Even though we can’t take a traditional road trip like our friends on the mainland, the Hawaiian Islands are home to several incredible scenic drives just waiting to be explored — and we can almost guarantee that our views are better. While we love Maui's Hana Highway as much as the next person, today we're taking you on a unique adventure back in time along one of the oldest roads in Hawaii.
Meandering around most of Hawaii Island, the Hawaii Belt Road is not only one of the state's oldest roads but easily one of the longest as well, measuring in at approximately 150 miles.
A modern name for the Mamalahoa Highway, the Hawaii Belt Road consists of Hawaii Route 11 between Hilo and Kailua-Kona, Route 19 between Hilo and Waimea, and a split route between Waimea and Kailua Kona (the original "mauka" Route 190 and the "makai" Route 19 road).
Various sections of the highway have been widened and re-aligned throughout the years, and much of the Hawaii Belt Road through North Hilo and the Hamakua area was built on the roadbed and bridges of the Hawaii Consolidated Railway as part of the recovery from the 1946 tsunami that ravaged the landscape.
Though the names "Hawaii Belt Road" and "Mamalahoa Highway" refer to the road system that encircles the Big Island, many sections of the road are known by their local names.
Whether you’re interested in history, breathtaking landscapes, or adventure, you’re sure to find it along the Hawaii Belt Road. This highway is easily the longest — and greatest — road trip you can take in the Aloha State, and it should be on everyone’s bucket list.
Have you ever driven around the Big Island on Mamalahoa Highway? Did you know that it is one of the state's oldest roads? For a detailed account of which stretches of road are considered part of the Hawaii Belt Road, click here.
From palaces straight out of a fairytale to vibrant gardens full of rainbow eucalyptus trees, the Hawaiian Islands are home to countless enchanting places. While it would be impossible to choose the most enchanting location in all of Hawaii, we certainly have a good idea of the strongest contenders, including a Maui farm that will absolutely blow you away. Upcountry Maui, on the slopes of Mount Haleakala, gets a great deal of rain, resulting in lush, green scenery and flourishing lavender fields at the always-enchanting Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm.
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The stunning 13.5-acre farm is located on the slopes of Mount Haleakala at approximately 4,000 feet above sea level. It’s one of the most beautiful Hawaiian lavender farms.
Home to approximately 55,000 lavender plants and 45 different varieties of lavender, you would never guess that lavender wasn’t native to the island - the cool, dry climate here means lavender can thrive year-round.
The beautiful, fragrant lavender isn’t the only thing to see at this gorgeous farm – visitors will also be rewarded with panoramic views of the entire western half of the island.
The only way to reach the farm is by car - buses are not allowed on the property. But it’s worth it, because this is one of the best lavender farms in Hawaii.
Guests of the farm can take a rejuvenating tour of the gardens and breathe in the fresh mountain air or participate in special classes, a daily self-guided treasure hunt, and themed tours, like the always-popular “Pick Your Own Lavender” tour.
Ali’I Kula Lavender Farm shares their harvest with more than 25 local businesses that incorporate the lavender into more than 75 unique products, including essential oil products, cosmetics, sachets, soaps, candles, and scrubs. Ocean Vodka even makes a lavender-flavored organic vodka. Oh, and you can’t forget to grab a cup of lavender-infused hot chocolate while you’re at the farm - there’s truly nothing quite like it.
The Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily at 1100 Waipoli Road. There are fees for admission and walking tours. For more information, call (808) 878-3004, or visit Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm’s website.
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Although seasons in the Aloha State don't differ too dramatically from one another - which is what makes it such a wonderful year-round destination - there are distinct seasons in Hawaii. Add to this the fact that many vacationers from the mainland and elsewhere tend to travel more frequently when school is out, and you'll find that there is no shortage of fun things to do in Hawaii in summer. Here are a few of our favorites.
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Best Summer Vacation Destinations In Hawaii
With all the gorgeous natural wonders and resorts in Hawaii, it can be difficult to choose your summer destination(s). Well, we're here to help! Here's a trio of suggestions for Aloha State destinations that work equally as well for families as they do for couples seeking romantic things to do in Hawaii in summer.
