Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Wayside

🐝 Dropped by Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Wayside (aka Tantalus Lookout) on Oʻahu's Round Top Drive – what a serene escape just minutes from downtown chaos! Nestled on an ancient cinder cone at about 1,000 feet, this lush pocket of native forest delivers unobstructed 180° vistas: Diamond Head's iconic crater on one end, Waikiki's glittering beaches and high-rises in the middle, downtown Honolulu's urban buzz, and even glimpses of Pearl Harbor and Mānoa Valley to the west. Clear day? It's like a living postcard of southern Oʻahu's magic! 📸✨ Catch sunset here for that golden-hour glow over the Pacific – pure romance or chill solo vibes. The trails are a gentle win: Short, easy paved paths through koa trees and tropical foliage, with birdsong and cool breezes making it feel worlds away from the beach crowds. Historical nods to WWII remnants add a subtle layer of intrigue, plus interpretive signs for quick lore on the area's volcanic past. Free entry (no fees!), ample parking, and open daily till around 7pm – ideal for a spontaneous hike or picnic break on your Honolulu loop. Minor gripes: Narrow winding roads up can feel sketchy if you're not comfy with curves (drive slow!), and weekends bring locals for workouts, so it gets a tad busy. No facilities beyond basics, pack your snacks. Still, 4.8/5 stars – the best free overlook on the island, hands down. Elevate your Oʻahu adventure: Nature, views, and aloha all in one! 🇭🇮🌅

Probably the best views of Honolulu at a place you wouldn’t know unless you looked for it. The windy ride up is worth the trip

Beautiful view. This mountain top has always been sacred Hawaiian land. There is mana there so be respectful. It was the place where they grew sweet potatoes for the King and his people. The name means " Hill of the rolling sweet potatoes". King Kamehameha's favorite place on Oahu.

Great place to watch the sunset at the top in rhe Park area beautiful sunset views .. there's also a side pull off on the way up that gives great city night light views on the way down

Definitely a great place for sightseeing, you get so much view of the city. I am excited we made it up there for some family pictures.

Beautiful sights and awesome atmosphere especially if your touring the island or going out on a date. Parking is limited at the lookout itself, with 1 handicap stall and roughly 7ish regular stalls HOWEVER there is an option to park at the open lot only a few minutes before the lookout.

You can see whole town of Honolulu and diamond head from this Pu’u Ualaka’s State Park. It’s amazing.

From here a good view opens up, Honolulu at a glance. But be careful, a local man warned that they could open the car, breaking the windows and steal all the contents. This place is free and there is parking.

If you're searching for a breathtaking view in Honolulu, Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Park is a must-visit. Just a little further up beyond the well-known Tantalus Lookout, you'll find a view that words can barely describe. Prepare to be captivated by a sweeping panoramic view that stretches well beyond 180 degrees. From this vantage point, the familiar city skyline and lush parks look like a perfectly crafted miniature garden, all within your gaze. It feels as if you could wrap the entire city of Honolulu in your arms. One of the highlights is the commanding view of Diamond Head from the very tip of the lookout -- an image that will stay with you long after you leave. Standing there, you might just feel like you've grown larger, embraced by the grandeur surrounding you. There are two parking areas, one of which has restrooms. Parking is plentiful and easily accessible, even for visitors with mobility needs. Please note that the parking gates close at 7 PM, so plan your visit with plenty of time to spare. Some views are truly worth the journey. This is one of them. This is probably the most impressive viewpoint I have ever seen. ホノルルで絶景を探すなら、ぜひ「プウ・ウアカラ州立公園」へ。 一般的に知られるタンタラスの丘をさらに登った先、そこには言葉を失うほどの壮大な景色が広がっています。 視界を包み込む180度以上のダイナミックなパノラマビュー。 ビル群や公園がまるで箱庭のように足元に広がり、ホノルル全体を自分の手のひらに乗せたかのような気分にさせてくれます。 特に、ビューポイントの先端から眺めるダイヤモンドヘッドの凛とした姿には心を奪われること間違いなし。 まるで自分まで雄大になったような気分になれる、そんな特別な場所です。 駐車場は2ヶ所あり、うち1ヶ所にはトイレも完備。スペースも十分で、ハンディキャップの方も安心して楽しめます。 パーキングは午後7時に施錠されるので、時間にはゆとりを持ってお越しください。 此処は私が今まで観たビューポイントの中で最も感動した場所と言えます。

Beautiful Views of Town side. Nice place to picnic. Two levels of parking: one with a bathroom and the other with a viewing area. It's only a short walk between the two. Plenty of warning signs. Always take your valuables with you.

