While Kauai has its fair share of popular spots like Hanalei Bay and Wailua Falls, it most certainly has some incredible lesser-known locales that won't be overrun with tourists. This ultimate Hawaii hidden gems road trip will take you around The Garden Island of Hawaii to some fascinating hidden gems and natural wonders. These are some must sees if you’re on the island, so make sure to gas up the car and get this road trip started.
This hidden gems road trip around Kauai will cover 101 miles with approximately 3 ½ hours of driving time. Use this interactive Google map to customize the trip to your needs. Let's hit the road!
If you love to explore caves, grab a flashlight and head to our first stop, Maniniholo Dry Cave. Located across from Haena Beach Park, this cave goes back over 100 feet and is fun and easy to explore.
Learn more about this Hawaii hidden gem by visiting this webpage. It’s a trip you absolutely won’t want to miss, and it’s the perfect first stop on our roadtrip.
Tucked away below a bluff known as Kaweonui Point lies the secluded Kaweonui Beach, which is commonly referred to as 'Sealodge Beach.' This pristine slice of shoreline can be accessed via a trail that starts at the Sealodge Condos.
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This little known place in Hawaii is an excellent place to get away from it all, and enjoy some peace and quiet! Pack a picnic for this second stop on our road trip itinerary.
Since Kauai is known as The Garden Island, you must stop at one of the many botanical gardens here. Tucked away in the jungles of the North Shore, Princeville Botanical Gardens is not just filled with exotic flowers and fruit trees but also organically grown chocolate. Come here and take a Walking and Chocolate Tasting Tour for a memorable experience. Read more about why the tropical garden tour In Hawaii deserves a spot on our road trip!
Located on the Kauai's northernmost point within a wildlife refuge is the picture-perfect Kīlauea Lighthouse which is a must-visit on the island. This lighthouse was first illuminated in 1913 with a beam that could be seen 90 miles out to sea. To learn more about this Hawaii hidden gem, read about the northernmost point of the inhabited Hawaiian Islands.
Paliku Beach is a secluded stretch of sand that was a nudist beach at one time. It is nicknamed 'Donkey Beach' due to the mules (not donkeys) that once resided in a nearby pasture. This beach is a perfect spot for sunbathing, but no swimming due to rough surf. Get the scoop on Paliku Beach in Hawaii to learn more.
Address: Kealia, Hawaii 96751
6. Kauai's Hindu Monastery - Saiva Siddhanta Headquarters, Kapaʻa
Kauai Aadheenam, or Kauai Hindu Monastery, is a South-Indian monastery, spiritual sanctuary, and temple complex set on an otherworldly slice of property filled with lush vegetation. There's no other place like this.
Located within Wailua River State Park is a natural wonder known as the Fern Grotto. This grotto is a fern-covered cave surrounded by a tropical garden. One way to see it is by kayaking along the Wailea River which is a magical experience to say the least!
Learn more about kayaking to this hidden gem in Hawaii by reading our previous article.
Address: Wailua River State Park, Kapaʻa, HI 96746
The charming small town of Hanapepe is filled with plantation-style buildings, shops, restaurants, galleries, and a swinging bridge. The Hanapepe Swinging Bridge was built in the early 1900s as a way for its residents to cross the river. It has since been restored and reinforced, but it still swings the slightest bit when pedestrians cross.
We end this road trip at a lookout that gives panoramic views of the ocean and Kalalau Valley. Take in the scenery and realize how lucky you are to bear witness to so much beauty! This little known place in Hawaii is a must see when you’re on Kauai.
Are you ready for a road trip around Kauai? Which Hawaii hidden gems are you most excited to see? Is there any we left off this list? Let us know in the comments below!
When traveling around Hawaii, there are many different routes to take and see the stunning beauty of the state. Whether you want to take a scenic drive along the Holo Holo Koloa Scenic Byway or check out all the spectacular waterfalls of Oahu, these road trips will take you through some of Hawaii's most picturesque areas, giving you a whole new perspective on everything, The Aloha State has to offer. So if you're looking for a fun and exciting time, check out a few of the best road trips in Hawaii!
Route: Waikiki Beach > Hanauma Bay Lookout > Makupu’u Point Lighthouse > Nu’uanu Pali Lookout > Kailua Beach > Byodo-In Temple > Laie Point State Wayside > Banzai Pipeline > Matsumoto Shave Ice
Distance: 115 miles
Trip Time: 4 hours driving time
Take a one-day road trip through Hawaii's most populated island, Oahu, because quick road trips in Hawaii can be just what you need for a relaxing day. This Hawaii road trip itinerary is under four hours and will take you to various lookouts and beaches, ending your trip at Matsumoto for some shaved ice. Start your journey at Waikiki Beach and dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean. You'll stop at lookouts like Hanauma Bay Lookout, where you can even do some snorkeling. A notable pitstop is the Byodo-In Temple, a replica of a 900-year-old Buddhist temple in Japan. I highly recommend adding this road trip to your travel bucket list.
