Situated along the Kalanianaʻole Highway between Hanauma Bay and Sandy Beach, Hālona Blowhole Lookout stands as one of Oʻahu’s most dramatic natural features. Easily accessible by car, this scenic roadside stop offers a front-row view of an ocean-powered geyser, created by lava tubes beneath the surface and the unrelenting energy of the sea. With sweeping views of the Ka Iwi coastline and nearby Hālona Cove, it’s an ideal place to pause during a drive along the island’s southeastern edge.
The star of the show is the blowhole itself. When waves crash into the shoreline at the right angle and tide, water is forced through an underground lava tube and bursts upward, creating a geyser-like spray that can reach up to 30 feet high. It’s a display that’s especially impressive during winter months, when stronger surf amplifies the action.
While the blowhole captures most of the attention, the surrounding views are equally captivating. The lookout provides a panoramic view of the rugged Ka Iwi Coast, with its volcanic cliffs and endless ocean horizon. Below the viewpoint lies Hālona Cove—also known as Eternity Beach—a small, picturesque beach made famous by its appearance in classic Hollywood films. The beach is accessible via a steep trail and should only be approached when surf is calm and conditions are safe.
This area is also a fantastic spot for whale watching. Between December and April, humpback whales migrate through Hawaiian waters, and the channel offshore becomes a common route for these gentle giants. The lookout’s east-facing position also makes it a stunning sunrise destination, with golden light pouring across the rocks and ocean in the early morning hours.
There is a small parking lot directly adjacent to the lookout, though spaces can fill up quickly during peak times. While there are no restrooms or facilities at the site, nearby locations like Hanauma Bay and Sandy Beach offer those amenities. Visitors should take care near the edge, stay behind railings, and avoid attempting to climb down to the blowhole itself, as the area can be extremely hazardous due to unpredictable surf and slippery rock.
Hālona Blowhole Lookout delivers a powerful combination of raw natural energy, cinematic scenery, and easy access. Whether you're out for a sunrise drive, scouting coastal photo ops, or simply enjoying the sights from your luxury rental car, this stop offers a perfect glimpse into the volcanic soul of Oʻahu’s southeastern coast. It’s quick, unforgettable, and undeniably one of the island’s most striking roadside experiences.