In my opinion, this look out has the best views of Honolulu without having to go on any sort of hike. It's a great place for people who may be disabled or who don't like to hike to still get a really great view of the ocean and city no matter what time of day it is. Take your valuables with you at this spot and you'll be good to go!

Another great viewpoint and a point of interest, the Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State park provides a great view on top of a 1048-ft hill! There are even picnic areas for those who would like to have an al fresco dining experience. The greenery is great, and getting panoramic shots is easy - The weather was slightly picking up from an overcast, and we were able to get some great photos. +picnic areas available

Breathtaking... The pin from Yelp is actually at the wrong location and really got me confused as I've never been here but have always been curious to see that spectacular view. Driving up Round Top Drive it will be on your left but don't park at that tiny lot as soon as you drive in but continue to drive up where you first see a parking for picnic area which is the larger parking because driving up further will take you to the lookout area which is extremely small. Many do park at the lower lot to walk up which is doable but I was just so impressed of how well maintained this whole park is kept and how many do take advantage of this park's beauty the lush grassy area to enjoy a picnic and relax, a couple of picnic tables under a cute roof which I took advantage to relax and enjoy some treats given by friends along with a rose. The lookout area is nice where there are railing for safety does have a great description of the area you're viewing which is a great learning experience as well. It can get crowded as this day was a constant flow including a travel group but the view is definitely worth the trip and will definitely be back again to relax and enjoy this place we are so lucky to have. Thank you!

I like coming here just to pull away and feel "above" all the hustle and bustle of life. It's just up the road from Halau Ku Mana charter school and Roosevelt High School, so it's not too far from town. There are beautiful views of Diamond Head in the east all the way west to the Waiʻanae mountains. I like to do time-lapse videos of rain or clouds rolling. Panorama pictures are also great! There's a hike you can do in the park, but it can be dangerous when it's wet like most hikes in Hawaiʻi. And there are some beautiful spots for picnics too! My only issue is that cars are sometimes broken into in this park. There are signs posted that warn about this, so be sure to lock up and don't leave valuables in sight.

Beautiful lookout and best of all free! We went around 10am on a Saturday and it wasn't busy at all. There was a couple having a picnic on the grass to enjoy the view but my family and I just read the history and enjoyed the scene. I honestly wasn't expecting that great of a view of Diamond head. The views up here are just breathtaking. Pictures do not do this place justice at all. There's something so freeing and so majestic about coming up here and feeling the breeze. I actually think this lookout looks much better than the one on Diamond head. If you have an hour out of your day, please come check this place out. You won't regret it.

Amazing views, I planned an amazing race for my family for the holidays which included finding this park, and making leis before a selfie with diamond head in the background. Perfect! Had a restroom and covered picnic tables.

Great spot for a picnic and to enjoy the view! Easy drive up, a few different areas for parking, and a bathroom.

You get the best view of Honolulu here! Just follow round top drive to the State Park and keep driving to the lookout. Just a few parking spaces there so maybe a wait if you get there at the busy time when everyone is trying to catch the sunset. You can get some really nice pictures of Waikiki and Diamond head from here. You can also picnic there if you want!

