Nu’uanu Pali Lookout is one of the most popular scenic points on the island of Oahu. It is located on the Windward side of the island. Most Oahu’s first time visitors and island tour companies have it in their checklist.
Nu’uanu Pali Lookout offers ideal photo opportunities and an easy way to get to know Oahu upon your arrival. On a clear day, the windy perch offers stunning views of the blue Pacific Ocean lying beyond the green Ko‘olau Mountains. You can have amazing views of the entire Windward side of Oahu, which includes Kailua, Kaneohe, Waimanalo and Kahaluu.
You should note that the Lookout is very windy. So we recommend you to bring a light jacket. The area gives off the strongest winds on Oahu and can sometimes be tough, but still very fun. You will also have to walk to the viewpoint from the parking lot. For that reason you can bring shoes as well, if you are not comfortable with flip flops. Pali Lookout is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
You will also be able to access the old Pali Road, which is a very small two lane road. It was used long ago, before the Pali Highway was rebuilt. The road can lead you to several great hikes, all of which are pretty family friendly. However, if you are not experience hiker, stay away from Pali Notches Hike. It is a bit tough, especially if you are with the entire family.
Hawaiian Culture, Legend and History
Legend says that the Pali Lookout was the point of a great war in the history to unite all of the Hawaiian Islands. King Kamehameha was in battle with others trying to unite the islands when he was thrown from the Pali cliff. Legend says that the powerful winds tossed him back up to the high ground and prevented him from falling to his death. As soon as this happened the battle stopped and everyone recognized King Kamehameha as the rightful king of Hawaii and the one to unite all of the Hawaii Islands.
Parking Fee
Parking is tight, with space for about 15 cars at a time. We advise you not to leave any valuables in your car. Parking fee for individuals is $3.00 per car. There is no fee for Kama’aina – Hawaii residents.
The fee for commercial PUC vehicles is as follows:
- 1-7 passenger vehicles: $6.00
- 8-25 passenger vehicles: $12.00
- 26 + passenger vehicles: $24.00
How do you get to Nuuanu Pali Lookout?
To get to Nuuanu Pali Lookout from Waikiki, head northeast on Kalaimoku St toward Kūhiō Ave, then turn right onto HI-61/Pali Highway. The road to the Lookout through the Nuuanu Pali State Park is well marked.