Need To Know: This sprawling property one of the largest hotels in Hawaii, so be prepared to do a lot of walking, even if you use the boat and/or tram service.
Hilton Waikoloa Village, on the Big Island's Kohala Coast, is a self-contained vacation with boundless activities, amenities, and dining options right on property. The oceanfront resort has its own lagoon beach that's shallow and calm enough for keiki of all ages to have fun. You can also paddle or kayak in the lagoon. You'll find several big pools, including one with a water slide, and a Dolphin Quest outpost, as well. A stay at the this resort is one of the best family things to do in Hawaii in summer.
Need To Know: Those unfamiliar with the water conditions of this coast should only paddle out with a local guide.
Summer is the perfect time to get out and explore Kauai's famous Na Pali Coast from the water. Seas are at their calmest in the summer, allowing tour operators and guides to take visitors out on the water. Viewing the cliffs from this unique perspective allows you to appreciate the rugged beauty of the coastline in a way that's different from how you'd experience it hiking.
Need To Know: With its world-class spa, the resort is also perfect for a couples vacation.
The Grand Wailea is a renowned resort in south Maui's Wailea (obviously) resort area. A fairly protected beach, series of waterslides, and a not-so-lazy river make it a perfect getaway for families with children. There's even a water elevator to get you to the top of the slides.
Visit the Grand Wailea's website for more information or to make a reservation.
Best Beaches To Visit In Hawaii This Summer
It would be stating the obvious to say that Hawaii is famous for its beaches, so I'll refrain from doing so. Beaches are wonderful places to experience the Aloha State because not only do they showcase the Hawaiian Islands' tropical beauty, visiting a beach is also (often) one of the best cheap things to do in Hawaii in summer. Here are three that tend to be a bit less crowded than other better-known strands, so you can enjoy your beach read in peace.
Need To Know: One thing to be aware of is that there are no lifeguards at Kalama Beach Park.
Kalama Beach, on Oahu's windward shore, is the least known of Kailua Bay's beaches. Just north of Kailua and Lanikai Beaches, Kalama Beach is a place where you can kick back and enjoy the summer sun with plenty of space for yourself.
Need To Know: Parking can be a challenge, so plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
Snorkelers will love Makua, or Tunnels, Beach on Kauai's north shore, with its shallow, protected waters and offshore reef. Tunnels Beach offers the same Bali Hai views as nearby Hanalei Beach, but the crowds are not at all the same.
Need To Know: There are showers and bathrooms at the beach, but no lifeguards.
Kapalua Bay Beach frequently lands on many "best beaches" lists, but fortunately, due to its location away from Maui's population centers, it doesn't see the crowds that other, more popular beaches see. This makes it a wonderful spot to enjoy some beach time in the summer.
Parks To Visit In Hawaii This Summer
There are many amazing national and state parks in Hawaii. Most are wonderful places to visit anytime of year, but some are a little better than others when the islands are receiving the sun's most direct rays. For example, the lava fields at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or the unshaded strand of Polihale State Park can be rather unpleasant when the sun is at its most merciless. That's why we think these three parks are particularly good choices for a summer visit.
Need To Know: Free entrance for Hawaii residents with ID. Non-residents must pay $5 per person entry fee. There is also a $10 per vehicle parking fee for non-residents.
Hapuna Beach State Park is home to one of the world's best beaches. Fortunately, you'll also find some shady areas, as well as available umbrellas to avoid the sun's most direct rays when you're splashing around int he water. The water is clear and beautiful, but this is not a beach that's ideal for snorkeling.
Need To Know: There is no fee to enter or park at Wailua River State Park.
Wailua River State Park on Kauai is a wonderful place spend a summer day. With the state's only truly navigable river, waterfalls, temples, and a fern grotto, you'll find plenty of water, shade, and points of interest to keep you occupied during the heat of the day.
