At the end of Highway 550 in Kōkeʻe State Park on Kauaʻi, Puʻu O Kila Lookout opens onto Kalalau Valley, the Na Pali cliffs and the Alakaʻi Swamp. From the viewpoint, you can take in the ridges and deep valley, then continue onto Pihea Trail for a closer look at the landscape. The short paved walk from the parking area is about 0.2 miles. Arrive early for a better chance of seeing the valley before clouds gather, and allow extra time if road access requires a walk to the lookout.
Views over Kalalau Valley
Puʻu O Kila Lookout sits at the end of Highway 550 in Kōkeʻe State Park. Its vantage point looks down into Kalalau Valley, with the steep ridges of the Na Pali Coast beyond. The view also takes in Alakaʻi Swamp, which lies behind the lookout toward the Waialeale summit.
Clouds can obscure the valley, then shift enough to open the view. If the lookout is clouded over when you arrive, waiting a while may give you another chance to see the landscape. Morning is a useful time to plan for clearer conditions, though weather can change during a visit.
The lookout and Pihea Trail
A paved path of about 0.2 miles connects the parking area to the official viewpoint. Pihea Trail begins in the lookout area, so you can add a walk along the ridge without committing to a long hike. The trail continues toward Alakaʻi Swamp, but conditions can be steep, muddy and slippery, particularly in wet weather. Walking poles or a hiking stick can help on the trail.
Road access may be temporarily closed, which can mean a brisk walk of around 30 minutes to reach the lookout. Check access conditions before setting out and leave time for the walk if the closure is in effect. Pay for parking, and brush dirt from your shoes after walking the trail as a simple way to limit the spread of material between areas.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Puʻu O Kila Lookout?
It is at the end of Highway 550 in Kōkeʻe State Park on Kauaʻi.
Does Pihea Trail start at Puʻu O Kila Lookout?
Yes. The trail begins in the lookout area and continues along the ridge toward Alakaʻi Swamp.
When is the best time to visit Puʻu O Kila Lookout?
Go early for a better chance of seeing the valley before clouds gather. Conditions can change, so a clouded view may clear if you wait.
How long is the walk to the viewpoint?
The paved path from the parking area to the official lookout is about 0.2 miles. A temporary road closure can require a brisk walk of around 30 minutes.
