The Big Island is a nature lover’s paradise for hiking, lava fields, and backcountry exploration. But here’s the secret: you don’t need to lace up hiking boots to see some of the island’s most jaw-dropping views. Some of the best scenic drives are right around the corner from great stays like our Big Island Bed & Breakfast. Just hop in your car, roll the windows down, and take one of these unforgettable routes. From historic coastal byways to dramatic volcanic roads, every mile brings a new surprise.
1. Napo’opo’o Rd (4.3 miles)
If you want a drive that blends stunning scenery with Hawaiian history, Napo’opo’o Road is the one. This steep, winding route drops quickly toward the oceanside village of Napo’opo’o. The road feels like a tropical tunnel, with flowering plants and twisting banyans arching overhead. Long ago, Hawaiians traveled this same path to the temple of Lono, where they gathered for the Makahiki harvest festival. Together, the history and the scenery make Kealakekua Bay one of the most unforgettable places to explore by car.
Along this great road check out:
- Captain Cook Monument that marks Hawaii’s first European contact
- The rugged coastline stretching south to Miloli’i
- Sweeping views of Kealakekua Bay
2. Highway 250, the Mountain Road (19.3 miles)
If you want wide-open views and peaceful mountain air, Highway 250 is unbe
atable. This road climbs out of Waimea and winds over the green slopes of Kohala Mountain. Ranchlands stretch out in every direction, broken by forests of eucalyptus and pine. The air feels cool and crisp, with panoramas that reach from Waimea town to Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. The drive ends in the charming little town of Hawi, full of art, history, and local charm.
Highlights of this drive include:
- Sweeping views of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualālai
- Crisp mountain air scented with eucalyptus
- The historic town of Hawi at the end of the drive
3. Hilo Farmers Market to Waipiʻo Valley (~50 miles)
If you want a road trip full of variety, this drive has it all. Start your morning at the Hilo Farmers Market, where you’ll find tropical fruit, flowers, and handmade crafts. From there, the road heads north along the lush Hamakua Coast. Rainforests, historic bridges, and hidden waterfalls line the way. Stop in Honokaʻa town for shops and malasadas before reaching the Waipiʻo Valley Lookout. Here, cliffs rise straight from the ocean and a black sand beach stretches far below.
What you’ll see on this route:
- Fresh fruit and souvenirs at the Hilo Farmers Market
- Breathtaking views from Waipiʻo Valley Lookout
- The towering beauty of ʻAkaka Falls
4. Pepeekeo Scenic Drive – Old Onomea Route (~4 miles)
If you want to step back in time, drive the Pepeekeo Scenic Drive. This narrow, twisting road cuts through lush rainforest and hugs the rugged shoreline of Onomea Bay. Tropical flowers spill over the roadside, sunlight filters through the canopy, and ocean breezes drift in from the coast. It feels like old Hawaii, untouched and timeless.
Along this great road check out:
- The Hawaiʻi Tropical Bioreserve & Garden
- A canopy of tropical plants overhead
- Rugged views of Onomea Bay
5. Chain of Craters Road (18.8 miles)
If you want raw volcanic landscapes, nothing compares to Chain of Craters Road. Located inside Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, this 18-mile stretch drops from the slopes of Kīlauea to the coast. Along the way, you’ll see massive craters, cooled lava fields, and dramatic cliffs. Steam vents rise from the earth, reminding you this is still one of the most active volcanic areas in the world. The road ends at the Holei Sea Arch, a natural wonder carved by waves out of black lava rock.
Top sights on this drive:
- Sweeping coastal views from Hilina Pali and Holei Sea Arch
- Volcanic craters and lava flow field
- The famous Thurston Lava Tube