Need To Know: Free entrance for Hawaii residents with ID. Non-residents must pay $5 per person entry fee. There is also a $10 per vehicle parking fee for non-residents.
Makena State Park boasts (arguably) Maui's best beach - or beaches: There are two, commonly known as Big Beach and Little Beach, divided by an outcropping of blackrock and a cinder cone. Makena is a great spot for body surfing, boogie boarding, and splashing. A potentially heavy shore break and strong currents mean conditions aren't always great for swimming or snorkeling. Between the beach and the parking lot, plenty of trees offer shade, and there are picnic tables where you can sit and relax out of the sun.
Best Free Summer Activities
Hawaii, without a doubt, is an expensive place to live and to visit. Fortunately many of the best things about life in the Aloha State come without a price tag: the weather; beaches; friendly people; many public parks; and gorgeous scenery. There are also plenty of other free things to do in Hawaii in summer that you may not have known about. Here are three suggestions that we think will interest you.
Need To Know: Although there is no cost to visit the memorial, advance tickets for the U.S.S. Arizona memorial are recommended due to high levels of visitation.
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is operated by the National Park Service. It commemorates December 7, 1941, when Pearl Harbor suffered a surprise aerial attack from Japanese combatants, resulting the loss of more than 2,400 American lives. The attack plunged the U.S. into World War II. The memorial marks the solemn occasion, and also serves as the final resting place for many, many American service personnel. Haunting and poignant, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial - which includes the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial should be visited by anyone who can make the trip. You can make make reservations on Recreation.gov. There is a nominal $1 reservation fee for purchasing the advance tickets.
Need To Know: The visitor center is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday. It's closed on Sundays.
Hawaii's world renowned Mauna Loa macadamia nuts are packaged right here on the Big Island. And you can visit the factory absolutely free. Pop into the visitor center to learn about the fascinating history of this island product. Try some samples, then knock yourself out at the factory store. Afterward, you can walk off the samples on a nature trail through the plantation.
Need To Know: Start in the morning with a full tank of gas, and allow plenty of time for stops.
Yes, the car and gas aren't free, but everything else about traveling the incredible Road to Hana can be if you want it to. Pack a lunch and some snacks, and leave early to avoid the crowds. Stop at the waterfalls and stunning overlooks along the way. It's a wonderful way to spend time on Maui without spending much money.
Best Summer Events And Festivals In Hawaii
One of the most wonderful things about the Aloha State is the full calendar of events and festivals you can find here. Summer is particularly rich for festivals in Hawaii, and so many of the state's celebrations have deep roots in its history and culture. These are three we definitely think you should check out.
Need To Know: Visit the festival's website for the latest information regarding tickets and pricing.
For nearly half a century, during the third week of July, halau hula have flocked to Oahu for the Prince Lot Hula Festival. It's one of the largest noncompetitive hula gatherings in the state, and it showcases the depth of talent that can be found in Hawaii's hula community.
Need To Know: Many of the festival events are free, but there may be some things that require payment.
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Every July, the charming, historic town of Old Koloa hosts a 10-day festival celebrating its heritage as a sugar plantation. The sugar roots date back to the 1830s, but the festival got its start in the 1980s. During the festival, folks are treated to all manner of events, including a parade, races, food, music, and much more.
Need To Know: The dates of these events change annually. Check the Aloha Festivals website for up-to-date info.
The oldest ongoing festivals in Hawaii are the Aloha Festivals, which celebrate and signal the star-based start of a new year. The Pleiades rising above the horizon is the sign that dictates the dates of the Aloha Festivals, which occur during late summer and into early fall. One Aloha Festival event is the Waikiki Ho‘olaule‘a, which is the state's biggest oceanfront block party. Music, hula, food, a parade, and a day's worth of celebration mark the occasion. It's a wonderful way to say aloha to summer in Hawaii.
There are so many things to do in Hawaii in summer that the biggest challenge you'll face is a full calendar. What are your favorite summer activities in the Aloha State? Be sure to let us know - we always enjoy hearing from you!
