The best road cycling routes around Waimea
5.0
(2)
164
riders
5
rides
Road cycling routes around Waimea, Hawaiʻi, traverse diverse landscapes, from expansive ranchlands to coastal roads. The region features undulating terrain with significant elevation changes, offering challenging climbs and rewarding descents. Road cyclists can expect to encounter volcanic roads and forested paths, providing varied surfaces and scenic backdrops. These routes often present panoramic views of the island's geological formations and the Pacific Ocean.
Best road cycling routes around Waimea
- The most popular road cycling route is Lulahala Point to Waimea loop, a 49.6 miles (79.9 km) difficult trail that takes 4 hours 27 minutes to complete. This route features over 3,500 feet (1,068 meters) of elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Hāpuna Beach to Pololū Valley Lookout loop, a difficult 67.0 miles (107.8 km) path. This route includes substantial climbs through varied terrain, reaching over 5,100 feet (1,584 meters) of elevation.
- Local road cyclists also love the Honokaʻa to Spencer Beach Park, a 51.8 miles (83.3 km) trail leading through coastal and inland areas, often completed in about 4 hours 35 minutes.
- Road cycling around Waimea is defined by volcanic landscapes, ranchlands, and coastal paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, including one moderate and four difficult routes.
- The routes in Waimea are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews. More than 160 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Waimea's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
82
riders
79.9km
04:27
1,070m
1,070m
The Lulahala Point to Waimea loop presents a challenging racebike journey spanning 49.6 miles (79.9 km) with a substantial 3507 feet (1069 metres) of elevation gain. This difficult route, estimated to take 4 hours and 27 minutes, guides you from breathtaking coastal views, including those near Mauna Kea Beach, into elevated ranchlands. You will pedal through lush forests and across dramatic lava fields, such as those found along Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway, offering a continuously engaging and varied landscape.
This is a hard road ride, so you should possess very good fitness to manage the significant elevation changes. Be prepared that around the 63.7 kilometer mark, you might need to dismount and push your bike for approximately 646 metres. This specific section can be particularly steep or unrideable, demanding extra caution, though the majority of the roads are well-paved. Plan your start time carefully to ensure you have sufficient daylight for the entire duration of the ride.
What makes this route stand out is its unique transition through Hawaii's diverse ecosystems, from oceanfront to high-elevation terrain. The journey offers a distinct visual contrast as you move from coastal scenery to the stark beauty of lava fields and then into verdant forests. This blend of varied landscapes and demanding climbs makes the Lulahala Point to Waimea loop a memorable experience for experienced cyclists seeking a true test of endurance.
5.0
(1)
32
riders
108km
05:28
1,580m
1,580m
Prepare for a challenging road cycling adventure on the Hāpuna Beach to Pololū Valley Lookout loop, a difficult 67.0 miles (107.8 km) route that takes you through diverse Hawaiian landscapes. You will experience a dramatic shift from the stark black lava fields of the Kohala Coast to the vibrant green pastures of North Kohala. This ride involves a significant climb, gaining 5199 feet (1585 metres) of elevation, and typically takes around 5 hours and 27 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you will be treated to sweeping views of rugged cliffs and the northeastern coastline, culminating in the vista from the Pololū Valley Lookout.
When planning your ride, be aware that parking at popular spots, such as the Pololū Valley Lookout, can be limited and often fills up quickly, especially during busy periods. Choosing to cycle this route provides a distinct advantage, allowing you to bypass parking difficulties and enjoy a more peaceful journey. Always be prepared for the substantial elevation changes throughout the ride, as they are a key feature of this challenging route.
This route offers a unique perspective on the North Kohala coastline, allowing you to witness the dramatic contrast between the island's volcanic origins and its lush, green ecosystems. Keep an eye out for horses grazing in the fields as you pass through the pastures. During the winter months, you might even catch a glimpse of humpback whales offshore, adding another layer to the natural beauty of this coastal journey.
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1
riders
83.3km
04:35
1,480m
1,490m
This difficult 51.8-mile road cycling route from Honokaʻa to Spencer Beach Park offers lush rainforests, ocean views, and dramatic sea cliff
5.0
(1)
37
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
12
riders
60.4km
03:43
1,110m
1,110m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Waimea
Tips from the Community
The steep, short road down to Waipio valley itself is (February 2024) only open to Hawaiʻi residents with ID and driving 4WD. No hikers or cyclists permitted.
