The best cycling routes in Honolulu County

Embark on the Hanauma Bay via Diamond Head loop, a moderate touring cycling route that offers a dynamic ride with stunning coastal vistas. You will cover 26.5 miles (42.6 km) and gain 796 feet (243 metres) in elevation, typically taking around 2 hours and 33 minutes to complete. Expect varied terrain, from smooth coastal stretches to challenging uphill climbs, all while enjoying expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and passing the iconic Diamond Head Lighthouse.

When planning your visit, be aware that Hanauma Bay itself has specific access rules. The preserve is closed on Tuesdays and often requires advance reservations. There is usually an entry fee, and you will need to watch a mandatory educational video before entering. Always check the latest access requirements and operating hours before you go to ensure a smooth experience.

This route is notable for showcasing some of Oahu's most famous natural landmarks. As you cycle, you will pass Hanauma Bay, known for its distinctive curved shape, and the gently fluted hills of Koko Head. The journey around the base of Diamond Head provides a unique perspective of this volcanic tuff cone, making it a memorable ride for any touring cyclist.

This difficult touring cycling route, the Kaimuki to Makapu‘u Head via Waimanalo loop, takes you on a challenging journey across 38.8 miles (62.4 km) with a substantial 2774 feet (845 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this ride in about 4 hours and 8 minutes. As you pedal, you will encounter dramatic volcanic landscapes and sweeping coastal views, particularly along the Waimanalo windward coast. The route offers panoramic vistas of landmarks like Koko Head Crater and the iconic Makapu‘u Lighthouse. Be prepared for significant climbs, especially on the paved Makapu‘u Lighthouse Road, where the hot, dry slopes can also be quite windy.

This route is primarily paved, making it well-suited for road bikes, but you should be ready for the significant elevation changes throughout the ride. Since the slopes can be hot and windy, plan your visit accordingly, perhaps aiming for cooler parts of the day. Parking is generally available in Kaimuki, which serves as a convenient starting point for your loop. You can also find parking options near the Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse trail if you prefer to begin there.

Beyond the physical challenge, this route offers unique opportunities to observe marine life. During the whale watching season, which typically runs from November to May, you might spot humpback whales from Makapu‘u Point. On clear days, the elevated vantage points along the route can even provide glimpses of the neighboring islands of Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi, adding another layer to your cycling experience.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle journey from Kahala to Makapu‘u Head, covering 27.8 miles (44.7 km) with a total elevation gain of 1003 feet (306 metres). This route offers a rewarding experience, typically completed in about 2 hours and 41 minutes. As you pedal, you'll be treated to outstanding views of O‘ahu's southeastern coastline. The trail provides expansive vistas of Koko Head and Koko Crater, leading to the dramatic windward coast. You'll also pass the historic red-roofed Makapu‘u Lighthouse, a prominent landmark against the deep blue sea, offering many scenic viewpoints.

When planning your touring bicycle trip, be aware that the Makapu‘u area is often hot, dry, and windy, with very limited shade along the route. It is highly recommended to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated and adequate sun protection, such as sunscreen and a hat. While the views of the Makapu‘u Lighthouse are a highlight, please note that the lighthouse itself is off-limits to visitors. Consider starting your ride early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and stronger winds.

This touring cycling route is situated within the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, offering a unique perspective on O‘ahu's natural beauty. The trail provides magnificent vistas of the windward coast and offshore islets near Makapu‘u Head, showcasing the island's diverse geography. During the winter months, from roughly November to May, you might even be fortunate enough to spot migrating humpback whales in the ocean waters, adding a special element to your ride.

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle ride up Tantalus via Tantalus Drive, a difficult route that climbs 1846 feet (563 metres) over 9.1 miles (14.6 km). As you pedal, you will find yourself immersed in dense tropical vegetation, with tree tunnels formed by banyan and kukui trees providing a shaded and refreshing canopy. This ride, estimated to take about 1 hour and 18 minutes, offers a peaceful escape from the urban bustle. Along the way, you will encounter several viewpoints, revealing expansive vistas of iconic landmarks like Diamond Head, Waikiki, and Pearl Harbor. Make sure to pause at Puʻu Ualakaʻa State Park for some of the most impressive panoramic views.

When planning your visit, be prepared for a significant elevation gain, with an average grade of 5-6% and some segments reaching a 9% incline. The road is paved and generally well-maintained, though you might encounter some potholes in certain sections. Water and restrooms are conveniently available at the Nature Center located along the route. This makes it a good spot to refuel and take a short break during your ascent.

This route is notable for its unique blend of challenging cycling and stunning natural beauty, offering a distinct perspective of the island. The winding road through the Makiki Valley State Recreation Area provides a refreshing contrast to the coastal areas. You will experience a rich tropical environment, making it a memorable ride for those seeking both a physical test and scenic rewards.

Embark on the Ohana Trail Loop, a moderate touring cycling route spanning 7.0 miles (11.3 km) with an elevation gain of 892 feet (272 metres). This ride, estimated to take 1 hours and 3 minutes, offers diverse and often challenging terrain. You will navigate a steep ascent with numerous switchbacks, enjoying scenic views of the coast as you cycle through the lush, forested environment of Oahu's windward side. Be prepared for varied conditions, including sections of mud, slick surfaces, and tall grass, which add to the trail's unique character.

