Tantalus Hill Lookout is a must-visit scenic spot for sightseeing in Honolulu!

Located in the southeastern part of Oahu, Tantalus Hill is renowned for its Tantalus Lookout in Pu’u Ualaka’a State Park. Located only about 10 kilometers from Waikiki, it has become a must-see destination for travelers exploring Hawaii. The view from Tantalus Lookout, with its stunning contrast between the vast sky and ocean, captivates many visitors. Let’s take a closer look at the charm of Tantalus Lookout.

1. What is Tantalus Lookout?

Tantalus Lookout is a viewpoint located within Puu Ualakaa State Park at the top of the hill. From this lookout, you can enjoy a panoramic view: to the left, Diamond Head and the cityscape of Waikiki; in the center, the Ala Moana area and downtown spread out; and to the right, Honolulu Airport. The deep greenery and clear skies beautifully envelop the cityscape, making it a perfect scenic spot to fully enjoy Hawaii.
In addition to Tantalus Lookout, there are toilets and rest areas available.

2. What is the best way to get to Tantalus Lookout?

The most recommended way to visit Tantalus Lookout is by joining a guided optional tour. These tours, typically departing from Waikiki and costing around $30, are the most popular choice for visitors.
Here’s why tours are the best option:
・They are safer and more budget-friendly than renting a car or taking a taxi.
・The tour takes care of transportation logistics, so you can relax and enjoy the trip.

For those considering self-guided access, the options are limited:
・Rental Car: Driving to Tantalus Lookout takes about 20–30 minutes, offering a pleasant drive. However, the road is a winding mountain pass with sharp curves, which can be risky for unfamiliar drivers, especially at night.
・Taxi: While taxis eliminate the stress of driving, they can be costly. A round trip from Waikiki costs $50–60, and if you want the taxi to wait while you explore, it’s an additional $15 per 30 minutes.

Public Transportation: Unfortunately, public options like TheBus or Waikiki Trolley do not include Tantalus Lookout on their routes, and walking from a nearby stop isn’t feasible either.
Considering these challenges, joining an optional tour is the most convenient and hassle-free way to experience Tantalus Lookout.

3. Watching a Beautiful Sunset from Tantalus Lookout

The view from Tantalus Lookout during the day is stunning, but the scenery illuminated by the sunset is also incredibly beautiful. The sight of Honolulu bathed in orange hues by the setting sun is breathtaking. Moreover, you shouldn’t miss the transition from dusk to night. Honolulu, painted in orange, transforms into a soft purple and begins to shine. The brightly illuminated cityscape and the beautiful stars create a magical Hawaiian night. This stunning view can be enjoyed by couples, friends, or even those traveling alone.

4. Lookout Closes at 6:45 PM: Enjoy the Night View from the Service Area

Tantalus Lookout, situated within Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Park, operates on a set schedule. During summer (April 1 to September 2), the park is open from 7:00 AM to 7:45 PM, while in other months, it closes at 6:45 PM. As a result, access to Tantalus Lookout is restricted after these hours year-round.
However, you can still enjoy the night views from a designated service area located midway up Tantalus Hill. This area provides convenient facilities such as restrooms, ensuring a comfortable experience. Keep in mind, though, that the safety of this location may be less than ideal. To avoid any issues, do not leave your belongings unattended in your vehicle while exploring the area.

5. Want to Know the Sunset Time in Honolulu?

Here are the sunset times for Oahu (Honolulu). Keep in mind that temperatures can drop more than expected after sunset, so dress appropriately! Since sunset times may vary due to weather conditions, consider the schedule below as a general guide and confirm the exact time on the day you plan to visit Tantalus Lookout.

・January 1: 6:00 PM
・January 15: 6:10 PM
・February 1: 6:21 PM
・February 15: 6:29 PM
・March 1: 6:35 PM
・March 15: 6:41 PM
・April 1: 6:46 PM
・April 15: 6:51 PM
・May 1: 6:56 PM
・May 15: 7:02 PM
・June 1: 7:09 PM
・June 15: 7:14 PM
・July 1: 7:18 PM
・July 15: 7:17 PM
・August 1: 7:11 PM
・August 15: 7:02 PM
・September 1: 6:49 PM
・September 15: 6:35 PM
・October 1: 6:20 PM
・October 15: 6:08 PM
・November 1: 5:56 PM
・November 15: 5:50 PM
・December 1: 5:48 PM
・December 15: 5:52 PM

6. Summary

Tantalus Lookout is a destination that showcases Oahu’s natural and urban beauty. By day, you can admire the lush landscapes and Honolulu’s scenic views, and by night, the glowing city lights blend seamlessly with the starry skies. If you’re visiting Hawaii, Tantalus Lookout is an essential stop—don’t miss out on the experience!

Search

Customer Support

Tantalus Hill Lookout is a must-visit scenic spot for sightseeing in Honolulu!