Bus stops on the Circle Tour
Aloha,
My wife and I will be visiting Oahu at the start of February and we won't be hiring a car.
We would like to see the Windward scenic coast (above Kailua) and the north shore using The Bus.
Please can anyone advise of specific bus stops that we should make note of, we would like to see scenic view points and some of the competitive surfing on the north shore, if possible.
Thank you in advance!
Mark
Aloha Mark,
It’s great that you're planning to explore Oahu using public transportation! The Bus system on Oahu is a convenient way to see the island, and the scenic Windward Coast and North Shore are beautiful areas that you won’t want to miss. Here's some helpful information about bus stops and routes to help you make the most of your trip.
Windward Coast (Above Kailua):
The Windward Coast is known for its lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, and stunning viewpoints. If you're looking to experience this area via The Bus, here are a few stops you should look out for:
- Kailua Town: Start at Kailua Town, where you can find shops, restaurants, and beaches. You can catch the #57 or #58 bus to head up the coast.
- Lanikai Beach: This is one of the most beautiful beaches on Oahu, with soft white sand and turquoise water. It's a bit of a walk from the bus stop, but it's worth it for the view and the serenity. The closest bus stop is "Lanikai Drive" along the #57 or #58 route.
- Kualoa Regional Park: The Kualoa area is home to the famous Kualoa Ranch and beautiful beaches. You can visit the park or stop by the ranch for a tour. Look for the "Kualoa Regional Park" stop on the #56 route. This area is also known for breathtaking views of the mountains and the ocean.
North Shore:
The North Shore is famous for its legendary surf breaks and scenic beauty. You’ll want to time your visit carefully, especially if you’re hoping to catch some of the world-class surfing action. Here are the key bus stops along the North Shore:
- Waimea Bay: This spot is home to some of the biggest waves in the world during the winter months, and it’s a great place to watch competitive surfers. The bus stop nearest to Waimea Bay is "Waimea Bay" on the #55 route. From there, it’s a short walk to the beach and viewing areas.
- Sunset Beach: Another famous North Shore beach known for its incredible surf, Sunset Beach hosts some major surf competitions, including the Vans Triple Crown. You can get off at the "Sunset Beach" bus stop on the #55 route.
- Pipeline Beach (Ehukai Beach Park): This is one of the most iconic surf spots on the North Shore. Bus #55 will also take you to the "Ehukai Beach Park" stop, which is the closest to the Pipeline area.
- Haleiwa Town: Haleiwa is a charming town on the North Shore where you can grab a bite to eat or browse the local shops. It’s also a good stop to break up your journey. The nearest bus stop is "Haleiwa Town" on the #55 route.
Tips for the Bus Journey:
- The #55 bus is the main route along the North Shore, going from Waimea Bay through Sunset Beach, Pipeline, and Haleiwa. It runs frequently, but be sure to check the schedules for any updates.
- The #57 and #58 buses travel along the Windward Coast and up to Kualoa Ranch, Kailua, and Lanikai. If you plan to head to these areas, these routes will get you there.
- Make sure to check the schedules ahead of time, especially if you're aiming to catch a specific surf competition or event. Buses on Oahu can get busy, so it's a good idea to plan your timing accordingly.
- For surf enthusiasts, it’s good to know that some surf competitions on the North Shore can draw large crowds, so plan to arrive early if you want to secure a good viewing spot.
With the right planning, taking The Bus will allow you to experience the best of Oahu’s scenic coastlines and world-famous surf spots. Enjoy your trip!
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