Summary
The Tantalus Lookout in Oahu, Hawaii is a relaxing hilltop near Honolulu with stunning views of the city and Diamond Head crater. Here, visitors can enjoy the spectacle of sunsets and frequent rainbows.
You can drive to this viewpoint, so there is no hiking required; nonetheless, there are family-friendly trails nearby.
After enjoying the sunset at Tantalus Lookout, an alternative viewpoint outside the park is available, offering all-day and nighttime views of the city lights.
This travel guide will cover how to reach Tantalus Lookout from Honolulu and all essential details before your visit!
Tantalus Lookout Honolulu: What To Expect
The Tantalus Lookout is undoubtedly one of the premier viewpoints in the Honolulu area.
A large lawn with soft, short grass invites visitors to relax while enjoying panoramic views from Diamond Head to Pearl Harbor.
The scenic drive up is dotted with pull-off spots and picnic areas, providing great opportunities for rest. It’s wise to bring a light jacket, as the viewpoint can be windy and chilly around sunset.
Interestingly, rainbows are a common sight at Tantalus Lookout, making it one of the best locations near Honolulu for rainbow viewing. Many visitors have enjoyed twin rainbows and stunning semicircle rainbows here.
Tantalus is part of the Puu Ualakaa State Wayside Park, offering wheelchair accessibility along with picnic tables, trash cans, restrooms, and a pavilion to seek shelter from rain.
Informational signs at the viewpoint provide insight into Tantalus’s history, which has been a favored scenic area since the 1800s. Remarkably, the first commercial macadamia nut plantation in Hawaii was established here at Puu Ualakaa in the 1920s, continuing operation until 1967.
Tantalus Lookout Sunset
The Tantalus Lookout sunset is nothing short of spectacular, contributing to the growing popularity of this location.
Since Diamond Head Crater closes before sunset, Tantalus earns its reputation as one of the prime spots to witness the sun setting near Honolulu.
Visitors can relish stunning views of the sun lowering directly over the city, enhanced by palm trees and a delightful breeze.
Tantalus Lookout Hours
In the summer, Tantalus Lookout operates from 7 AM to 7:45 PM (April 1 – Labor Day), while winter hours are from 7 AM to 6:45 PM.
In our experience, Hawaiian authorities diligently enforce these closure times, so it is prudent to begin your departure before closing.
The viewpoint is accessible every day of the week.
Tantalus Lookout Entrance Fee
Visiting Tantalus Lookout is FREE.
Thanks to its location within the Puu Ualakaa State Wayside Park, there is no entrance or parking fee required.
Tantalus Lookout Parking
At Tantalus Lookout, there are two available parking lots, with no reservations required. Collectively, there are parking spaces for about 60 vehicles.
This popular location can get quite busy, particularly during sunset; therefore, arriving early is advisable to ensure a good parking spot.
The first parking lot accommodates roughly 45 cars and requires a 5-minute walk to the viewpoint. A smaller second parking lot lies adjacent to the lookout, providing parking for about a dozen vehicles.
Be cautious regarding vehicle break-ins, which are relatively common in Hawaii; it is wise to avoid leaving valuables in your car.
Tantalus Lookout At Night
If you wish to visit Tantalus Lookout at night, note that the main gate and viewpoint will be closed. However, an alternative viewpoint by the road remains open 24/7, providing similar views.
This location is ideal for viewing the stars and the dazzling city lights of Honolulu from above, resembling the charm of Tantalus Lookout at night.
Tantalus Lookout Hike
A short, family-friendly hike known as the Ualakaʻa Trail begins at the Tantalus Lookout. This relatively flat hike spans ½ mile, offering encounters with macadamia nuts and picturesque banyan trees along the route, concluding at an intersection with the Makiki Valley, Moleka, and Maunalaha trails.
The Ualakaʻa trailhead is found just up the road from the main Tantalus Lookout parking area, located at the hairpin turn (map here). Dogs are permitted on a leash, and mosquito spray is advisable due to the forested terrain.
As always, remember to keep the trail pristine, be considerate of fellow hikers, and leave no trace. Enjoy your adventure!
How To Get To Tantalus Lookout
Tantalus Lookout is conveniently located just north of Waikiki and Honolulu city in Oahu, Hawaii, making it easy to reach.
From Waikiki or Honolulu, expect a 20-30 minute drive to Tantalus Lookout. The last portion of the road winds up a hill with numerous sharp curves, yet it remains accessible and safe.
At the moment, there is no bus service to Tantalus Lookout, as there are no bus stops near the viewpoint. However, visitors can consider alternatives like hiking, driving a moped, or utilizing rideshare services for a convenient ride to the summit.
More Hawaii Travel Tips
Thank you for exploring this travel guide for Tantalus Lookout in Oahu, Hawaii. I hope it serves you well in planning your visit!
