Best Hawaiian Bike Tours: Unbelievable Trails You Can’t Miss

Aloha fellow bike enthusiasts!

I’ve been on a mission to find the ultimate Hawaiian bike tour and let me tell you, it’s been quite the adventure. My boyfriend and I have explored every twist and turn in search of those magical trails that make you feel like you’re cycling through paradise. And guess what? We’ve done it! We managed to conquer countless tours across the beautiful islands of Hawaii.

For years now, we’ve spent our vacations hopping from one island to another, pedaling our hearts out while encountering lush jungles, serene ocean views, and breathtaking cliffs along the way. Trust me when I say that we know what makes an unforgettable bike tour experience.

So naturally, it’s my duty as a self-proclaimed Hawaiian bike tour expert to share my discoveries with you lovely people! This carefully curated list of tours caters to thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike – all handpicked based on quality service, top-notch gear, jaw-dropping scenery, and so much more.

Warning: Once you embark on one of these epic adventures, your usual neighborhood biking just won’t compare!

Now buckle up (or should I say strap your helmet?), because we’re about to dive into the very best Hawaiian bike tours that’ll leave you craving more island exploration. Let’s ride!

What Will I Learn? show

#1 Haleakala Sunrise Best Self-Guided Bike Tour with Bike Maui

Duration: 6 hours (approx.)

Address: 810 Haiku Rd, Haiku, HI 96708

Link: https://www.viator.com/tours/Maui/Haleakala-Sunrise-Bike-Tour-Self-Guided/d671-104589P5

I love this self-guided tour because it has great organization, professional staff, and even better equipment. Even more, it offers a stunning sunrise view atop Haleakala which is one of the most beautiful sunrises in the world.

This half-day tour starts with the sunrise which is full of stunning oranges, yellows, and purples. I loved that they brought us up the volcano in time, so I didn’t feel rushed, and even had a little snack. (Warning: the mountain is much colder than sea level, especially at night. Make sure to bring a good jacket, hat, and other warm clothing.) The tour provides a windbreaker Suit Top and bottom for everyone. 

We continued down the volcano on custom Kona mountain bikes and were provided all needed equipment including helmets and gloves. I appreciated that we could do the 23-mile bike ride down the volcano at our own pace and explore our surroundings. It was in part a sightseeing tour. We explored Upcountry Maui, Kula, and part of North shore, and had lunch in charming Makawao. 

The Haleakala Sunrise Best Self-Guided Bike Tour with Bike Maui is my top pick because:

  • The Haleakala Sunrise is one of the most beautiful in the world.
  • The ride down is done at your own pace with great equipment and gear provided. The organization is impeccable.
  • You have the chance to stop and explore parts of Upcountry, North Shore, and the authentic town of Makawao. 
  • It’s a half-day activity suitable for single riders, families, and couples.

#2 Waimea Canyon Downhill Bike Ride

Duration: 4 hours (approx.)

Address: Paco’s Tacos Inc. 4505 Puolo Rd, Hanapepe, HI 96716

Link: https://www.viator.com/tours/Kauai/Waimea-Canyon-downhill-bike-ride/d670-121491P1

If you are looking for a unique bike ride with authentic and stunning views, this one is for you. This 12-mile ride is full of stunning views including Waimea Canyon, Waipo’o Falls, Kekaha Beach, and the Na Pali Coast. All the sights are explained with interesting information and history by the guide who is super friendly and knowlegable.

My favorite part is that the tour is limited to 10 people, so it feels personalized and the atmosphere is positive and motivating. The equipment is new and they provide gloves and helmets as well. (Do bring some sun protection and sunscreen). We had different speeds depending on the terrain, and I am happy to say we got some adrenalin going at 20mph. The actual riding part is about 1 hour (but the bonus is all the stops). 

This trip provided me with some of the best views and pictures i have from Hawaii. Catching the sunset over the forbidden Island is also an authentic and tourist-free experience. Overall the trip is peaceful and informative and there are no crowds. Also, this was one of my favorite couples’ activities. 

