Road Trips from Kalaoa, HI
Kalaoa is your launchpad for exploring the diverse landscapes of the Big Island. You've got options ranging from quick, 1.5-hour hops to neighboring towns, perfect for a day trip, to longer journeys that take you over two hours to reach areas with significant elevation changes and national parks. The terrain varies from gentle coastal slopes to high-altitude climbs, and all routes offer access to at least two national historical parks, with some extending to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This makes Kalaoa ideal for a weekend escape focused on natural beauty and historical sites.
Total Routes
12
Shortest
0.3h
With Parks Nearby
12
Under 2 hours
7 total in this range
Kapaau, HI
1h 27m52.5 mi one way
This 1.5-hour drive takes you north along mostly surface roads. It's a bit longer than the southern routes, but offers a different perspective of the island's gently rolling terrain. You'll have access to Kaloko-Honokōhau and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Parks.
Hāwī, HI
1h 23m50.3 mi one way
Similar in length to the Kapaau route at 1.4 hours, this trip also sticks to surface roads with gently rolling terrain. Like its neighbor, it provides access to Kaloko-Honokōhau and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Parks.
Kurtistown, HI
1h 50m77.9 mi one way
This is your route if you want a significant climb. The 1.8-hour drive features high-altitude sections and brings you to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, in addition to the usual Kaloko-Honokōhau and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau parks. It's longer than the coastal options.
Kealakekua, HI
26m16.2 mi one way
For a very short excursion, this 0.4-hour drive is ideal. Covering just 16.2 miles on surface roads, it offers gently rolling terrain and proximity to Kaloko-Honokōhau and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Parks. It's one of the quickest options.
Honalo, HI
23m14.3 mi one way
This is another quick trip, clocking in at 0.4 hours and 14.3 miles. The terrain is gently rolling, and you'll have easy access to Kaloko-Honokōhau and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Parks, making it a convenient short drive.
Full-day getaway
Orchidlands Estates, HI
2h 6m83.2 mi one way
At 2.1 hours and 83.2 miles, this route offers a substantial drive with high-altitude climbs. You'll gain access to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, alongside Kaloko-Honokōhau and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Parks, for a longer adventure.
Nanawale Estates, HI
2h 8m89.8 mi one way
Volcano, HI
2h 17m95.7 mi one way
Fern Acres, HI
2h 6m85.8 mi one way
This 2.1-hour, 85.8-mile drive involves high-altitude sections with notable climbs. It includes access to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, as well as Kaloko-Honokōhau and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Parks for those seeking a longer exploration.
Leilani Estates, HI
2h 15m91.1 mi one way
The longest drive at 2.3 hours and 91.1 miles, this route features high-altitude sections and climbs. It's the furthest option that includes access to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, along with Kaloko-Honokōhau and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Parks.
Browse by Mood
Orchidlands Estates, HI
2h 6m83.2 mi one way
Kapaau, HI
1h 27m52.5 mi one way
Hāwī, HI
1h 23m50.3 mi one way
Nanawale Estates, HI
2h 8m89.8 mi one way
Orchidlands Estates, HI
2h 6m83.2 mi one way
Nanawale Estates, HI
2h 8m89.8 mi one way
Volcano, HI
2h 17m95.7 mi one way
Fern Acres, HI
2h 6m85.8 mi one way
When to Go
Spring
Spring offers mild weather for exploring the historical parks and enjoying the gently rolling terrain on shorter drives.
Summer
Summer's warmer temperatures are suitable for day trips to the coastal areas and historical sites.
Fall
Fall provides pleasant conditions for drives that include high-altitude sections and visits to national parks.
Winter
Winter weather is generally favorable for experiencing the varied terrain and park offerings from Kalaoa.
Starting Somewhere Else?
Other nearby cities with their own escape planners.
Ready to plan?
Pick any destination above for full turn-by-turn directions, fuel cost, rest stops, and weather. Or visit the Kalaoa, HI city hub for all incoming and outgoing routes.