Amelia Earhart Lookout Honolulu
Historic lookout with panoramic ocean views and a memorial to aviator Amelia Earhart.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Amelia Earhart Lookout Honolulu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic lookout with panoramic ocean views and a memorial to aviator Amelia Earhart.
"Breathtaking view of the ocean with surfers just nearby. A perfect first stop to look out at the grandness of the island."
📸 Quick Photo Op
Perfect for a brief stop to capture stunning ocean and coastline views.
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early or be prepared for a short wait. It's a popular tour stop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Coastal Views
Lookout Point
Breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean, surfers below, and the Waikiki coastline.
Amelia Earhart Memorial
Near parking area
A bronze plaque commemorating Amelia Earhart's historic solo flight to Hawaii.
Surfer Spotting
Ocean below lookout
Watch skilled surfers catch waves along the dramatic coastline.
Planning Your Visit
Quick Stop, Big Views
Beyond the Lookout
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Quick Photo Op
Perfect for a brief stop to capture stunning ocean and coastline views.
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early or be prepared for a short wait. It's a popular tour stop.
🚶♂️ Short Walk to View
The main viewpoint is just a short walk from the parking area.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
The sun is strong here; wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Quick Photo Op
Perfect for a brief stop to capture stunning ocean and coastline views.
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early or be prepared for a short wait. It's a popular tour stop.
🚶♂️ Short Walk to View
The main viewpoint is just a short walk from the parking area.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
The sun is strong here; wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Amelia Earhart Lookout to be a beautiful, quick stop with breathtaking ocean and coastal views, often highlighted by the memorial plaque. While some feel the vista is not as spectacular as other global locations, most appreciate it as a perfect photo opportunity and a scenic addition to Oahu tours.
"Pretty much anyone, anywhere knows what Diamond Head is. On our visit around Oahu, our diamond Head stop was at the Amelia Earhardt Marker, just a short walk from the vista viewpoint. From here we had great views of the surf below, Waikiki to our right, and Waialae - Kahala to our right. Honestly though, unless you are a surfer, I didn't find the vista overly fabulous compared to other spots I have been around the world."
Graham Tranter
"May2025 "At the Diamond Head Lookout, also know as Kuilei Beach Cliffs, is a cast bronze plaque set into a large stone by artist Kate Kelly that commemorates aviatrix Amelia Earhart's first solo flight from to Hawai'i from California in January of 1935. The 2,408-mile flight took around 19 hours to complete, and marked the first time a pilot had successfully flown solo to Hawai'i from the continental United States.""
Oliver Pe
"Breathtaking view of the ocean with surfers just nearby. It was a quick photo stop on our tour but it was the perfect first stop to look out at the grandness of the island as well as the Pacific Ocean. Don’t forget to visit the memorial enacted for Amelia Earhart!"
May Zhagro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Amelia Earhart Lookout is located along the southeastern coast of Oahu, near Diamond Head. It's easily accessible by car, and many guided tours of Oahu include it as a stop. If driving yourself, look for signs for the Diamond Head Lookout or Kuilei Beach Cliffs. Parking can be limited, especially during peak hours.
No, Amelia Earhart Lookout is a separate viewpoint located at the base of the Diamond Head cliffs, often referred to as Diamond Head Lookout or Kuilei Beach Cliffs. The hike up Diamond Head crater is a distinct activity.
While direct public transport to the lookout itself might be limited, you can take TheBus to the general Diamond Head area and then walk or take a short taxi/rideshare to the lookout. Check TheBus routes for the most current information.
From Waikiki, head east on Kalakaua Avenue, which turns into Diamond Head Road. Continue on Diamond Head Road, and the lookout will be on your right, past the entrance to the Diamond Head hike.
There is typically no entrance fee to visit the Amelia Earhart Lookout itself. However, parking may have a small fee, and if you are part of a guided tour, the cost will be included in your tour package.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need to purchase tickets to visit the Amelia Earhart Lookout. It is a public viewpoint accessible to everyone.
The lookout is generally accessible during daylight hours. Since it's an outdoor viewpoint, there are no official closing times, but it's best visited when there is sufficient light for views and safety.
The Amelia Earhart Memorial is part of the lookout area and does not have a separate admission fee. It's a historical marker that you can view freely.
Absolutely! Amelia Earhart Lookout is a distinct attraction from the Diamond Head hike and can be visited independently. Many visitors stop here for photos without climbing the crater.
General public access is permitted. However, always be mindful of posted signs, respect the natural environment, and ensure you are not blocking any access points.
📸 📸 Photography
The primary viewpoint offers the most iconic shots of the coastline, surfers, and Waikiki. The memorial plaque itself is also a good subject. Experiment with different angles to capture the vastness of the ocean. 
Early morning offers soft, beautiful light and fewer crowds. Late afternoon provides a golden hour glow, perfect for dramatic shots. Midday can be harsh with direct sunlight.
Drone usage is often restricted in national and state parks, and sensitive coastal areas. It's best to check current FAA regulations and local advisories before attempting to fly a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on surfers. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the ocean colors and reduce glare.
Yes, on a clear day, you can see the iconic skyline of Waikiki to your right from the lookout point. It offers a different perspective than viewing it from the beach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep an eye on little ones near the cliff edges, as safety is paramount. The short duration of the visit means it won't disrupt nap schedules or tire out younger children. It's an ideal addition to a day of exploring Oahu's scenic spots without requiring a long commitment.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Timing is crucial for the best light. Aim for sunrise or sunset for dramatic skies and softer illumination. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details of the surfers or distant landmarks. Remember to bring your polarizing filter to enhance the ocean's colors and reduce glare.
🚗 Day-Trippers & Tour Groups
+1As it's a popular stop, expect crowds, especially during midday. If you're on a tour, your guide will likely manage the timing. If visiting independently, consider going early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak rush and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Amelia Earhart Lookout
The lookout itself provides a strategic vantage point, offering sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the dynamic coastline. It's a place where visitors can reflect on Earhart's courage and the spirit of adventure, while also enjoying the natural beauty of Oahu. The memorial serves as a reminder of the early days of flight and the daring individuals who pushed the boundaries of exploration.
While the memorial is a key feature, the lookout's primary draw for many visitors is the stunning natural scenery. The dramatic cliffs, the crashing waves below, and the expansive ocean create a picturesque backdrop. It's a popular stop for tour groups and independent travelers alike, offering a brief but memorable glimpse into Hawaii's history and its breathtaking landscapes.
+1Capturing the Perfect Shot
+1To make the most of your photography, consider the time of day. Early mornings offer soft, diffused light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty of the ocean. Late afternoons, especially during the golden hour, can bathe the landscape in warm, dramatic light, creating stunning silhouettes and vibrant colors. Midday sun can be harsh, so using a polarizing filter can help manage glare and enhance the blues of the water and sky.
Don't forget to include the Amelia Earhart memorial plaque in your shots. It's a historical marker that adds context and a touch of human interest to your images. Experiment with different compositions, from wide-angle shots capturing the entire vista to closer frames focusing on the surfers or the memorial itself.
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