Tantalus Lookout On Oahu: Best Sunset Views
If you’re looking for a breathtaking view on Oahu, look no further than the Tantalus Lookout.
The lookout provides stunning views of Honolulu and the surrounding area. You can see as far as Diamond Head Crater, Waikiki Beach, and the Honolulu area. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re on the island.
Make sure to bring your camera – the views are absolutely amazing! You’ll want to capture this unforgettable experience and share it with your friends and family.
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How to Get to Tantalus Lookout
The Tantalus Lookout is located in Pu’u ‘Ualaka’a State Park, about 21 minutes from the Waikiki area. The best way to get there is by car. You can also take Lyft or Uber, but we always recommend renting your own vehicle for convenience and flexibility. We mainly use Discount Hawaii Car Rental to book rental cars in Hawaii.
Tip: Tantalus Lookout is located about 5 minutes from the Experience Nutridge Luau, one of the top luaus on Oahu. If you are attending this luau, we recommend stopping at the lookout before your luau begins.
Tantalus Lookout Parking and Hours
Tantalus Lookout has two parking options, and no reservations are needed. The primary parking lot at the lookout point offers space for approximately 12 cars. This proximity allows visitors to park their vehicles and conveniently access the breathtaking viewpoint.
However, due to limited capacity, arriving early to secure a parking spot is advisable, especially during peak hours (sunset) or on weekends.
Alternatively, an additional parking lot is available, which can accommodate around 60 cars. This secondary parking area is situated within a 5-minute walk from the viewpoint.
Note: Break-ins are common on Oahu, and Tantalus Lookout is no exception. Don’t leave any valuables in your car.
Pu’u ‘Ualaka’a State Park is open from 7:00 am to 7:45 pm daily.
Tantalus Lookout Map
Below is a map of the lookout and parking:
Tantalus Lookout in a Nutshell
The Tantalus Lookout is one of the best places to enjoy Honolulu‘s incredible views. You will be rewarded with fantastic views of Oahu’s southern shore, including Pearl Harbor, Manoa Valley, and Diamond Head.
This is one of our favorite spots to watch a sunset on Oahu because of its spectacular views. This spot also made our list of the best things to do on Oahu.
Also, if you are looking for that perfect Instagram shot, look no further! The Tantalus Lookout is one of the most popular places to take photos on the island, and for a good reason.
So what else makes Tantalus Lookout great? Compared to other places on the island, it’s very easy to get to – you don’t have to hike for hours or take a long drive.
You simply drive for about 20 minutes (if you are in the Waikiki area), park your car, and walk a few steps to the lookout point. What better way to enjoy gorgeous views without the hassle?!
There is also a huge grass field where you can picnic, play frisbee or just relax and enjoy the picturesque views.
Facilities at Tantalus Lookout
The Tantalus Lookout has:
- Picnic Tables
- Restrooms
- Water Fountains
- Trash Cans
Things to Do at Tantalus Lookout
Besides admiring the views, you can do a few other things at Tantalus Lookout:
Hike the Tantalus Arboretum Trail: If you’re feeling active, you can take a short 0.3-mile hike that should take 10-15 minutes to complete. You will be hiking through trees with a jungle vibe. Be sure to bring mosquito repellent, as there are a lot of mosquitoes in the area.
Take photos: As we mentioned before, this is a popular place to take photos. Whether you’re taking selfies or landscapes, be prepared to snap some beautiful shots.
Have a picnic: This is the perfect place to enjoy a packed lunch with an incredible view of the island.
Enjoy the views: Of course, one of the best things to do at Tantalus Lookout is simply to enjoy the incredible views.
See a perfect rainbow: If you are looking to spot a rainbow on the island, Tantalus Lookout is one of the best places to be. Rainbows here are so popular that you’ll probably see one without even trying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tantalus Lookout Free?
Yes, the lookout is free.
Can You Go to Tantalus Lookout at Night?
The park closes at 7:45 pm; however, there is another viewpoint outside the park (by the road) that you can access 24 hours a day. You will still get gorgeous views of Honolulu and the surrounding area.
What Are Some Tips for Visiting the Lookout?
Go early: If you want to watch the sunset, try to get there early to secure the perfect spot. This is a popular place, so it can get crowded closer to sunset.
Bring mosquito repellent: There are a lot of mosquitoes in the area, so be sure to bring mosquito repellent.
Wear sunscreen: The sun can be intense, so add reef-safe sunscreen or a rashguard to your Hawaii packing list.
Bring water and snacks: There are no food or beverages available for purchase at the lookout, so be sure to bring your own water and snacks.
Pack out your trash: There are trash cans available, but they can fill up quickly. Be prepared to pack out your trash to help keep the area clean.
The Wrap Up
If you are ever in the Honolulu area, be sure to make a stop at Tantalus Lookout for some of the best views on Oahu.
The lookout offers stunning panoramic views of the island. You can see Diamond Head Crater, Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, and more from this spot – it’s definitely worth the visit!
Mahalo for reading our post. Until next time, Aloha!
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