The Ni'ihau Lookout at Waimea Canyon State Park in Waimea, Hawaii
(Kauai) is an easy 0.1-miile out-and-back
trail that leads to a vista of the island of Ni'ihau (Niihau) alongside the Lehua Crater on the horizon.
This is not a hike, but rather a quick walk along a dirt path that leads to the lookout. At the lookout is a very old sign, as of June 2022, with information about Niihau; however, due to weathering, it's extremely difficult to read. Alternatively, Wikipedia has a really interesting page on Ni'ihau where folks can learn more about the dry, isolated, and privately-owned island. The lookout itself seems very old, like it hasn't been maintained in years since trees are now starting to overtake parts of the view.
Parking & Fees
Visitors will find a large parking lot at the coordinates provided. The lot is large enough to fit several dozen vehicles and overflow parking can be found on the road. There's a vehicle entry fee in addition to individual fees as of June, 2022. By paying for one parking lot, the tickets are valid for all parking lots that require fees for both the Waimea Canyon State Park and Koke'e State Park. Note that for visitors with valid Hawaiian drivers licenses, there are no fees to park or enter.
Respecting the Land
Hawaiian land is considered sacred to native Hawaiians and many locals, so please stay on-trail, take nothing but photos, and leave nothing but footprints. Respect the locals - don't stay for long and have a backup hike planned in case the parking lot is full.
This is not a hike, but rather a quick walk along a dirt path that leads to the lookout. At the lookout is a very old sign, as of June 2022, with information about Niihau; however, due to weathering, it's extremely difficult to read. Alternatively, Wikipedia has a really interesting page on Ni'ihau where folks can learn more about the dry, isolated, and privately-owned island. The lookout itself seems very old, like it hasn't been maintained in years since trees are now starting to overtake parts of the view.
Parking & Fees
Visitors will find a large parking lot at the coordinates provided. The lot is large enough to fit several dozen vehicles and overflow parking can be found on the road. There's a vehicle entry fee in addition to individual fees as of June, 2022. By paying for one parking lot, the tickets are valid for all parking lots that require fees for both the Waimea Canyon State Park and Koke'e State Park. Note that for visitors with valid Hawaiian drivers licenses, there are no fees to park or enter.
Respecting the Land
Hawaiian land is considered sacred to native Hawaiians and many locals, so please stay on-trail, take nothing but photos, and leave nothing but footprints. Respect the locals - don't stay for long and have a backup hike planned in case the parking lot is full.
