Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside

Tourist attraction · Nuuanu-Punchbowl

Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside

Tourist attraction · Nuuanu-Punchbowl

1

Hawaii 96744

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Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null
Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside by null

Highlights

At 1,186 feet, the Nu'uanu Pali Lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views of windward Oahu, with a windy atmosphere that’s perfect for unforgettable photo ops.  

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Hawaii 96744 Get directions

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Hawaii 96744 Get directions

+1 808 587 0400
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Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance
parking bike
crowd family friendly

Last updated

Jul 21, 2025

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@afar

"Climbing up the Koolau The Pali Puka trail is a short distance, but the trail was much more exposed and challenging to negotiate than the length of path suggests. The trail is hidden beyond the parking lot at the Nuuanu Pali Lookout and follows along the ridge line of the Koolau mountains. The ridge of these mountains is quite thin in places, and their steep rock faces on the windward side of Oahu are not very inviting. A "puka" is the hawaiian word for "hole." Appropriately, at the end of this short hike, there is a hole in the ridge where satisfied hikers can enjoy the view over windward Oahu, or look back down the lush and green Nuuanu Valley toward Honolulu."

Off the Beaten Path: Hiking around Honolulu
View Postcard for Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside

Jinseung Kim (Soulless traveler)

Google
The view from the lookout is great, as the distance from the parking lot to the lookout is short. Parking is free for Hawaii residents, otherwise it costs $7. The view from the lookout is very good, and it is worth visiting at least once. It is a pity that there are no related tourist attractions.

Michelle C.

Google
Nu'uanu Pali Lookout is a site of historical significance that was the location of the Battle of Nu'uanu in 1795. The blustery lookout has an amazing panoramic view of the windward northeast coast of Oʻahu. There is no entrance fee; however, you’ll need to pay for parking at the parking meters unless you’re a local resident or military. There are portable restrooms onsite.

Matt Broussard

Google
Incredible view! Very windy and 10 or 15 degrees cooler than sea level. Awesome historic site.

Daithí Kilcourse

Google
A brilliant lookout located a short distance from Honolulu. Under 30 minutes from Waikiki. The views are amazing. It can get very windy and cold up there. Watch your hats and bring a jacket. Well worth the short cold walk. The views on the way up are amazing too.

Chicocares Aguilar

Google
If you like to experience breathtaking views and see the ocean, this is a great spot while you are visiting Oahu. You definitely will need a car or buy a tour to come to this place. Well worth it to be honest and something you want to experience. There are hikes you can do in this area, be ready to pay for parking if you want to hike. I recommend doing this trip on a weekday versus weekend. Hope you go visit and experience this gorgeous views. #chicosreviews

Ashwani Bhasin

Google
Get fantastic and sweeping view of the windward side. If you are on your way to or from Lanikai beach, stop here for a refreshing puff of air all around you. and you can spot some big roosters playing around too.

Ru Wi

Google
The Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside is located approximately 9 km northeast of Honolulu. and offers stunning views of Kaneʻohe, Kailua, Mokoliʻi Island and the inshore fishpond at Kualoa Point from an elevation of approximately 1,400 feet. The Pali Hwy runs in the tunnel just below the lookout. At the southwest exit of the tunnel, you can take Nuuanu Pali Drive to the parking lot at the lookout point.

Scott Jebbia

Google
Amazing look out point go early in the morning to avoid lines in crowds. Lots of history at this site, make sure you look for the sign for the park in Lookout it's right off the highway easy to miss. If you are stopping by with your car full of luggage make sure you lock it at its area is known for people breaking in your car and stealing. Definitely worth the time for the view.
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Lauren H.

Yelp
Nu'uanu Pali offers a free and breathtaking view of the windward side of Oahu! We were lucky to be there on a clear and sunny day when visibility was great! I highly recommend a quick stop for photos to anyone visiting Oahu. A nearby parking lot and a wide ramp makes the lookout so accessible.
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Grace B.

