Kalalau Lookout–Kauai

Tips on visiting one the top lookouts in the world
Kalalau lookout
One of my favorite lookouts when it is clear. Yes, I took this picture!
5 of 5 stars

It is highly recommended that you travel to Kalalau Lookout when there is good chance of clear weather. We have made this trip six times, one being completely fogged in. When the weather is fine, indeed, it is one of the best lookouts in the world.

2015 OAHU 212
It is quite picturesque.

We like to take route 552 going up as you are hugging the side closest to the mountain. Coming back from the Kalalau Lookout we like to veer left where there is a fork in the road and take route 550 coming down.

Waimea cureved roads
You are actually riding down a lava ridge. The views are quite spectacular.

The views as your descending on route 550 are quite spectacular. My wife, who hates heights, was just fine with this road at normal speeds—slow– as you are riding along a ridge.

2015 Hawaii 7D 744
Great views!

The Kalalau Lookout is a good distance in. There is only one road and almost impossible to get lost if you don’t veer into one of the side dirt roads.  Close by is a government observatory.

2015 Hawaii 7D 898
This observatory is off limits but to government personnel.

You do pass Waimea Canyon, which is always a fine view and most of the time reasonably clear. Keep on going and you will eventually run into the Kalalua Lookout. There is a bathroom and most of the time parking is available.

Waimea Lookout
Waimea Canyon is well worth a stop.

A short ways to the right is the Pu’u o Kila Lookout, which some people think are even better views. These lookouts are the wonders of Kauai which makes this island so spectacular.

2015 OAHU 205
I just LOVE this view. It took six travels to make it on a great day.

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