Saddle Road
Tours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience Saddle Road
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
3,719 reviews
Excellent
1,898
Very good
1,292
Average
430
Poor
75
Terrible
24
Steve
Kingman, AZ51 contributions
Nov 2020
We have driven many times in past years and this is very good road now. Takes about one hour or more depending on where you star from. Most of what you will see is lava fields but think about it, it’s HAWAII and there is so much beauty on this island it’s hard to believe.
When you get to Hilo side it changes into two roads 200 and 2000 so that can trick someone up a little. There is lots to see in Hilo, but it also rains more over there.
When coming back to Kona side on saddle back as you start to descend down to Kona area just make sure you have a car with good brakes. The speed can get over 75 miles per hour and start braking when the sign says 1 mile from end. One year with my family & friends and a rented van with Bad brakes I really feared we would not stop! There also is a rest stop on the way and a park area for the kids to get out and play. All and all the Big Island is just a really enjoyable place to spend some time and to take lots of pictures and take away memories.
When you get to Hilo side it changes into two roads 200 and 2000 so that can trick someone up a little. There is lots to see in Hilo, but it also rains more over there.
When coming back to Kona side on saddle back as you start to descend down to Kona area just make sure you have a car with good brakes. The speed can get over 75 miles per hour and start braking when the sign says 1 mile from end. One year with my family & friends and a rented van with Bad brakes I really feared we would not stop! There also is a rest stop on the way and a park area for the kids to get out and play. All and all the Big Island is just a really enjoyable place to spend some time and to take lots of pictures and take away memories.
Written November 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
psudino
Weehawken, NJ3,744 contributions
Mar 2020
Saddle road provides two purposes. From a strictly economic purpose, it is the fastest way to cross the island. From a scenic purpose, it is a very different view of the island than the 11/19 circle island road.
My wife and I did the Circle Island tour so we wanted to see the only part of the island that we wouldn't see on that tour: the center of it. We landed in Hilo, explored that charming town, so ourselves a to go lunch, used the bathroom, and started the long drive across the island.
There are many trail heads along the route and of course the entrance to Mauna Kea. The environment has dramatic changes from lava flows, to forests, to farmlands and the elevation climb and descent makes for some unique and fun driving.
The road itself is maintained wonderfully and you should have no fears driving across it. The only thing to not is that once you start the main road on either end you will not see a restaurant, gas station or public bathroom along the road. So be prepared for the journey before you head out.
My wife and I did the Circle Island tour so we wanted to see the only part of the island that we wouldn't see on that tour: the center of it. We landed in Hilo, explored that charming town, so ourselves a to go lunch, used the bathroom, and started the long drive across the island.
There are many trail heads along the route and of course the entrance to Mauna Kea. The environment has dramatic changes from lava flows, to forests, to farmlands and the elevation climb and descent makes for some unique and fun driving.
The road itself is maintained wonderfully and you should have no fears driving across it. The only thing to not is that once you start the main road on either end you will not see a restaurant, gas station or public bathroom along the road. So be prepared for the journey before you head out.
Written August 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
wohdonkey
Newark, OH1,965 contributions
May 2019 • Couples
We took Saddle road driving from Kona to Hilo. It is a nice easy drive. It was pretty at sunset with the sky changing colors around the volcanos. We did drive past the Mauna Kea entrance and the protest was going on at the time so we saw all the tents and people camped out. It is a pretty dark road at night tho, tho only light was the reflectors on the roads.
Written February 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Steve W
Land O Lakes, FL49 contributions
Feb 2020
The saddle road is now a very nice smooth road. Its construction in the last few years has made the cross island trip a much more pleasant drive. The major irritation is the amount of slow drivers. Every time we crossed the island we spent long time behind a slow driver. We found it to not be unusual for a vehicle to be driving 10 to 15 MPH below the posted speed limit with 5 or more cars following.
Written March 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
kytraveler
Shelbyville, KY209 contributions
Sep 2021
This was a tough one to review as better than average due to landscape but not really very good, so more of a 3.5 for me and I chose to round up. This is a desolate stretch of road and the weather conditions can change rapidly due to changes in altitude from Hilo to Kona. At one point we were driving in fog/mist/clouds, who knows. Flocks of free ranging goats so stay aware. Also, make sure your car's fuel tank is topped off and everybody has made a pit stop as there are no amenities on this route.
