Kualoa Ranch Hours, Location & Getting There: Complete Visitor Info​

Planning a visit to Kualoa Ranch is one of the top things to do on Oahu. Known for its breathtaking scenery and world-famous movie backdrops, the ranch is a can’t-miss attraction for families, adventure seekers, and film buffs alike. Before you go, it’s important to know the Kualoa Ranch hours, location, and directions so your visit goes smoothly.

Kualoa Ranch is open daily from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, except on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day when it is closed.

• Tour Start Times: Most tours begin in the morning, with the earliest departures around 8:00–8:30 AM. If you’re looking for the best weather and fewer crowds, mornings are often ideal. (See our Early Morning Tours for the best options.)
• Last Tour Departures: Afternoon tours usually start by 3:00 PM, allowing plenty of daylight for activities before closing.
• Best Times to Visit: Mornings not only offer clearer skies for photos, but also tend to be cooler—perfect if you’re planning outdoor adventures like horseback riding or ATV tours.

Tip: Always double-check your tour’s confirmation for exact Kualoa Ranch open times, as each activity may have slightly different schedules.

The ranch is located on Oahu’s lush windward coast, about 24 miles from Waikiki.

• Address: 49-560 Kamehameha Highway, Kaneohe, HI 96744
• Setting: Nestled between the Koʻolau Mountains and Kaneohe Bay, the ranch covers 4,000 acres of valleys, beaches, and tropical forest.
• Nearby Landmarks: You’ll pass scenic spots like Chinaman’s Hat (Mokoliʻi Island) and the coastal stretch of Kamehameha Highway—one of the most beautiful drives on the island.

This central Kualoa Ranch location makes it easy to combine your visit with other North Shore or Windward Oahu adventures.

One of the most common questions visitors ask is: How long does it take to get to Kualoa Ranch from Waikiki?

• Driving Directions: From Waikiki, the drive takes 35–45 minutes, depending on traffic. Head east on H-1, connect to H-3 through the Koʻolau mountain tunnels, and follow signs to Kamehameha Highway north toward Kaneohe. The ranch is clearly marked along the route.
• From Waikiki to Kualoa Ranch Travel Time: Expect around 40 minutes without heavy traffic, but allow extra time during rush hours or weekends.

• Guided Tour Shuttles: Many tour packages include round-trip transportation → check our Transportation Services for convenient options.
• Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are available, but availability may be limited when leaving the ranch.
• Public Transit (TheBus): While TheBus routes (#8, #19, #20, #23, #42, #60, #88A) do reach the ranch from Waikiki for about $3 one‑way, the journey involves multiple stops and can be significantly slower than driving.

• Parking: Free on-site parking is available for guests. Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak times.
• Accessibility: The visitor center is wheelchair-friendly, though some tours involve rugged terrain.
• Facilities: On-site restrooms, a country store, and restaurants (like Aunty Pat’s Café) are available for snacks and meals.

• Book Early: Tours often sell out days or even weeks in advance.
• Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour to check in and get settled.
• Plan Your Day: Many visitors combine a half-day at Kualoa with other activities on Oahu’s windward side, such as visiting Byodo-In Temple or relaxing at Lanikai Beach.

Knowing the Kualoa Ranch hours, location, and directions ahead of time makes your visit stress-free and more enjoyable. Whether you’re driving yourself or booking a package with transportation, planning ensures you’ll make the most of your day at this iconic Oahu destination. Book tours with convenient pickup times to fit your schedule and explore Kualoa Ranch the easy way!