Route: Alekoko Fishpond > Opaeka'a Falls > Fern Grotto > Kilauea Point National Refugee & Lighthouse > Princeville > Queen's Bath > Hanalei Valley Lookout > Hanalei Bay > Haena State Park
Distance: 56 miles
Trip Time: 2 hours driving time
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This three-day weekend road trip is through Hawaii's oldest island, Kauai. You'll begin your adventure at the historic Menehune Fishpond. Legend has it that the Menehune, a mythical people who inhabited the islands before the arrival of the Hawaiians, were responsible for building this incredible feat of human ingenuity. The next stop is one of Kauai’s most famous waterfalls on Kuamoo Road between Lihue and Kapaa. It is visible from the road, making it a popular tourist destination. Lastly, you'll hit up Haena State Park, home to the protected reefs of the beautiful Ke'e Beach. Weekend road trips in Hawaii offer us a chance to take a mini-vacation - and there is no better place to do that than Kauai.
Route: Mount Haleakala > Kula Ali’i Lavender Farm > Oheo Gulch > Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach > Hana Lava Tube > Hana Highway > Garden of Eden > Paia > Iao Valley > Lahaina > Ka’anapali Beach
Distance: 160 miles
Trip Time: 6 hours driving time
Nearly 160 miles long and about six hours to drive, this Maui road trip has it all. From soaring mountain peaks and valleys to stunning beaches and waterfalls, each destination is more magnificent than the last. Some notable pitstops are the Oheo Gulch in Haleakala National Park, a lavender farm in Upcountry Maui, and the breathtaking Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach. We think this is one of the best road trips to take in Hawaii for the ultimate Maui experience.
Route: Maluhia Road > Old Kōloa Town > St. Raphael Catholic Church > Spouting Horn > Shipwreck Beach > Poipu
Distance: 19.5 miles
Trip Time: 1 hour driving time
Short on time? May we suggest driving along the 19.5-mile Holo Holo Koloa Scenic Byway? This epic one-hour drive will take you through tunnels of greenery, rows of eucalyptus trees, tree canopies, and multiple points of interest. You'll stop at Old Kōloa Town, Shipwreck Beach, and the Spouting Horn - the locals used to call it Puhi, and it's easy to see why. This blowhole is known for shooting water up to 60 feet into the air. It's quite a sight to see and definitely worth a visit.
Is there a better way to enjoy the springtime weather than a waterfall hike? If you're looking to explore some of the best waterfalls in Oahu, you're in luck. This Hawaii road trip map will take you to seven waterfalls, all within 70 miles and under two hours. However, most of these waterfalls require a hike, so it's best to plan accordingly and split up the trip over a long weekend. You'll be able to see waterfalls such as Manoa Falls, Kapena Falls, and Lulumahu Falls, to name a few. Happy exploring!
Route: Hanauma Bay > Halona Cove > Makapu’u Lookout > Waimanalo Beach > Kailua > Kahana Valley State Park > Angel’s Ice Cream > Waimea Bay > Haleiwa > Haleiwa Beach House
Distance: 60 miles
Trip Time: 2 hours driving time
Are you ready for a summer adventure? We all know nothing says summer quite like beach days, so pack up the car and head on one of the best summertime road trips. In just 2 hours of driving and 60 miles, you can enjoy an unforgettable summer adventure full of beach towns, oceanfront eateries, and shaved ice shops. Start your day snorkeling at Hanauma, then off to the beach park of Ahupua’a O Kahana State Park, and end your day with some great food at Haleiwa Beach House.
Route: Mountain Thunder Kona Coffee > Hula Daddy Kona Coffee > Mauka Meadows Doutor Coffee Farm > Heavenly Hawaiian Farms > Kona Joe Coffee > Greenwell Coffee Farms > Kona Coffee Living History Farm > Kona Pacific Farmers Cooperative
Distance: 25 miles
Trip Time: 1 hour driving time
Looking to get into the cozy fall spirit? Take a Kona coffee road trip. If you're a coffee lover, you can't miss out on the chance to try Kona coffee. Hawaii is the only state in the U.S. where coffee can be grown, and Kona coffee is the most famous variety. To get the most out of your coffee experience, take a road trip to visit some of the best coffee farms in the region, like Heavenly Hawaiian Farms and Mauka Meadows Doutor Coffee Farm. This fantastic fall day trip covers 25 miles and takes less than an hour to drive, making it perfect for a quick caffeine fix.
Route: 11248 Wilhelmina Rise > Honolulu City Lights > 1553 Miller Street > 1036 Hala Drive > 2020 Hillcrest Street > 99-149 Kulina Street > 98-1603 Kaahumanu Street > 94-226 Anapau Place > Mahinahou Street
Distance: 36.5 miles
Trip Time: 1 hour 40 minutes driving time
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I've heard that Christmas lights cover the island of Oahu during the holiday season. From Kaneohe and Kailua to Makakilo and Kapolei, there are many magical light displays to check out and see. Start in Honolulu, and travel through Pearl City, Aiea, and Waikele before ending your evening in Mililani. This holiday lights road trip will take you to nine magical light displays, making it the perfect wintertime activity.
