Honolulu Scenic Mountain Drive

Name: Halia Private Tours
Price range: $$$

Oahu Nature Tours

Just above the city, this scenic mountain drive winds through rainforest-lined roads and ridge-top neighborhoods, unveiling sweeping views of Honolulu, Diamond Head, and the sparkling coastline.

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Scenic Mountain Drive

This winding route takes you through lush rainforest roads and residential ridges with incredible vantage points of the city below. Along the way, you’ll find Tantalus Lookout (Puu Ualakaa State Park), one of the best places to watch the sun dip behind the skyline.

Above Honolulu

Found in the mountains above the City.

Various options

Choose from a variety of options here.

All ages & Abilities

Paved path at the to the scenic lookout.

Blue Hawaii

Featured in ʻBlue Hawaiiʻ with Elvis.

Weather dependent

Not available during bad weather.

More information about

Honolulu scenic drives

Fans of Elvis Presley’s Blue Hawaii will recognize the iconic view, still framed by two signature palms. It’s a favorite for film buffs, photographers, and anyone seeking a quiet, elevated look at Oahu.

Just minutes from Punchbowl and Downtown Honolulu, the drive offers stunning views whether you visit at golden hour or in the cooler morning light.

It’s a flexible stop, beautiful any time of day. But remember that mountain weather changes fast, corners are tight, and visibility can vary.

Featured excursions for

Scenic mountain drives

Looking to pair this stop with other favorites? Pair a scenic mountain drive and head into the City to see it up close. Sample local flavors and shopping in Waikiki, or a morning hike up Diamond Head. Your route is entirely flexible, customizable, and, of course, unforgettable.

Frequent questions

about scenic drives near Honolulu

Whether you’re drawn to winding mountain roads, sweeping city views, or a quiet escape in the forest, Tantalus Lookout offers one of the island’s most peaceful and memorable scenic moments. Keep scrolling for answers to help plan your visit.

Where is the Honolulu Scenic Mountain Drive found?

Located above Honolulu in the Tantalus and Round Top area, the drive starts just a few minutes from the city center. Your guide will take care of the routing so you can enjoy the scenery.

What makes this scenic drive unique vs. others?

It offers sweeping views of Waikiki and the entire southern coastline, cool mountain air, and local history. You’ll pass through tropical forests with hidden residential neighborhoods and cinematic backdrops.

What are the best times to enjoy this scenic drive?

Late afternoon and early evening are ideal, especially for catching the sunset. The route is also beautiful when light breaks over the mountains and City in the morning.

Do you need a reservation or permit for this drive?

No reservation is required. It’s a public road with limited parking at the main lookout, accessible as part of Your Private Tour. Your guide will handle timing and logistics but will ultimately make the final call on a visit here.

Are there rules or restrictions to know here?

Please stay within designated parking and viewing areas. This is also a residential area, so we avoid loud noise or extended stops in neighborhood zones. Drones are not allowed at state parks.

This stop may not be available during inclement weather.

Looking for more scenery?

Similar activities & places

No matter when you head up the hill, Tantalus Lookout delivers crisp air, open skies, and a panoramic look at Honolulu and beyond. Looking for more scenic drives or hidden gems? There’s no shortage of unforgettable options across the island.

But wait, there’s more. Click the button to discover even more scenic lookouts and botanical gardens.

These are the top nearby activities and location options available on this featured tour.

Top scenic mountain drive Tour

Related excursions & Tours

Best scenic driving tours on Oahu

Tantalus is a favorite for photographers, road-trippers, and anyone chasing that classic Honolulu view from above. Want to include this stop in your day? Here are a few private tours that cruise through the area.

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Custom 12 hour tour route and positive impact stop

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Positive impact tour

Group Rates from
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In Hawaii, we ask visitors to respect every place we visit. At Tantalus, that means enjoying the view safely, staying on paths, and helping keep the area clean and green for the next traveler.

Choose Route

Pick from iconic destinations like Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, or a majestic Circle Island adventure to perfect your getaway!

Plan By Time

Enjoy a half-day excursion or a full-day adventure. You can go all out with a sunrise-to-sunset tour and make the most of your day.

Tour Locations

Customize your private tour with family favorites, local cuisine, shopping, hiking, and visits to some of the islands best beaches.

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More ideas from Halia Private Tours

We’ve shared this drive with guests worldwide, and the view still takes our breath away. That moment when the trees open up, and the city appears, never gets old. So stay in touch and maybe we’ll see you up there.

Love scenic stops like Tantalus, or do you want something totally different? Check out our guides and blog for more drives, lookouts, and island stories you won’t want to miss.

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Halia Private tours

Visit great Honolulu scenic lookouts

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