Yelp
I love going to the Pali lookout. It's a beautiful view. Last time I was there, they have machines to pay for parking. It's windy there so wear clothing that won't blow up your skirt or wind breakers that will blow away like a parachute. I'm of course not exaggerating. Just imagine how windy it is. There is security or a police that monitors the area. It is a beautiful look out. Lots of parking and beautiful views. Bring a camera or use your camera phone. It will be a great photo opportunity.
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Jason M.

Yelp
The Pali Highway lookout was the first stop that we made during my Majestic Circle Island Tour. At the beginning of the tour we were provided an illustrated map highlighting our stops - everything sounded great so I had sort of high expectations for the lookout. Because I was with a tour group parking was no issue - we didn't stay here long but just enough that I was able to get some amazing views of Oahu. There are two tiers you can lookout from and a few access points so that you can get multiple angles. There's a whole lot of green, and the combination of the sun peeking out with the clouds really made for some picturesque views - I was snapping away. This isn't a place to stay for too long - it's not big and from what I saw there was only one main lookout point. That being said, if you're looking to get some great views and photos (plenty for the Instagram crowd), it's definitely worth it to make a stop here.
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Maxine P.

Yelp
We enjoyed our little side trip to the Nu'uanu Pali Lookout for a few different reasons. We were coming back from visiting a a Botanical Gardens on the Windward side and thought we'd check it out. Took the exit which took us through a lush forested road. Being locals we are not charged for parking, a nice perk that saved us 7.00. Upon arrival it was very windy. Hard to describe why the wind is a part of the attraction to this Historic sight but it is. Walking up to the lookout you will see multiple signs providing infortion about this location. The wind is double the normal strength as other areas of the island sometimes reaching speeds of 70 miles. It's created by trade winds blowing between mountains creating a natural wind tunnel that hits the side of the cliffs and heads to the lookout. It's a very unique experience. Aside from the wind fun, there is information about the Hawaiian battle fought here by King Kamehameha's warriors to unite the Hawaii islands. Their opposition lost their life being pushed back over the 900 foot cliffs during the battle. While viewing the stunning views below one wouldn't think of the loss of life in the location which also included a world II plane that crashed near by. I think some might say the location is haunted. There also hiking trails near by, although I would go on a less windy day than what we experienced. I would highly recommend a quick drive up here when vacationing in O'ahu.
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Sam R.

Yelp
Wednesday, 3/02/2021 - Stopped by Nu'uanu Pali State Wayside to check out the beautiful view. We stopped only for a quick photo and a quick look out. There is paid parking. Next time we'll explore this area. Located at Honolulu, HI 96817.
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Scott F.

Yelp
Great spot to check out if you go to the other side of Oahu. You get to experience high speed winds while getting a good view of the island. The view changes depending on the weather. There were also some wildlife on the lookout.
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Han L.

Yelp
The views on Oahu are too good. You just stop by. There's plenty of parking. Bring a jacket because the wind can get strong. Enjoy the view :)
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Herman E.

Yelp
I swear, every time I visit Oahu, I come here at least once. Sometimes twice. Brings back childhood memories I guess. Majestic views of the windward side of the island and the valley below. Don't run over any chickens when you're visiting here. $3 for parking.
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Stefanie C.

Yelp
On our last day in Hawaii, my fiancé and I met up with friends that suggested a hike near Pali Puka. The actual hike will be in a separate review (we ended up doing Pali Notches) but for a few minutes, we enjoyed the view of the lookout point. It was a pain to get to Pali Puka because of the amount of construction at the time. Fortunately we arrived so early in the morning that there was no one else in the parking lot. It got insanely busy later, and there's not much other parking nearby. What baffled me was having to pay for parking if you're not a Hawaii resident. It's not like they even check. If you ARE going to pay for parking, it's most worthwhile to go hiking for a few hours. Or carpool. The view is beautiful but better from atop the mountain.
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Weston W.

