Big Island drives are the kind where you’ll pull over “for five minutes” and suddenly it’s an hour later, your camera roll is feral, and you’re questioning if the water is edited. The best part? Most of the jaw-drop stops are right off the road—no extreme hikes required.
These five routes are first-timer friendly, super scenery-packed, and easy to plan around sunrise, lunch, and a few strategic snack breaks. Rent a car you’re comfortable with, keep a light jacket in the trunk, and never skip the extra time buffer—Big Island roads are made for detours.
Top 5
1) Saddle Road (Daniel K. Inouye Highway): Lava Fields to Cloud-Level Views
This cross-island drive between Kona and Hilo looks like you’re on another planet—black lava fields, wide-open skies, and then suddenly you’re up near the clouds. Start early for clearer views and fewer weather surprises; the elevation can make it chilly fast, so pack a light layer. For an unreal stop, detour into Mauna Kea Access Road Visitor Information Station for sunset (you don’t need to summit to get the “is this real?” vibe). Fill up on gas before you go—services are limited mid-route.
2) Hamakua Coast Drive: Waterfalls, Cliffs, and Storybook Town Stops
Drive the Hamakua Coast from Hilo toward Waimea for nonstop lush cliffs and waterfall energy. Make it actionable by pinning three quick stops: Akaka Falls (easy paved path), the scenic lookout at Laupahoehoe Point, and a snack/coffee stop in Honoka‘a. Go mid-morning for the best light and less rain, and bring a rain jacket because this side of the island loves a dramatic mist moment. If you’re prone to car sickness, take it slow—some sections are curvy, and you’ll want to stop constantly anyway.
3) South Point + Green Sand Beach Route: The Wild Edge of the Island
This drive down to Ka Lae (South Point) feels like the world drops off—huge skies, rugged cliffs, and ocean that looks neon on sunny days. Plan for wind (like, serious wind): secure hats, bring sunglasses, and keep a light jacket handy. If you’re aiming for Papakōlea (Green Sand Beach), know that the hike is about 2.5 miles each way with little shade—start early, carry more water than you think, and wear sturdy shoes. Skip paying for unofficial rides; it’s better to hike or simply enjoy the cliffs and blowhole views near South Point if you’re short on time.
4) Chain of Craters Road (Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park): Lava, Steam, and Ocean Cliffs
This is the “how is this a real place?” drive—fresh-looking lava landscapes, crater overlooks, and a road that ends at the ocean. Do it inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park and check the National Park Service updates first for closures and current volcanic conditions. Start at Kīlauea Visitor Center area, then drive down with stops at the pullouts; pack snacks and water because options are limited once you’re on the road. Wear closed-toe shoes and toss a flashlight in your day bag if you’re staying for sunset—parking lots and paths get dark fast.
5) Kona Coast to Captain Cook (Ali‘i Drive + Kealakekua Bay Views): Bright Water and Historic Stops
This drive is pure Big Island postcard: bright blue water, palm-lined stretches, and quick historic stops that feel like you time-traveled. Start in Kailua-Kona along Ali‘i Drive, then head south and stop at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park for an easy, fascinating walk through sacred sites (go earlier to avoid peak heat). For the “fake-looking” water, aim for viewpoints over Kealakekua Bay and consider booking a morning snorkel tour to Captain Cook—calmer water, better visibility, and fewer crowds. Pack reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes; the coastline is beautiful but can be rocky.
FAQ
Do I need a 4WD for these Big Island drives?
No—these routes are doable in a standard rental car as long as you stick to paved roads and official access points. The main exception is if you plan on driving unpaved roads (which many rental agreements don’t allow), so always read your contract and avoid “shortcut” dirt routes.
What’s the best time of day to drive for the most unreal views?
Morning is your best bet for clearer skies, especially for higher elevation routes like Saddle Road. Late afternoon is amazing for golden light on the Kona side, but give yourself extra time so you’re not rushing back after dark.
How many days do I need to do all five drives without feeling rushed?
Plan 3 to 5 days if you want to actually stop, explore, and snack your way through these drives. You can combine Saddle Road with either a Hilo day or a Kona day, but Volcanoes National Park and South Point are each best as their own day.
What should I pack in the car for Big Island road trips?
Bring a light jacket (elevation changes are real), water, snacks, a phone charger, and reef-safe sunscreen. Add a rain layer for the Hilo/Hamakua side and closed-toe shoes if you’re doing Volcanoes or the Green Sand Beach hike.
Any safety tips first-timers should know?
Don’t leave valuables visible in your car at trailheads or pullouts, and always respect posted signs near cliffs and ocean edges—waves and wind can be intense. Check weather, road conditions, and park alerts before you go, and keep your gas tank comfortably above half when driving longer stretches.