Kalalau Lookout
Kalalau Lookout in Koke’e State Park, Kauai
If you are planning a visit to Waimea Canyon in Kauai, you must definitely plan a stop at the Kalalau Lookout!
One of the best roadside lookouts at Waimea Canyon, the Kalalau Lookout is located in Koke’e State Park and offers spectacular views over the Kalalau Valley, which is part of Kauai’s famous Na Pali Coast.
The Kalalau Lookout is easy to access, since it is one of the lookouts along Koke’e Road, the main road that runs through Koke’e State Park.
In fact, it is the highest point on Kauai that you can reach solely by road!
Considering a visit to Waimea Canyon? Be sure to check out our Waimea Canyon guide for all the details you need to plan!
And if you’re just starting to plan your visit to Kauai, check out some of the top things to do in Kauai, many of which you absolutely don’t want to miss!
The View from the Kalalau Lookout
There are very few places on Kauai that offer views of its legendary but remote Na Pali Coast, and that’s one of the reasons why you would want to book a helicopter tour over Kauai or a boat cruise of the Na Pali Coast.
The Kalalau Lookout, and the Puu O Kila Lookout, also in Koke’e State Park, are among the best places to admire the Na Pali Coast from land.
On a clear day, you will be captivated by the unobstructed views of the jewel-green Kalalau Valley, and the deep blue Pacific Ocean beyond. The jagged cliffs that border the valley rise straight up, creating a dramatic sight.
Kalalau Valley is one of the widest valleys in Kauai and was, in fact, settled by Hawaiians in times past. Folks lived in the valley until the early 1900s.
Today, intrepid hikers can hike the arduous Kalalau Trail into the valley (11 miles each way). But the Kalalau Lookout is an easy way to savor its otherworldly beauty!
While the views are undoubtedly magnificent on a clear, bright day, the valley and the cliffs also look sensational with wispy clouds floating about. On such days, you may also see a rainbow (or even two!), creating a magical and memorable sight.
The length of the viewing area is a few yards, so walk the length and take in the view from different angles!
Also pause to read the informational sign that tells you about the Kalalau Valley and what you see.
Walking back to the parking lot from the viewing area at Kalalau Lookout, you get great views of Koke’e Observatory.
How to Get to Kalalau Lookout
Kalalau Lookout is part of Koke’e State Park, which adjoins Waimea Canyon State Park.
To get to the Kalalau Lookout is a breeze if you plan to drive. Take Highway 50 West to Highway 550 North (Waimea Canyon Drive to Koke’e Road inside the parks).
You can also take Highway 50 West to Highway 552 North (Koke’e Road).
Kalalau Lookout Parking
Kalalau Lookout parking can be found at Mile Marker 18 along Koke’e Road, along with public restrooms.
There is a large sign at the lookout.
The parking lot is a decent size and you should generally have no trouble finding a parking spot.
From the parking lot, it is a short and mildly uphill walk to the viewing area.
Kalalau Lookout Map
Things to Know Before Your Visit to the Kalalau Lookout
Visit in the morning for better visibility
It is best to visit the Kalalau Lookout early in the day. As the day wears on, chances are higher that clouds will roll in and obstruct the views.
Don’t go too early though, because the valley may be in shadow depending on the time of year.
If there are clouds, wait!
If you arrive at Kalalau Lookout and find that clouds are obstructing your views, wait for a few minutes if your itinerary allows.
You may find that the clouds part, allowing you to capture the gorgeous sight of the valley and the ocean!
Bring a poncho!
Showers are common in Koke’e State Park (and indeed all over Kauai), so it’s prudent to keep lightweight ponchos in the trunk of your car (or in your bag).
Carry a light jacket
Kalalau Lookout is located at an elevation of 4,000 feet above sea level. It can be several degrees cooler here, and breezy as well, so bring a light jacket to stay warm as you enjoy the views!