Yelp
The view is great and worth a drive off the highway... but $7 to park!?, no bathrooms, no trails and nothing more than a scenic-overlook? Frankly I would have felt my money was well spent if they'd had a docent on hand to point out key features or history but just old signs covered in COVID social distancing BS? Not worth the 5-star view. Local can park free however so if you live in Hawaii it's worth the stop but I'd bet locals never use it. Punch bowl is a better use of your time frankly.
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Cindy Z.

Yelp
As you drive down HI-61, you're pass through sweeping views of greenery. Make a quick turnout to Nuuanu Pali Lookout, which is a section of the windward cliff of the Koolau mountain. There's a parking lot where you pay $2 by machine. This is quick stop as we spent only about 15-20 minutes here. Although short and sweet, the panoramic view of the coast of Oahu is gorgeous. It was amazing just watching the shadows of the cloud cross along the forest below. It's truly a sight to see, but don't expect too much as there is only one view from here.
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Vin S.

Yelp
Breath-taking views of the east coast and mountains. The Nu'uanu Pali overlook is worth the very short drive from 63 up to the crest of the old, crazy-steep and scary Pali Road. There is a lot of history here. From the battles of King Kamehameha where hundreds plunged to their deaths below, to the tortured construction of a drivable but insane road, this spot is definitely interesting. Most people only stay a few minutes. You good citizens are encouraged to pay for parking, which is kinda silly. Nobody I saw paid anything.
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Edmond L.

Yelp
Nice quick stop. The look out is just off a small highway. The parking is pretty nice due to cars coming and leaving rather quickly. The wind!! I loved the wind

Tyler H.

Yelp
This place is the biggest scam on the island of Oahu, $7 parking for about 5 minutes worth of pictures. Besides the pretty views (which you can find a lot on the island of Oahu) there's no reason to go here.
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Jeremy B.

Yelp
Always a cool spot to visit. I love visiting this spot when the wind is strong. It'll blow you back if it's strong enough & hopefully when you come up, it won't be cloudy . You need it sunny , so you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the beach down below. We also came up while it was lightly raining with some fog & within about 20 minutes the weather cleared, so we can enjoy the breathtaking views.
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Jessica P.

Yelp
"Ohhhh," "Ahhhh," and "Can you take my photo?" are just a few common reactions from our guests whenever we bring them here. It's definitely a good indication that this landmark should be on ones itinerary, especially if there's already a plan to drive over the mountain to visit Kailua or Kaneohe from Honolulu. Even if you live here, the change in weather is a change in scenery, so there's always something new to see. A little bit of wind (okay maybe a lot!), some rain, sunshine, and cloudy blue skies are always in the mix! The incredible views are one thing. The deep historical significance is another. Named "Pali" meaning 'cliff' in Hawaiian, the Pali Lookout is an ancient site of the Battle of Nuuanu, where in 1795 King Kamehameha I won the struggle that finally united the Hawaiian Islands under his rule. As you stand behind the walls protecting you from the sheer cliff that drops thousands of feet below, let that history move you in some way or another. Can you envision warriors climbing up that thing? Holy shmokes! Parking is $3 per POV, so it says. The nice thing is residents are free! I've recently noticed parking reinforcement in the area, which is nice because his/her presence probably helps to keep the lot safe from crooks wanting to take personal belongings left behind. Just bring those items with you, just in case! There are a lot of feral chickens in the area, so don't be alarmed to hear roosters crowing. Some of them hide in the trees, but most of them also roam the roads running alongside their chickadees. P.S. When it's windy....Gentleman, hold on to those hats! Ladies, bring a brush for after the visit. Oh! Lots of bees flying around or even holding tight on the ground when it's really windy. There are a few hiking trails in the area, too. If you look up to your right or left from the lookout, you might even spot some humans standing on top of the peaks of those sharp pointed mountains! You'll have to find other reviews on that topic because ya won't be seeing me up there. Oh golly, no. N. O. Lol.
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Judy S.

