The Breathtaking Overlook In Hawaii That Lets You See For Miles And Miles
By Megan Shute|Published August 09, 2018
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Megan Shute
Author
With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
The Hawaiian Islands are home to unsurpassed natural beauty, and you are sure to find stunning views, panoramic landscapes, and signs leading to scenic overlooks around every turn. But while there are countless scenic overlooks found across the Hawaiian Islands, this spot nestled along the Maui coast stands out in a crowd — and deserves a spot on your Aloha State bucket list.
With sweeping views of the vast, sparkling blue Pacific Ocean and several Hawaiian Islands, the Papawai Scenic Overlook is a true gem hiding in plain sight.
Nestled along Maui’s northwestern coast south of Lahaina, many people drive right on by this scenic overlook. Those in the know, however, make a stop to soak in the islands’ natural beauty and see for miles and miles in nearly all directions.
Hobby and professional photographers alike love this dreamy destination — and it’s easy to see why. The contrast between the golden hills and the blue Pacific is truly dynamic.
Not only will visitors witness panoramic views of Maui’s coast, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean but you can also see the neighboring islands of Kaho’olawe, Molokini, and Lanai.
During the winter months from December through April, this a popular spot for whale watching, as the area off the coast is designated as a Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. It is common to see whales frolicking off the coast — no binoculars or fancy whale watching cruise required.
Did we happen to mention that the sunsets here are truly remarkable as well? The sun sets the sky ablaze with a display of vibrant colors as it slips behind the horizon, reflecting on the Pacific the entire time, of course. Be aware, though: the parking lot can get full around sunset. Arrive early or be patient.
Whether you stop by on your way to or from Lahaina or make a special trip out to Papawai Scenic Lookout, you won’t be disappointed. The views are truly second to none.
The Papawai Scenic Overlook is located between mile markers 8 and 9 along the Honoapiilani Highway between Maalaea and Lahaina. Have you ever stopped at this lookout point to admire the views? If you’d like to discover more incredible overlooks across the Hawaiian Islands, click here.
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