Exploring Hawaii on a moped is a unique way to experience the island’s beauty and charm. Our group of five recently embarked on this adventure, and here’s a rundown of our experience and tips for those planning to do the same.
Contents
Getting Ready
Our group consisted of two members with motorcycle licenses and three without. The latter were understandably anxious about riding solo, so they chose to be passengers. In Hawaii, you can rent small mopeds even if you don’t have a motorcycle license, but these come with certain restrictions due to their lower horsepower.
At the rental shop (Waikiki Mopeds), the staff were extremely helpful. We didn’t have a reservation and they were able to accommodate us. We went to the shop around 4pm on a Saturday. One of the girls went out of her way to run around the block with one of our novice members, which isn’t something they typically do. Usually, they provide a brief tutorial, guidance on usage, and a safety video. For extra peace of mind, you can also purchase insurance for $25 which basically covers for any damages and theft for the vehicle. We paid for this option.
Tip: Always get the insurance.
The Journey
We set off towards the stunning Lanikai Beach, known for its clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. Navigating through traffic was a breeze—if by ‘breeze’ you mean constant heart attacks from dodging cars and pedestrians. However, the ability to pull over and enjoy the scenery whenever we wanted made it worth it. You can park wherever bicycles are allowed to park as well! So it makes it easy to not have to worry about parking. Just make sure to lock up your moped to keep it safe.
Interestingly, helmets aren’t required for riding mopeds in Hawaii. No helmets required? Great! Because who needs safety when you’ve got a cool Instagram photo to post, right? Totally at your own risk! Passengers can capture the experience with an Insta360 (our favorite 360) or a similar 360 camera.
Warning: I would suggest to wear sunglasses and keep your mouth shut because you can get hit with bugs. That definitely happened to us…
On the Road
One of the biggest perks of mopeding is the ability to stop whenever something catches your eye. Hawaii is full of picturesque spots, many with convenient pull-over areas on the right side of the road on the way to Lanikai Beach. The rental shop provided us with a brochure highlighting recommended stops and any driving limitations.
Lanikai Beach was the goal to travel to. Its serene beauty and driving alongside the waters were perfect for relaxation and photos. You’re also able to cliff jump or just relax on the beach. Be wary after a certain point in the afternoon, the sun will go over the mountain and block the view. So it’s better to go during the morning to noon time.
Having mopeds allowed us the flexibility to explore nearby attractions and enjoy spontaneous detours, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
We also made a stop at Kai Lookout on the way to China Walls, where we were treated to a breathtaking view of Koko Crater. This was particularly special for us because we had hiked Koko Crater the day before, and seeing it from this vantage point really highlighted its massive scale and natural beauty. It was a rewarding experience to appreciate the full scope of the terrain we had conquered on foot, and the lookout provided a perfect spot for a quick rest and some great photo opportunities.
Another unforgettable stop was China Walls, a hidden gem popular among locals. The atmosphere here was electric, with surfers riding the waves and adventurous people cliff jumping into the waters below. Watching the skilled surfers navigate the waves was really cool because you can see them up close and they have to bail out to not hit the rocks, and the thrill of the cliff jumpers added an element of excitement. If you do decide to cliff jump, be careful and check the waves because it is very turbulent here. Would recommend for you to be a strong swimmer and getting back up would be on wet rocks. As the day drew to a close, tons of locals came by just to see the breathtaking sunset. The vibrant hues of the setting sun reflected off the ocean, creating a picture-perfect end to our moped adventure.
Tips and Recommendations
For those considering mopeding in Hawaii, we highly recommend it. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride:
Insurance: Opt for the additional insurance for extra peace of mind.
Safety: Even though helmets aren’t required, wearing one is a smart choice.
Camera Gear: Passengers should bring an Insta360 or similar camera for capturing amazing footage.
Plan Your Stops: Use the provided brochure to plan your stops and be aware of any driving restrictions. Have your passenger navigate you or use headphones if you’re riding solo.
Pro Tip: Don’t let the breathtaking scenery distract you too much, or you might end up admiring it from the roadside ditch!
Mopeding in Hawaii is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s an unforgettable experience that adds a unique layer to your trip. So, gear up, stay safe, and enjoy the ride!
Affiliate Disclosure: Links in this blog post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us continue to provide valuable content. Thank you!
[…] would be a nightmare. Actually driving the go-kart was pretty simple actually as compared to the mopeds we drove in Hawaii […]