Written September 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
aucycles
Waimea, HI26 contributions
Mar 2020
Since the road got redone. Transit time between the East side and West side has dropped by about 15 minutes. The road is designed for speeds higher than 60 mph. The pavement is nice and smooth.
Written March 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Cindy H
Alameda, CA1,551 contributions
Feb 2020
We drove this road several times over a couple of days to get from one side of the island to the other. Each time we drove it, we experienced different things due to the weather. The slow moving clouds that looked like a heard of animals creepy along the base of the mountain was really cool. You get a glimpse of this camp site practically in the middle of nowhere as you turn off to the summit of Mauna Kea that we later learned was because of all the protestors that shut down the road to the summit over the building of a new observatory on the mountain. I believe it lasted for 6 months but the resistance was due to the claims it will desecrate the mountain's sacred grounds. It's quite fascinating what transpired on this windy and cold site.
Written February 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
MeBe
3 contributions
Jan 2020
This highway not only was a very smooth way to get over to Hilo quick and easy but it was also a nice way to see the sights we had not seen before. There was volcanic rock there that still looks like it did right after it flowed from the mountain and then cooled in its place. It was interesting to see how things started growing out of it in the middle of it with nothing else around. We saw an assortment of wildlife also. I really enjoyed the drive.
Written February 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Work2travel
Orange, CA432 contributions
Jul 2021
The road itself is in great condition and the cut off on time is great.
How ever, the weather can be challenging. We experienced some heavy rain then there was driving through the clouds. Fog is one thing but the clouds cut visibility down to 20-30 feet.
How ever, the weather can be challenging. We experienced some heavy rain then there was driving through the clouds. Fog is one thing but the clouds cut visibility down to 20-30 feet.
Written July 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frank P
Eugene, OR1,216 contributions
Feb 2022
Fastest way to get from Kona coast to Hilo by a long shot. Great views. On this particular trip was a bit tough as it rained pretty heavy most of the way. This is a great road in good condition. Wish there was more rest rooms I only saw one.
Written March 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Tara
Los Angeles, CA45 contributions
From Kona airport to Volcano National Park, what’s the fastest route? I’ll land in the morning 9:30am. And what are the must-stop places? Thank you.
SoCalOregonian
Murrieta, CA9,958 contributions
You can take saddle road across to Hilo then the H11 to Volcano, or just drive H11 south from Kona.
My opinion taking the H11 south from Kona is the more spectacular drive. Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is a must stop along with the detour to South point, just to say you've been, and Punalu'u Beach ( black sand and Honu).
Just my thoughts.
Loretta M
Los Angeles, CA85 contributions
Arriving KOna airport 4:15 PM, driving to Hilo. I could go Saddle Road, but have been told it's boaring. I could go Route 11 through Volcano which is supposed to be prettier. I think my objective is to go from KOA to Hilo the quickest way possible, as I will be leaving Hilo fter 6 nights then going to Captain Cook for 6 nights & flying out of KOA. I would have the opportunity to pass from Hilo to my destination in Captain Cook on Route 11 before flying home.
Gardener536
Omaha40 contributions
Hi, We will be on the Big Island in May for a day and a half, so our time is limited. We are considering taking the Saddle Road and wonder if there are any pullouts or lookoffs to take pictures. We wouldn't go to the summit of Mauna Kea, but only to the Visitor's Center at 9,000 feet and I haven't seen any pictures taken there that would make me take the time to go to that spot. Our hope is to get pictures of Mauna Kea & Mauna Loa from Saddle Road, but maybe with the weather, clouds, etc. that might not be possible? Thanks!
Anna W
Madison Heights, VA580 contributions
There are some wide shoulders but nothing designated as a pullout. It's a pretty drive but nothing awe inspiring. Plus if it is a cloudy day you will either be in the clouds or above them with the cloud layer below you. If your time is limited take the road to the Volcano National Park. There are some great pullouts and really nice ocean views.
Danny_7766
423 contributions
Is it safe to drive on Saddle Road from Hilo back to Kona after dark?
GoingToAll1000
Lexington, KY38 contributions
The road is very new and very wide with easy curves over the mountain. It can be foggy near the high point where the access road goes off up to the observatory, but overall it is no different than driving anywhere else in the dark away from street lights. Also, Hawaii is installing really effective centerline reflectors on roads that are just two lanes and narrower.
sloang1414
2 contributions
Which do you like better - Saddle road or the northern route? (Between Kona and Hilo)
F4981JCmichaels
Vancouver, WA1,904 contributions
I agree with the others here. Two different experiences entirely. We only drove Saddle Road from Waimea to the Maunakea Visitors Center. We did not drive any farther east than that. We did drive all the other roads you asked about. For time considerations, Saddle Road is the quickest route. Talking with people who live in Hilo but work in Kona, this is the route they use for the quickest distance between the two.
