Nu’uanu Pali
Nu’uanu Pali
4.5
About
The Nuuanu Pali State Wayside is a lookout above the Pali Highway tunnels where you’re treated to a panoramic view of Oahu's Windward side with sweeping views of Kaneohe, Kaneohe Bay and Kailua. It’s also well known for strong tradewinds, forming a natural wind tunnel of sorts. It was here in 1795 that Kamehameha The Great conquered the island of Oahu in one of the bloodiest battles in Hawaiian history. Led by Kalanikupule, the defenders of Oahu were driven back up into the valley where they were trapped above the cliff. More than 400 of Kalanikupule's soldiers were driven off the edge of the cliff to their deaths 1,000 feet below.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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- jmashTurnersville, New Jersey1,432 contributionsVisit to lookoutMy wife and I along with another couple recently visited Honolulu on a cruise vacation. While there, we rented a car and drove around the island. We visited the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout. The views are amazing. We got some outstanding photos of the area below. It was quite windy and the weather was a bit overcast, but it didn’t detract from the great views. This place should be a definite destination and we would recommend it highly.Visited April 2024Traveled with friendsWritten April 23, 2024
- LovemyAcura🌵17,513 contributionsBeautiful and historicalVisited here as part of a cruise ship excursion. Very windy - be prepared. The views are beautiful and the historical significance of this overlook is not to be overlooked. The walk up to the overlook was a little uphill so that might be something some people might to know ahead of time.Visited April 2024Traveled with friendsWritten June 2, 2024
- bitsmom_tnLewisburg, Tennessee193 contributionsGreat view but very windyWe discovered this lookout while looking for things to do. You might find a pull off along the road to park but there is parking at the entrance. It costs $7 to park (machine was broke so we had to pay thru the phone. And when we were there, there is a guy there overseeing things (I read where some didn't pay). Be prepared. When we went, it was seriously windy. Temps drop 10+ degrees too. Its a short walk to the top. Those with disabilities can get up there but the wind is strong. After taking pics from the top, we went down to the lower lever. When I started around the lower level, the wind almost lifted me up. I definitely had a struggle fighting those winds. I dont know if its this windy all the time, but it sure was when we were thereVisited July 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten July 15, 2024
- Kelvin N7 contributionsPiece of heavenI first saw this on a guided tour which included three days on each of four islands. A lot of the regular tourists don't get to see this or even know about it. I returned to Oahu in December of 2023 and brought my sister this time. It was still as gorgeous as I remembered. You are doing yourself a diservice if you visit Oahu and don't check out this piece of heaven.Visited December 2023Traveled with familyWritten July 16, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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Virginia45,384 contributions
Mar 2022
Are you looking for a undeniably great view of the Ko’olau Mountain Range and Oahu’s windward side at an elevation of 1200 feet? Yes, most definitely head to the Nu’uanu Pal Lookout just a short drive from Honolulu. Besides the view of the mountains and the Pali Notches,, you are treated to a panoramic view including the two of Kailua, Kaneohe Bay, the Diamond Head, Waikiki, Honolulu and Mokoli’i Island. Hold on to your hat and young children as the winds are strong and you can hear it howling through the mountains. This site is where King Kamehameha I in 1795 conquered Oahu and united the islands and Hawaiian people. Parking is free for residents and is $7.00 per vehicle for non-residents.
Although approximately less than a mile long, the Pali Notches Hike is known as the most perilous and risky hikes in Hawaii. Yet, adventure seekers put aside their trepidations and embark on its steep incline and cliffs. From what I have read, the first part of the trail is muddy, and covered in roots and branches. To get to the notches, you will deal with vertical drop-offs, loose rocks, strong winds, and crevices. As you continue upward, your rock-climbing skills will be tested. The notches were carved for canons to defend Oahu during the battle of Nu’uanu. When we visited, we saw a hiker almost to the top of the trail. I understand those who are successful to reach the top are afforded an incomparable panoramic view of the windward side of Oahu.
Although approximately less than a mile long, the Pali Notches Hike is known as the most perilous and risky hikes in Hawaii. Yet, adventure seekers put aside their trepidations and embark on its steep incline and cliffs. From what I have read, the first part of the trail is muddy, and covered in roots and branches. To get to the notches, you will deal with vertical drop-offs, loose rocks, strong winds, and crevices. As you continue upward, your rock-climbing skills will be tested. The notches were carved for canons to defend Oahu during the battle of Nu’uanu. When we visited, we saw a hiker almost to the top of the trail. I understand those who are successful to reach the top are afforded an incomparable panoramic view of the windward side of Oahu.
Written March 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Melanie T
New York City, NY7,042 contributions
Jul 2021 • Couples
I've been here once 11 years ago so on this trip to O'ahu, I decided to take my husband since he had never been before. It's a nice lookout but parking will set you back $7 if you are not kama'aina (local). Kind of wish I had taken my sister's (the local) driver's license just so we could have parked for free! It's not that much in the grand scheme of things but you're really only up there for 15 to 20 minutes max to snap a few pictures. It's not somewhere you'd go hang out, especially since it's so windy up there.
