One of the problems with going on vacation is that the days are so action packed that you don't have any time to rest and recharge your batteries. This is usually the case for those who head to the islands of Hawaii. Hawaii's visitors often spend so much time soaking up paradise that they wear themselves out! The best way to combat this problem without wasting a day in paradise by spending it in your hotel is to take a scenic drive.

One exceptional drive located near popular Waikiki is the ten-mile drive up Mount Tantalus. This is a drive you'll want to take slowly so that you don't miss any of the scenery. If you travel too quickly, you will miss the many pull offs that give you a chance to enjoy the breathtaking views of the island. Do not be surprised if you get caught in a quick tropical storm and witness a rainbow emerge from the rain! Almost at the top of the mountain, you'll find Pu'u Ualaka'a State Park, which gives you a panoramic view of Oahu, including popular locations like Diamond Head and Waikiki. Make sure your camera batteries are charged!

The next drive you might want to consider is around the Oahu's Hawaiian coast on the Kamehameha Highway. Enter the highway through the town of Wahiawa, and head towards the North Shore. You will pass the famous Dole Plantation, so be sure to roll down the windows to enjoy the smell of fresh pineapple fields. To the left you will see towering mountains while the turquoise ocean will be on the right. As you continue your drive, you will find that you are driving right along the Pacific Ocean. The water is so close that you can literally touch it from your car!

A trip down Interstate H-3 in Oahu is something you should not miss. This interstate does not leave Hawaii, but was paid for by our tax dollars, thus earning it the name of an interstate. It towers high above Oahu, giving you a bird's eye view of the island without the need to pay for a helicopter tour. The road travels along the Ko'olau Mountain Range, offering breathtaking views. There is even a tunnel through the heart of the mountain!

For a shorter drive, head to the eastern end of the island, and drive from Waikiki to Hanauma Bay. This drive will start at Kalakaua Avenue and head towards Kapiolani Park. This is a good place to get out of the car for a few minutes to enjoy some sights, particularly if you are traveling with small children. When you are finished at the park, head to Diamond Head, where you will enjoy the view from Diamond Head Beach. Continue following the road through the richest neighborhoods of Oahu. The road will end at the Kahala Mandarin Oriental Hotel, where you will want to turn onto Kealaolu Avenue and then head towards the Kalanianaole Highway. Take the Lunalilo Home Road to Hanauma Bay, where you can again get out and enjoy some snorkeling.

Taking a scenic drive is one of the best ways to relax on your Hawaiian vacation. Be sure to pack plenty of cold water and lots of film or batteries for your camera! You will love the pictures you get while on your drive, and the day after your road trip, you can head back to the beach, rested and ready to play!