I suggest to stop at Tantalus lookout instead, the view is clearer and closer. Scenic lookout featuring the view of diamond head volcano cone and the Waikiki buildings

One of the best places in Honolulu to have a picnic and check out one of the most amazing sunsets. The views of downtown and Diamond Head are amazing, especially on a clear day. On most days you can clearly see across the island. Lots informative signage interprets what you are viewing and old photos of Honolulu and the island. Lots of awesome trails to hike and explore. Pay attention to what trail you are on because you can easily can turned around and wind up on a different trail. The only Con is don't leave anything in your car as this is a high theft area and it happens so quick. Enjoy the view but protect your valuables.

Beautiful view! You get to see the city and the volcano and the ocean. Basically everything! Definitely recommend coming here. You can drive up to the top or hike or bike.

Wow, the drive up to the park is very interesting and all uphill, you will see all the residential houses along the drive, i bet those houses probably cost several millions dollars. The view is very nice and breathtaking. At the park, you can sit at the gazebo and have a picnic with the views. Very nice park.

Since we were early for dinner engagement, I decided to come to this park to pass the time. Haven't been here in years. To my surprise it was well manicured. Good job State. Great place to bring visitors to get an unobstructed view of Diamond Head and the Honolulu proper. Enjoy

Beautiful views. Some picnic tables available to enjoy the scenery. Signs are posted that it is a high break in area, so avoid leaving valuables in your car. Groups of people gathered at the lookout point to watch the sun set. Very peaceful and beautiful

Saturday, March 9, 2019 Approximately 1550 hours I had a lot places bookmarked in O'ahu and trying to cross them off my bucket list was an ongoing task as the list kept growing. But on this day, I realized we were close to Mt. Tantalus as we happen to be in the neighborhood. I told the Wifey that I was making a detour up here prior to driving Ko Olina and I suspected that she was going to protest, which she initially did. I told her to take a look at the photos of this place and said that this place was the equivalent of Twin Peaks in San Francisco. The drive up did remind me a lil' bit of Twin Peaks as we approached the top and the view of downtown Honolulu and Waikiki came about. We envied the houses lined up against the hill as they certainly had some of the best views in O'ahu. We stopped along the side of the road that had a sweeping panoramic view of the valley on our left, Diamond Head in front and Honolulu to our right. We took several pictures, as did some tourists and locals among us. We proceeded up the winding road until we reached the top. We were warned that there may be no parking space in the in the lot, but Lady Luck was with us as a car was pulling out from a space as we arrived. There was a sign that warned us not to leave any valuables in your car as it was a high-crime area. We did notice there were shattered glasses on the ground, which is indicative of car break-ins. This didn't deter us as we are unfortunately accustomed to this as it's also prevalent in SF and any big city. It's also common sense and we could easily keep an eye on the vehicle from where we were going. I highly recommend reading the information about this place as it provides historical details, which we found fascinating. As we walked towards the lookout point, I couldn't help notice how picturesque the area was and Wifey wanted to take 3,789 photos of her posing in various positions. Of course I'm joking, but it felt like I did take that many photos of her. That's not counting the various selfies she took of herself on her phone. Depending if she reads this portion, I might have to edit or delete it later. Moving on, we walked all the way to the lookout vista point to soak it all in. There were a couple of people on the grassy field below who seemed to have the right idea by napping there. I would've joined them, but we had things to do and places to go. I'm also glad we go to check this off our bucket list and it's something I wouldn't mind repeating. #YelpChallenge2020 No. 44 (That's an ode to 44 and his home state)

Grab some pupus and drinks- drive up anytime of the day for amazing views without any effort- come for the view- stay for the tranquility!

Location - Place isn't too far from Waikiki Beach a few minutes drive. Park - Couple different areas to it, some to just chill and have a picnic, and a upper section with amazing views of the island. Parking - Plenty of parking here. Overall a must Place for pictures and worth checking out.

Beautiful view of Honolulu and Waikiki from the best lookout spot in Oahu. Stumbled on this park while I was riding my bike up Tantulus and back down. What an amazing find this was. There is a little lookout spot that gives you a great view of the city and the ocean. And there is no charge to get n or to park. Go check it out if you have some time!

