Welcome to Hanauma Bay Lookout, the ultimate paradise found! This breathtaking natural wonder is located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii and is home to some of the most spectacular views on earth. Whether you are a nature lover or just looking for a relaxing day out, Hanauma Bay Lookout has something for everyone. From its stunning coral reefs and crystal-clear waters to its lush green surroundings and panoramic vistas, this place is truly magical. So why not join us as we explore this tropical paradise together? Let’s dive into all that Hanauma Bay Lookout has to offer!
What is Hanauma Bay Lookout?
Located in Kaneohe Bay on the Windward side of Oʻahu, Hanauma Bay Lookout provides a stunning panorama of the area. The lookout is open Monday through Saturday from 8am to 4pm, and admission is free. Visitors can explore the observation deck, which offers a great view of Kaneohe Bay and Waianae Mountains. The lookout also has a picnic area with tables and grills, as well as restrooms.
History of Hanauma Bay Lookout
Hanauma Bay is a beautiful natural bay in Kaneohe Bay on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. The bay was named after the Aliioli family who lived along its shores in the 1800s. Today, Hanauma Bay is a popular tourist destination for visitors from all over the world.
The bay was first explored by American missionary Samuel L. Bishop in 1819. Bishop noted the beauty of the area and named it “Bay of Pines”. In 1835, King Kamehameha III granted ownership of Hanauma Bay to Kaumualii, one of his chief advisors. Kaumualii used the land to grow taro and other crops.
In 1888, Daniel Hamilton Hume and his wife traveled to Hanauma Bay aboard their yacht “Empress of Ireland”. They were captivated by the views and decided to make it their home away from home. Hume built a home near the water’s edge and called it “Kaumualii House”. Hume and his wife entertained many celebrities during their time at Hanauma Bay including John Lennon, Yoko Ono, Muhammad Ali and Robert F Kennedy Jr..
In 1941, businessman Harry S Truman purchased Kaimuki Ranch which included Hanauma Bay. Truman used part of the ranch as a bombing range for training pilots during World War II. After World War II ended, Truman donated some parcels of land near Kaimuki Ranch to establish Waikiki Beach
The Lookout’s View
The Hanauma Bay Lookout is a fantastic vantage point to take in the sights and sounds of Waikiki. Located on the edge of the bay, visitors can enjoy magnificent views of Diamond Head, Honolulu’s downtown skyline, Diamond Head State Monument and much more. The lookout also offers visitors access to some beautiful waterfront trails, making it an ideal spot for hikes or walks.
In addition to its great views, the lookout is also home to a wide range of wildlife. Visitors can see hawks and eagles soaring overhead, as well as seals basking in the sun. And if you’re looking for a little excitement, be sure to check out the cliff-top lookout for sightings of dolphins and whales!
The Beach
The Hanauma Bay Lookout offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the islands beyond. Standing at a height of 443 feet, it’s one of the highest points on Oahu and an excellent spot to take in the island scenery. The lookout is open from 8:00am to 4:00pm daily, with admission fees ranging from $5-$10 per person. The lookout is wheelchair accessible and has a picnic area, so visitors can enjoy a relaxing afternoon or evening out. There are also restrooms and parking available on-site.
Facilities at the Lookout
The lookout at the Hanauma Bay Lookout offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the lush shoreline. The lookout is open daily from 8:00am to 4:00pm, and admission is free. Amenities include a bench, picnic table, and restrooms. Visitors can also explore the coastal trails that run along the lookout’s perimeter, or take a hike down to the beach below.
Directions to the Lookout
From Honolulu, drive east on the Hanauma Bay Road. The lookout will be on your right after you pass through the entrance to Hanauma Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Parking is available in the lot near the lookout.
The hike to the lookout starts from a parking area that is located just beyond a locked gate at the end of a short walkway. The path leads up a moderately steep slope to reach an observation platform that provides great views of Hanauma Bay, Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. There are also several benches and a picnic table along the way, making this an ideal spot for a quick lunch break or afternoon snack.
If you’re looking for more adventure, continue hiking up the trail to find an easier route that circles around the peak of Diamond Head. Not only will you get great views of Waikiki Beach and Hanauma Bay but you’ll also have some nice climbing opportunities along the way!
