Kapoho-Kalapana Road 137, the scenic, narrow, winding, coastline road on the Big Island’s southeastern shore, running right along the ocean, is known as The Red Road because of its unique red cinder pavement.
With majestic ocean views, the route which travels through rocky lava fields, lush coconut groves, tropical rainforests, old plantations, and black sand beaches is considered one of the most scenic in Hawaii. In some places, lush vegetation creates a canopy of tangled trees as you burrow through a dense tree tunnel where dangling vines touch the roof of your car.
As you travel, slow down to navigate the hills and curves, and enjoy the journey. Along the way, visit the volcanically heated Ahalanui Pond, to enjoy a dip in the warm water and stop in MacKenzie State Park to watch the waves crash into the steep shoreline cliffs. Look for the patches of colorful wild impatiens that line the roadside and wind-sculpted trees. There may even be a fisherman or two in the quaint villages of old Hawaii and artists painting under the shade of a tree.