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Nu'uanu Pali Lookout Tours and Activities

Oahu’s Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout offers panoramic views of the Ko‘olau Mountains. The windy perch, more than 1,000 feet (300 meters) above Oahu’s Windward (northeast) coastline, also overlooks Kaneohe, Kaneohe Bay, Kailua, and the island of Mokoli‘i. In the late 1700s, the viewpoint was the scene of a bloody battle won by King Kamehameha I.
The Basics
Commonly referred to as the Pali Lookout, this scenic spot is one of Oahu’s most visited viewpoints. On a clear day, you can see a stunning picture of the island, with the blue Pacific Ocean lying beyond the green Ko‘olau Mountains. Visits to the Pali Lookout are included in most island tours including bus sightseeing tours, 4WD excursions, tours of notable movie filming locations, and various private tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout is ideal for photo ops and for getting your bearings upon arriving on Oahu.
- There is a small fee to park at the lookout; bring cash.
- Known for its strong trade winds, the powerful gusts at the lookout are thrilling, but hold on to your hat and small children.
- There is a short walk to the viewpoint from the parking lot. A light jacket and walking shoes are recommended.
- The lookout is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout is located 5 miles (8 kilometers) from downtown Honolulu, above the Pali Highway. Parking is tight, with space for about 15 cars at a time; it is advised not to leave valuables in your car. Many Oahu tours include a stop here for photos and views.
When to Go
Weather on Oahu normally ranges between 68°F (20°C) and 88°F (31°C) year-round, with a moderate rainy season from December through February. Early mornings often see the sky covered in ocean mist and clouds, so aim for a sunny late-morning or afternoon visit for better chances of clear views.
Battle of Nu‘uanu
The Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout is a place of cultural and historical significance. Pali means cliff in Hawaiian, and what is now a viewpoint was once the sight of the Battle of Nu‘uanu. In 1795, King Kamehameha I won a violent struggle here, where many soldiers were pushed off the cliffs to their deaths, and Oahu—and the Kingdom of Hawai‘i—was ultimately united under his rule.
Address: Huuanu Pali State Park, Highway 61, Nuuanali, Hawaii 96817, USA
Admission: Free
40 Tours and Activities to Experience Nu'uanu Pali Lookout
Did you know?You can reserve your spot today and pay when you're ready.
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Did you know?
You can reserve your spot today and pay when you're ready.Learn more
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Oahu Grand Circle Island Day Tour
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Circle the Island of Oahu by coach, enjoying ocean views, rugged mountains, and fascinating history during this full-day tour. Check out Diamond Head, Nu’uanu Pali lookout, the Halona Blowhole, Waimea Valley and Oahu’s beautiful North Shore. Soak up Hawaiian history and culture with a stop at the Dole Plantation and the serene, Japanese-style Byodo-In Temple. This Oahu circle island tour also includes entrance fees at the temple and round-trip hotel transport.
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Take the ultimate Circle Island adventure on this guided, full-day, small-group tour from Honolulu. Stop at Diamond Head, the world-famous icon of Hawaii; Halona Cove Beach, famous for its appearance in the 1953 movie ‘From Here to Eternity’ and much more. Also, check out one of the most beautiful panoramic views in the world, the breathtaking Pali Lookout and the historic Waimea Valley, featuring a botanical garden and waterfall. Lunch and a Honolulu hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
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Discover Hawaiian history and culture in one day during this small-group tour of Oahu. Start your day off at the Pearl Harbor memorial site to learn about the U.S. and World War II. Then, head to the Polynesian Cultural Center to learn more about Pacific Islanders and local culture. Conclude your tour to the famous Dole Plantation where you can sample the famous Dole Whip and other pineapple treats.
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Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour
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Explore Oahu's most popular spots all in one day on this tour, including transportation to and from your hotel. Travel comfortably around the island in an air-conditioned coach or minivan as you pass by Diamond Head and North Shore Surfing Beaches. Make stops at the Dole Plantation, Kualoa Ranch, Byodo-In Temple, and a variety of lookout points.
