Pali Highway
The Pali Highway (Route 61) is one of Oahu's most scenic and historically significant roads, connecting Honolulu to the Windward towns of Kailua and Kaneohe through lush mountain tunnels. Offering breathtaking views at the Nu'uanu Pali Lookout, this route blends natural beauty with rich folklore - most famously the legend warning against carrying pork over the Pali. Originally developed in the 19th century, the highway now includes four tunnels and is a must-see for visitors driving between Honolulu and Windward Oahu.
Pali Highway (Route 61), Oahu
The Pali Highway (Route 61) is one of the most important and scenic roads on Oahu. It connects Honolulu with the two main towns on Windward Oahu, Kailua and Kaneohe. From downtown Honolulu, it leads up through the residential neighborhood of Nu'uanu, then through the two Nu'uanu Pali tunnels and then down to Kailua and Kaneohe. Right after exiting the tunnels the views are amazing (this stretch of the highway is also quite curvy).
The views make it almost difficult to focus on the road. Luckily there is a small pullout along the highway if you want to stop to take some pictures. But even better, plan a stop at the Nu'uanau Pali Lookout, which is located before the tunnels if you're coming from the Honolulu side. There is a spacious parking lot at this lookout.
Today's Pali Highway is actually the third road that was built here. The original road over the Nu'uanu Pali was built in 1845 and went along much of the same route. In 1898 it was developed into a "highway" (compared to today's standards this highway was still quite narrow and was known for its 22 hairpin turns). Some parts of this old road still exist. However, the Old Pali Highway is closed to vehicular traffic and can be accessed on foot only (one access point is at the Pali Lookout). Work on today's Pali Highway began in 1955. Two years later two of the four tunnels were completed and the highway was opened for Honolulu-bound traffic. It took another four years until the other two tunnels were finished and the highway completed in 1961.
There is a popular urban legend about the Pali Highway. According to this legend, it is a bad idea to take pork over the Pali. If you do, don't be surprised if you suddenly have car problems. Spooky tales tell of people who have taken pork over the Pali Highway and had eerie experiences, especially late at night.
Key Features of Pali Highway
- Scenic connection between Honolulu and Windward Oahu: Route 61 passes through lush mountain terrain, linking the city to Kailua and Kaneohe.
- Nu'uanu Pali Lookout: One of the most iconic viewpoints on Oahu, offering panoramic views and historical significance.
- Historic road evolution: Originally built in 1845 and later modernized with tunnels in 1957 and 1961 to accommodate growing traffic.
- Old Pali Highway hiking path: Sections of the original highway are now accessible by foot, surrounded by rainforest.
- Urban legend of pork and the Pali: A well-known local myth warns of supernatural consequences for transporting pork across the highway.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pali Highway?
The Pali Highway (Route 61) is a scenic and historic road on Oahu that connects Honolulu with Windward towns like Kailua and Kaneohe via the Nu'uanu Pali tunnels.
Where can I stop for views along the Pali Highway?
The best stop is the Nu'uanu Pali Lookout, which offers panoramic views of Windward Oahu. There's also a small pullout just past the tunnels if heading toward Kailua.
What towns does the Pali Highway connect?
The highway links downtown Honolulu with Kailua and Kaneohe on Oahu's Windward side, providing a fast and direct route through the mountains.
What is the legend about pork and the Pali Highway?
According to Hawaiian folklore, carrying pork over the Pali angers the gods, especially Pele. It's said that cars transporting pork may experience strange mechanical issues until the pork is removed.
Is the old Pali Highway still accessible?
Yes, parts of the original Pali Highway (now called Old Pali Road) are still accessible to pedestrians and make for a scenic and historic hike through lush forest.