Pali Puka: Oahu's Windward Window
- Stephen Warner
- Aug 25, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 3
This short but spectacular ridge hike on Oʻahu offers a thrilling ascent, narrow ridges, and nonstop views of the island’s lush windward side. The trail ends at the namesake puka—a natural hole in the rock that frames the coastline like a window into paradise.
Trail Info
Trailhead Name | Pali Puka |
Distance | ~1 miles / 1.6 km (out and back) |
Estimated time | ~1 hour |
Elevation gain | 400 ft / 120 m |
Highest point | 1,800 ft / 550 m (Above puka) |
Permits / fees | $7 parking fee |
Parking | Pali Lookout parking lot |
Toilets? | No |
Dog friendly? | No (steep climbs, narrow ridges) |
Know before you go
There is a parking fee of $7 for non-Hawaii residents at the Pali Lookout lot.
Expect narrow, exposed sections. While some parts can be bypassed via wooded side paths, this isn’t the hike for those with a fear of heights.
The trail requires scrambling. Ropes assist in a few steeper spots, but reaching the puka itself requires a short, ropeless scramble.
This trail can get very muddy and slippery. This area of Oahu gets plenty of rain, making conditions messy—and scrambles more treacherous—on wet days.
Other trails/alternate routes
Pali Notches is the infamous neighboring trail with even more extreme climbing. If Pali Puka’s narrow ridges test your nerves, steer clear of the Notches
It's possible to continue past Pali Puka up to the Lanihuli saddle.This is an extremely technical and exposed ridge route, recommended only for experienced hikers familiar with Hawaiʻi’s most dangerous trails.
The Trail
The trail begins at the northern end of the parking lot, marked by a small hole in the rock wall.
The climb starts right away to reach the ridgeline. No warm-up on this trail!
It doesn’t take long before you’re rewarded with epic views. You can really get a sense of how far the Koʻolau Mountain Range stretches north.
The climb continues upward. Fortunately, a few ropes help with the steeper sections. If it’s been raining, this part can be a muddy mess. Try to catch the trail on a dry day if you can.
Some parts of the trail are crazy narrow, like this spot Indre is bravely navigating. The most exposed sections (like this one) often have alternate paths through the trees if you're looking for a safer option.
Almost there! The puka itself is possible to miss—it’s actually located down and to the left at the end of the ridge.
Reaching it requires a short down-climb to puka level. It’s the most technical part of the trail in my opinion, but only about a 6-7 foot climb.
And there it is: the Windward Window! (Think that nickname will stick?)
And here’s the crew who made it there with me—always a thrill hiking to this Windward gem!
SS Reflections
Pali Puka is one of my go-to “bang for your buck” hikes. The views are incredible, your heart will be pounding, and those skinny ridgelines are just edgy enough to make you feel really alive. But what truly sets this trail apart is the puka itself—a natural rock window that feels like a secret portal to another world. It’s one of those rare places where nature throws in a little extra magic.
Other helpful resources
Noah Lang Photography's post about this hike