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Enjoy VIP luxury on a helicopter tour of Oahu with a maximum of four people. Experience the island from a birds-eye view and get unparalleled views of the azure waters, lush greenery and cascading falls. See the most beautiful natural landmarks with a complete circle island tour starting over the white sands of Waikiki and ending with a flyover of Pearl Harbor. A wonderful way to get your bearings if you’ve just arrived, or a grand finale to your Hawaii vacation.
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Intimate North Shore Eco-Fun Waterfall from Waikiki
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Spend the day immersed in small town Hawaii on an intimate tour of the North shore. See famous big wave surfing beaches, explore the quaint surfing village of Haleiwa town, and enjoy a traditional Hawaiian lunch. Take an easy hike to Waimea waterfalls and swim below the rushing water. Explore Waimea Valley botanical gardens and see the fragrant flowers used to make traditional lei. This tour is ideal for visitors wanting to see a slower pace side of the island.
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Private Circle Island Sunset Photo Tour
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This comprehensive tour of Oahu hits many of the island’s most iconic locations such as the Dole Plantation, Waimea Valley, Shark's Cove, Byodo-In Temple, Halona Blowhole, and more. You’ll also visit several beaches where you’ll have time to take photos. Along the way, sample tropical fruit, macadamia nuts, coconut water, and other island fare.
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Circle the island of Oahu and its many points of interest on this guided adventure. Learn about Hawaiian history and culture while exploring the coastline. Visit sites like Diamond Head, the Pali Lookout, Chinaman’s Hat, and Laie Point. Also, see famous places like Banzai Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay. For lunch, try some fresh Hawaiian shrimp from one of the local food trucks (own expense). And if time permits, check out some of the secret spots for viewing sea turtles and monk seals.
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Grand Circle Island & Haleiwa Tour - 9 hours
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Experience O‘ahu, plus explore Haleiwa town all in one day on this 9-hour Grand Circle Island Tour! Visit beautiful scenic spots and hard to get to places in the comfort of a Deluxe Bus. The tour covers all the beautiful scenic spots, including Diamond Head and the Kahala Gold Coast to marine sanctuary Hanauma Bay, natural wonder Halona Blow Hole, lush rainforest Nuuanu Pali, Byodo-In Temple, Tropical Farm, Dole Plantation and world-famous North Shore surfing beaches. Plus, you’ll have enough time (lunch on your own) to explore Haleiwa town (TWO CHOICES: 90 minutes in Haleiwa OR 40 minutes in Haleiwa with Waialua Coffee / Soap Factory). Experience the difference of unparalleled comfort aboard our Deluxe Bus Tour with onboard restroom and original video, mint & hand towelette service, walking map and more. Plus, our exceptional Driver Guide with Aloha makes your tour a memorable experience! Also, enjoy a breakfast of poi malasada from local favorite Kamehameha Bakery.
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North Shore Countryside Sightseeing "Guided Tour"
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Explore Oahu Countryside & North Shore famous beaches. Enjoy the beauty of windward side rugged mountains of Koolau, experience the famous Byodo-in temple ground lushly landscaped paradise nestled in a cleft of the Pali. Sample Macnutt coffee and nuts at the tropical farm, Visit Kualoa Ranch to see a list of Hollywood movie legendary & stars. Lunch at Aunty Pat’s Cafe. Continue afternoon scenic drive towards world-famous beaches and home of shaka or hang loose gesture started in the Kahuku sugar mill. Learn about the Banzai pipeline where a surf reef breaks almost 40ft in the winter season. End your day with sweet fried banana (Lumpia) or a dole whip at Dole pineapple plantation.
• The Best Guided North Shore Sightseeing tour
• Enjoy a 7 hours tour from Honolulu
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Oahu’s North Shore has a culture all its own and feels a world away from the bustle of Honolulu, so let a local guide show you the best of “the real Hawaii.” On this small-group tour aimed at photo enthusiasts, travel to around a dozen of the North Shore's most photogenic locations, from legendary surf spots to tropical farms and ancient mountain ranges. A professional photographer guide offers tips on taking the best photos and is happy to snap and share polished shots of your party.
