Pali Highway : Hawaii

If you are looking for a scenic drive on Oahu, you might want to check out the Pali Highway. This highway connects downtown Honolulu with the windward side of the island, offering stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and ocean along the way.

The Pali Highway, officially designated as Hawaii Route 61, is about 11 miles long and takes about 20 minutes to drive without traffic. It starts from Route 98 in Honolulu and ends at Hamakua Drive in Kailua. Along the way, you will pass through the Nuʻuanu Valley and the residential neighborhood of Nuʻuanu, where you can find historic sites like the Oahu Cemetery and the Royal Mausoleum of Hawaii. You will also go through the Nuʻuanu Pali Tunnels, which are two 900-foot-long tunnels that cut through the Koʻolau mountain range.

One of the highlights of the Pali Highway is the Pali Lookout, which is a scenic spot that offers panoramic views of the windward coast and the Kāneʻohe Bay. The lookout is also a historic site, as it was where King Kamehameha I defeated his rivals in 1795 and unified Oahu under his rule. The lookout is accessible by a short detour from the highway and has a parking lot, restrooms, and a gift shop.

The Pali Highway is not only a scenic drive, but also a cultural and historical one. It follows much of the same route as the original Pali road, which was built over ancient Hawaiian footpaths that traversed the Pali pass. The Pali pass was the most easily accessible route from the windward to Honolulu side, as much of the Koʻolau range has steep cliffs that make it nearly impossible to cross over safely. The word "Pali" means cliff in Hawaiian.

The original Pali road was closed when the current highway and its tunnels opened in 1959. The old road is now used by hikers and is known for its spiritual connections and ghost stories. Some people believe that the old road is haunted by the spirits of the warriors who died in the battle of Nuʻuanu or by other supernatural beings.

The Pali Highway is a great way to experience some of Oahu's natural beauty and history. It is also a convenient way to get from Honolulu to Kailua or Kāneʻohe, where you can enjoy some of the island's best beaches, parks, and attractions. Whether you are driving for pleasure or necessity, you will surely enjoy this awe-inspiring drive.