Big Island Scenic Drives

The Big Island has some amazing scenic drives that show off the beauty of its 11 climate zones. The ones listed below are focused on the west side of the island. You can also check out the scenic drives for Volcanoes National Park, which offer amazingly diverse drives.

Route 180 to Holualoa, Kona

Route 180, just north of Kailua-Kona is a fascinating and beautifully scenic drive winding its way up the Hualalai mountain. Breathtaking views of Kailua Kona and the ocean coast are a highlight of this drive. From our bed and breakfast, drive to Kailua Kona and head North on Route 190 toward Waimea. As the road gains elevation, you will see the signs for Route 180 to Holualoa on the right side of the road. Take this turn and enjoy the drive up the mountainside! The route has several places you can stop to take in the view and snap some pictures. The road eventually finds it way to the town of Holualoa. Continue on this road all the way to Honalo on Route 11.

Kaloko Road to the Cloud Forest, Kona

Further north on Route 190 beyond the turn off for Holualoa, is Kaloko Road.  The 7-mile drive up the winding Kaloko Road takes you to an altitude of about 5,000 feet, where you will find amazing views of Kona and the Kona coast far below. Just prior to the dead-end of Kaloko Road, turn left on Huehue Road and continue until it ends .  As your drive takes you up the side of Hualalai, a fern and ohi'a cloud forest will spark your senses.  You will be consumed by the fogs and the clouds of the mountain almost as quickly as you left the town of Kona. The mountain air is beautifully refreshing and you may experience mist and even light rain due to the altitude and proximity to Hualalai. The drive is best done in the morning to offer the clearest views and the most refreshing air on the Big Island.

Route 250 Scenic Drive, Waimea

The Kohala Mountain Road (Route 250) is a perfect sequence of moments, blending lava and sea, shaded mountains and blazing orange sun.  This 27-mile ride along the volcanic ridge climbs to 6,000 ft., with spectacular views of the Kona coast and amazing blue water ocean and beaches below.  Route 250 connects the town of Hawi in North Kohala to the town of Waimea, in the mountains.  This road has beautiful views of the hills and pastures of Waimea to the East and dramatic coastal views of Kawaihae and the Kona coast to the west.  Take the time to pull over to enjoy the view and to take photos.

Hale Ho`ola
Big Island Hawaii Bed and Breakfast Inn
85-4577 Mamalahoa Hwy
Captain Cook, HI 96704
Toll Free: 877-628-9117 or 808-328-9117
E-mail: tlc@hale-hoola.com