📸 Kalalau Lookout | Kauai, Hawaii
📝 My Story
Kalalau Lookout offers one of the most jaw-dropping views anywhere in Hawaii — and honestly, anywhere in the world.
Situated high above the Kalalau Valley along the rim of Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast, the lookout provides an unforgettable panorama of rugged cliffs, lush valleys, and the endless blue of the Pacific Ocean.
At about 4,000 feet elevation, you're literally above the clouds some days.
When we visited, we were lucky to catch glimpses between the drifting mist — watching the sunlight pour into the valley was pure magic.
Even if it's cloudy when you arrive (which happens often), don't rush off — sometimes all it takes is a few minutes for the clouds to part and reveal the breathtaking view below.
This spot is one you truly won't want to miss while exploring Koke'e State Park and Waimea Canyon!
🌎 Location
📌 Quick Info
🏙️ City: Koke'e State Park, Kauai
🅿️ Parking: Free small lot at the lookout
🚻 Bathrooms: Available further up at Koke'e Lodge and Museum
🚲 Bike Rentals: Not available
🧭 Travel Tip: Weather changes quickly — wait for cloud breaks for epic views
📸 Photographer’s Note: A wide-angle lens captures the sweeping valley; polarizer helps with the mist
🛐 Etiquette: Stay on designated paths and lookout areas
🕰️ Best Time to Explore: Early morning for the clearest skies
♿ Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible paved path to viewing area
💡 Pro Tip
Clouds tend to build throughout the day — try to arrive early in the morning for your best chance of a clear view.
📸 Photography Tip
Bring a wide-angle lens (around 16–35mm) to truly capture the vastness of Kalalau Valley.
Patience is key: wait for moments when the clouds drift apart to unveil those postcard-worthy shots.
🎉 Fun Fact
The Kalalau Valley is so remote that it’s only accessible by a strenuous 11-mile hike on the Kalalau Trail, by boat, or by helicopter.
Few visitors ever actually set foot in the valley — most admire its breathtaking beauty from this lookout!
🗺️ Planning Your Own Hawaii Adventure?
If you’re planning your own trip to Kauai (or anywhere across Hawaii), you can find this hidden gem — and many more — on my public travel map:
👉 View My Hawaii Travel Map Here ➔
🌺 Return to Main Hawaii Travel Story
Want to read the full story of our unforgettable adventure across Kauai and Maui?
👉 Click here to explore our complete Hawaii Travel Journal ➔