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Old Mamalahoa Hwy is a paved scenic road that navigates through Hawaiian jungle and open fields. Throughout the ride you can catch glimpses of the pacific through the trees. If you continue along Old Mamalahoa Hwy, you'll eventually find yourself passing a cafe where they sell smoothies, bagels, and other snacks.
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There is a large farmers market here open sundays 9am to 2pm. There is a nice mix of local foods, produce, and hard goods! For those ballin' on a budget, this market accepts SNAP and EBT.
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This point offers an unforgettable view from the Pololū Valley Overlook. The steep cliffs, green forests, and black sand beaches is truely an amazing sight. The best time to be here is a little before sunset so that you can experience both the sunset view and daylight view.
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Spencer Beach is one of the northernmost white-sand beaches on the Big Island. The park is perfect for picnics with amenities including restrooms, showers, drinking water, and a large picnic pavilion. With the shallow water at its shoreline, Spencer Beach Park is an excellent option for kids.
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This lava field on Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway 19 is relatively fresh, the stones are dark, and it is on either side of the highway. The type of lava rock on Hawaiʻi is special and has the special name "Hawaiite." There are two main types: "Pahoehoe" is the type characterized by a smooth surface, and "Aa" has a very rough surface.
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Lapakahi State Historical Park displays the ruins of an ancient (about 600 years old) Hawaiian settlement. On the marked trail, you can discover the old fishing village on a self-guided tour and take a look at the rebuilt houses and walls made out of lava stones. A great place to educate yourself about the Hawaiian history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Waimea, Hawaiʻi?
Road cycling routes around Waimea, Hawaiʻi, traverse diverse landscapes, from expansive ranchlands to coastal roads. You'll encounter undulating terrain with significant elevation changes, offering challenging climbs and rewarding descents. The routes often feature volcanic roads and forested paths, providing varied surfaces and scenic backdrops with panoramic views of the island's geological formations and the Pacific Ocean.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Waimea area?
There are 5 road cycling routes available around Waimea, Hawaiʻi. These routes offer options for different ability levels, including one moderate and four difficult routes, ensuring a suitable challenge for various cyclists.
Are there any loop routes for road cycling in Waimea?
Yes, several routes in Waimea are designed as loops. For instance, the challenging Lulahala Point to Waimea loop covers nearly 50 miles with over 3,500 feet of elevation gain. Another option is the Hāpuna Beach to Pololū Valley Lookout loop, which is a longer, difficult path with over 5,100 feet of elevation.
What are the difficulty levels of road cycling routes in Waimea?
The road cycling routes around Waimea are generally challenging. Out of the 5 available routes, 4 are classified as difficult, and 1 is moderate. This indicates that most routes involve substantial climbs and significant distances, catering to experienced road cyclists.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Waimea?
The road cycling routes in Waimea are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from volcanic landscapes and ranchlands to coastal paths, and the panoramic views of the island's geological formations and the Pacific Ocean.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or landmarks along the road cycling routes?
Yes, the region offers several scenic viewpoints and landmarks. You can find stunning vistas such as the Waipi’o Valley Lookout. Additionally, historical sites like the Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site are accessible, offering cultural insights alongside your ride.
What is the best time of day to go road cycling in Waimea?
It is often recommended to schedule rides during cooler morning hours in Waimea. This allows cyclists to take advantage of more comfortable temperatures and potential trade winds that can assist with cycling, especially on longer routes with significant elevation changes.
Can I find routes that explore the historic Old Mamalahoa Highway?
Yes, there are road cycling routes that incorporate sections of the historic Old Mamalahoa Highway. One such route is the moderate Old Mamalahoa Highway – Waipi’o Valley Lookout loop from Puu Pulehu Reservoir Dam, offering a scenic journey through this notable area.
Are there any longer, challenging routes for experienced road cyclists?
Experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge will find several options. The Honokaʻa to Spencer Beach Park route is a difficult 51.8-mile trail leading through coastal and inland areas, typically completed in about 4 hours 35 minutes. Another demanding option is the Old Mamalahoa Highway – Hāmākua Jodo Shu Mission loop from Rocking Chair Ranch, which features over 1,100 meters of elevation gain.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see while road cycling in Waimea?
Road cycling in Waimea offers a chance to experience diverse natural features. You'll ride through volcanic landscapes, expansive ranchlands, and along coastal paths. The region is characterized by its unique geological formations and offers panoramic views of distant volcanic peaks and the Pacific Ocean.
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