Lualualei Valley

Lualualei Valley, Oahu

This is the largest coastal valley on Oahu's leeward (west) coast. It is backed by the Wai'anae Mountain Range, which is one of two mountain ranges on Oahu (the Ko'olau Mountain Range is the other one). Both mountain ranges were formed by volcanic activity and the older one is the Wai'anae.

The oldest lava at Lualualei dates back 3.9 million years. During the volcano's active years, its center of activity was right here, at Lualualei Valley. This is where Oahu originated.

Inside the valley are a few government communication stations, as well as the U.S. Navy's weapons storage facility for Pearl Harbor. The small town of Ma'ili is located at the base of the valley.

Key Features

Largest leeward valley: Broad coastal valley inland from Maili and Waianae

Volcanic origin: Lualualei lava to about 3.9 million years

Mountain setting: Backed by the Waianae Mountain Range

Military history: Government communication and Navy facilities occupy parts of the valley

Restricted access: Much of the valley is not open for casual visitor entry

Nearby coast: Maili Beach Park and Lualualei Beach Park sit near the coastal base

Visitor note: Use public roads and beach parks only; do not enter secured or private areas

Plan Your Visit

Lualualei Valley is best viewed from public roads and nearby beach parks. Do not enter restricted military, government, private or gated areas. Use legal parking, respect local neighborhoods and treat the valley as a place with geological, cultural, environmental and military significance.

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Vincent Eblacas

Sun Feb 18, 2018

The kolekole pass has one of the most awesome views of the area.

Location, Parking and Directions

Lualualei Valley is located on Oahu's leeward coast inland from Maili and near Waianae. From Honolulu, drive west toward the Waianae Coast and follow Farrington Highway to the Maili area. The map marker identifies the lower Lualualei Valley area near Maili. Much of the valley includes restricted or private lands, so visitors should use public roads and nearby beach parks only.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Lualualei Valley?

Lualualei Valley is on Oahu's leeward coast, inland from Maili and Waianae, with the Waianae Mountain Range forming the inland backdrop.

Why is Lualualei Valley geologically important?

The oldest lava at Lualualei dates back about 3.9 million years and connects the valley with Oahu's earliest volcanic history.

Can visitors drive deep into Lualualei Valley?

No. Much of the valley includes restricted government and military areas, so visitors should not try to enter private roads, secured gates or facility areas.

What town is near the base of Lualualei Valley?

Maili sits near the coastal base of Lualualei Valley, with Waianae nearby along Oahu's leeward shore.

What can visitors see nearby?

Nearby visitor-friendly stops include Maili Beach Park, Lualualei Beach Park, Waianae, and the Farrington Highway West Shore drive.

How should visitors approach this area?

Respect secured areas, avoid trespassing, use public roads and beach parks only, and treat the valley as a place with cultural, geological, environmental and military significance.