Yelp
The Pali Lookout is just a short drive east of Honolulu. The fee is $3 for cars in the moderately sized parking lot. The parking lot is also home to a lot of chickens, which proved amusing for small children. The Lookout has incredible views of the Koolau cliffs and lush Windward Coast. Do note that the winds are insane and very temperamental. When we arrived, the winds were strong and howling. But after a few minutes, the wind calmed down a little and the fog cleared for some really fantastic views. It's a perfect stop if you want to check out eastern Oahu or North Shore. After continuing through the Pali Tunnels, there's a decision point where you can go straight to Kailua (which is what we did) or turn left through Kaneohe along the coastline to head up to Haleiwa and Waimea Bay of North Shore.
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Wayne K.

Yelp
My wife has been to Oahu twice, but said she's never been here, so it makes me wonder if this isn't that popular of a tourist attraction. Looking at the number of reviews, it might not be, but it's definitely a great spot to see the valleys of Oahu outside of the typical Honolulu area, such as Waikiki or Ala Moana. You'll need a car, so expect around a 30 minute drive from Waikiki, but it's a beautiful drive and not a windy road at all. Also, there is a parking lot at the top, but paid parking unfortunately. Also, don't bring any type of pork when driving up the Pali. Hawaii is full of superstitions and I don't personally mess with any of them, so I recommend you don't either. I mean, it's not hard to not have pork in your car that day...:) Overall, this is a great spot for pictures and see how lush Hawaii is, even more lush than Maui and the Road to Hana. Definitely a great tourist spot for pictures.
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May A.

Yelp
Beautiful landscape! January 4, 2016 Stopped by here at the Pali Lookout to view the beautiful panoramic scenery of the windward coast of Oahu. The Lookout is located right above the tunnels. Windward is in the northeast side and you can see Kaneohe, Kaneohe Bay and Kailua. Free admission but there is fee for parking. We came pretty late in the day so there was lots of parking and a police or security parked at the entrance of the parking lot. Tourist buses come by here as it is a popular tourist spot. Hiking trails were closed when we visited. There is lots of greenery and mountains around. Spectacular and lovely picturesque overlook that goes beyond what your eyes can see. But, oh man, the wind! It was extremely windy. We came to view the scenic lookout around 7:30p and felt that strong trade winds that blows through the pass at the Nuuanu Pali Tunnels, which is what Pali Lookout is also well known for. I wouldn't bring anything that will be easily blown away by the wind like hats or caps... or toupees? Bring some warm clothes or light jacket. To give you an idea on how windy it can get up here, on extra windy days, you can lean into the wind and let the gusts hold you up. Crazy winds! If the gusts blow you off your feet, you're probably in for a hard landing! There is a history to this place. The Nuuanu Pali was the setting for one of the most important and bloodiest battles in Hawaiian history in King Kamehameha's campaign to conquer all of Hawaii. Hundreds of warriors were pushed over the lookout, and fell to their untimely deaths. There have been several reports of their lost souls seen wandering this area after dark. Haunted? Review #0427
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Nadine C.

Yelp
"Pali" in Hawaiian means "cliff". This is a great place to take out of town visitors! "Pali Lookout" is where King Kamehameha fought the famous Battle of Nuuanu. He won by pushing his enemies over the cliff, united the Hawaiian Islands, and became King! It's a VERY breezy place, so hold on to your caps and visors! Note: There are a lot of feral cats and chickens on the grounds. Watch out for falling rocks! Parking used to be free, but now there's a machine that collects money. I just ran in and ran out so it was free for me! Hawaii residents don't have to pay for parking. Just show your ID to the attendant if there is one. Views of the windward side of the island are amazing! Look for the Kaneohe Marine Corps Air Base and Hawaii Pacific University. This is a MUST SEE attraction!
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Ivana C.

Yelp
The last week I was hiking The Pali Notches hike. The weather was amazing. This hike offered so many scenic points! You will be surprise by views at Kaneohe, Kailua and Waimanalo. However, I would recommend this hike for very experienced hikers. No kids please! There are some points where you have to use your climbing and lifting skills. If you feel tired or just out of shape please don't go. There were couple of accidents already. I extended this hike to K1 and finished at Judd Memorial Trail. Enjoy and be careful.
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KC B.

