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If you’ve landed on this page, you’ll no doubt have a beautiful picture in your head of taking a scenic drive around Hawaii.
With its stunning vistas and warm climate, it’s a popular spot for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.
Oahu is the most populated island in Hawaii, but it also has some of the best beaches. It’s home to Waikiki Beach, which is one of the most famous beaches in the world.
The beach was made famous by Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe and Humphrey Bogart who came here to enjoy the sun and surf.
You can still see remnants from when they were filming there including sets that are now part of the Hilton Hawaiian Village hotel.
How Long Does It Take To Drive Around Oahu?
The average trip around the entire island takes about three hours. Most people start their journey at Honolulu International Airport and make their way north towards Kailua-Kona.
From there, you can either take Highway 11 all the way up to Hilo or cut across the Big Island to Kahului. There are plenty of stops along the way so you’re sure to find something interesting to do.
If you want to save time, you can rent a car. Many hotels will provide free airport transfers, but if not, expect to pay $30-$50 per day depending on how far you need to travel.
You should allow yourself five days to explore the whole island. That gives you enough time to visit each area and still be able to experience everything.
Overall you are looking at an 8-12 hour drive depending on how many sites you want to see and how the traffic is.
Essential Stops Along Your Oahu Journey
Honolulu – This is where you’ll start your trip. You can stop here for a few days if you want to explore more of what the city has to offer.
Waikiki Beach – One of the most famous beaches on earth, Waikiki Beach is located just south of downtown Honolulu. You should definitely visit this iconic stretch of sand while you’re in town.
Pearl Harbor – Located in the heart of Honolulu, Pearl Harbor is a must-see attraction. Learn about the attack on December 7th, 1941 here.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve – A short drive away from Honolulu, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserves offers visitors an opportunity to experience nature in its purest form.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – This park features over 50 active volcanoes that have been erupting since 1790.
Maui – Maui is known as “the Valley Isle” because of its lush green landscape. Visit Haleakala National Park and learn about the history of Maui.
Lanai – Lanai is a small island with only 12,000 residents. Enjoy the beauty of this tropical paradise before returning back to the mainland.
Big Island – The largest island in Hawaii, the Big Island is home to Mauna Kea State Recreation Area. Experience the view of the highest peak in North America.
Kona Coast – Kona is the perfect place to relax after exploring the rest of Hawaii. Spend time on the white sands of the Kona coast.
If you’d rather not drive around the whole island, consider flying into Kauai instead. It’s less than an hour’s flight from Honolulu. Once on the island, you can easily rent a car and explore the area.
Top Tips To Consider On Your Oahu Expedition
Having listed our favorite destinations above, there are also a few things that you’ll need to keep in the back of your head before making the trip.
Traffic
You won’t be able to avoid traffic during your trip around the island. However, you may be able to plan your route better depending on how much driving you will be doing.
If you’re planning on visiting multiple places, consider taking public transportation.
Weather
As we mentioned earlier, weather conditions change frequently in Hawaii. When you’re planning your itinerary, try to pick times when the weather is good. Also, don’t forget to bring sunscreen!
Safety
While traveling in Hawaii, it’s important to stay safe. Make sure you know where your hotel is located and always use common sense when walking around unfamiliar areas.
Parking
If you’re renting a car, make sure you know where you can park safely. Parking meters usually cost $1 per hour but some cities charge higher rates.
Transportation
When you’re ready to return home, remember to factor in travel costs. Most airlines allow passengers to check one bag free of charge.
Final Thoughts
We hope that you enjoyed our list of attractions in Oahu and that you have a better understanding of how vast the island is.
We’ve tried to include everything from popular tourist spots to lesser-known gems.
Have fun exploring!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Time Of Year To Go To Oahu?
The best months to go to Oahu are May through September. During these months, temperatures are milder and the crowds aren’t too big.
Is There Anything Else I Should Know About Going To Oahu?
Yes! Always bring sunscreen. You should also wear comfortable shoes for hiking, especially if you’re going to visit the volcano. And finally, be prepared for rain showers at any point in time.
How Do I Get Around In Oahu?
There are two main ways to get around Oahu: by foot or by car. While the city has many buses, they are mostly used for local routes. For longer trips, taxis are available.
Are There Volcanoes On Oahu?