Everyone in Hawaii Must Take This One Incredible Scenic Drive

From incredible lava formations and charming coves to challenging hikes and beautiful beaches, Oahu’s southeastern shore is a treasure trove of incredible spots you won’t find anywhere else in the world. And in just a ten mile stretch of Kalanianaole Highway from the beautiful Spitting Caves to the popular Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, you will find countless spots to explore, though we think these nine wonders are a cut above the rest.

My husband and I have lived in Hawaii for two years now, and it wasn’t until a few months ago that we actually took this scenic drive. I saw a photograph of the Lanai Lookout, and while we were absolutely awe-inspired, we were also extremely upset with ourselves that we had never known that this incredible slice of paradise existed. Now, it’s one of our favorite weekend drives – especially on his motorcycle. We’ve included a link to the Google map for these nine spots, though you definitely don’t need to follow these exact directions – and we would argue that you probably won’t want to hike both Koko Head and thee Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail in one day – unless you want your legs to feel like jello, of course.

Screenshot/Google Maps

Anthony Quintano/Flickr

The picturesque Spitting Caves are found below a high cliff where waves crash underneath and shoot into the cave, ejecting the water like a reverse blowhole.

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Justin De La Ornellas/Flickr

Perhaps one of Oahu’s most visited tourist destinations is Hanauma Bay State Park, and rightfully so – it is one of the island’s premier spots if you want to experience Hawaii’s beautiful sea life by way of snorkeling. Swim among the coral reef, vibrantly colored fish, and even honu at the best beach in America for 2016, according to Dr. Beach!

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Kevin Nelson/Flickr

Please don’t let the short 1.5-mile round trip description fool you – Koko Head is brutal – we’re talking more than 1,000 railway steps leading to the summit. It’s a great workout that yields stellar views, and if you get up early enough, it is one of the best spots on the island to view the sunrise.

Megan Shute

From the parking lot of this scenic overlook, you will have uninterrupted views of the stunning Pacific Ocean, and, on a clear day, the island of Lanai. But what is really special about this lookout is the stunning lava formations you’ll find once you hop over the short wall surrounding the lot.

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Chris/Flickr

Situated between Halona Point and the Halona Blowhole, this small rocky cove is perfectly picturesque, and has been featured in films like Pirates of the Caribbean and 50 First Dates. Despite its Hollywood fame, the only way to reach the stunning cove is via a rocky and slightly treacherous hike.

Armistead Booker/Flickr

During periods of high tide and strong winds, rolling waves crash into the shore and shoot sea spray into the air through a cave, acting as a sort of geyser.

www.bluewaikiki.com/Flickr

Just past Halona Cove + Blowhole is Sandy’s – as the locals call it – a beach with year-round crushing shore break that has resulted in many wanna-be bodysurfers with sprains, neck compressions and broken bones. But as long as you're careful, the beautiful beach can be the backdrop for some wonderful Hawaii memories.

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Marvin Chandra/Flickr

Overlooking Alan Davis Beach, Pele's Chair can be reached after parking at the Makapu'u Lighthouse Trailhead, and veering right at the fork and taking the unpaved path down to a protected beach and this incredible rock formation.

dslrovice/Flickr

Our trip ends at the scenic - and fully paved - Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail, a short and sweet two mile hike to a historic lighthouse, with sweeping panoramic views of Oahu's southeastern and windward coasts.

What is your favorite spot along this ten mile stretch of road in southeast Oahu? If you’re up for a longer Oahu road trip, check out this ultimate driving tour of the island, or this jaw-dropping waterfalls road trip.