Adventure brief
North Coast Loop Tour - Navigation Guided
Take the North Coast Loop Tour with Aloha Motorsports Waikoloa and navigate Hawaii’s Big Island in a Polaris Slingshot. Experience stark coastal contrasts, lush valleys, and thrilling mountainous roads on this unforgettable four-hour ride.
Hawai‘i’s Big Island offers some of the most varied landscapes in the Pacific, and there’s no better way to experience its contrasts than the North Coast Loop Tour with Aloha Motorsports Waikoloa. Starting in Waikoloa Village on the island’s dry, sun-soaked Kohala Coast, this guided Polaris Slingshot ride delivers an intoxicating blend of open-air freedom and thrilling road navigation. From the moment you set off, you’re immersed in an environment where volcanic lava fields give way to verdant valleys, coastal cliffs, and tropical flora.
The journey heads north along the coastline, where panoramic ocean views stretch toward the neighboring island of Maui on clear days. The terrain shifts dramatically as you approach the town of Hawi—a charming, small Hawaiian community known for its local crafts and eateries. This is where the dry side transitions into lush greenery, emblematic of the island’s unique climatic zones.
The highlight awaits at Pololū Valley, a majestic expanse of rainforest and towering sea cliffs bordering a black sand beach carved by ancient lava flows. Aloha Motorsports not only provides the cutting-edge Polaris Slingshot—a nimble, three-wheeled vehicle with an integrated navigation system and premium stereo—but also expert local advice to help you make the most of the four-hour tour. The Slingshot’s open cockpit design ensures uninterrupted vistas throughout the trip, while its responsive handling turns winding roads, especially the challenging 3,000-foot elevation climb of the 250 Mountain Road, into an exhilarating experience.
This tour stands apart from typical island excursions by blending independent discovery with guided confidence, appealing to adventurers who want autonomy without sacrificing safety or comfort. Beyond the ride itself, the North Coast Loop offers a window into Hawaii’s ecological diversity and cultural heart, making Aloha Motorsports Waikoloa a standout outfitter on the Big Island’s outdoor adventure scene.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Reserve Earlyessential
Popular and limited in availability, book your Polaris Slingshot tour ahead to secure your preferred date and time.
- 02Bring Sun Protectionessential
The open-air vehicle means you’ll be exposed to strong Hawaiian sun—wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat between rides.
- 03Pack Lightinfo
Though the Slingshot has lockable storage, limit bulky items to keep the ride comfortable and nimble on mountain roads.
- 04Prepare for Elevation Changeswarning
The route includes a steep climb along the 250 Mountain Road; stay hydrated and take breaks if needed.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Sunscreen
Crucial for protecting exposed skin from Hawaii’s strong tropical sun during the open-air ride.
summerEssentialLight Jacket or Windbreaker
Helps shield against cooling winds especially on high elevation roads like the 250 Mountain Road.
springEssentialSunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare and enhance visibility during bright daylight drives.
EssentialReusable Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated, especially important on longer tours and in warm weather.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Secret swimming holes along the Kohala Coast, Local artisan shops in Hawi
Local fauna
Hawaiian seabirds like the ‘I‘iwi, Native Hawaiian green sea turtles near shorelines
Historic heritage
Hawi was once a hub for the Hawaiian plantation era, offering rich cultural insights along the trip route.
Mindful exploration
Aloha Motorsports promotes eco-conscious tourism by encouraging no-trace driving and supports local preservation efforts for the Pololū Valley ecosystem.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Overlook above Pololū Valley, Kohala Coastline near Mawuli Beach, Curves of the 250 Mountain Road
- Subjects
- Coastal panoramas, Volcanic black sand beaches, Native tropical vegetation
- Best times
- Golden hour, Mid-morning, Late afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need a special license to drive the Polaris Slingshot?
You must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license to operate the Slingshot.
Are passengers allowed on the North Coast Loop Tour?
Yes, the Polaris Slingshot seats two people comfortably.
Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Slingshot is user-friendly and Aloha Motorsports provides guidance and navigation to assist.
What happens if it rains during my booking?
The Slingshots are fully waterproof, allowing the tour to continue safely in light rain, but heavy storms may cause rescheduling.
Can I extend the tour beyond 4 hours?
Yes, there is an option to extend your time to 8 hours for a more leisurely experience.
Is food allowed on the trip?
Yes, the Slingshot has lockable storage and is waterproof, so you can bring snacks or a packed lunch.