The drive is not too shabby from downtown Waikiki. The views are really pretty and gives you a lookout of Honolulu and Diamond Head. It's not too elevated and there is no need to really hike -- I'm in a wheelchair temporarily and was able to get "wheeled" into the main attraction. There is not that much shade at the lookout and parking is really limited. I saw some picnic areas so it would be cute for a date or a casual afternoon lunch. I also saw some signs that indicated there were some trails but since I'm not very mobile, I couldn't share how rough (or not) those trails are. I will say that the quick drive is worth it if you're in the mood for some gorgeous views.

Probably one of the best views you will see on the island of Oahu! Or at least that I have seen thus far. I have been to the top of Koko head, the pill box and each view has their own special something. I will say that the drive up is windy roads is for sure worth it! My family and I decided to do something a little different for today's Sunday fun day and we landed on this gem. The plan was to see the sights and do a trail walk and we did just that. The only thing about this particular park/trail that was a little annoying was the bikers. I'm not going to ding this park a star because the bikers riding up didn't have the decency to move over really fast so cars could pass them. Other than that this was a really cool spot to take in the sights. They have very clean restrooms, as well. You really cannot beat a nice walk and some great views to boot. This will be a place I take visitors who come to the island from now on

Beautiful viewpoint! Id say its a must see and very Instagram worthy with no hike necessary! Just drive up and snap!

Romantic picnic spot, long drive around tantalus and stunning views of Diamondhead and below. There are bathrooms behind through a path or you can drive around. During the weekends, there is usually a line going in to park and take pictures at the spot in the pictures. We went on a sunny day but a couple hours before sunset. I wouldn't have found this place until my dad showed us while exploring hunting spots. There are a few trails licensed hunters can hunt on. A few swings along Tantalus, but no where to pull on the side and park.. Be careful for the bicyclists.

Located at Round Top Drive in Makiki. 1st area is picnic area and 2nd area is hike trail. Drive all the way to the top is the lookout. This is our first time coming here to the place. We were lucky that the rain arrived earlier. The parking lot had a small tour van and sedan cars. There were 2 informational signs that talked about history. The view was so spectacular because you can see the city with blue skies and no rain. It wasn't windy like Pali.

If you want to see a good view of the city than you might want to drive up to the top or walk there to experience a great scene! The roads are like a safer version of the Road to Hana in Maui, but it is still a little dangerous at night since there are no lights other than your car's headlights to guide you. I came here on the final night before going to the mainland. It was rainy and windy so be prepared with a rain jacket or a towel just in case.

Good view nice to be in nature. But people don't know how to park at the small parking lot closest to lookout. ESP. To watch the sunset. Maybe the state or DLNR should charge for parking for tourists because most of the people visiting for sunset are. Not enough enforcement during the day. Heck even the scenic point down below has bad activity not sure who's in charge of that. Well good for nature to be here. Bad for parking.

What a great place to hike. The trails are fairly easy, but a little tricky. It's and up and down trails . Lot of tree ruts, so you have to be careful. No bathrooms and parking is limited.

Loved it! but keep in mind there are lurkers, people around ready to break into your car when you are taking photos! hide your belongings prior!

The Pu'u U'alaka'a State Park consists of three public parts, a short hike, a picnic area, and the lookout that views southern Oahu, stretching from Kahala to the Wai'anae mountain range and mount Ka'ala, the tallest mountain on Oahu. The short hike starts nearly right after the entrance to the park after the gates and is a very short, less than a half a mile (I think) that is super kid friendly. The large grassy picnic area is next to the also large parking lot. Due to the altitude and relative shade, it's fairly cool. There are some benches and a public bathroom. But seriously, no one comes for those two amenities. It's all about the view. To get to the lookout, take the left fork at the first parking area and drive to the end. There are only about 10 stalls, often take up by tourists flocking in for the panoramic view. If you can't get parking here, drive back to the first lot and walk the short distance back to the lookout. The parking lot itself has a gorgeous view of Manoa valley, and if you're lucky, you can see a rainbow, or even double rainbows. The lookout itself is a concrete, railed square, connected to a covered pavilion with placards giving history about Oahu. There's also a large, sloping grassy field in front of the concrete lookout. It can be exceedingly crowded with huge numbers of people taking pictures and enjoying the view. The grassy field is enclosed by heavy vegetation and kids will often run around. It's one of the nicer places to have a sunset picnic dinner. It can be extremely sunny and hot during the afternoon here as there's almost no shade outside of the pavilion, so wear sunscreen. Do not leave ANYTHING valuable or suggestive of valuables in sight in your car. Cars have been broken into many times here, even in broad daylight, so take everything valuable or put in your trunk before you get there. Hours vary for the seasons, with the parking closing between 5:45 pm and 7:45 pm and the park rangers WILL throw you out at closing (ahem, speaking from personal experience). Hours are changed based on sunset times as the state does not want to have to deal with people at the park at night. This is also an amazing location for photographing a rising super moon.

