Oʻahu › Windward Side (Kailua to Kualoa)

Sights on the Windward Side

Cross the Koʻolau and the island turns emerald: fluted cliffs, quiet temples, and a coastline of islets.

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Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout

A wind-blasted cliff edge over the whole windward coast — and a pivotal battlefield.

<p>The gap where Kamehameha's forces drove defenders over the precipice in 1795, uniting Oʻahu under his rule. Today the lookout serves a 1,000-foot panorama and trade winds strong enough to lean into. Small parking fee; hold onto your hat literally.</p>

Time: 30 minutes

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Byodo-In Temple

A scarlet Japanese temple replica beneath the fluted Koʻolau cliffs.

<p>In the Valley of the Temples, this smaller-scale replica of Kyoto's 950-year-old Byodo-in sits among koi ponds and black swans against an impossibly green cliff backdrop. Ring the three-ton bell before entering; modest entry fee.</p>

Time: 1 hour