Pu'u o Kila Lookout
Iconic lookout offering vertiginous panoramas of the Na Pali Coast and Kalalau Valley, often requiring a scenic hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fog often clears
Pu'u o Kila Lookout
Best Time
Fog often clears
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic lookout offering vertiginous panoramas of the Na Pali Coast and Kalalau Valley, often requiring a scenic hike.
"The views are spectacular! Pictures don’t do it justice."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be very muddy and steep. Your shoes will get covered!
⏳ Be Patient for Views
Fog rolls in and out. Hang around; the view might clear up for amazing photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Na Pali Coast Panorama
Pu'u o Kila Lookout
Breathtaking, vertiginous views of the iconic Na Pali Coast and Kalalau Valley. Unforgettable!
Kalalau Valley Vista
Pu'u o Kila Lookout
Gaze into the lush, dramatic Kalalau Valley, a truly awe-inspiring natural spectacle.
Ocean Views
Pu'u o Kila Lookout
Panoramic vistas where the rugged coastline meets the vast Pacific Ocean.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Road Closure & Hike Ahead
Weather & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be very muddy and steep. Your shoes will get covered! +1
⏳ Be Patient for Views
Fog rolls in and out. Hang around; the view might clear up for amazing photos.
🅿️ Pay for Parking
Parking at Kalalau Viewpoint is ticketed. Don't risk a fine!
💧 Bring Water
The hike to the lookout can be strenuous, especially if the road is closed. Stay hydrated.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be very muddy and steep. Your shoes will get covered! +1
⏳ Be Patient for Views
Fog rolls in and out. Hang around; the view might clear up for amazing photos.
🅿️ Pay for Parking
Parking at Kalalau Viewpoint is ticketed. Don't risk a fine!
💧 Bring Water
The hike to the lookout can be strenuous, especially if the road is closed. Stay hydrated.
📸 Photos Don't Lie
The views are even more spectacular in person than in pictures.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular, breathtaking views of the Na Pali Coast and Kalalau Valley, calling them unforgettable. The hike to reach the lookout, especially when the road is closed, is frequently described as challenging due to mud and steep inclines, but overwhelmingly deemed worth the effort. Patience is advised for fog to clear, revealing the stunning scenery.
"Views are spectacular! The road is (temporarily?) closed therefore you'll have to hike a little under 2 miles with mild hills and one particularly steep hill. Make sure to purchase a parking ticket or you'll be fined. The fog moves so just hang out at the top and it'll end up clearing well enough for photos. It is muddy and I saw two people slide walking down so be careful."
Brittany
"A beautiful view! Totally worth it. It was a very muddy trail. Our shoes were completely covered with mud by the end. There were times it felt more like climbing than hiking."
Amanda Parker
"Well worth the drive. Reasonable amount of parking but heading up early will make it a much nicer experience. There is a $10 charge for the lookouts but you only have to pay once for access to them all."
Jason Foy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is via the Koke'e State Park road. However, the road directly to the lookout is often closed, requiring a hike of about 1.3 to 2 miles from the Kalalau Viewpoint parking area. This hike can be hilly and muddy.
No, the road is frequently closed due to maintenance or weather conditions. Always check current park conditions before you go.
If the road is closed, you'll hike on the road itself. It's approximately 1.3-2 miles one-way, with significant uphill sections and potential mud. +1
Only if the road is open. It's best to be prepared for a hike from the Kalalau Viewpoint, as this is a common scenario.
The hike, if required, involves uneven terrain and inclines, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The lookout itself offers views without strenuous activity if you can reach it.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, parking at the Kalalau Viewpoint (where you'll likely start your hike if the road is closed) requires a parking ticket. Ensure you purchase one to avoid fines.
Koke'e State Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, specific road access to lookouts can vary.
Parking fees can vary. It's best to check the official Koke'e State Park website or signage at the park for the most current pricing.
Parking tickets are typically purchased on-site or through a designated app. It's advisable to have payment ready.
Koke'e State Park does not typically have an entrance fee, but parking fees are common for designated lots.
📸 📸 Photography
Mid-morning can be good as fog often burns off, revealing the stunning views. Late afternoon can also offer beautiful light, but be mindful of crowds.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive panoramas. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on distant features of the Na Pali Coast.
The main lookout offers the iconic view. Exploring slightly off the main path (safely) might reveal unique perspectives, but always stay on marked trails. 
Include a person or a recognizable object in your shot to give a sense of scale to the immense cliffs and valleys.
Fog can create a dramatic, moody atmosphere. Embrace it and try to capture the ethereal beauty, or wait patiently for it to clear.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
If the road is closed, budget at least 40-60 minutes for the round-trip hike, plus time for enjoying the view. If you can drive, it's much quicker. +1
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, as the trail can be very muddy and slippery. Layers are recommended as weather can change. +1
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Kalalau Viewpoint parking area, but may be limited or non-existent at the lookout itself.
The hike can be challenging due to its hilly nature and potential mud. It's considered moderate, especially if the road is closed. +1
The Pihea Trail and Alakai Swamp Trail are accessible from the same area, offering further hiking opportunities within Koke'e State Park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and plenty of water for the journey. If the hike seems too daunting, exploring other lookouts within Koke'e State Park, like the Waimea Canyon Lookout, might be a more manageable alternative for younger families. Always prioritize safety and assess your children's capabilities before embarking on the trail.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Be prepared for changing light conditions and the ever-present possibility of fog. Patience is key; waiting for the fog to lift can result in truly magical shots. Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light, though be aware these times can also be the most crowded. Don't forget to include elements that convey scale, such as people or trees, in your compositions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Pu'u o Kila Lookout
Despite the challenging hike, the consensus is that the effort is absolutely worth it. The reward is an unparalleled view of the Na Pali Coast and Kalalau Valley. Some visitors note that the walk on the road, while paved, is still demanding due to the inclines. It's crucial to factor in extra time not just for the walk, but also for enjoying the breathtaking scenery at the lookout itself. Being prepared with good footwear and water can significantly enhance the experience, turning a potentially difficult trek into a memorable adventure.
Navigating Weather and Views
When the weather cooperates, the views are described as breathtaking and spectacular, with photos often failing to capture the true scale and beauty of the landscape. The lookout offers panoramic vistas of the Na Pali Coast and the vast Pacific Ocean. It's a prime spot for photography, but visitors should be prepared for the elements. Dressing in layers is recommended, as temperatures can fluctuate, and the wind can be strong.
+2
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