STUNNING. For visitors and residents alike, Pu'u 'Ualaka'a'a State Park is a must see at least once--usually when I have friends and family visit from out of town this is the first place I'll take them. This park is great to visit both during the day and in the afternoon to watch the sunset. The entire park area is incredible, you're greeted by tall pine trees.... everywhere. They line the road leading up to the park (this is also a great photo op) and there's a side area as soon as you drive in where you can park and frolic amongst the trees. This park has two parking lots, the one closest to the lookout usually fills up quickly so most times I park at the second parking lot (closest to the bathrooms). There real show stopper is the view from the lookout at the end of the park. I won't go into too much detail because that view is definitely worth more than all the words in the world--it's one of those places that you just have to see it to believe.

Great place. I like the lookout but prefer the hike :) such a great place to bring visitors and locals for the view and lunch. Grab a plate lunch and head up to the park to relax. I see people meditating here as well.

I didn't have a rental car so I took the public bus to the closest stop near the park. Getting an Uber was almost impossible in that area. The hassle of getting there was well worth it in the end. The view and the surrounding area is beautiful and must be seen in person.

No hiking necessary, you can drive all the way up to this lovely lookout and catch breathtaking views of Honolulu, Diamond Head, the surrounding mountains, and the ocean. And maybe a mongoose if you're lucky (I was). The steep and winding ride up was a little scary (for someone with vertigo and bouts of dizziness), but oh so worth the trip!

Super beautiful view. My family and I started with the Ualaka'a trail which kinda combined with either the Maikiki or Moleka trail. It's a good thing I had my cell phone to Google map our location and show the exact trail because I'm pretty sure we would've gotten lost lol. There's a lot of mosquitos so bring bug spray or whatever. The trail we went on was pretty much a giant circle and took about an hour round trip. A lot of beautiful plants and trees. After we left the trail, we decided to drive to the top of the park where the Tantalus Lookout is and it's a recommended stop before u leave. It has such a beautiful view. There's no restroom except if u drive to the Tantalus Lookout area next to the large radio towers. Definitely wear shoes for these hikes.

Great views of the coast and a really nice park to chill and enjoy. There are a lot of different places to get great views of the city/coast, but this park is really nice with unique foliage, nicely manicured areas to sit quietly. The trees are truly magnificent and worthy of getting out of your car to walk amongst these quiet giants. Nutridge appears to be a private residence behind a locked gate. Parking isn't a problem as this is not on any hike, sunrise, or sunset lists. And most folks drive up to take some pictures and then drive back down. If you get out of your car, you are frequently all alone with the flora that surrounds you.

Very beautiful place to visit. The magnificent View of the City of Honolulu and its surrounding communities from the top rivals that of the Diamond Head Crater. It is only a short drive from downtown. This park probably deserved five star rating, but I think it was fair to give four star due to lack of other worthy activities to do; it was more or less just in and out.

