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Mount Tantalus offers stunning views of Honolulu and the surrounding area. The winding drive up to the overlook is a bit of a challenge, but it's worth it and something you'll never forget. The lookout is located at Pu'u Ualakaa State Wayside Park, and is open daily. There is a small parking lot at the top of the mountain, but it can fill up quickly, so it's best to arrive early or late in the day. The views from the overlook are simply breathtaking. You can see Diamond Head, Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, and the Pacific Ocean. On a clear day, you can even see the island of Molokai in the distance. The drive up to the overlook is a bit of a challenge. The road is winding and narrow, and there are a few steep sections. The views along the way are worth it. You'll pass through lush rainforests and see some of the most beautiful homes in Honolulu. If you're looking for a memorable view of Honolulu, Mount Tantalus is the place to go. You'll want to be sure to bring your camera and comfortable shoes since there is a short walk from the parking lot to the overlook.
Sight seeing in Honolulu, Hawaii... One of the best spots on O'ahu to view the city is from Mount Tantalus. A very long time ago, when I was taking a Driver's Education class, our teacher had us drive up this mountain with its curvy roads and switchbacks! I'm not sure if this was a good idea at the time because this isn't the safest road! Round Top Drive sometimes is very narrow, so, go slowly - especially if there are incoming vehicles! At night, there probably isn't much light, but the city lights would make a really beautiful photo! Driving up Round Top Drive, I got a great photo of Diamond Head from the first lookout point on the side of the road. Enter the Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Wayside (State Park) where there's restroom facilities, a picnic area, and a viewpoint. Walk along the covered pathway with railings and go to the edge! It's such a clear view! Enjoy! Note: currently, there's only one way up and one way down. Tantalus Drive is closed off as of 12-31-22.
How have I never been here before? Tantulus lookout has the best views of Diamond Head and Waikiki all the way to Pearl Harbor and the airport runway. It is incredible to see the entire city in front of you, below you, a 180 degree panoramic view. Just spectacular!!! The road leading up to the viewpoint has several turns and twists. Even a few spots where cars can pull over and take in the view. They are also breathtaking views and you can't image that when you get to the top that it can be any better. It is! The lush green mountains topped with clouds. Diamond head crater fully exposed. The tall buildings if Waikiki. The aqua blue waters. Pearl Harbor and the airport runway. It's an amazing sight. Follow the signs and when you get to the top if you go to the right there is a picnic area with a few gazebos, grass and a parking lot. To the left it says View and there is a parking lot and a railed path to the lookout. First time I went during the day and loved it so much that I went back that night to see the sunset. Even though it was cloudy and raining at night, it was still beautiful. I may have to go back again tomorrow as I really want to capture an amazing sunset from up there. Every visitor to Honolulu and Waikiki should take a ride up to Tantalus Point. Breathtaking!!!
We went to the lookout that offers sweeping views of Diamond Head & Waikiki. The drive up has a bit of turns but its fun easy drive that really makes you feel like you're being transported. There are two levels at the lookouts parking. One for just the lookout and one for the grassy area where you can picnic with views
I've you're visiting the beautiful island of Oahu, you cannot complete your trip until you've taken a trek (big or small) to Mount Tantalus. For starters, it's hard to miss. The city of Honolulu is practically on the rim of this giant mountain (aka cinder cone made from a volcano way back when). Covered in luscious greenery and wilderness, you can either take the long route and hike through (about six miles) or drive to an overlook or park area to enjoy the amazing views from way up high. On my visit, my friends and I hiked it. It took us about two hours to get to the top and I mean, the very tippy top. Like there was a cellphone tower up there and that's about it. The views were spectacular and the journey through the jungle was super fun. It's like you're on top of the world! I highly recommend a visit and I assume the locals will as well. At least, I went with locals and they were jazzed to take me. Years later, I'm very glad they did. It was extremely memorable and I would do it again.
Been up to the top of Tantalus over 20 times, but never in a car. I've always ridden my bike which gives you a different perspective of the road and area. You start at the bottom in the heat of the Honolulu Sun, and work your way to the top from Makiki Heights. The first mile is the steepest and you go thru a section of houses. You then turn right onto Tantalus Drive and then shortly are under a blanket of trees and the temperature drops 10 degrees. In fact you may go thru several microclimates before you reach the top which is about 1,500 ft in elevation and 4.5 miles. Lots of times is cloudy, misty, or raining at the top, but don't worry, it will still be blazing hot when you get back down to the bottom.
