When you leave the tourist-packed Waikiki and head to the neighboring islands, you will find the true Hawaii: a rural paradise home to picturesque farms, rolling hills, country roads and views that seem to stretch on for miles. And while there are countless quintessential rural spots throughout Hawaii – including these 13 charming rural towns – there is one road through rural Hawaii you’re certain to fall in love with.
Meandering across the northern tip of Hawaii Island from Waimea to Hawi, Kohala Mountain Road will transport you to another place - perhaps to a place where cows easily outnumber people.
duluoz cats/Flickr
Known locally as “The High Road,” this scenic road measures in at just under 20 miles - and is positively stunning the entire way, passing by rolling hillsides, ranchlands, and some pretty jaw-dropping vistas reminiscent of West Texas (according to my husband and various TripAdvisor members).
Davvid Fulmer/Flickr
With lush forests, open pastures, brilliant meadows, and towering mountains, Kohala Mountain Road has it all.
Andrew K. Smith/Flickr
Rosa Say/Flickr
Despite the stupendous views and wide open spaces, this mountain road is rarely crowded, and full of magnificent pull offs to stop for either a secluded picnic or a quick photograph.
Andrew K. Smith/Flickr
The lookout located near mile marker eight is not to be missed: on a clear day, you’ll be able to see the peak of Mount Haleakala on the neighboring island of Maui.
David Grant/Flickr
While driving along Highway 250, you’ll also catch a glimpse of three of Hawaii Island’s major mountains - Hualalai, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa - as you drive up this winding mountain road to approximately 3,500 feet above sea level and descend into the artsy town of Hawi.
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Lonely Planet argues that Kohala Mountain Road is easily Hawaii Island’s prettiest drive, and we are certainly inclined to agree - especially with views like these.
Art Bromage/Flickr
David Baron/Flickr
While you can drive the Kohala Mountain Road from either direction, many agree that the best views are found when you drive from Waimea north to Hawi.
Andrew K. Smith/Flickr
Have you fallen in love with Hawaii Island’s Kohala Mountain Road? What about these 15 beautiful highways perfect for a scenic drive?
duluoz cats/Flickr
Davvid Fulmer/Flickr
Andrew K. Smith/Flickr
Rosa Say/Flickr
David Grant/Flickr
Megan Shute/OnlyInYourState.com
Art Bromage/Flickr
David Baron/Flickr
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