Kalanaianaole is one of the Most Scenic Highways on O’ahu
The Kalanaianaole Highway, though hard to pronounce and read, is one of the most scenic routes on O’ahu. You don’t want to miss out on this drive. There are so many views, and places to explore.
Even if you don’t like, or are unable to go exploring, you can see many of these views right out the window of your transportation. Koko Crater, Hanauma Bay, Lanai Lookout, Halona Blowhole, Halona Beach Cove, Makapu’u Lookout, and Waimanalo Beach are all fantastic views you won’t want to miss on your journey.
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Koko Crater
Koko Crater will be your first stop along the Kalanaianaole Highway. Unfortunately, you will have to hike the crater to get the 360 views of Hawaii. My husband and I never did hike it, but we checked out the botanical gardens below the crater. It was honestly too hot to climb, and we really didn’t want to overexert ourselves after a long vacation.
The picture above and to the right are both from Canva. I had to pull them from another site because this is something that we did not explore. The picture to the right is of the railroad tracks and is the trail to the top of Koko Crater. It’s about a mile uphill in the grueling heat. There are also many missing railroad ties, due to erosion. What used to be about 1,000 railroad ties, is now less than 800. The trail is said to be fairly difficult, but worth it because of the complete 360 views at the top. This Hike won’t cost you anything… yep it’s everyone’s favorite word, free. The parking lot is open from 6:30 AM to 11 PM, but the trailhead is open from 4 AM to 11 PM.
Hanauma Bay
After Koko Crater, you will come across Hanauma Bay. You also cannot see the views from the car. You would have to get out and walk down to it. Parking does cost $1 ( we went back in 2016, so prices could be different now.) This is a must-see, and do. If you don’t want to take the time to stop while out sightseeing, then take another day to do this.
Click here to learn more about Hanauma Bay
Lanai Lookout
Lanai Lookout was one of the easiest places to find. You are driving along the highway and BAM there are some pretty awesome lava formations. They are located just below the parking area, and you can even climb around on the rocks. Just be careful because the waves can be pretty intense sometimes. Oh, and fun fact… a scene from Pirates of the Caribbean 4 was filmed here as well!
Halona Blowhole Lookout
Holana Blowhole is in the same area as Lanai lookout, but unfortunately, we didn’t get a picture of it. From December through May It is possible to see humpback whales. We went in July and weren’t unable to see any. However, Whale watching is definitely on my list of things to do in the future.
Picture by Canva
Halona Beach Cove
This tiny beach was nicknamed Eternity beach in 1953 after the movie, From Here to Eternity, was filmed there. This area is also around the same location as the Halona blowhole and Lanai lookout. There is parking up top and is accessible by some stairs made out of rocks. It’s fairly easy to climb down, but be careful because the rocks get slippery when wet. In this picture, we are up top at the lookout.
Makapu’u Point
Makapu’u point was our favorite destination out of all the stops we made on Kalanianaole highway. There was so much history behind the area, and so much to see. To the right of the lookout is a path leading to a lighthouse. On the left is a beach. At the lookout are some relics from World War II. When you look out you see two islands named Manana and Kaohi-Ka-Ipu.
Here is one of the World War II bunkers. You are able to crawl inside, like my husband did in the picture, and see the view from the opening.
Somewhere to the right of the lookout is a trail leading to the Makapu’u lighthouse. Unfortunately, we didn’t see it, because we didn’t know about it at the time. the Kai Iwi trail to the lighthouse is 2 miles along some scenic pathways. It is completely free, and there is plenty of parking around the trailhead.
Picture by Canva
Makapu’u Beach is easily accessible off the highway. It is not recommended you swim here though. The waves are known to be huge, making them perfect for bodyboarders and surfers. There are several bathhouses with fully accessible showers and restrooms.
Waiamanalo Beach and Town
Waimanalo is known on O’ahu for having the longest stretches of sand, 3 miles to be exact. During the weekdays this beach is considered to be a peaceful and private place to swim and walk around but can get quite rowdy on the weekends. It is located only 3 minutes from Makapu’u point and is a must-see. We never had the privilege of seeing it, But we did pass by the town.
Picture by Canva
Behind the white sandy beaches of Waiamanalo you will see the beautiful ridged cliffs of Ko’olau. Nestled in between the two is the small town of Waimanalo, which is where we ended our trip.
Picture by Canva
Before I post anything, I make sure to do extensive research on names and locations. However, I am only human and make mistakes. If you see any mistakes please let me know, and I will fix them. Thank you for reading, and feel free to leave a comment about your trip. Let me know what you would like to know next about Hawaii.
The book below is how I found many places in O’ahu and was a lifesaver. It’s a great size for traveling, so you can take it with you on the airplane. The book will show you so many places that you didn’t know existed. Click on the picture below to buy the book.
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