Breathtaking Views of Honolulu. Its quite drive up there (crazy curvy roads) - but very much worth it. Plenty of parking space and then there signs of beware of crime or break ins - cant remember.
BEST OVERLOOK EVERRRR! Seriously I tell everyone coming to visit to start their first night here for their vacation. It's pretty amazing to see from diamond head and all the way across to Pearl Harbor and beyond. Super nice view and beautiful sunset. It is A CRAZY drive up if you don't like heights or narrow roads so take it slow and watch for oncoming traffic. Also know that some people may play THEIR music loudly with no regard to others so just expect that going into the experience. You can always wear your ear phones.
Drove up here on 3/15/21 with my boyfriend to start out 7-year anniversary staycation. We had a simple breakfast picnic with a beautiful view of our island. It was very peaceful, quiet and relaxing, the trees provided shade. The drive up and down is filled with a lot of turns which is where you'll have To watch out for speeders going down hill . There's a lot of sharp turns but the view up top is soo worth it. You can see Waikiki to the airport runway. So many scenery all in one spot. It's a romantic spot for a picnic of a family day. And definitely for tourists or family to see O'ahu in a new perspective... I'd like to say Tantalus is Oahu's version of Maui's Haleakala lol. Just so beautiful!
He: You ever been Tantalus? Me: No He: Really? Me: All the years I've been over here, you never told me...or took me. So my bud drove up the winding road, through the neighborhoods, and partial jungle to the top of Tantalus. What a sight to behold! Just looking at the outline of the city against the ocean is really cool! Lots of tourists coming up, so it wasn't as peaceful as it could be. There were also some caution signs about leaving valuables in your car. There is also some kind of visitors center before getting to the top. It's a good place in case you need to go shi-shi. Mahalo!
If you have lived in Oahu and or are just visiting come to this view day or night! You cannot say you have truly enjoyed Oahu's night life without coming here. It is packed full of people from all stretches of Oahu and all there for one reason. The beautiful view! The city of Honolulu is amazing to look at, at night especially when all the lights and cars are going through it. It is quite a long way to get to the top to see this view and the roads are quite dangerous and narrow but boy is it worth it.
5 months ago
Mount Tantalus is over 2000 feet above sea level and is a cinder cone volcanic feature on the island of Oahu. The base of Tantalus makes up the land for the city of Honolulu. For the most part, the mountain is undeveloped and beautiful. There is a road/trail that goes up to the top that has attracted tourists for almost 200 years. I was one of those tourist last week. A series of trails loop around or ascend the mountain and are used by hikers, bird watchers, nature lovers and runners. With limited time, we drove up via Round Top Drive and Nutridge Street. Several overlooks along Round Top Drive offer narrow parking with great views of Diamond Head and Honolulu. The road is windy and you have to travel slowly, but I felt safe. Near the top of the mountain is Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park with parking, overlooks, picnic areas and information about the mountain. The walkways at the summit are paved and easily accessible. I love the views from the top. The next time, I will conquer one of the trails. The tropical forest is beautiful. read more
Made a quick stop at the Tantalus lookout with the best panoramic views of O'ahu. I was so speechless from the spectacular scenery of skyline, Pacific Ocean, and Diamond Head. You won't be disappointed. The drive up the winding road can be a bit overwhelming, but trust me you'll fall in love with Hawai'i even more once you reach the destination. Parking is limited so I suggest to arrive early in the morning or afternoon. Perfect for families to enjoy a picnic or just relax embracing sunset. read more
Mount Tantalus is an extinct cinder cone in the southern Ko'olau Range on O'ahu - This overlooks the whole city of Honolulu, which is great for panoramic shots of the area. Even on days with a slight overcast, you can get some great pictures. Getting up to the point takes a while, with winding roads. There is a small lot at the top to park, while you walk over. +nice views of Honolulu read more
