Steal Jaw-Dropping Views Over Honolulu at This Popular Free Lookout Point
Located in Puu Ualakaa State Park, this scenic Oahu overlook offers dazzling panoramic views over Honolulu, Diamond Head, and Waikiki Beach.
If you’re looking for one of the best views on Oahu, don’t miss the curvy drive up to Tantalus Lookout.
Located in Puu Ualakaa State Park, this scenic overlook offers panoramic views of Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head Crater, and even Pearl Harbor on a clear day.
It’s a popular spot for sunset viewing or a peaceful picnic away from the Waikiki crowds. It’s also a great (more accessible) alternative if you’re not up for the Diamond Head hike.
That’s why I consider this scenic lookout one of the best free things to do on Oahu.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will likely blow on mai tais, poke, and shave ice. All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
Read More: 25 Awesome Things to Do on Oahu That Won’t Cost You a Dime🌺
Here’s what to know before you go!
The History of Tantalus Lookout
The area around Tantalus, known as Pu’u Ualaka’a (which means “rolling sweet potato hill” in Hawaiian), was once a significant agricultural site. Native Hawaiians grew taro, sweet potatoes, and other staple crops in the area’s fertile volcanic soil.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, much of Tantalus was reforested with non-native trees, including eucalyptus and ironwood, as part of conservation efforts. The area had been heavily deforested due to ranching and logging.
During World War II, Tantalus Lookout played a strategic role in Oahu’s defense. Its high vantage point made it a useful location for military observation posts and radar stations that monitored for potential attacks.
The name “Tantalus” comes from Mount Tantalus, an extinct cinder cone that towers over downtown Honolulu.
How to Get to the Tantalus Lookout
The Tantalus Lookout is located within Puu Ualakaa State Park and is easily accessible by car. However, the drive is very curvy, and the road is narrow in some parts (so it might give you Road to Hana vibes!).
Just take it slow, and you’ll be fine.
:
- From Waikiki: Take McCully Street to the H1 Freeway (westbound). Take Exit 23 for Punahou Street, then follow signs for Round Top Drive.
- From Downtown Honolulu: Take Makiki Street to Round Top Drive and follow the winding road up to the lookout.
- Drive Time: About 20 minutes from Waikiki or Downtown Honolulu.
- Public Transport: There is no direct bus route, so you’ll need a rental car for this one.
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Free parking is available but limited, so it does fill up quickly close to sunset time. If you’re going for sunset, be sure to get there early enough to get a spot.
What to Do at Tantalus Lookout
Enjoy the Scenic Views
From the Tantalus Lookout, you’ll see the high-rises of Waikiki, a spectacular side view of Diamond Head crater, and the surrounding areas of Manoa Valley and Makiki Valley. On a clear day, you can see as far as Pearl Harbor.
Honolulu city lights make this a great spot for an evening visit (just remember the park closes at 7:45pm).
Picnic at the Park
Bring a towel or a blanket to spread out on the wide green lawn for a sunset picnic or a lunch stop while sightseeing.
Go for a Hike
Several hiking trails start near the lookout, including:
- Ualakaa Loop Trail – A 1-mile loop through an ancient forested area.
- Tantalus Arboretum Trail – A short out-and-back trail showcasing native Hawaiian plants.
- Makiki Valley Loop Trail – A longer trail with stunning views of southern Oahu (plan 2-3 hours for this one).
Visitor Basics
- Hours: The park is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:45 PM.
- Parking: Free parking is available (but limited) at the lookout.
- Restrooms: There are no restrooms at the lookout, so plan ahead.
And be sure to pay attention to the posted signs about not leaving anything visible in your car. Unfortunately, this is good advice for all free parking lots around the island, especially those located at popular tourist attractions.
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Your Visit
- Manoa Falls Trail – A short drive from Tantalus, this popular hiking trail leads through a lush jungle to a beautiful waterfall.
- Lyon Arboretum – A scenic botanical garden featuring native Hawaiian plants.
- Punchbowl Crater (National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific) – A historic site with great views and deep history.
Be sure to add the Tantalus Lookout to your Oahu itinerary!
Whether you visit for a quick scenic drive, a hiking adventure, or a peaceful picnic, the Tantalus Lookout is a great place to enjoy some of the best views of the city.
Tip: The Pali Lookout is another terrific view of windward Oahu (and it’s also free!).
Read More: Haunted Hawaiian Legends Meet Epic Views at Oahu’s Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Honolulu and appreciate the beautiful island of Oahu from above. That’s why it’s well worth a spot on your Oahu Bucket List!
Read More: The Ultimate Oahu Bucket List: 50 Fun Things to See, Do & Eat🍍🌺🏖️
