Tantalus

Tantalus is a forested ridge drive above Honolulu, known for Round Top Drive curves, city-to-ocean views, sunset light and Pu'u 'Ualaka'a lookout.

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Tantalus

Mount Tantalus, Oahu

Tantalus is an extinct cinder cone, located at the foothills of the Ko'olau Mountain Range in Honolulu. The Tantalus mountain summit is a good example of the climb to the top being the best part. Whether on foot or by bike or car, wide views await after every turn on the twisting Round Top Drive to the summit.

This scenic route leading through lush and dense vegetation offers panoramic views of Diamond Head and Waikiki in the east to downtown Honolulu and Pearl Harbor in the west. Tantalus is also a popular destination to view the city lights at night, and the sunset views from up here are equally amazing.

Pu'u Ualaka'a State Park, located in a forested region of Tantalus is a popular, yet tranquil place to enjoy a picnic and the views. It is the most acclaimed spot to take in the view from the mountain. The park also features beautiful flora, such as tropical guava and jacaranda trees, as well as other flowers and plants.

Key Features

Forested ridge drive above Honolulu and Makiki
Reached by Tantalus Drive and Round Top Drive
Main lookout area at Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Wayside
Views can include Honolulu, Manoa Valley, Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor
Summer wayside hours: 7:00am to 7:45pm
Winter wayside hours: 7:00am to 6:45pm
Non-resident parking fee: $7 per vehicle at Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Wayside
Narrow, winding road with cyclists, joggers and wet pavement at times
Picnic shelters and 'Ualaka'a Loop Trail available at the wayside
Popular for late-afternoon light and city views

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the drive called Tantalus?

The name comes from Mount Tantalus, the cinder-cone ridge above Honolulu. The road network also includes Round Top Drive, which loops through the same hillside area.

What makes the Tantalus view different from a beach lookout?

Tantalus looks down from the green hills above town, so the view includes neighborhoods, valleys, Honolulu's skyline, Diamond Head, the harbor and the south shore in one wide sweep.

Why does the weather change quickly on Tantalus?

The ridge catches passing showers and mist from the Ko'olau side of the island. A clear lower-elevation day can still bring wet pavement and passing clouds higher on the drive.

Is Tantalus connected with hiking trails?

Yes. The hillside is near several Makiki and Tantalus trail routes, including the short 'Ualaka'a Loop Trail at Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Wayside.

What is a good photo detail at Tantalus?

Late afternoon light often brings out the contrast between the dark forested ridge, the city grid below and the ocean beyond Waikiki and Diamond Head.