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Explore the Southern East Coast of Oahu, this unique part of the island is a photographer's dream come true, from stunning white sand beaches to jaw dropping lush green mountain peaks and lava formations it has everything Hawai'i has to offer. Receive a free photo session with purchase.
Our tours are strictly private, we implement CDC guidelines through out the experience for safety while having fun, perfect for post Covid travel.
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Combine sightseeing and photography during this sunset excursion around the southern east coast of Oahu and see the area in a new light that most travelers miss. Benefit from the help of your guide to snap great photos of lush mountains, sandy beaches, and lava formations with the help of the tripod provided and take home more than memories from Hawaii.
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Private Circuit Island Sunrise Photo Tour
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Enjoy this amazing all inclusive tour with a private company of loved ones, explore and capture every shade of Hawai'i starting off with a beautiful sunrise.
Our tours are strictly private, we implement CDC guidelines through out the experience for safety while having fun, perfect for post Covid travel.
No other tour will provide such an abundance of breathtaking sights in one day.
Let us guide you through an amazing 11-hour circuit of Oahu covering all major sights and a few more hidden ones!
Explore over 25 locations around the island, capture an eagles eye view of Makapu'u Beach, gaze upon lush green valleys from jaw dropping cliff's where ancient Hawaiian battles took place, and see magnificent sea turtles resting on the famous beaches of North Shore with daring surfers taking on monstrous waves.
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Explore the spectacular North Shore in the early morning hours, this wonderful tour specializes in discovering all the stunning emerald color water & white sand beaches of North Shore, includes a free photo session!
Our tours are strictly private, we implement CDC guidelines through out the experience for safety while having fun, perfect for post Covid travel.
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East Oahu Shoreline Drive Audio Tour
Combine the convenience of a guided tour with the flexibility of independent exploration. This audio tour turns your phone into your tour guide with narration points that play automatically as you drive. Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace.
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Amazing Oahu Adventure Bundle: 6 Epic Self-Guided Audio Tours
Shaka Guide is an audio tour app that gives you the benefits of a guided tour with the freedom to explore on your own terms. This Oahu Tour Bundle comes with six socially-distanced self-guided audio tours:
• Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour (6-8 hour tour)
• East Oahu Shoreline Drive (6-8 hour tour)
• Honolulu’s Backyard Rainforest Tour (3-5 hour tour)
• Legendary North Shore Loop (6-8 hour tour)
• Heart of Waikiki Walking Tour (1-2 hour tour)
• Historic Downtown Honolulu Walking Tour (1-2 hour tour)
The app uses GPS to navigate you to historic sites, popular attractions, famous beaches and scenic hikes with stories about the places you’re visiting and music along the way.
All Shaka Guide Tours...
• Never expire - take them multiple times or buy in advance
• Work 100% offline - no data or wifi necessary
• Let you take the tour when you want - download the tour and choose the day that works best for you
*Please use the link in your confirmation email to download the app*
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
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Hawaii Culture Tour
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Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture on a tour of Oahu’s most significant historical venues. For those who want more than just a beach vacation, get the benefits of a private tour, insider knowledge from a kama’aina (native Hawaiian), and an immersive experience. Visit cultural sites around the island and learn the stories behind their significance. Enjoy round trip transportation from Waikiki and a guide who personalizes your experience and shows you the Aloha spirit.
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Best of Oahu: Pearl Harbor & Oahu Circle Island Tour from Waikiki
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Make it around the island of Honolulu in a single day during this Circle Island tour from Waikiki. Your guide will lead your small group on a carefully curated itinerary designed to show you the best of the island, accompanied by in-depth commentary. You'll enjoy an intimate atmosphere and plenty of time to ask questions as you visit sites such as the North Shore, Nu'uanu Pali, Pearl Harbor, the Dole Plantation, and others.
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Private South Shore of Oahu Tour
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Explore Oahu’s South Shore with your own guide in a climate-controlled vehicle. This private tour is designed for travelers who have limited time and want to see the most scenic spots. Leave the stress of driving in traffic to your guide and relax as you head to the South Shore’s best spots – panoramic lookouts, beautiful beaches, a local lunch spot and the tranquil Byodo-in temple.
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