The 6 Most Stunning Sunrise & Sunset Drives in Hawaii

Hawaii's golden hours are legendary. Combine them with a scenic drive and you've got the makings of a core memory. Here are six drives timed for the most incredible light.

Sunrise Drives

1. Haleakala Summit, Maui

The most famous sunrise in Hawaii. Drive up in the dark (leave by 4am) and watch the sun explode over the crater at 10,000 feet. Reservations required — book at recreation.gov.

2. Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail, Oahu

Park at the Makapu'u lookout before dawn and watch the sun rise over the windward coast. In winter, you might spot humpback whales below.

3. Waipio Valley Lookout, Big Island

Drive to the lookout above Waipio Valley on the Hamakua Coast. The sun lights up the black sand beach and 2,000-foot cliffs in spectacular fashion.

Sunset Drives

4. North Shore, Oahu

Drive from Haleiwa to Sunset Beach in the late afternoon. Grab shrimp from a food truck, park at Sunset Beach, and watch surfers silhouetted against the sky.

5. West Maui (Olowalu to Lahaina)

The stretch of Highway 30 between Olowalu and Lahaina faces due west — perfect for catching the green flash as the sun dips below Lanai.

6. Polihale Beach, Kauai

The most remote sunset spot in Hawaii. The 5-mile dirt road keeps the crowds away, leaving you with a 17-mile beach and the Na Pali cliffs glowing orange.

Chase every sunrise and sunset. With ReefRide's free airport pickup and unlimited mileage, the whole island is yours to explore.