Yelp
If you want a fabulous view of the windward side of Oahu without having to endure a long hike, then this is the place to visit. You can get an awesome panoramic view, but don't come here having the intention of getting yourself in the shot! Well, you could, but it'll be a picture of you with your hair blowing in every direction, unless of course you don't have hair or you have a buzz cut! It's like being stuck in the middle of a wind tunnel! If you want to hike, you have that option too. If you follow the path down to the right, it takes you down the mountain leading to two separate hikes, Likeke Falls or Maunawilli Falls. I attempted to try to find Likeke Falls, but after hiking for an hour and a half with no falls in sight, I ended up turning around only to run into a group that had been there before and knew where they were going. If you do attempt that hike, Bruce K.'s directions are probably the most accurate up until the ladder until the Pali highway. Take someone who knows where they are going! Oh, and parking is free for locals, but otherwise there is a machine that takes credit cards as well as a lot attendant to help you. The lookout closes at 5pm I think, so if you do take the hikes, be mindful of the time.
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Janee O.

Yelp
Cute little lookout. Parking is a flat fee of $3. Make sure to pack a jacket, it's chilly and windy at the top. View is great! If you're more adventurous, the Pali puka hike is on the left hand side where there is a break in the rock wall in front of the bus parking.
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Uel L.

Yelp
This is probably my 4th time to be here and this place never ceases to amaze me. What is so special about this place? Well, let me tell you. Heading towards the place, it doesn't seem too much to see. But when you actually stop, park your car and take your time to check out this place, you will not regret it. If you're wondering what Nu'uanu Pali means, it means cool elevation cliffs. And this is the truth. The high elevation creates a cold wind. But not just a tiny wind blowing. It is extremely windy where you pretty much have to hold on to something so you don't fly away. Well, that might be an exaggeration but that's how I felt when I was there. Even though it was extremely windy, the views is what made it worthwhile. You can actually see the Oahu coast which we also toured. That's another story. One thing you have to remember though, if you're not a Hawaiian residence, they'll charge you for parking. But it's worth going.
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M S.

Yelp
Gorgeous lookout point. Bf complained about $3 parking which we paid despite it being honor system and everyone else paid as well. VERY windy and frankly a bit cold compared to rest of Oahu, so bring a light jacket. It was so windy that when I was taking pictures I was afraid my phone would fall off the cliff! I think there's a chance it can get foggy, but most days it's clear and you can see the water, hills, valley, and the city of Honolulu from the lookout point. Great way to see a good chunk of Oahu from one place. We went during off season before Thanksgiving so it wasn't too busy, so parking was super easy to find and it was easy to take pictures without people being in my pictures.
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Anh L.

Yelp
Another great view of the island! There are plenty of parking spaces, but you gotta pay. I love all the greens and blues, it really takes you into the beauty of nature. I got some really pretty photos of hawaii here, but be careful because there are a lot of ants on the walls so if you're going to climb make sure to check before you get stung. This place gets crowded, but for the most part you can always get a great photo if you find the right angles. Definitely check it out!
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Lori I.

Yelp
Gorgeous panoramic views of Kaneohe and Kailua! The Battle of Nuuanu ended here in one of the bloodiest battles by Kamehameha as he conquered O'ahu. I often forget about that when I go here so I thought I'd throw that in. I take my kids here because its FREE for us ($3 parking for non-residents of HI) and they think its hilarious to see the wind blowing people around. Don't underestimate the wind here. I've seen it blow hats, skirts, shirts, and hair right off people. Bottom line: Do not wear short dresses, hold onto your little kids and leave your toupee in the car.
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Sabrina M.

Yelp
The views from this spot should not be missed! Every time we visit Oahu we make sure to visit the Nu'uanu Pali Wayside. It has really lovely views/vistas. A few things to know... There is a small "use fee" for parking in their lot, and this is really the only way to visit. But I never mind paying fees like this if it means I'm supporting beautiful locations like this. You should only plan on spending 15 minutes here, it's beautiful, but not a day trip. There is NO restroom, this is one thing I wish they would change.
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Kinga H.