Also, don't worry if the lot is full when you arrive. Like I said, people don't spend a lot of time up here, so somebody is always leaving. There’s also only one meter so if you get there at the wrong time, you could end up waiting quite a bit to pay. I also entered the wrong license plate number but luckily, the parking attendant said it was fine. I would have been annoyed if I had to pay again and end up paying $14 for this.
Bottom line - nice view but nothing jaw-dropping or spectacular. I mean you're in Hawaii - there are plenty of other/better views.
Also, don't worry if the lot is full when you arrive. Like I said, people don't spend a lot of time up here, so somebody is always leaving. There’s also only one meter so if you get there at the wrong time, you could end up waiting quite a bit to pay. I also entered the wrong license plate number but luckily, the parking attendant said it was fine. I would have been annoyed if I had to pay again and end up paying $14 for this.
Bottom line - nice view but nothing jaw-dropping or spectacular. I mean you're in Hawaii - there are plenty of other/better views.
Written July 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sightseer779040
512 contributions
Oct 2022
We found this during my research on places to stop on a drive around the island. The parking lot is decently sized so there was plenty of parking. There is a cost to parking ($7) at an automated kiosk. But the kiosk also said it was free to park for military, and it was based on license plate numbers, so I am not sure how that works. We saw some feral cats roaming around the parking lot. From the parking lot it is a quick walk over to the lookout. It is very scenic with rainforest and mountain views around. There are also some informative signs about the battle that took place at the lookout. Overall we took some pictures and it was cool to see, so we spent about 5 minutes here, as it was also quite windy and drizzly since it was higher up.
Written November 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
P B
Sherwood Park, Canada78 contributions
Mar 2022 • Couples
It is definitely a beautiful view but to pay almost $8 to park for a few minutes is absurd. There were two officers just sitting in a truck waiting for someone to ship payment. We found beautiful views at the nearby botanical gardens and the whole park was free.
Written March 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BrakiWorldTraveler
Belgrade, Serbia20,003 contributions
May 2024 • Family
This lookout is located in the middle of Oahu island, along the Pali hwy connecting Honolulu with eastern and further northern shore.
It's set in the central mountains, so beware the weather can change quickly due to strong winds which happened to us.
The site is famous for the 1795 Kamehameha historic battle in order to unite all the islands under his rule. Defenders were trapped here and had fallen from the cliffs during the battle. Kamehameha won and became the first king.
Views are average, oriented towards east of Oahu. Much better are the Tantalus views and they're free.
7$ parking fee is a total rip off for someone staying there 15-30 min.
It's set in the central mountains, so beware the weather can change quickly due to strong winds which happened to us.
The site is famous for the 1795 Kamehameha historic battle in order to unite all the islands under his rule. Defenders were trapped here and had fallen from the cliffs during the battle. Kamehameha won and became the first king.
Views are average, oriented towards east of Oahu. Much better are the Tantalus views and they're free.
7$ parking fee is a total rip off for someone staying there 15-30 min.
Written June 11, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HillaryDawn
Paphos, Cyprus47 contributions
Jan 2020
I've never seen anything like this view. Yes, the car park is expensive for the amount of time it takes to see this view, but I would pay it every time. The wind is an added sensory bonus! Absolutely powerful and incredible. My youngest wasn't at all bothered with this place, but my 12-yr-old thought it was stunning.
Written January 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lina E
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia3,602 contributions
Dec 2024 • Family
The Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout offers a breathtaking overview of the city and the surrounding landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in Oʻahu. When we arrived, a light rain added an ethereal touch to the already stunning view, with mist rolling over the cliffs and enhancing the lush greenery below. Although parking is available, spaces are limited, so arriving early is recommended. Adding a touch of charm to the experience, chickens freely roam the parking lot, seemingly unbothered by the bustling cars around them.
Beyond its beauty, the Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout is steeped in history and culture. This location was the site of the famous Battle of Nuʻuanu in 1795, where King Kamehameha I achieved a decisive victory, uniting the Hawaiian Islands under one rule. The name “Pali” means “cliff” in Hawaiian, and the sheer drop at the lookout serves as a striking reminder of the island’s rugged natural beauty. The area also holds cultural significance for Native Hawaiians, symbolizing both triumph and the forces of nature that have shaped the islands for centuries.
Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout is also rich in local legends and myths, deeply intertwined with Hawaiian culture. One prominent legend is that of the **Moʻo Wāhine**, a lizard goddess who appears as a beautiful woman, luring men to their demise from the cliffs. Another tale involves **night marchers**, spirits of ancient warriors said to march along the Pali, accompanied by the sounds of drums and conch shells. Encountering them is considered dangerous, and locals advise laying low to avoid their gaze.
