The Window Of One’s Soul: Tantalus Lookout
Mount Tantalus, located four miles north of Waikiki, offers some of the greatest panoramic views from its lookout point near the forest canopies of Puu Ualakaa State Park. Stretching from Diamond Head and Waikiki to downtown Honolulu, a visit to Tantalus Lookout promises great photos of the city both day and night.
The spotlight of the show
Tantalus Lookout is on top a 1048 ft hill and allows you to see inside Diamond Head Crater, the entirety of Waikiki and to the horizon line on the ocean. The road leading up to the Tantalus Lookout summit on Oahu is a beautiful drive winding through the lush suburb of Manoa. There are many hairpins turns and if you keep your eyes open you will take in great views of Waikiki before you even reach the top. Driving this route on the moped is really fun, although it is slow going on the steep incline on the way to the top.
Rainbow on a mountain? Why not?
Tantalus Lookout is by far the best spot to watch the sunset if you want to enjoy a view of the entire city. Unfortunately, Diamond Head Hike is closed before sunset otherwise it would easily be the number one pick.
The great part is that the Tantalus Lookout security only closes the gates just after sunset so it is kind of common practice for them to let everyone enjoy the show before ushering everyone out and locking the gates to the parking lot.
Some tips for amateur visitors alike
The view from Tantalus Lookout will satisfy your sense. Tantalus Lookout is only 15 minutes from Waikiki, which will cost about 15 dollars with an Uber and maybe a little more with a cab. If you are riding a moped like us, you can definitely make it all the way up to Tantalus Lookout, just be prepared to struggle up some of the steep roads of Manoa! Tantalus Lookout on Oahu is a prime location to spot a rainbow. I have been lucky enough to see one on every visit to Tantalus, just another reason why it is the best Oahu lookout. The weather up here changes in an instance and I can suggest bringing a jacket even if it is warm and calm down in Waikiki.