Mount Tantalus offers stunning views of Honolulu and the surrounding area. The winding drive up to the overlook is a bit of a challenge, but it's worth it and something you'll never forget. The lookout is located at Pu'u Ualakaa State Wayside Park, and is open daily. There is a small parking lot at the top of the mountain, but it can fill up quickly, so it's best to arrive early or late in the day. The views from the overlook are simply breathtaking. You can see Diamond Head, Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, and the Pacific Ocean. On a clear day, you can even see the island of Molokai in the distance. The drive up to the overlook is a bit of a challenge. The road is winding and narrow, and there are a few steep sections. The views along the way are worth it. You'll pass through lush rainforests and see some of the most beautiful homes in Honolulu. If you're looking for a memorable view of Honolulu, Mount Tantalus is the place to go. You'll want to be sure to bring your camera and comfortable shoes since there is a short walk from the parking lot to the overlook. read more
Sight seeing in Honolulu, Hawaii... One of the best spots on O'ahu to view the city is from Mount Tantalus. A very long time ago, when I was taking a Driver's Education class, our teacher had us drive up this mountain with its curvy roads and switchbacks! I'm not sure if this was a good idea at the time because this isn't the safest road! Round Top Drive sometimes is very narrow, so, go slowly - especially if there are incoming vehicles! At night, there probably isn't much light, but the city lights would make a really beautiful photo! Driving up Round Top Drive, I got a great photo of Diamond Head from the first lookout point on the side of the road. Enter the Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Wayside (State Park) where there's restroom facilities, a picnic area, and a viewpoint. Walk along the covered pathway with railings and go to the edge! It's such a clear view! Enjoy! Note: currently, there's only one way up and one way down. Tantalus Drive is closed off as of 12-31-22. read more
How have I never been here before? Tantulus lookout has the best views of Diamond Head and Waikiki all the way to Pearl Harbor and the airport runway. It is incredible to see the entire city in front of you, below you, a 180 degree panoramic view. Just spectacular!!! The road leading up to the viewpoint has several turns and twists. Even a few spots where cars can pull over and take in the view. They are also breathtaking views and you can't image that when you get to the top that it can be any better. It is! The lush green mountains topped with clouds. Diamond head crater fully exposed. The tall buildings if Waikiki. The aqua blue waters. Pearl Harbor and the airport runway. It's an amazing sight. Follow the signs and when you get to the top if you go to the right there is a picnic area with a few gazebos, grass and a parking lot. To the left it says View and there is a parking lot and a railed path to the lookout. First time I went during the day and loved it so much that I went back that night to see the sunset. Even though it was cloudy and raining at night, it was still beautiful. I may have to go back again tomorrow as I really want to capture an amazing sunset from up there. Every visitor to Honolulu and Waikiki should take a ride up to Tantalus Point. Breathtaking!!! read more
We went to the lookout that offers sweeping views of Diamond Head & Waikiki. The drive up has a bit of turns but its fun easy drive that really makes you feel like you're being transported. There are two levels at the lookouts parking. One for just the lookout and one for the grassy area where you can picnic with views read more
I've you're visiting the beautiful island of Oahu, you cannot complete your trip until you've taken a trek (big or small) to Mount Tantalus. For starters, it's hard to miss. The city of Honolulu is practically on the rim of this giant mountain (aka cinder cone made from a volcano way back when). Covered in luscious greenery and wilderness, you can either take the long route and hike through (about six miles) or drive to an overlook or park area to enjoy the amazing views from way up high. On my visit, my friends and I hiked it. It took us about two hours to get to the top and I mean, the very tippy top. Like there was a cellphone tower up there and that's about it. The views were spectacular and the journey through the jungle was super fun. It's like you're on top of the world! I highly recommend a visit and I assume the locals will as well. At least, I went with locals and they were jazzed to take me. Years later, I'm very glad they did. It was extremely memorable and I would do it again. read more
5 years ago
Been up to the top of Tantalus over 20 times, but never in a car. I've always ridden my bike which gives you a different perspective of the road and area. You start at the bottom in the heat of the Honolulu Sun, and work your way to the top from Makiki Heights. The first mile is the steepest and you go thru a section of houses. You then turn right onto Tantalus Drive and then shortly are under a blanket of trees and the temperature drops 10 degrees. In fact you may go thru several microclimates before you reach the top which is about 1,500 ft in elevation and 4.5 miles. Lots of times is cloudy, misty, or raining at the top, but don't worry, it will still be blazing hot when you get back down to the bottom. read more