For those interested in those legends the following site provides more information Nu’uanu Pali Lookout – The Sacred Cliff of Gods and Warriors in Oahu, Hawaii – Residual Whispers
Beyond its beauty, the Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout is steeped in history and culture. This location was the site of the famous Battle of Nuʻuanu in 1795, where King Kamehameha I achieved a decisive victory, uniting the Hawaiian Islands under one rule. The name “Pali” means “cliff” in Hawaiian, and the sheer drop at the lookout serves as a striking reminder of the island’s rugged natural beauty. The area also holds cultural significance for Native Hawaiians, symbolizing both triumph and the forces of nature that have shaped the islands for centuries.
Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout is also rich in local legends and myths, deeply intertwined with Hawaiian culture. One prominent legend is that of the **Moʻo Wāhine**, a lizard goddess who appears as a beautiful woman, luring men to their demise from the cliffs. Another tale involves **night marchers**, spirits of ancient warriors said to march along the Pali, accompanied by the sounds of drums and conch shells. Encountering them is considered dangerous, and locals advise laying low to avoid their gaze.
For those interested in those legends the following site provides more information Nu’uanu Pali Lookout – The Sacred Cliff of Gods and Warriors in Oahu, Hawaii – Residual Whispers
Written December 29, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dool15
Tennessee122 contributions
Mar 2020 • Friends
Nu’uanu Pali should be a stop on any Oahu itinerary. Not only is it a historic site, but the experience is truly like none other. The view is phenomenal, and the wind is no joke. I was expecting windy, but was not prepared for WINDY. I was on a personal tour who made this one of our stops on a tour of Oahu!
Written February 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Emma W
Auckland, New Zealand761 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
It is a beautiful lookout but it is also very windy, so you won't want to spend more than 5 to 10 minutes there.
You are supposed to pay $7 for parking but the machine wasn't working when we were there. I can understand paying for parking if you are hiking for the day but I think they should have some parks that are free for 15 minutes and separate paid parks, for those who need to park longer.
Even if you pay for parking the facilities are not good, just a couple of portaloos in the carpark.
You are supposed to pay $7 for parking but the machine wasn't working when we were there. I can understand paying for parking if you are hiking for the day but I think they should have some parks that are free for 15 minutes and separate paid parks, for those who need to park longer.
Even if you pay for parking the facilities are not good, just a couple of portaloos in the carpark.
Written February 2, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
njoireading247
Johns Creek, GA467 contributions
Dec 2021
This was an unexpected stop but we are so glad we found it. You will need to pay for parking and it is extremely windy. The lookout is high about the valley but you can use the signs to determine what everything is. Stop here before continuing elsewhere so that you know about the other areas when driving through.
Written December 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anyone got to the lookout by an Uber? If yes, can you also easily get an Uber to get down from the Lookout regarding it is far inside the national park and maybe no cell signal there?
Thank you!
Written April 6, 2019
Hi, this is a 15 to 20 min stop on the way to other attraction. Just for Nu‘uanu Pali it is no point in getting Uber and be sure you will not get to it for return journey. Still this is what you want you can pay 15 to 20 min waiting charge.
You should take some trip to various place in this direction instead of Uber, you can hire a car and drive on Nu'uanu Pali Dr and stop for a while at the look out point. ( I visited Byodo-In Temple, Haleiwa ( For big waves) 2 to 3 hours, make a quick stop at Laniakea Beach (Turtle Beach) and Sunset Beach Park )1 to 2 hrs .
Hope this will be useful.
Written April 7, 2019
Hi E6862,
Our tour company has told us that they will cancel this visit point due to road closed, as everyone said this is a place cant be missed, so can we go there by "the bus"? I will come to Oahu in May.
Thanks
Written March 24, 2019
It’s a stop and look location..nothing to do in particular just a view site..
Written May 27, 2020
Yes you can take Uber or Lyft up to the Pali Lookout. It would be rather expensive depending on where you are starting from. You would also probably have to pay the parking fee.
Renting a car for a day would be easier and I suspect cheaper. Stopping on the way to the North Shore would be a great way to maximize a one day rental.
Written January 25, 2018
We ommitted to pay the fee because we entered the parking but did not stay... Is there a camera that takes note of car plates or something? Because we saw no one.
Written November 4, 2017
I think it's just an "honor system" to pay if you decide to stop, park your car and walk up to the overlook. No charge for just driving through.
Written November 4, 2017
Is any car suitable to get to these locations or is 4WD needed?
Written February 20, 2016
Any car can get into the lookout parking lot.
Written May 21, 2016
I visited the Nuuanu Pali Lookout on 2/19/15 and come across a photographer who was selling her photos from this location. She had some lovely photos of Lanikai beach. I gave her my email so she could send her website info but sadly I did not receive an email. I would love to locate this photographer.
Written February 26, 2015
directions to getting to the pali outlook from Honolulu hotels namely Hilton Hawaiian village thanks
Written February 6, 2015
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