Take in a panoramic view of Oahu’s beauty about 50 minutes away from the Ko Olina Beach Villas. It was along this ridge trail that the Battle of Nu’uanu took place and where Kamehameha I defeated King Kalanikupule of Oahu and unified the Hawaiian Islands. Park at the Pali Lookout parking lot and enter through the opening in the crumbling rock wall in the parking area reserved for tour buses. Parking is $3 for non-residents.
The trail will start off immediately with you working your way up the Pali and things will start to get steep very quickly. Within a few minutes, you’ll reach an open ridge area and be exposed to exhilarating views of the Windward side of Oahu. The views are spectacular, but be mindful of the intense winds – they are strong enough to blow you right off of the exposed ridge.
The trail to the Pali Puka is fairly well defined, so once you are on the exposed ridge simply follow the trail until you reach a large rock face. The Pali Puka is located just below this rock face. Carefully navigate your way down and you will be greeted by the Pali Puka. In 30 minutes or less you’ll be gazing out at the Windward side through a puka in the ridge.
Take H1 east bound and then take the Pali Highway exit. There are ample signs that will lead you straight to the Pali Lookout parking lot.