BEST OVERLOOK EVERRRR! Seriously I tell everyone coming to visit to start their first night here for their vacation. It's pretty amazing to see from diamond head and all the way across to Pearl Harbor and beyond. Super nice view and beautiful sunset. It is A CRAZY drive up if you don't like heights or narrow roads so take it slow and watch for oncoming traffic. Also know that some people may play THEIR music loudly with no regard to others so just expect that going into the experience. You can always wear your ear phones. read more
6 years ago
Drove up here on 3/15/21 with my boyfriend to start out 7-year anniversary staycation. We had a simple breakfast picnic with a beautiful view of our island. It was very peaceful, quiet and relaxing, the trees provided shade. The drive up and down is filled with a lot of turns which is where you'll have To watch out for speeders going down hill . There's a lot of sharp turns but the view up top is soo worth it. You can see Waikiki to the airport runway. So many scenery all in one spot. It's a romantic spot for a picnic of a family day. And definitely for tourists or family to see O'ahu in a new perspective... I'd like to say Tantalus is Oahu's version of Maui's Haleakala lol. Just so beautiful! read more
He: You ever been Tantalus? Me: No He: Really? Me: All the years I've been over here, you never told me...or took me. So my bud drove up the winding road, through the neighborhoods, and partial jungle to the top of Tantalus. What a sight to behold! Just looking at the outline of the city against the ocean is really cool! Lots of tourists coming up, so it wasn't as peaceful as it could be. There were also some caution signs about leaving valuables in your car. There is also some kind of visitors center before getting to the top. It's a good place in case you need to go shi-shi. Mahalo! read more
6 years ago
If you have lived in Oahu and or are just visiting come to this view day or night! You cannot say you have truly enjoyed Oahu's night life without coming here. It is packed full of people from all stretches of Oahu and all there for one reason. The beautiful view! The city of Honolulu is amazing to look at, at night especially when all the lights and cars are going through it. It is quite a long way to get to the top to see this view and the roads are quite dangerous and narrow but boy is it worth it. read more
What a view! What a great place for picnic! What a great place for a photo op! What a great place for a wedding... and the list goes on and on. Nestled above the suburban area Makiki is Mount Tantalus; also known as Puu Ualakaa State Park. It's easy to get to in fact, there are 2 ways to get there... the long (around Tantalus Drive) and the short (Makiki Heights Drive). On a clear day your view gives you Diamond Head (east) and Ewa Beach (West). In between starting on the east side is Kahala, Waikiki, inland Manoa (including the University of Hawaii Campus), downtown Honolulu, Honolulu Harbor, Punchbowl, Honolulu International Airport, Pearl Harbor and spans all the way west to Ewa Beach. This is a perfect place to take your visitors. This is a perfect place to bring your picnic basket. This is a perfect place to bring your camera... PERFECT! While I am not a hiker, I cannot comment on the hiking trails but I hear they are great. read more
One of the very few places on Honolulu that hasn't been inundated with tourists. Yes, there are a few, but not like Waikiki crazy crowds . I do hear it is busier in the evenings. I came during the day. No crowds whatsoever. Come and take in the view. It's quiet and serene. read more
I decided that I wanted a picture perfect view of the city so I drove all the way up there. It was a cloudy day so you couldn't see much of the water or mountain up ahead but still a great View and spot to have a picnic or just relax in the grass. Would encourage to go up there if you have time but definitely not a must see if you're visiting there's way better views else where ! But if you just want the drive and no hike this is the way to go! There was a bit of swerving lanes to get there and I know there is a hike around there but I didn't do that I just went up for the view . Will go back when it's a much nicer day read more
This is like the worst secret ever. Essentially, it's the best view of Honolulu. The drive is about 20 minutes from Waikiki. Parking is limited and the destination is popular. I often like to drive by Safeway to pick up a sandwich and then eat up there while enjoying the view. It's also lovely around sunset. One thing to know is that there are lots of mosquitos and gnats up there. If you attract them like I do, make sure you load up on some deet. read more
Quick easy drive, large parking lot, and quick walk to the lookout makes Tantalus an ideal place to watch the sunset on another perfect day in Hawai'i Nei. There are signs everywhere saying do not leave valuables in your car, ESPECIALLY in sight. This is true for every hiking spot on our islands and um, for life in general. I noticed families with chairs, picnic blankets and sunset snacks. Lovers with a bottle of wine. And unprepared bystanders like us with nothing but our cell phone cameras and a lot of appreciation for this beautiful place we call home! read more
