When it comes to spectacular views in Hawaii, there’s not a bad seat in the house. The islands are stunning, spacious theaters for awe-inspiring panoramic performances, and sometimes you don’t even have to get out of your car – but at least roll down the window.
1. Kalalau Valley Lookout, Kaua‘i
The ethereal, 4000ft Kalalau Lookout stands up to the ocean, sun, and winds with brave, severe beauty and offers one of Hawaii’s most remarkable and moving vistas. Hope for a clear day for ideal views of Kalalau Valley, but know that even a rainy day can make for settling clouds that could later disappear – followed by powerful waterfalls and, of course, rainbows.
2. Kalaupapa Overlook, Moloka‘i
This scenic overview, the highlight of Pala‘au State Park, offers a stunning view of the Kalaupapa Peninsula from the edge of a 1600ft cliff. The best light for photography is usually from late morning to mid-afternoon. It’s easy to get the lay of the land from the lookout; you’ll get a good feel for just how far you’ll travel should you descend the trail.
3. Road to Hana, Maui
Of all the scenic drives in Hawaii, this is the big kahuna. The Hana Highway snakes down into jungly valleys, up towering razor-edge cliffs, over 54 one-lane bridges, past nearly as many waterfalls, and around 600 twists and turns along the way. Get out and stretch your legs at several aptly placed lookouts, or hike into fragrant forests. If you’ve never tried smoked breadfruit or taken a dip in a spring-fed cave, set the alarm early – you’ve got a big day coming up.
4. Diamond Head State Monument, O‘ahu
The windy summit of Waikiki’s signature backdrop affords fantastic 360-degree views of the southeast coast to Koko Head and west to the Wai‘anae Range. A lighthouse, coral reefs, and surfers waiting to catch a wave are visible below. Although it’s a fairly steep 0.8-mile hike to the top, the all-ages trail is fully paved.
5. Haleakalā National Park, Maui
Sunrise here is worth getting up at 4am. Dawn’s ever-changing interplay of sun, shadow, and clouds creates a mesmerizing dance of light and color on the crater floor. The most popular viewing spot is the Visitor Center, on the rim of the crater at 9745ft. Alternatively, leave the early-morning crowds behind by taking the 10-minute hike up Pa Ka‘oao (White Hill) for stunning crater views.
6. Crater Rim Dr, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii Island
Motor around the entire gaping maw of the Kilauea caldera on this 11-mile route, popping out for views at steam vents and lookouts over the smoking crater. Hikes into and around the caldera and through lava tubes are also possible. For the best views, start at the park’s visitor center and drive counterclockwise.
7. Waimea Canyon State Park, Kaua‘i
Gaping, rainbow-walled chasms, dramatic skyscapes, and gushing waterfalls are yours for the viewing via numerous lookouts in this state park. The Waimea Canyon Lookout, at an elevation of 3400ft, provides the most scenic view of the canyon.
8. Papawai Point, Maui
Don’t forget the binoculars. Not that you’ll need them to see the 40-ton humpbacks that breach right off this cliffside perch jutting into the western edge of Ma‘alaea Bay. The sunsets here are spectacular, too.
9. Munro Trail, Lana‘i
Hop in a 4WD, jump on a mountain bike, or lace up your hiking boots for this 12-mile exhilarating adventure that rewards you with sweeping views of everything Lana‘ai has to offer. The trail allows for spectacular overlooks of deep ravines and mountainous views.
10. Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout, O‘ahu
Follow the tour buses to this ridge-top lookout for a sweeping vista of windward O‘ahu from 1200ft. Straight ahead is Kaneohe, with panoramic views of the fantastic landscapes surrounding it.
11. Saddle Road, Hawaii Island
True to its name, the 53-mile Saddle Rd (Hwy 200) runs along a saddle-shaped valley between the island’s two highest points, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. With stunning scenery, this drive is particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
12. Chain of Craters Rd, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii Island
This road offers vast visual drama, with panoramic coastal vistas that reveal slopes covered in blackened lava. Best times for photography are early morning and late afternoon when sunlight slants off the lava.
13. Pu‘u ‘Ualaka‘a State Wayside, O‘ahu
For remarkable panoramic views across Honolulu, this tiny park offers vistas that stretch from Diamond Head to the Wai‘anae Range. The lookout, just a half-mile hike, is a hidden gem for stunning views.
14. Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, Kaua‘i
This refuge is not just about soaring tropic birds but sweeping ocean views, sometimes featuring whales breaching in the distance. It’s an ideal spot for both wildlife viewing and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
15. Waikolu Lookout, Moloka‘i
At 3600ft, this lookout provides breathtaking views into the steep Waikolu Valley and out to the ocean beyond. Enhance your experience by visiting after a rain for additional waterfall visibility.
16. Pololu Valley Lookout, Hawaii Island
The Akoni Pule Hwy leads you to a stunning vantage point overlooking mystical cliffs and ancient valleys, offering a glimpse of the unique Big Island landscapes.
17. Napali Coast, Kaua‘i
Experience the breathtaking Napali Coast by boat or helicopter. From ocean level, be humbled by the towering cliffs, accompanied by spinner dolphins and sea turtles in the waters below.
18. Keomoku Rd, Lana‘i
This scenic switchback road takes you through cool upland hills and down to the coast, providing striking visuals of the unique rock formations and WWII shipwrecks along the way.
19. Hanalei Valley Lookout, Kaua‘i
Take in views of farmland cultivated for over 1000 years, showcasing a beautiful blend of valley, river, and rare wildlife. Parking is available across from the Princeville Center for easy access.
20. Additional Tips for Exploring Hawaii
Each of these locations offers not only stunning views but also the opportunity to connect with Hawaii’s rich natural and cultural history. Whether you’re hiking the trails or enjoying scenic drives, Hawaii is filled with breathtaking experiences waiting to be uncovered.