Yelp
A MUST STOP. Only takes about 15 minutes out of your day but so worth it if driving by the lookout while on the Pali Highway during daylight hours. Panoramic views of the windward side of the island showcasing gorgeous green scenery and ocean. It's breathtaking. It's extremely windy. Wear a jacket. Leave the hats in the car. Ladies, be mindful if in a dress, unless you want a not so graceful Marilyn Monroe moment. History fun fact: This was the site that in 1795 King Kamehameha (of the Big Island) and his army defeated the O'ahu army and therefore united the Hawaiian Islands.
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Mikey H.

Yelp
I was on my 2 week sabbatical from my regular life and found myself driving out to Kaneohe on the Pali Hwy. I decided to stop at the lookout as a good way to view where I'd be living for the next two weeks. I want to say that it has been over 5 years since I've been and that the charge for parking is new, but I could be wrong. I stood there for almost 30 minutes taking in the view. I love the wind! Makes my hair look extra cool! LOL! Sure, you have to pay for parking...helps with the maintenance and upkeep. Luckily I have a Hawaii ID, so I got the kamaaina rate...FREE! I suggest people make friends here and come with locals so you don't have to pay. Definitely worth checking out.
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Bernadette M.

Yelp
I love the view driving up here. I love the awesome view from here. I love the wind and my hair flying all over the place. I love its history and ghost stories - wiki it. I don't love that you're supposed to pay 3 bucks for the parking. We ignored this since we knew we weren't staying long. I don't think you need more than 10 minutes here. Unless you're that person who likes to stand and absorb the nature for 30 minutes. There's also a hidden trail to the right of the lookout. Kinda sketchy because you have to walk past one of those road closed gates. I read somewhere there's a waterfall so we snuck past the gate. Walked maybe a half a mile past some concrete chunks that fell from atop, the trail started to narrow and we were walking through a jungle like atmosphere. We weren't sure where the trail led to so we went back.. We're all about exploring but we also didn't want to die there either. So I guess I recommend you know where you're going first if you walk this trail!
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Leland S.

Yelp
After accomplishing the hike we came here to rest for a bit and enjoy the view. My cousin gave us a quick history info about there. Good stuff to think and reflect about. Feels: View is great as usual but it is limited since you don't have as much access and views when you're hiking to the puka. Parking: Parking in the afternoon, we parked on the side of the road. Coming here on a Saturday afternoon, we didn't have problems. Overall Not an overfilled tourist area, but there are signs and context placements if you are interested in learning about the history of this place. Great place to check out with an awesome view. For a greater, scenic, and fitted challenge take the poly puka hike but beware! It is quite challenging.
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John M.

Yelp
Holy schnikes it's windy here. Be careful of wearing a loose tank top as it will be filled with wind and make you look fat in all photos, or reveal a little nubbin' more than desired. Still a must-stop if you're passing through for the impressive view of the windward side. What's that? THE WINDWARD SIDE! WHAT??? THE WINDWARD SIIIIIIDE!!!
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Marissa F.

Yelp
I don't know why I'm such a hater, but I wasn't as WOWed by this lookout as others, especially compared to the likes of Diamondhead. I guess if you are in the area like we were, it makes sense to stop by but I would prioritize Tantalus or Makapu'u.
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Ann L.

Yelp
A beautiful Pali lookout. You do have to pay for parking. It is surrounded by mountains. It is very windy so hold on to your hats and skirts but it's worth it because you get to have a wonderful view. I would definitely recommend paying a visit if you're in Hawaii. You can get a great picture or selfie of the lookout. Also there were some chickens roaming around the entrance.

Tou T.

Yelp
We happen to stumble across this wayside while looking for the Likeke trail, it's so worth it to check it out. The lookout point is breathtaking.
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John H.