The northern route, which from what I figure you mean, is highway 19. Much more varied terrain, as mentioned by others, and it will take longer. More to see too.
My wife and I road tripped the Big Island. If you have the time do both. We stayed one night in Kona after landing, two nights in Hilo, two nights in Hawi, and two more nights in Kona. It gave us a nice overall view of the whole island, which is quite diverse. If you have the time it's a nice way to see everything in an unrushed manner. I would suggest going to Google Earth and typing in "attractions near..." with the name of the town or city that you want to know about. That way you won't have regrets later because you missed something. One thing to keep in mind is that some rental car companies do not allow their cars on Saddle Road. Ask before you rent. Saddle Road used to be gravel, from what I understand, but is fully paved now. In fact the western end is a multi-laned highway.
Are the black sand beaches nearby?
Peter H
Bristol, UK79 contributions
No saddle road is inland between the 2 big volcanos.
beachy0
Lionville, PA40 contributions
Hi , thank you for this we were looking to drive directly from Kona airport over to a boat tour in Hilo. Does this cut down on the time? Says normally up to 2 hours. I am seeing from recent reviews including yours this road is much improved in the past few years. Appreciate any input!
Diane J
Murrieta, CA20 contributions
Yes, it saves about an hour. It is safe and on the day we drove, absolutely beautiful and clear. The landscape changes so much from east to west!
Diane C
7 contributions
We will be exploring the Big Island, but only have 5,almost full days. We are staying close to the Kona airport. We have allotted one day for the VNP, and would like to see it after dark but DH doesn’t like changing hotels and wants to drive back after dark. Would the Saddleback/Hwy 200 be ok after dark.
Carma F
Camden, Indiana25 contributions
Yes, you'll be fine after dark. We have driven it in the dark several times.
thebeanMontrealQc
montreal qc
Asking everybody rating a 5-star to this road in 2017-2018.
Nobody mention that the road is in construction and difficult to drive at MI6 east side near HILO? Is it still the case - MARCH 2018?
If so does anybody know when it will be finished ?
Planning a trip in May 2018.
SouthLava
Boulder, CO155 contributions
The road is completely finished. Watch your speed.
Mireille N
Villedieu, France114 contributions
Bonjour,
bonjour,
Pourriez vous me dire s il existe une piste 4/4 entre volcano visitor center et la Saddle route sans avoir à faire le tour par Hilo par la route 11
Tous mes remerciements
PATCO060
Geneva, Switzerland762 contributions
Bonjour,
J'ai cherché une piste mais je ne l'ai pas trouvé. N'ayant pas de GPS fiable j'ai préféré ne rien tenter. Vous ne serez pas déçu la route qui fait le tour par Hilo est belle et avec peu de traffic. Vous ferez du 4x4 en montant au Mona Kea après le poste du parc national. Il n'y a personne tout en haut. Belles vacances,
Saddle Road (Kailua-Kona) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Saddle Road
- We recommend booking Saddle Road tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 11 Saddle Road tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Saddle Road:
- Big Island - North Island Jungle Driving Tour (From $19.99)
- Big Island Adventure Bundle: 5 Epic Audio Driving Tours (From $29.99)
- Big Island - South Island Coastal Loop Driving Tour (From $19.99)
- Small Group Waipio Valley and Waterfalls Adventure (From $249.10)
- Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour (From $249.10)
- Hotels near Saddle Road:
- (8.65 mi) Paniolo Greens
- (9.25 mi) The Aeolian Residence
- (8.74 mi) Waikoloa Villas at Waikoloa Village
- (8.76 mi) Waikoloa Fairways
- (8.58 mi) Waikoloa Village/Ocean View/Sunsets/Golf 3 Bedroom/3 bath from $120 Per Night!
- Restaurants near Saddle Road:
- (8.44 mi) Pueo's Osteria
- (8.46 mi) Island Lava Java
- (8.46 mi) Island Lava Java
- (8.44 mi) Los Tres Mex
- (8.44 mi) Racha Thai