Nuʻuanu Pali

Nuʻuanu Pali is a steep windward cliff and historic lookout on Oʻahu in the Island of Oahu, Hawaii, notable for its panoramic views and strong tradewinds. It is part of the Nuʻuanu State Parkway and is a well known scenic and historic site on the island.

The paved Pali Lookout provides sweeping views across Kāneʻohe Bay and the windward coast and is popular for short visits and photography; on clear days the vista extends along the eastern shoreline. Nearby short trails and wayside areas give access to ridgeline viewpoints and native plantings.

The site is historically significant as the location of the Battle of Nuʻuanu in 1795 when Kamehameha I’s forces forced Oʻahu chiefs up the valley during his unification campaign. Over time the area has been preserved as a state wayside and lookout with interpretive signage explaining its historical importance.

Nuʻuanu Pali sits on the windward side of the Koolau Range above Nuʻuanu Valley, accessible from Honolulu via the Pali Highway; it is roughly a 15 to 30 minute drive from central Honolulu depending on traffic. The site occupies a high ridge with steep cliffs dropping toward the windward coast.

• Windy conditions: Strong tradewinds can make conditions at the lookout gusty and cool; the site is famous for consistently high winds.
• Cliff height and views: The cliff edge overlooks a drop of roughly 300 metres, providing wide views of the windward coast and Kāneʻohe Bay on clear days.

What to See #

• Pali Lookout: The roadside lookout at the top of the Pali Highway offers panoramic views over the windward coast and Kāneʻohe Bay, with interpretive panels describing the Battle of Nuʻuanu.
• Valley trails and wayside areas: Nuuanu Valley trails and nearby state wayside areas provide short walks through native flora and viewpoints along ridgelines.