Before you head out, be aware that the Ohana Trail Loop is a mixed-use route, so you should be ready to yield to hikers and horseback riders. Parking can be limited at trailheads, and there have been reports of car break-ins, so exercise caution and secure your vehicle. Always check local reports for current trail conditions before your visit, as the trail is maintained by users and conditions can change frequently.

Located within the Waimanalo Forest Reserve, this loop is part of the broader Olamana Trail system, known for its natural beauty. While officially designated for touring cycling, it's also popular with mountain bikers due to its dynamic landscape. The trail's environment reflects the typical lushness of Oahu's windward side, offering a distinct experience for those exploring the island's outdoor offerings.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Pearl Harbor Bike Path, a 11.5-mile (18.6 km) route that offers a unique blend of history and local scenery. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 186 feet (57 metres) over approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes, making it a relaxed journey. As you cycle, you'll pass by Pearl Harbor's East Loch, catching glimpses of mothballed battleships in Middle Loch from viewpoints like the Bay View. The path winds through diverse settings, from residential areas with taro and watercress farms to pleasant park sections, providing a varied and engaging experience.

When planning your visit, be aware that certain sections of the path can be prone to flooding, so check conditions beforehand. You will also occasionally cross busy streets, requiring attention to traffic. The route is a multi-use trail, meaning you will share it with pedestrians, so always be mindful of others. Convenient access points with parking are available at locations such as Aiea State Recreation Area and Pearl Harbor Park, making it easy to start your adventure.

This trail stands out for its distinctive perspective on Pearl Harbor, allowing you to observe its historical significance from a different vantage point than typical visitor centers. While some parts traverse industrial zones or run alongside the H-1 Freeway, these sections are balanced by stretches through local neighborhoods and green spaces. The Pearl Harbor Bike Path offers a chance to connect with both the area's past and its present-day community life, making it a notable option for a leisurely ride on Oahu.

Embark on the Kailua to Kaiona Beach loop, a moderate touring bicycle route that promises picturesque coastal views and an authentic rural Hawaii ambiance. You will cycle through the Waimanalo area, encountering soft white sand beaches, bright turquoise ocean, and sun-kissed mountains. Keep an eye out for the distinctive Olomana peaks and various offshore islands as you cover 24.5 miles (39.4 km). This loop involves a total elevation gain of 739 feet (225 metres) and typically takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes to complete.

To prepare for this touring bicycle adventure, ensure you have good to very good fitness, as the route is considered moderate to hard. Conveniently, both Kailua Beach Park and Kaiona Beach Park provide parking facilities, offering flexible starting points for your ride. Consider beginning your journey early in the day to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds along the scenic coastal stretches. Always check local conditions before heading out.

A key highlight of this route is Kaiona Beach Park, which offers a peaceful, family-friendly beach experience. Here you will find calm, clear water perfect for a refreshing stop, along with plenty of shade trees to relax under. This particular stretch of coastline is known for its tranquil atmosphere, setting it apart from more bustling areas and providing a true sense of island serenity.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along Oʻahu's North Shore, covering 14.3 miles (23.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 217 feet (66 metres). This route offers a pleasant mix of dedicated bike paths and road shoulders, providing diverse scenery as you cycle. You'll experience spectacular ocean and mountain views, with lush greenery lining the coastal stretches. The ride takes approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes, making it a perfect outing for a relaxed coastal adventure. A highlight is Lā'ie Point State Wayside, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the distinctive offshore sea arch, often called "Lizard Rock."

Accessing this touring bicycle route is straightforward, as it utilizes existing infrastructure such as the Malaekahana Bike and Pedestrian Path. You will find convenient parking available at Lā'ie Point State Wayside, which serves as an ideal spot to begin or conclude your ride. This makes planning your visit simple, allowing you to focus on the scenic journey ahead. If you are looking to extend your cycling exploration, the Turtle Bay Resort provides an additional network of trails nearby. Consider starting your ride in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

This route stands out for its blend of natural beauty and accessible cycling infrastructure, making it a popular choice for exploring the island's northern coast. The presence of the Malaekahana Bike and Pedestrian Path ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for touring cyclists. The unique geological formation of the offshore sea arch at Lā'ie Point adds a memorable visual element to your journey. It offers a great way to discover the tranquil beauty of Oʻahu's North Shore at a leisurely pace.

The Diamond Head via Kalākaua Avenue loop offers an easy touring cycling experience, covering 6.4 miles (10.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 456 feet (139 metres). You can expect to complete this ride in about 41 minutes, enjoying diverse scenery along the way. As you cycle, you'll pass the iconic Diamond Head Lighthouse, with views of the ocean and surfers. The route combines urban parks, oceanfront stretches, and glimpses of Waikiki's vibrant atmosphere, making for a pleasant and accessible ride.

This touring bicycle route is generally easy, but be aware that the ascent to Diamond Head Road does include some hilly sections. If you plan to extend your visit, you can park your bike at the base of the Diamond Head Crater. From there, you have the option to hike to the summit, which involves a moderate climb and 170 stairs, offering panoramic views. Consider starting your ride in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds, especially if you intend to add the summit hike.

This route provides a unique perspective on O‘ahu's scenic coastline, showcasing both natural beauty and urban charm. You'll cycle past the Honolulu Zoo and Kapiolani Park, experiencing the lively atmosphere of Waikiki. The trail also offers stunning views of Downtown Honolulu and West O‘ahu, particularly from the Diamond Head Lookout, making it a popular choice for those wanting to explore the area by bike.