Discover lesser-known viewing spots that offer peaceful, crowd-free beauty.
Tucked between Diamond Head and Koko Head, the Kāhala Lookout is a lesser-known roadside stop that offers peaceful views of the Kāhala coastline and the Pacific Ocean beyond. It’s not a major destination, but it provides a welcome breath of fresh air for travelers enjoying a slow, scenic drive along Oʻahu’s south shore.
At the far western tip of Oʻahu, where the paved roads end and the coastline turns wild, the Kaʻena Point Trail leads to one of the island’s most remote and untouched natural areas. This relatively flat but rugged coastal walk can be accessed from either the North Shore near Mokulēʻia or the west side near Mākaha, and both routes offer sweeping ocean views, lava rock shorelines, and a rare encounter with native Hawaiian wildlife.
High above the cliffs of the Koʻolau mountain range, the Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout offers one of Oʻahu’s most iconic views. Just minutes from downtown Honolulu, this historic site reveals a sweeping panorama of Kāneʻohe, Kailua, and the lush valleys of Oʻahu’s Windward side.
Nestled along Kalanianaʻole Highway between Hanauma Bay and Makapuʻu, Lānaʻi Lookout is a short but unforgettable stop known for its rugged lava rock cliffs and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. It's one of those places that doesn’t require much time but offers incredible visual rewards. On clear days, the view stretches to neighbor islands like Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi, and even Maui.