As the ultimate summertime destination for nature lovers, Hawaii draws millions of visitors every year from all around the world, offering a plethora of tourist attractions and some of the most stunning landscapes in the United States. Located in the center of Oahu Island and about 15 miles northwest of Honolulu, Waipio, HI is a great place to stay while exploring the archipelago. Here are three fantastic spots you can reach in less than an hour’s drive from the city.
1. Waimea Valley
Located on the northern tip of the island, Waimea Valley not only boasts some of the most photogenic landscapes in Hawaii but is also an area of historic cultural significance among local inhabitants. Featuring several ancient structures constructed throughout the Hawaiian monarchy, this place can be reached in just half an hour by car from Waipio via routes HI-99 and HI-83.
Open every day of the year except for Christmas and New Year’s Day, the Waimea Valley Historical Nature Park is a place where you can spend an entire day hiking through the several nature trails and taking in the beautiful landscapes. This place is home to a series of natural waterfalls, which are regularly used for cliff diving competitions. Other popular activities in the area include swimming and wildlife watching.
2. Dole Plantation
A historic pineapple plantation located at 64-1550 Kamehameha Highway near the town of Wahiawa, Dole Plantation has become a well-known tourist attraction and is one of the best places to visit with your family on the island. Open every day of the week between 9:30 am and 5:30 pm, this complex offers garden tours, train rides, and other interactive activities for visitors of all ages.
Although Dole Plantation has been a well-known local attraction for decades, its popularity skyrocketed after it made it to the Guinness Book of World Records in 2008 for having the world’s largest maze. If you decide to visit this place, do not leave without trying its homemade pineapple soft-serve ice cream.
3. Kaʻena Point State Park
If you are searching for a largely undeveloped spot where you can take in some of the most beautiful views of the island and enjoy your favorite water activities, Kaʻena Point State Park is the place to be. Open every day of the week between sunrise and sundown, this nature reserve is located just over 20 miles northwest of Waipio and can be reached in about 35 minutes by car via State Highway 930 and Farrington Highway.
Are you searching for a four-wheel-drive SUV that can take you and your family to the most remote destinations in Hawaii and beyond? The 2023 Genesis GV70 is a great option! Stop by Genesis of Waipio today, explore the features of this and other models, and check out the latest deals we have available for you.
Image by Candace Thoth from Pixabay
Connect with us