Been going to Waikiki forever now and didn't know this place existed until recently thanks to Yelp. We had a car and a few hours to kill before our flight; what better way to spend the last day remembering the panoramic view of Honolulu? From the lookout, you can see all of Honolulu and Diamond Head. On a clear day, you can even see Pearl Harbor. There are limited parking spaces up at the lookout point. So if the lot is full, park at the picnic area (the lot just before the lookout). There are plenty of parking there and it's only a short walk over the tiny hill to reach the lookout. Most importantly, don't leave valuables in your car! When we came, a row of vehicles had their windows smashed and a couple of police vehicles were already there taking reports. Save yourself the headache and possibility of having your vacation ruined, don't leave valuables in your car. Free parking and no admission fee. This is definitely a must if it's your first time visiting.

I never knew about this fantastic place until I saw my friend, Maggie, "check in" on her Yelp app... It is a MUST DO when you are visiting Honolulu! This State park is located on Mount Tantalus via Round Top Drive. There is no admission fee! There are 2 ways to get there: the long way and the shorter way: First, enter from Makiki Street. If you want the scenic (long) route, take the left road, up the hill and drive up Makiki Heights Road. You might wonder where you are... you may think that you're lost... perhaps you are visiting a movie site... keep driving! You'll get to the entrance and see the park's sign! The more direct path is going to the right when the road forks and drive up Round Top Drive. The first area is the picnic site. The second opening is the Lookout area with a paved pathway to the edge of the mountain. It's amazing! There are awesome views of Honolulu, Diamond Head, and "southern" and West Oahu! You might want a jacket because it's a bit breezy here... oh - and remember to bring your camera!

Great place to introduce your first time visiting friends to Waikiki! You can see most of the southern Oahu with a breathtaking view of Diamond Head.... so gorgeous. Definitely a must visit.

If you are looking for some great hikes with amazing bird watching, Come up here and there are a few different hikes you can take from the park itself. Makiki valley trail or I forgot the darn name! The trail is right outside of the park, by some persons driveway. I guess it's popular because we passed some high school kids smoking pot along the way. Eh whatever. I love LOVE love the White-Rumped Shama and there are so many on this trail! It's like they nest there. You can hear their beautiful song as you walk and it's just an amazing walk. I would do this again for sure.

It's an amazing place to take pictures, go hiking and even have a picnic. There are only 2 picnic gazebo areas and it's a must to just relax and enjoy the view

Okay you're in Oahu and hopefully you want to get out of your hotel and explore. Add this beautiful gem to your list. What you'll get is a beautiful panoramic view that is just breathtaking. It's not too far and the drive is worth it. You can stop midpoint as you drive, you'll know when, get out and take some pics or just enjoy it. Bring a camera, a loved one, a picnic basket or even your worries. Forget about whatever worries you have or things that have to get done. Take in the beauty around you and just enjoy the moment. I would have loved to spend some extra time when I went with the family. Didn't think of the picnic idea but will do so next time. Saw hiking trail signs as well. I had read before going about being careful with your cars as there were a lot of break-ins. As soon as we got there we were greeted by really friendly police officers who were in the parking lot just standing by.

The view is breathtaking! Driving up to the state park was worth the trip in itself. It's such a gorgeous drive. Prior to reaching the Pu'u Ualaka'a State Park, you will pass the trail and picnic area. Keep driving all the way up and that is where the viewpoint is. Parking is limited at the viewpoint. There is ample parking at the picnic area so a local suggested parking there and walking to the viewpoint. It's a very short walk. I highly recommend bringing a blanket and laying on the grassy area at the viewpoint. It's such a beautiful place to sit and take it all in. There are clean restrooms at the trail, which was very nice.