Yelp
Anyone who lives on O'ahu has come here at least once; usually while driving some out of state friends or family members around. If you live here and haven't visited the Pali lookout, what are you waiting for? Get off your device and check it out! I like to come here from time to time just to remind me how lucky we are to live here. This is the only place you can "hike" to the summit of the Koolau mountains without breaking a sweat. I came here recently on a Sunday when the winds were from the south (the proverbial Kona winds) but noticed a slight breeze blowing in from the east. Usually, it's breezy and cool at the lookout. I've come here before on a really cool day when hundreds of dead and dying bees carpeted the walkway to the lookout (maybe it got too cold?). I've also come here when the air was absolutely still. Today, volcanic haze blanketed the island and the view of the Windward side was obscured. If you are standing at the lookout area, look on the ridges to the right and left. You may see some hikers heading toward the Pali Puka and Pali Notches. Admire their daring! Just looking at them makes me dizzy!
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Agar C.

Yelp
Such beautiful and tranquility place to go!!! I take my family there everytime they come visit. Specialy my grandbaby's they love the chickens...
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Cynthia K.

Yelp
Breathtaking! Gorgeous! Windy! =) This lookout is one you MUST do when you're visiting the island or if you're just driving around and have time to kill. The view will leave you with messy hair as it can get windy but the spectacular view is well worth it. Parking can be a challenge so definitely come during the week and during non-peak hours or early in the morning on the weekends. There is a small fee for parking and there are tourist buses that do come by so get ready to wait other than that, it's free admission...this goes for the hike as well. What do you have to lose? Minus your hat? Hehe. Stop by. Snap your panorama photos. Take your selies. Go on the hike. Chase the chickens. It's a fun day waiting to happen...
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Cory L.

Yelp
Amazing views of the windward side of the island.LOCAL's Park for Free. Watch for the wild chickens running around there pretty viscous.
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Shelby G.

Yelp
Nice view, cool to see. Parking is limited and costs $5. Access is paved and conducive for handicap access such as wheelchairs and walkers. Caution when there are high winds it is almost impossible to walk to the actual lookout. Chickens and baby chicks roam freely in the parking lot and grounds.
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Jeana P.

Yelp
Date: September 22, 2015 Location: Nu'uanu Pali State Wayside aka Pali Lookout Reason to go: 20 years overdue visit After visiting the Kaniakapupu Ruins...Mel automatically drove Sari and I to the Pali Lookout. Sari said she already visited the lookout. I said I haven't been here in over 20 years. We made a stop at the Nu'uanu Pali State Wayside aka Pali Lookout. I didn't see a parking attendant but I did notice that one of the parking meters was covered. Mel mentioned to me that parking is free for kama'aina. Good to know. As soon as we got out of Mel's vehicle...I noticed that there was a bride and groom getting a photo shot done near the parking lot. The bride had to hold her dress down since the wind was lifting it up. I totally forgot on how windy it gets at the Pali Lookout. Standing near the railings and feeling the cool breeze. Looking downwards and watching the vehicles traveling on the road. Looking forward and noticing where land meets water. Could Chinaman's Hat be seen from the Pali Lookout? There's a road going towards the right hand side with a sign DANGER WATCH FOR FALLING ROCKS. There's also a little fence that says DO NOT ENTER. Somehow individuals like to ignore signs and continue to walk down the road to find out where it leads. I don't want to be one of those individuals who continue to walk and get injured by a falling rock. It's always good as a kama'aina to play tourist and visit the Nu'uanu Pali State Wayside. Enjoy the breeze and admire the beautiful views of Windward Oahu.
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Vladmir T.

Yelp
Great View And Drive Right Up! Excellent view of the lower valley area. Easy road takes you to the top of you are not I the mods for a hike. NO BATHROOMS and no spots to pee without tons of tourists watching so go with an empty bladder!
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Martha M.

