Tantalus Round Top Drive

Tantalus Round Top Drive snakes through Oahu’s Koolau Mountains above Honolulu, where bamboo forests and eucalyptus groves frame panoramic views of the entire south shore. The narrow, winding road climbs to Pu’u Ualaka’a State Wayside, where the Tantalus Lookout delivers postcard views of Diamond Head, Waikiki’s hotel towers, and Pearl Harbor stretching toward the airport. Sharp switchbacks and one-lane sections demand attention, but the payoff includes some of the best sunset viewing on the island.

Stock vehicles handle this paved route easily, though the narrow sections and steep grades require cautious driving. Rain makes the road slick, and trade winds can buffet vehicles on exposed ridges. No permits needed, but parking fills quickly at sunset. The route connects to several hiking trails, including the Manoa Cliffs Trail. Best visited during clear weather for maximum visibility—cloudy days leave you driving through fog with zero views. This quick escape from Honolulu’s chaos delivers mountain solitude just minutes from the city.