PuuUalakala State Park
PuuUalakala State Park Map
About PuuUalakala State Park in Honolulu
Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Wayside Park, also known as Tantalus Lookout, is a small but scenic park located on the slopes of Mount Tantalus in Honolulu, Hawaii. Situated at an elevation of about 1,000 feet, this park offers panoramic views of southern Oahu, stretching from Diamond Head to Pearl Harbor.
The park consists of a forested area on a cinder cone close to downtown Honolulu. Its name, Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa, means "rolling sweet potato hill" in Hawaiian, referring to the area's history as an agricultural site where sweet potatoes were once grown.
Visitors to the park can enjoy breathtaking vistas of Honolulu's skyline, Waikiki, and the vast Pacific Ocean. The lookout point provides an excellent opportunity for photography, especially during sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle below.
The park features a short trail called the ʻUalakaʻa Trail, which is more of a leisurely walk than a hike. This trail meanders through the lush forest, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city below. At the uphill end of the trail, there's a four-way intersection with other trails in the area, including the Makiki Valley, Moleka, and Maunalaha Trails.
Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Wayside Park is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:45 PM and does not charge an entrance fee. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, providing a serene environment for picnicking, sightseeing, and enjoying nature just minutes away from the heart of Honolulu.