Are you ready for the ultimate Hawaiian adventure? With its pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear water, and mouth-watering cuisine, Hawaii truly is paradise on earth. Get ready to pack your swimming gear and indulge your sweet tooth because we've got an unforgettable family-friendly road trip itinerary for you. This journey takes you all around Maui, covering over 140 miles and showcasing five breathtaking swimming spots like Keawakapu Beach and three popular ice cream shops such as Coconut Glen's, guaranteeing everyone in the group a good time.
Route: Mauna Kea > Kaumana Caves > Waianuenue Falls > Hawaiii Volcanoes National Park > Punalu'u Black Sand Beach > Papakolea Green Sand Beach > Kealakekua Bay > Golden Ponds of Keawaiki > Waipio Valley > Akaka Falls
Distance: 290 miles
Trip Time: 7.5 hours driving time
If you're looking for a scenic road trip that will take you past some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders, look no further than the Big Island. At over 4,000 square miles, Hawaii Island is not only the largest island in Hawaii but is also home to some of the most incredible sights in the entire state - from active volcanoes to cascading waterfalls, you'll find it all on this road trip. We've curated a 290-mile, 7.5-hour trek that will take you around the entirety of the Big Island, from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, allowing you to experience the very best that Hawaii Island has to offer.
Route: Wahiawa > Waialua > Haleiwa > Laie > Kaneohe > Kailua > Waimanalo > Hawaii Kai
Distance: 76 miles
Trip Time: 2 hours driving time
If you want to escape the busyness of Honolulu, there are plenty of charming small towns to explore on the island of Oahu. These towns have rich histories, cute shops, and stunning views. You will embark on an epic road trip that covers 76 miles and two hours of driving time, stopping at eight of the most picturesque towns on the island, from Wahiawa to Hawaii Kai. Whether you prefer coastal communities or inland cities, this road trip has something for everyone.
Have you gotten on the road and taken any of these Hawaiian road trips? We’d love to hear your thoughts – let us know about the best road trips in Hawaii you have taken!
Hawaii is a paradise—not just for its beaches and tropical forests but also its natural wonders, including some of the country's most stunning scenic spots. The Mauna Kea State Recreation Area, also known as Mauna Kea State Park, is a rest stop in Hawaii that offers much more than a place to take a break. Located at a stunning vantage point on the Big Island of Hawaii, this area provides breathtaking views, many amenities, and a gateway to numerous outdoor activities!
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Located at an elevation that offers relief from the tropical heat, the Mauna Kea State Recreation Area is perfectly positioned to help travelers heading towards the summit of Mauna Kea.
The park offers picnic areas, clean restroom facilities, and pavilions that are perfect for a family lunch or a quick rest. Its spacious parking makes it an ideal spot for tourists and locals alike to gather, prepare, or unwind after a day of exploring.
The views from the Mauna Kea State Recreation Area are nothing short of spectacular.
From its lookout points, visitors can gaze out over vast tracts of lava fields, the towering Mauna Kea, and, if the weather permits, a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. At certain times of the year, the setting sun turns the sky into a canvas of vibrant colors, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Beyond serving as a scenic rest stop, the Mauna Kea State Recreation Area is a hub for outdoor activities.
Hiking trails start from or pass through the park, leading adventurers through changing landscapes that include native forests and stark lava fields. These trails offer varying levels of difficulty, catering to both casual walkers and serious hikers looking to explore the island's interior. Bird watching is another popular activity, with the park's elevation making it a home to species not commonly seen at sea level.
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For stargazers, the Mauna Kea State Recreation Area provides a unique opportunity.
Its elevation and location make it one of the best spots on the island for night sky observation. Although the summit of Mauna Kea, home to some of the world's most advanced telescopes, is a short drive away, the recreation area itself offers dark skies for those who prefer to stargaze without making the trip to the summit.
Informational displays provide insights into the area's geological history, the significance of Mauna Kea in Hawaiian culture, and the unique flora and fauna of the region.
Sustainability and respect for the land are important at the Mauna Kea State Recreation Area.
Facilities are designed to minimize environmental impact, and visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles. Efforts to preserve the natural habitat are evident, making sure that the park remains a beautiful area for future generations to enjoy.
The Mauna Kea State Recreation Area is more than just a convenient stop on a journey; it’s a gorgeous place to enjoy the sights.
With stunning views and easy accessibility to outdoor activities, it offers a unique experience for all visitors. Whether you're pausing on a trip to the summit, stopping for a scenic lunch spot, or seeking a starting point for your adventures on the island, the Mauna Kea State Recreation Area is a hidden gem!
Have you ever been to this rest stop in Hawaii? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below! Learn more about why you have to visit Mauna Kea!