Prior to moving to the west side of Oahu I was a townie for 9 years. Pu'u Ualaka'a State Park was literally in my back yard (a quick 10 minute drive up the "hill). Funny what you take for granted when proximity to such vistas are so convenient. The road to Pu'u Ualaka'a State park is uphill switch backs on Round Top Drive. Be cautious when driving up (and down) Round Top Drive since it's a residential area people driving out of their driveways onto the road as well as a growing population of bicyclists who train on this hill. Through the years I've even seen a few adventure seekers coming down FAST on skateboards and rollerblades. You literally cannot miss this park since it is at the end of the road. There are a few spots on the right side of the road (going up) where you can turn off and park on the side to enjoy unobstructed views of the city. But don't limit your experience to that - drive all the way up to the park. The gate to the park closes at 7:45 pm. Once you get to the park you'll notice signs to a picnic area, hiking trail and alas the scenic view. Pictures of the mountains to the sea and as far as the eyes can see do not do the place justice. There's such a serenity that surrounds the place that you can't help but whisper when coming up here. It's extremely peaceful despite the tourists and locals who frequent the park. It's a surreal feeling knowing just below the scenic, quiet vista lies a town bustling with activity and traffic gridlocks. Bring a blanket to spread on the grass and a snack/meal if you want to enjoy this town treat a bit longer. It's kinda fun locating landmarks and seeing how tiny everything is from this viewpoint. Parking is free and plentiful (with the rate Oahu is developing amenities such as free parking is a valuable commodity).

Five star stunning views, pristine picnic area and connected to forrested hiking trails (that means mosquitos!), just walk down the road past the radio tower and there's a trail head by the private residence. If you're going to drive roundtop you might as well spend some time there and get out on the trail. We ended our short hike into the wooded area where the trail splits. Parking is free. But the real draw here is the panoramic view. It wasn't busy on this weekday, but the best viewing area can get crowded- everyone wants a picture here.

It was cloudy, misty, super windy and very crowded up here today. It's always a nice drive going up Roundtop Dr. doing all the switchbacks making me believe I'm a drift car racer. (Only in my dreams!) The parking lot was full at 6:20pm with 3 cars waiting, including me, for a slot to open. One finally did and I took it just in the nick in time to get a better view of the sunset. Mog P. was clinging to me like white on rice although wearing a super thick UW sweat shirt but she was still freezing. It made it hard to take pics, but I managed. When you come here once it is enough to persuade you to come more often where there is much less noise, where you can breathe and think, where you can release tension if only for a moment. A moment to gather oneself, turn around, drive back down and face the world again rejuvenated with new energy. Bring it!!

Scenic view from the parking lot of diamond head to the airport. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/fHUA9sty5aiQ4inNT0OWQA?select=xI0U1dhXHHhpDK1_sY0bow http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/fHUA9sty5aiQ4inNT0OWQA?select=tfpkSWK78tTVGo5iAcvstg There is an extensive system of trails to choose from and different starting points. Guess you gotta know where the trail begins, i didn't see where it began until friends showed me. Hike took me 4 hours, but again depends on which trail(s) you choose. Beautiful views, lots of different plants. (taro, ginger, ferns, guava, kukui, to name a few) http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/fHUA9sty5aiQ4inNT0OWQA?select=1S6a5eiIH4jpBEwThtmWkw terrain is very bumpy with rocks and roots, also portions of the trails can be up and down hill. Difficulty varies on which trail you choose. The trail i was on took me thru a bamboo grove. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/fHUA9sty5aiQ4inNT0OWQA?select=2_pFqncKVjYq3HldalgUow Gets kinda muddy and messy when it rains (that day or the night before) Tips: Hiking shoes required Trails are shaded and covered (Bug repellent instead of sun screen) Go with someone who knows the trail system, or pay close attention to the map on the signs.

Are you looking to introduce visitors to O'ahu? Do you just need to get away from town for a few minutes? If yes, this is the place to come! The perfect viewing location for tourists and locals alike, Puu Ualakaa State Park sits on top of Tantalus, which overlooks Manoa Valley to the east, Kahala, Honolulu, Waikiki toward makai, and the airport, Pearl Harbor, and the mountains to the west. Diamond Head is clearly visible, showing the large size of the volcano. The park is perfect for the view of the ocean and city below. It's quiet here, even with the constant stream of other people coming to enjoy. Be sure to bring a picnic and a camera. Getting here is simple; drive up from the city on either of the ends of Round Top Road. It's best to drive, but some people do ride bike (good luck)! Besides the observation level with dedicated parking, there is also a park area with trees without a view. This is a must see free activity for anyone visiting the island!