4 years ago
Such an amazing view! From the very top, you see the beauty of Oahu! The drive up will definitely test your skills, but it's worth the challenge! read more
5 years ago
Gorgeous views of Honolulu. Plenty of places to park at the viewing area. Just beware of crime (lots of signs to remind you!). read more
2 years ago
5 years ago
Easy drive to get some awesome views. We had the area to ourselves because there was a light rain. Hoping to check it out again someday especially the large grass area. read more
Came here with family on my most recent visit to Oahu. Let me start by saying by luck I received a huge Cadillac Escalade which made the drive up to this place very difficult as the roads are very narrow. As I drove up a party of eight to this view point I was very nervous and scared... I felt like I had only three wheels on the road at times. As you drive up long and windy roads past residential area, you notice you're getting high up there in the clouds. Once I finally arrived there were only about ten parking spots. Within a few steps of the lot there's a small grassy knoll and a gazebo with a billion dollar view of Honolulu and Waikiki! You can see for miles on a clear day. Making the dangerous drive well worth it. Can't wait to go back. If you're in Oahu, make this one of your must visits. You won't be disappointed. read more
We wanted to grab dinner in the area but we also wanted to do a hike as well. My cousin recommended this place so we decided to check it out. Parking Pretty limited there's one (I Guess half way) stop where you can park, chill and take pictures, then there's another spot all the way up to chill, have a picnic, or do a serious photo shoot. Feels A very chill and relaxing place. It's a place for everyone. I saw families coming through here, wedding photo ops, and assuming by the proximity of the high school and University of Hawaii, Manoa. Overall 4.5 Stars for what it is. Great place for people of all ages but basically cuz it's not much of a hike so anyone can get a good view from University of Hawaii, Diamond Head, or the Waikiki/Honolulu skyline. *Tips* * Great place to catch a view close to the city * Bring snacks for a picnic * Apparently former President Obama and his wife were here. read more
I would love to see the view at night. Friend drove me up here to a lookout spot a bit before sunset, what a beautiful view! Very cool to see downtown juxtaposed with Diamond Head. The scenic drive up is nice as well, but the road was a bit windy. Oahu should be seen from as many different angles as we can. If you like lookout points, try to make it up here! read more
Mount Tantalus is an easy solution to people who want great view with out a strenuous hike. There are a few easy trails that run along the cliffs edge and along the ridge as well. The drive up has a couple of stop offs but its essentialy the same view as the look out with additionally offer about a 270 degree view from Manoa to pearl harbour. If you are lucky around 4 PM which there's usually a light sunshower at certain times of the year, you'll find yourself at the base of a rainbow. Its a great but narrow drive going complete around the ridge which takes you from the border of Makiki/manoa to the Punchbowl read more
Depending on the day, it can be really windy and foggy up here and you won't be able to see much, but when it's a nice clear day, it's really worth the drive up here. There are various view points along the way and Honolulu looks amazing from up top. There are several nice spots to sit down and chat if you want to bring a date here. It's also pretty peaceful because it's so green and there are lots of trees around. read more
8 years ago
The view at night ... the pictures just don't do it justice! You must see it in person to really appreciate the wow factor! read more
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Honolulu, HI 96805
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Ask the Community - Mount Tantalus
Is it free to enter?
It is, it's just a drive up the hill and just a view/overlook.
My in-laws are older and can't walk/hike much. Is this a place I can drive them to so that they can enjoy a great view of the city/water?
Yes. There is a viewing area very near to the parking lot at the very top of the hill. There is a gentle paved incline thirty or so feet to a concrete gazebo. It is another twenty feet to the edge of the viewing area, and there is a rail the whole wa
How do I get here? Can anyone provide an address or the exact location? Pls and thank you.
Hi, you can just type in tantalus lookout in google maps and it brings you to the lookout. You can also map to PUU UALAKAA State Wayside Park
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