If you want to explore the Hawaii that usually only locals see, hit the road. In the span of a few hours, you can go from towering active volcanoes to cascading waterfalls, from lush valleys to brilliantly colored coral reefs.
There are so many sights to see by car you’re limited only by time, so make the most of short day trips that you can mix up between natural wonders and local history. Or simply float on your back in a pristine waterfall-carved pool and call it a day.
Oahu’s southeastern shore is a hidden treasure of incredible spots. From the spectacular Spitting Caves to the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, you’ll find countless secret beaches and trails to explore.
With over 620 curves through lush jungle on one side and pristine beaches on the other, Maui’s 60-mile Hana Highway is beloved by locals and tourists alike for waterfalls, caves and the Hana Lava Tube.
Start at one end of the road, on Kauai’s north shore at Ke’e Beach with its protected reef, and travel the perimeter of the island until you reach Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.
Begin your Big Island tour with a visit to Mauna Kea then circle the island to visit Waianueneue Falls and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
The islands are crisscrossed with one-lane bridges. Local etiquette dictates that cars pass in groups of 5 at a time rather than one by one.
Dress in layers. On the Big Island you can go from a snow-capped volcano to a sun drenched beach in practically no time.
Eat local. Don’t be afraid to try the roadside food shacks, especially if you want to experience the islands as the locals do.