Throughout the Hawaiian Islands, you will find unsurpassed natural beauty everywhere you go. While there are some wonders that can only be seen via strenuous hiking trails or crazy expensive helicopter tours, there are others that simply require a vehicle. Even though we can’t take a traditional road trip like our friends on the mainland, the Hawaiian Islands are home to several incredibly stunning scenic roads just waiting to be discovered. And while all of these drives are stunning in their own way, today, we’re taking a look at the Waimea Canyon scenic drive, a 14-mile ride that is sure to leave you breathless.

Often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon is certainly a thing of immense beauty. Nearly 10 miles long, one mile wide, and more than 3,600 feet deep, the stunning Waimea Canyon is full of striking cliffs, incredible colors, and cascading waterfalls. It is perhaps Hawaii’s most unspoiled natural beauty, and the road that leads there is magnificent, one of the most scenic drives in Hawaii.
Mark Andrea Busse/Flickr
The 14-mile winding road that leads from Waimea town into the park to the Waimea Canyon Lookout and into Koke'e State Park tops our travel bucket list, and with views like this, it’s easy to see why.
David Brooks/Flickr
Michaela Hubnerova/Google Reviews
Leaving Waimea, Highway 550 climbs more than 2,000 feet in elevation as it makes its way to the gorgeous Waimea Canyon. The road is steep and features quite a few curves along the way, but if you’re up for the challenge, the views along this pretty drive are unreal.
Jenny lee Silver/Flickr

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The highway meanders adjacent to the canyon, and while you can simply admire the views from your window as you drive, you can also stop to soak in the natural splendor and snap a few photographs.
Waimea Canyon Scenic Drive
David Brooks/Flickr
Falco Ermert/Flickr
One of the most popular stops overlooks this small waterfall surrounded by Kauai’s signature red dirt. With a burnt sienna hue caused by the surrounding red dirt, this lovely little waterfall carved into Waimea Canyon’s iconic red dirt hills is truly a sight to behold — and will easily transport you to another world.
Garden State Hiker/Flickr
Highway 550 begins in Waimea and meanders past the rolling countryside for approximately six miles before merging with Koke’e Road. It’s another four miles to the Waimea Canyon Lookout, and even further into Koke'e State Park — but it's worth every single nerve-wracking mile.
TravelingOtter/Flickr
Waimea Canyon Drive proves that it’s not all about the destination, but about the journey it takes to get there. Because while Waimea Canyon is certainly impressive, Highway 550 is deserving of a little recognition, too, at least in our humble opinion.
Andrew Baerst/Flickr

Have you ever driven the winding road to the Grand Canyon of the Pacific? Did you know that it’s considered to be one of Hawaii’s most terrifying drives? Sound off in the comments below, then join our Hawaii Nature Lovers Facebook group to share the photos you’ve taken along the Waimea Canyon scenic drive. If haven’t experienced this drive yet, be sure to snag these top-rated binoculars while planning your trip so you can fully enjoy the incredible views.

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Waimea Canyon Scenic Drive & Related Info

By AnneMarie | August 21, 2023

What are the most picturesque hiking trails in Hawaii?

Some of the most picturesque hiking trails in Hawaii include:

  • Puu Hinahina Lookout Loop – This trail is located in Kauai's Koke'e State Park and offers incredible views of the Waimea Canyon.
  • Kapalua Coastal Trail – Located in Maui, you’ll enjoy the scenery of Kapalua Beach, Namalu Bay, and Oneloa Bay’s sand dunes.
  • Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden – This trail on Hawaii Island takes you 1.5 miles through the beautiful botanical garden.
  • Wai Koa Loop Trail – See serene lagoons, a historic dam, and a majestic mahogany forest along this five-mile trail at the Wai Koa Plantation in Kauai.
  • Waimea Valley – Hike 1.5 miles out-and-back on this trail where you can also see the 45-foot Waimea Falls, an idyllic spot for a family swim in Oahu.

 

What are the most unique places to spend the night in Hawaii?

An adventure in Hawaii calls for an interesting place to stay overnight, and there are many options to choose from, such as:

  • A treehouse cabin in Hilo, Hawaii that feels like your own slice of paradise.
  • The tiny tiki house that’s the ultimate dreamscape for couples looking to disappear into nature.
  • Cottages at Waimea Plantation that were built in the 1800s.
  • A one-of-a-kind farmhouse set in the sprawling Hilo countryside, with epic views in every direction.
  • A gorgeous handcrafted luxury home located in Volacno, Hawaii.

Get more information on these (and more) unique places to spend the night in Hawaii.

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