Lanai Lookout

Lanai Lookout, Oahu

Lanai Lookout is located on Oahu's southeast shore right on Kalanianaole Highway. It is one of three main roadside lookout points on this scenic stretch of coastline (the other two are the Makapuu Lookout and the Halona Blowhole Lookout). The lookout point has a small parking lot carved into the sea cliff. On a clear day you can see three neighbor islands from here, not just the island of Lanai, but Molokai and Maui as well. Maui will be a bit tricky to make out because it is behind Molokai. And the main feature of Maui that you'll be able to see is Mt. Haleakala (Maui's 10,023 foot tall mountain).

Key Features

Southeast Oahu viewpoint: Roadside lookout along Kalanianaole Highway

Neighbor island views: Clear days may reveal Lanai, Molokai and Maui

Lava-rock formations: Rugged cliffs and sculpted rock ledges frame the ocean

Blue-water scenery: Strong views across the Kaiwi Channel and open Pacific

Small parking area: Convenient pullout, but spaces can be limited

Whale watching: Humpback whales may be seen offshore from November through May

Seabird viewing: Coastal setting can offer bird and wildlife viewing opportunities

Photo stop: Good for ocean, cliff, sunrise-light and horizon photos

Cliff safety needed: Stay back from edges, wet rocks and unstable ledges

No swimming access: Best used as a lookout, not a beach or water-entry point

Scenic drive add-on: Easy to combine with Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole and Sandy Beach

Short visit: Most travelers stop briefly for views, photos and fresh air

Plan Your Visit

Plan Lanai Lookout as a short roadside scenic stop on Oahu's southeast coast. Use the small parking area carefully, stay back from cliff edges and avoid climbing onto wet or exposed rocks. Bring binoculars if you want to look for whales, seabirds or neighbor island views, and expect visibility to vary with haze, clouds and weather.

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Lanai Lookout Photos

Browse Lanai Lookout photos featuring blue ocean views, lava cliffs, Koko Head Crater, Kalanianaole Highway, warning signs and southeast Oahu coastal scenery.

Location, Parking and Directions

Lanai Lookout is located along Kalanianaole Highway on Oahu's southeast shore, between Hanauma Bay and Sandy Beach Park. The map point is kept at the current page coordinates for the lookout area. Visitors usually arrive by car while driving the scenic coastal route between Hawaii Kai, Halona Blowhole and Sandy Beach.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Lanai Lookout located?

Lanai Lookout is located along Kalanianaole Highway on Oahu's southeast shore, between Hanauma Bay and Sandy Beach Park.

What islands can you see from Lanai Lookout?

On clear days, visitors may see Lanai, Molokai and Maui from the lookout, though visibility depends on weather, haze and clouds.

Is Lanai Lookout good for whale watching?

Yes. During humpback whale season, especially winter and spring, visitors may spot whales offshore when ocean visibility is good.

Can you swim at Lanai Lookout?

No. Lanai Lookout is a cliffside viewpoint, not a swimming beach. Visitors should stay away from wet rocks, ledges and exposed edges.

What is near Lanai Lookout?

Nearby places include Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole, Sandy Beach Park, Hawaii Kai and the southeast Oahu scenic coastline.