Lanai Lookout

Lanai Lookout is a southeast Oahu roadside viewpoint on Kalanianaole Highway, known for lava cliffs, blue ocean views, neighbor island vistas and winter whale watching.

View overview Plan Your Visit

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

Roadside viewpoint on Oahu's southeast coast
Located along Kalanianaole Highway between Hanauma Bay and Sandy Beach
Known for lava cliffs, blue ocean views and open horizon scenery
Clear days may reveal Lanai, Molokai and Maui
Winter and spring can bring offshore humpback whale sightings
Small parking pullout with limited spaces
Best visited for photos, fresh air and a short scenic pause
No swimming access from the lookout
Cliff edges, wet rocks and ocean spray require distance and care
Easy to combine with Halona Blowhole, Makapuu Lookout and Sandy Beach

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called Lanai Lookout?

The name comes from the island of Lanai, which can appear on the horizon from this cliffside viewpoint when the air is clear.

What makes the lava rock at Lanai Lookout unusual?

The shoreline is shaped by old volcanic rock, ocean erosion and salt spray, creating dark ledges, pockets and sculpted surfaces near the lookout.

Which neighbor islands may be visible?

Lanai is the namesake view, Molokai is often easier to spot, and Maui may appear beyond Molokai on very clear days.

Why do photos look different from visit to visit?

Light, clouds, haze and ocean spray change the color of the water and the clarity of the horizon, so the view can look different throughout the day.

How does Lanai Lookout compare with Halona Blowhole?

Lanai Lookout is more about wide horizon views and lava-rock scenery, while Halona Blowhole is known for wave action through a coastal lava tube.