The best cycling routes in Honolulu County

The Hanauma Bay via Diamond Head loop offers a diverse touring cycling experience, showcasing O'ahu's stunning coastline and iconic landmarks. You'll pedal past the historic Diamond Head Lighthouse, enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, and tackle varied terrain that includes both flat coastal stretches and challenging uphill climbs, particularly as you approach Hanauma Bay with Koko Head Crater looming nearby. It's a ride that combines the vibrant atmosphere of Waikiki with the serene beauty of protected marine areas.

This 26.5-mile (42.6 km) route, with its 796 feet (243 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate and typically takes about 2 hours and 33 minutes to complete. It's best suited for cyclists with good fitness levels who are comfortable with significant climbs and potential headwinds. If you plan to visit Hanauma Bay itself, remember that entry permits are required for non-residents, so secure those in advance to avoid disappointment.

What makes this route stand out is its unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm, offering a perspective on O'ahu that few other rides can match. Beyond the cycling, you have the option to combine your ride with a hike up Diamond Head for even more panoramic views or to snorkel in the clear waters of Hanauma Bay, famous for its abundant marine life. It's a truly comprehensive O'ahu adventure.

The Kaimuki to Makapu‘u Head via Waimanalo loop offers a truly epic touring cycling adventure, showcasing Oʻahu's rugged volcanic mountains and stunning coastlines. You'll ride through varied terrain, from the lush Waimanalo windward coast to the more arid, wind-swept Makapu‘u Point, all while enjoying views of offshore islets and the distant islands of Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi on clear days. This difficult 38.8-mile (62.4 km) route, with its 2774 feet (845 metres) of elevation gain, is a challenging but rewarding ride for experienced cyclists.

To tackle this 4-hour and 8-minute loop, you can typically find parking in Kaimuki, which serves as a practical starting point. Be sure to pack ample water, especially when heading towards Makapu‘u, as sections of the route, like the Makapu‘u Lighthouse Road, offer little shade and can be quite exposed to the sun and wind. Starting your ride early in the day is a good strategy to beat the heat and enjoy the quieter roads.

This loop is a popular touring cycling route in East Honolulu, celebrated for its dramatic scenery and the opportunity for whale watching during the winter months, from November to May, when humpback whales can often be spotted from Makapu‘u Point. As part of the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, the route provides unique perspectives of Oʻahu's natural beauty, making it a standout option for those seeking a significant cycling challenge with incredible views.

Embark on a scenic touring cycling adventure from Kahala to Makapu‘u Head, a moderate 27.8-mile (44.7 km) route that treats you to some of O'ahu's most spectacular coastal views. With 1003 feet (306 metres) of elevation gain, this ride takes about 2 hours and 41 minutes, offering expansive ocean vistas, glimpses of volcanic landmarks like Koko Head, and the iconic Makapu‘u Lighthouse. The journey along the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline provides a dynamic backdrop of dramatic windward coast scenery.

This route is predominantly paved, utilizing asphalt, dedicated cycleways, and quiet roads, making it ideal for road bikes. However, its moderate difficulty comes from significant elevation changes, particularly the steep climb near Makapu‘u Head. Be ready for exposed conditions; the area around Makapu‘u Head can be hot, dry, and windy with limited shade, so plan your hydration and sun protection accordingly.

Beyond the stunning views, this route offers unique features. During the winter months, from November to May, it's a prime spot for viewing migrating humpback whales in the ocean. Offshore islets visible from the route also serve as vital sanctuaries for Hawaiian seabirds, and the historic Makapu‘u Lighthouse stands as a picturesque landmark, culminating in magnificent panoramic views from Makapu‘u Head.

The Tantalus via Tantalus Drive route offers a truly immersive touring cycling experience, winding through dense tropical rainforest with tree tunnels created by banyan and kukui trees. As you climb, the scenery transforms, eventually revealing breathtaking panoramic views of Diamond Head, Waikiki, and Pearl Harbor from viewpoints like Puʻu Ualakaʻa State Park. This challenging ride is a fantastic way to escape the city and connect with Oahu's natural beauty.

This difficult 9.1-mile (14.6 km) cycling route involves a substantial 1846 feet (563 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 18 minutes. The paved road is generally good, but watch for potholes and hairpin turns. Water and restrooms are available at the Nature Center along the way, making it easy to refuel. It's best suited for experienced riders or those looking to improve their climbing skills.

Tantalus Drive is renowned for offering some of Oʻahu's best lookouts, providing a unique perspective of the island's coastline and volcanic formations. It's a popular choice for those seeking advanced cycling routes near Tantalus Drive, and can be combined with Round Top Drive for a longer loop. The combination of physical exertion and stunning vistas makes this a memorable ride.

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 a fantastic touring cycling experience, blending Honolulu's urban charm with breathtaking coastal views. You'll pedal along paved surfaces, including dedicated bike paths, passing through vibrant Kapiolani Park and alongside the Pacific Ocean, with the iconic Diamond Head always in sight. This easy 6.4-mile (10.2 km) route, with a modest 456 feet (139 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 41 minutes to complete, making it a perfect quick escape.

To enjoy the best conditions and avoid the busiest times, plan to start your ride in the morning. The route is generally accessible, with many sections known for being traffic-friendly, ensuring a pleasant journey. While the ascent to Diamond Head Road presents a notable climb, the rest of the trail is largely gentle, making it suitable for most cyclists.

This route provides a unique perspective of O'ahu, showcasing its natural beauty alongside its lively urban environment. You'll encounter several prominent landmarks, including the Diamond Head Lighthouse and the Honolulu Zoo, and from various points, you can enjoy panoramic views of Waikiki and the vast Pacific Ocean. Consider this route for a blend of scenic beauty and cultural immersion.