Yelp
This is one lookout point, that is a must see. Views are phenomenal! One place I had wanted to go to was Chinaman's Hat-(Yes, people still refer to it as that, I'm trying not to sound offensive, please tell me What else to call it:()but time didn't permit :( However, just the fact that I was able to see it from afar and take pics (before I f##ked up my camera by water damage at a rainforest hike) yes...well worth it!!1 You pay three dollars for the upkeep of this gem. They have signs stating certain areas of it not a hiking trail, yet there were youngsters (20 year old) youngster doing the dirty deed anyways. And selfies and pictures of a lifetime galore, although I was sad this cute little Asian couple weren't satisfied w/my daughters picture of them by the sign....they could have just said can u take another picture of us? But they had another girl do it, while they saw us and embarrassed But they got what they wanted and so did we. Just people need to be honest with what they want. Anyhow.....this place is scenic, serene & historical. A definite pitstop to take photo opps & please be kind the parking attendants, they are older, wiser gentleman/natives that deserve our attention and respect. With that said, to the pot generation, it's cool that you do your thing in this serene environment, just be respectful of those that don't partake like older (elderly's & children) for God's sake...do as the Roman's, but don't blow smoke in our faces, that's all. To each is own, but keep in mind our lungs, are not your lungs and we care to keep ours empty.....that's all. nothing more. S@IT!
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Brandon B.

Yelp
Simply jaw-dropping is what it is. A toss up between Tantalus and Pali is what my cousins & I came across, and boy were we happy. Hearing only good things about both lookouts, Pali seemed more convenient to our ATI plan. Taking about a 30-40 minute drive from central (Aiea, Salt Lake, PH, etc) we followed the exits and drove along through the mountains until we arrived. Parking offered are for buses and cars. Wallet in hand and prepared to pay for our stall, the lady working there asked me if I was Kama'aina and had proof of it. Being that I was, I flashed her my state I.D and our parking was free! Yup, I said it! Enjoying this attraction gets so much better when you get to enjoy it free. Looking at the other reviews on here, I saw that people got charged anywhere from $3-$5 if you don't have a local with you. There's a sign in the front that you can take pictures with, and with a short walk from your car, you'll soon notice that it's windy as heck up there! My hat almost blew right off my head the moment I stepped foot out of the car.
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Christopher R.

Yelp
My favorite view on Oahu (on a sunny day)! Bring your Hawaii license and your $3 parking fee is waived! Check it out!
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Denise C.

Yelp
Drove by twice. The first time was with tour group and there was no visibility. We took a cab from Hilton Waikiki the second time and there was visibility. My dad loves this view, but I thought it was okay, but not incredible. I like the ridge on the left.
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Thuy T.

Yelp
Great place for pictures and sight seeing! It is very Beautiful here. Cool thing is that parking is free! Hawaii has a lot of places that you can go to that's free and all you need to do is get there! Here's a pictures of us with the sign: http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/nuuanu-pali-state-park-lookout-oahu?select=Xry6dkhyta6B0hGdGGutug#SxGVm2t6YijnE1ajgY6U4g Warning though, this place can get very windy! Be careful when you walk around. Here's a picture of my cousin, her husband and us at the look out. Great view! http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/nuuanu-pali-state-park-lookout-oahu?select=0RHMz04xRSZUc6q9v_LNFA#0RHMz04xRSZUc6q9v_LNFA After the look out you can hike downward. You can follow the paved road and there's lots of space to take pictures. We even saw a few people ride their bikes up and down here. Pretty cool.
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Tracey A.

Yelp
Appropriate clothing (male): Loose Hawaiian shirt Appropriate clothing (female): Above the knee skirt or dress We got here and buckets of rain started pouring from the sky. Between the downpours we stepped out of the car to be caught up in torrents of wind. This is apparently the norm here. We walked to the lookout (very near to the parking lot) and saw fog. The rain started again and the wind began ripping our clothes off. Hysterical laughter ensued. Skirt is flying up from the front then the back, shirt buttons are coming undone, hats are being snatched by the sky. Another viewer walked up and remarked "Oh, Marilyn Monroe!" Get someone to take your picture here as you try to keep your clothes from flying off onto the highway. This was a place to remember even though I couldn't tell you one thing about the official view. You're supposed to pay to park, but you probably won't be here long enough to get caught if you don't. You might return to your car buck-naked, but that's a different sort of violation. Fun place.