Are you planning your trip in Hawaii and are interested in visiting the windward side of Oahu? Here is a 1-day itinerary that will take you to beautiful locations and is easily achievable. This itinerary is also easily done from Waikiki with a one-day rental car!
The First Stop: Car Rental
Your first stop in the morning will be at the rental car company. We picked the Enterprise located in the Hilton Hawaiian Village and rented a Mustang convertible. It cost us roughly $180 for the day. We were able to walk there, and save money on an Uber to pick up the car.
The Second Stop: Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
This lookout offers wide views of the Windward Coast. It is a historical site where the Battle of Nu’uanu took place in 1795. The battle, won by King Kamehameha, is known for the many warriors who were pushed off of the cliffs. The lookout is so windy, some days you can almost lean against the wind!
12 minutes to your next stop!
The Third Stop: Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden
The botanical gardens are not to be missed. Stop at the visitor center and grab a map before you head out on the loop. Driving around, I was so happy that we had splurged on the convertible we rented! We spent about an hour and a half-two hours here taking so many pictures. Please keep in mind that the gardens are currently closed on Thursdays! 13 minutes until your next stop.
The Forth Stop: Byodo-In Temple
If you have been researching your trip to Hawaii, it is very likely that you have come across pictures of the Byodo-In Temple. Although the temple seems to be from another time, it was actually built in 1963. This temple is a bit of a tourist trap if I am being completely honest. However, my husband and I had fun banging the huge gong, feeding the birds and fish, and having a bit of peace taking in the temple and surrounding peaks.
26 minutes until your next stop!
The Fifth Stop: The Sunrise Shack-Kailua or other Lunch Spot
I love to get fresh acai bowls in Hawaii. After a day of sightseeing, having an acai bowl and a sandwich at the Sunrise Shack will really hit the spot. This is the perfect lunch to boost your energy before hitting the beach to finish out the day!
5 minutes to your last stop!
The Sixth Stop: Kalama Beach Park or Lanikai Beach
It is hard to find a bad beach at Hawaii, and in my opinion, Kalama Beach Park and Lanikai Beach are some of the best. If you are staying in Waikiki, the sand beaches will be a nice change-up from the rocky shores. In my opinion, going to the beach after lunch is a great way to spend your afternoon, giving you enough time to soak in the sun, play in the waves, and head back to your accommodations in time for dinner!
Overall, this route will take about an hour total to complete. Each leg of driving is a max of 25 minutes!
What would you add or take away from this list? Let me know in the comments below, and thanks for reading!