La'ie Point Wayside Park

La'ie Point Wayside Park is a dramatic northeastern Oahu lookout with rugged cliffs, offshore islets, sea-arch views, seabirds and fishing access.

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La'ie Point State Wayside Park, Oahu

La'ie Point State Wayside Park lies on a peninsula in the town La'ie on Oahu's northeastern shore. This place is steeped in Hawaiian legend, one of which according to William Rice in his Hawaiian Legends goes like this:

"Laniloa is the name given to a point of land which extends into the ocean from La'ie . In ancient times this point was mo'o, standing upright, ready to kill the passerby. After Kana and his brother had rescued their mother from Molokai and had taken her back to Hawaii, Kana set out on a journey around the islands to kill all the mo'o. In due time he reached La'ie, where the mo'o was killing many people. Kana had no difficulty in destroying this monster. Taking its head, he cut it into five pieces and threw them into the sea, where they can be seen today as the five small islands lying off Malaekahana."

This legend of the Laniloa mo'o can be read on a granite plaque attached to a boulder in the park. The five small islands along this shoreline are called Kihewamoku, Moku'auia, Pulemoku, Kukuiho'olua and Mokualai. Tour buses with visitors often times stop here to enjoy the scenic view. The peninsula is also frequented by fishermen, who primarily fish for ulua (trevally).

Key Features

Dramatic northeastern Oahu lookout in La'ie
Rugged cliff views with offshore islets and sea-arch scenery
Short scenic stop rather than a swimming beach
Very limited parking at the end of a residential street
No facilities at the wayside
Fishing access from safe cliffside areas
Seabirds may be seen around the offshore islets
Close to La'ie Beach Park, Hukilau Beach and the Polynesian Cultural Center
Stay back from cliff edges and watch children closely
Respect nearby homes by keeping noise low and not blocking driveways

Daily Activity Picks

Featured Oahu Activities

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea arch at La'ie Point?

The offshore islet with the hole through it is one of the park's most photographed views. Waves, wind and erosion shaped the opening, and it gives La'ie Point its dramatic look from the cliff edge.

What is the lizard legend connected with La'ie Point?

A well-known story says a great mo'o, or lizard, once guarded this part of the coast. In the story, the lizard was defeated and the offshore rocks became parts of its body, which is why the islets are often mentioned in local tour stories.

Can you see seabirds at La'ie Point?

Yes. The offshore islets are seabird habitat, and you may see birds moving over the water or resting near the rocks. Watch from the point and do not disturb nesting areas or wildlife.

How is La'ie Point different from La'ie Beach Park?

La'ie Point is a cliffside lookout with offshore rock views and rough water below. La'ie Beach Park, also called Pounders Beach, is the sandy beach area nearby with shorebreak, picnic shade and beach access.

Is La'ie Point worth a short stop?

Yes, especially if you are already in La'ie or driving the northeastern Oahu coast. The stop is usually quick, but the sea arch, islets and cliff views make it memorable.