+ currently $25), plus a per-vehicle parking fee. On busy days, tickets can sell out—plan ahead.
Official Information & Reservations →
Tip: If you’ll snorkel more than once, consider renting gear in town (e.g., along Kapahulu Ave.) to save time and money.
Lānaʻi Lookout
A quick pull-off with rugged lava shelves and endless Pacific horizon. Parking is small, but most visitors stop for a few photos and move on—worth the pause between Hanauma and Hālona.
Hālona Beach Cove & Hālona Blowhole
Two stops back-to-back: the famous blowhole (best on days with strong surf), and the small cove next to the lot—also known as “Eternity Beach” from the classic film. Short walk down; use caution and skip the water if conditions look rough (no lifeguards).
Makapuʻu Lookout & Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail
The lookout offers instant views; the paved lighthouse trail (about 1–2 hours roundtrip) rewards you with sweeping East Oʻahu vistas. Little shade and no facilities—bring water and sun protection. Parking can be tight at peak times.
Waimānalo Beach & Bellows Beach
Long, powdery stretches of sand with a mellow, family-friendly vibe on calm days. Some areas have lifeguards—always check conditions before swimming. Bellows is adjacent; access and hours can vary.
Kailua Beach, Kailua Town, Lanikai & Lanikai Pillbox Hike
Lanikai’s ridge “pillbox” hike overlooks the Mokulua Islets and famous turquoise shallows. Lanikai parking is very limited (with occasional no-parking windows on holidays), and there are no nearby facilities; Kailua Beach Park is easier for families with restrooms and more parking. Kailua Town adds cafés, plate lunch, and shave ice.
Pali Lookout
Only 5–10 minutes up the Pali Highway from downtown Honolulu, this historic pass reveals a dramatic Windward panorama. It can be very windy—bring a light layer.
East Oʻahu
Byodo-in Temple
Peaceful temple and koi ponds set against the Koʻolau cliffs—a beautiful, reflective stop. Ring the bonshō (temple bell) for good fortune and wander the landscaped grounds.
Tropical Farms of Hawaiʻi (Macadamia Nut Farm)
Fun roadside stop for macadamia samples, coffee tastings, and local gifts—just before Kualoa Regional Park and Mokoliʻi.
Mokoliʻi (Chinaman’s Hat) & Kualoa Regional Park
Postcard views of the offshore islet with the Koʻolau cliffs behind you. Great spot for photos and a picnic on the grass.
Kahuku Shrimp Trucks
Garlic shrimp heaven on the Windward side. The big three are Giovanni’s, Fumi’s, and Romy’s—plus other tasty options nearby. Expect lines during peak hours; worth the wait.
North Shore of Oʻahu
Sunset Beach
Wide sandy beach with plenty of room most days. Gorgeous in summer for swimming and, of course, for sunsets. In winter, surf is powerful—best for watching, not swimming.
ʻEhukai Beach (Pipeline)
World-famous for near-perfect barreling waves that break close to shore—spectacular to watch when the winter surf is up. Respect closures and signage; conditions can be hazardous.
Shark’s Cove
Fantastic for snorkeling in late spring–early fall within protected tidepools. Dangerous in winter swells. Food trucks, market, and bathrooms are right across the street.
Waimea Bay & Waimea Valley
In winter, one of the world’s great big-wave arenas (bring binoculars). In summer, usually calm and inviting. Across the road, Waimea Valley offers a family-friendly nature walk to a waterfall.
Haleʻiwa Town
Relaxed surf town perfect for strolling between boutiques, cafés, plate-lunch spots, shave ice stands, and a cluster of food trucks on the edge of town.