Don’t miss out on the Waimea Canyon Downhill Bike Ride because: 

  • The views and stops are unique and authentic with sights like Waimea Canyon, Waipo’o Falls, Kekaha Beach, and the Na Pali Coast.
  • There are different terrains and speeds during the tour, and adrenaline lovers will enjoy parts of the ride that go up to 20 miles per hour.
  • The staff is top-notch and extremely knowledgeable about the area, history, and vegetation.
  • Its a perfect couple’s activity.

#3 Kualoa Ranch – Electric Mountain Bike Tour (Novice Level)

Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

Address: Kualoa Ranch, 49-560 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744

Link: https://www.viator.com/tours/Oahu/Electric-Assisted-Mountain-Bike-Tour/d672-5132P14

The private nature reserve at Kualoa ranch is a well worth visit. There you can enjoy several different activities in the majest Hawaiian scenery including (my favorite) the Electric Mountain Bike Tour. This off the beaten path tour offers electric-assisted mountain bikes that will help you have an easy adventure.

The staff is amazing and welcoming. The bikes are not hard to use (even if you havnt ridden one before) and they give you a nice test ride to start. They not only guide you on the trail but share some amazing history of the ranch.

The tour lasts about two hours, and we had several stops on the 6 mile ride. There is really alot to see and enjoy. I loved the trail and pastures, intertwining through Kualoa and Ka’a’awa valley. Everything is lush green with many native and exotic plants to see. The mountain side is quite impressive and we had a real local experience. Not to mention the bikes are alot of fun!

Kualoa Ranch – Electric Mountain Bike Tour (Novice Level) is a great tour option because:

  • Its only a 6 mile ride that lasts about two hours, but there is so much to see.
  • The bikes are motor assistant and eco friendly making it an easy activity for most (including children accompanied by adults)..
  • The staff is great with assisting, and showing off the ranch with aot of interesting facts and ranch history.

#4 Diamond Head Bike to Hike and Local Lunch

Duration: 4 hours (approx.)

Address: Kuhio Beach Hula Mound, Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 (bicycle rack area at Kuhio beach)

Link: https://www.viator.com/tours/Oahu/Diamond-Head-Bike-to-Hike/d672-37667P4

This is a fun and diverse ride with the highlight being the ride to Diamond Head Crater. The tour starts at Waikikii beach in the morning and there is a great ride first by Kapiolani Park. The first short stop was at Makalei Beach Park (secret beach), and it was a perfect photo-op opportunity. The pictures were stunning.

My favorite part was once we arrived at the crater and took a short hike to the top of Diamond head. This is really where the panoramic views are incredible. We took some time enjoying the surroundings while having water and snacks. The tour makes sure you get all the equipment you need including a yummy lunch and snacks!

The local guide was really helpful. He shared some great information with us at each stop and talked about the history of the island. We even visited the WWI Natatorium Memorial where he shared some great local history. The tour even went a little longer, but we loved it!

When we did the tour there were only eight riders. Which made it easy to keep up with the group, and the atmosphere was really fun. I would describe the ride as low to medium in difficulty (because there are nice stops), and family friendly. We felt really safe and well guided.

Diamond Head Bike to Hike and Local Lunch tour is a great choice because:

  • The guide is local and there re several amazing stops that are accompanied by local history.
  • You get to hike to the top of Diamond head and enjoy stunning panoramic views of mountain, ocean and shoreline.
  • There is a stop at secret beach, which makes another great photo opportunity (there are many on the tour).
  • The groups are not large, and they are safety focused.
  • They provide water, snacks and a delicious lunch for everyone!
  • This is a morning activity, so you still have the whole day for additional adventures. 

Conclusion

Hawaii is a tropical paradise with many hidden gems including some stunning trails and panoramic views. One of the best ways to see these sites is with a bike tour.

Whether you are looking for an easy ride through the jungles and ranches, or a more challenging heart pumping option, you can find it on my list.

For skilled riders check out the Haleakala Sunrise Best Self-Guided Bike Tour with Bike Maui (my favorite), or enjoy an easy short ride with Kualoa Ranch – Electric Mountain Bike Tour (Novice Level). 

For a great morning activity that combines bike riding, hiking and good food, dont miss out on Diamond Head Bike to Hike and Local Lunch. 

Whatever tour you pick, give us feedback and share my article for support!

Enjoy. 

Last Updated on April 20, 2023 by Brigitte