Oahu's Windward Coast
United States
The Ko'olau pali throws a wall of fluted green peaks above Oahu's windward shore. H3 and the Kamehameha Highway trace the coast through taro fields, ancient heiau, sacred valleys, and turquoise bays where Hawaiians surfed a thousand years before tourists arrived.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Honolulu
Start in the capital and climb the Pali Highway through the Ko'olau Mountains. The windward coast appears suddenly below, impossibly green.
- Nuuanu Pali Lookout
Where Kamehameha's warriors drove the Oahu army off a 350m cliff to unite Hawaii in 1795. The trade winds here are unrelenting.
- Kailua Beach
Consistently ranked among the world's best: powdery white sand, vivid turquoise water, and the twin Mokulua islands lying just offshore.
- Kaneohe Bay
Hawaii's largest sheltered bay, ringed by taro fields and the fluted green walls of the Ko'olau pali rising directly from the water.
- Kualoa Ranch
1600 hectares sacred to ancient Hawaiians, familiar worldwide as the backdrop for Jurassic Park, Lost, and Godzilla. The Ko'olau peaks tower behind.
- Laie Point
A basalt finger jutting into the Pacific with sea arches worn through the rock and ancient sacred sites above the spray.
- Haleiwa
The North Shore's surf capital. The Eddie Aikau invitational and the Pipeline Masters run on these winter swells; in summer the shave ice queues are long.
Where to Eat
- Buzz's Original Steak HouseSteakhouse
A cozy spot near Kailua Beach offering succulent steaks and fresh seafood in a relaxed, island-style setting.
- Haleiwa Joe's Haiku GardensSeafood
Dine amidst lush gardens with panoramic views, savoring fresh seafood and Hawaiian-inspired dishes.
- Giovanni's Shrimp TruckSeafood
Famous for its garlic shrimp plates, this food truck offers a taste of local flavors in a casual outdoor setting.
Things to Do
- Byodo-In TempleHistoric Site
A serene replica of a Japanese temple nestled in the Ko'olau Mountains, offering tranquil gardens and koi ponds.
- Ho'omaluhia Botanical GardenNature
Explore vast gardens showcasing tropical plants from around the world, set against a stunning mountain backdrop.
- Waimea ValleyNature
A lush valley featuring botanical gardens, cultural sites, and a picturesque waterfall with a swimming hole.