On the Road in Oahu

When you’re flying into Honolulu, all you can think about is getting to a beach. You’ll find Expedia’s Kiwi travellers in hordes at the family-friendly resorts clustered around Waikiki. But there’s only so many rays you can soak up on the average four day trip.

When you need a break from the bikini-clad beauties sprawled on the white sand of Waikiki, and you’ve done your dash around the huge Ala Moana Shopping Center, rent a Mustang (with a GPS) and go for a drive with the wind in your hair.

The island of Oahu has plenty of surprises and there’s a lot more on offer than resorts and beaches. In fact there’s almost too many quirky and picturesque places to stop, so I’ve mapped out a road trip that takes in my top picks.

Start in the right direction

Set off in an anti-clockwise direction. Keep the ocean on your right hand side – the same side your car will be on – so you can easily pull off at little beaches or stop for sudden photo ops.

Snorkel stop

If you start early, head south from Waikiki on Hwy 72, past Diamond Head, and around the coastline for snorkelling at Hanauma Bay. This has the most fish in one area for all of Hawaii and with clear, shallow water, it’s the most popular snorkelling spot in Oahu. The bay is a listed nature preserve and there’s around a $5 entry fee. We bought $10 snorkels and masks from the ABC Stores dotted all over Honolulu.

But if you don’t have a spare two-three hours to spend weaving your way around gorgeous beaches, cut out the lower part of Oahu and head instead from Waikiki across the Pali Hwy (61) to Kailua Bay. You’ll find several quiet, idyllic beaches perfect for a picnic and a swim.