Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park is a forested Tantalus lookout above Honolulu, known for sweeping views from Diamond Head to Pearl Harbor, picnic shelters and the short 'Ualaka'a Trail.

View overview Plan Your Visit

Pu'u Ualaka'a State Park, Oahu

Pu'u 'Ualaka'a is a forested area which sits on a cinder cone close to downtown Honolulu. Despite its proximity to the hustle and bustle of the city, it is a great place to escape. Most people come here for the views, which are breathtaking. From up here one can see all the way from Diamond Head to Pearl Harbor.

The short Ualaka trail leads through the forest. It is more of a short walk than a hike, making it suitable for people of all ages. Picnic shelters and restrooms are located along the trail.

Visitors to the park are asked to remain on the trail at all times and to keep dogs on a leash. At the uphill end of the trail you come to a 4-way intersection with Makiki Valley, Moleka and Maunalaha Trails. There is a system trail map at this intersection allowing those who wish to join other trails at this point.

Pu'u 'Ualaka'a and its wide views are a place of genuine natural beauty, something fragile and irreplaceable. That's why open fires, camping or mountain biking are not permitted in the park.

Hours:
7:00 am to 6:45 pm

Key Features

Forested state wayside above Honolulu
Located in the Tantalus-Round Top area
Sweeping view from Diamond Head toward Pearl Harbor
City, harbor, mountain and south shore photo views
Picnic shelters and restrooms in the park
'Ualaka'a Trail begins in the park
Curving hillside drive with limited parking near the lookout
Summer hours: 7:00am to 7:45pm
Winter hours: 7:00am to 6:45pm
Parking fee: no charge for Hawaii residents; $7 per non-resident vehicle
No camping, open fires or mountain biking

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Pu'u 'Ualaka'a mean?

The name is commonly translated as hill of the rolling sweet potato, a reference often connected with stories of sweet potatoes rolling down the slope.

Why is Pu'u 'Ualaka'a also associated with Tantalus?

The park sits in the Tantalus-Round Top area, the green hillside above Makiki that has several curves, overlooks and forested ridges close to Honolulu.

What makes the view different from Diamond Head?

Diamond Head looks back toward Waikiki from the shoreline side, while Pu'u 'Ualaka'a looks down from the mauka side, giving a broader city-and-harbor panorama.

Is sunset worth seeing from Pu'u 'Ualaka'a?

Sunset can be beautiful from the lookout, but park closing time changes by season, so check the posted hours and leave enough time to drive out before the gate closes.

What is the 'Ualaka'a Trail like?

The trail is a short forest loop that starts in the park. It can be muddy after rain, and it connects with other Tantalus-area routes for longer hikes.