Laie Point State Wayside, Honolulu - Ocean view.
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Laie Point State Wayside Honolulu

4.8
·2k reviews·Laie, United States

Breathtaking point on Oahu's northeast coast, famous for its dramatic sea arch and sweeping ocean vistas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Anytime

Quick stop, always beautiful

CrowdLow
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Laie Point State Wayside, Honolulu - Ocean view.

Laie Point State Wayside Honolulu

Best Time

Anytime

Quick stop, always beautiful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Breathtaking point on Oahu's northeast coast, famous for its dramatic sea arch and sweeping ocean vistas.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"Absolutely stunning view of the rock and the ocean! It's a quick stop for a scenic experience of a lifetime."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Limited Parking

Parking is very tight and limited to about 10 spots. Be prepared for a quick visit.

🌊 Respectful Visit

This spot is at the end of a residential street. Be respectful of the local residents and their property.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sea Arch

The Sea Arch

Offshore island

Marvel at the iconic sea arch carved by the ocean, a truly unique geological wonder.

Panoramic Ocean Views

Panoramic Ocean Views

Laie Point

Soak in sweeping vistas of the vast Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline.

Tsunami Hole

Tsunami Hole

Laie Point

Witness the impressive 'tsunami hole,' a dramatic natural formation.

Planning Your Visit

Quick Scenic Stop

Laie Point is a breathtaking, quick stop for stunning ocean views and a unique sea arch. Parking is limited and tight, so be prepared for a brief visit and respect the local residents.

Respect Local Residents

This picturesque point is located at the end of a residential street. Always be mindful and respectful of the homes and residents nearby. Parking is scarce, so plan for a short, impactful visit.

Best Times

When
Anytime
Why
Quick stop, always beautiful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Things to do in East Oahu, Hawaii 🌺 Honolulu is pretty, but don’t forget about the other parts of Oahu. So make sure to take a trip for at least one day out of Honolulu to explore the island ☺️ 1. 📍Kualoa Ranch 2.📍Yummy Huli Huli Chicken 3.📍Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden 4.📍Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout 5.📍Lanikai Beach #Hawaii #hawaiitravel #oahu #oahuhawaii #eastoahu #oahuthingstodo #oahuactivities #hawai...
@maiapapayax
62.2K likes • 1M views

🚗 Limited Parking

Parking is very tight and limited to about 10 spots. Be prepared for a quick visit. Reddit

🌊 Respectful Visit

This spot is at the end of a residential street. Be respectful of the local residents and their property. Reddit

Visiting O’ahu and want an easy hike? Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail is paved, only about 2 miles round trip, and has stunning panoramic ocean views—plus, during winter, you might even spot whales! 🐳 • • • #oahu #oahuhawaii #hawaii #honolulu #hawaiivacation #makapuulighthouse #travel #whalewatching #Hiking #fyp #CapCut
@adventuring.allie
30.4K likes • 291.5K views
Ever seen Forgetting Sarah Marshall?! #cliffjump #forgettingsarahmarshall #laiepoint #northshore #hawaii @chrishenry_ @summersitler
mjhenryy
131 likes • 0 views

📸 Photo Opportunity

A fantastic, quick stop for stunning photos of the ocean and sea arch. Reddit

🎣 Shore Fishing

You might see shore fishermen here, sometimes catching impressive fish! Reddit

unable to cliff jump due to strong currents + massive waves, looks like we’ll have to come back…
nat.brackk
47 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Limited Parking

Parking is very tight and limited to about 10 spots. Be prepared for a quick visit. Reddit

🌊 Respectful Visit

This spot is at the end of a residential street. Be respectful of the local residents and their property. Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunity

A fantastic, quick stop for stunning photos of the ocean and sea arch. Reddit

🎣 Shore Fishing

You might see shore fishermen here, sometimes catching impressive fish! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Laie Point for its absolutely stunning ocean views and the unique sea arch, calling it a 'hidden gem' and a 'must stop.' The dramatic scenery offers a moment of reflection. However, many note that parking is extremely limited and tight, and it's crucial to be respectful of the residential neighborhood.

"Gorgeous look out, parking was was tricky with only about 10 spaces that were super tight. Mostly for people to come and go within 10 mins.

Keep in mind to be respectful to the residents as the space is right at their entrances."

Meg

"Absolutely beautiful hidden gem. This is at the end of a residual street, so be respectful of their street. There is no real parking to speak of, but phenomenal spot to grab some pictures and reflect on your island visit."

Ron West

"Great stop when driving thru Laie. Parking is hard to come by, and the rocks can be dangerous. Always big surf out there, and sometimes there are shore fishermen here. The hole from the tsunami is impressive! This is one of my "must stops" on our Oahu visits. Make the trip out to the point if you find yourself in Laie."

Michael Lowe

What People Like

Gorgeous ocean views
Unique sea arch
Quick scenic stop

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Residential area

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Laie Point State Wayside is located on the northeastern side of Oahu. From Honolulu, you can drive east along the coast, passing through towns like Kailua and Kaneohe. The drive takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. It's a scenic route, often recommended as part of a larger North Shore exploration. TikTok

Laie Point is situated at the end of a residential street in Laie. While the point itself is well-known for its views, the access road can be a bit unassuming. Look for signs indicating the wayside or follow your GPS carefully. Reddit

Laie Point is best explored by car, as it's part of a scenic drive around the island. Once you arrive, it's a short walk to the viewpoints. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Laie Point State Wayside is a public access point and does not charge an entrance fee. It's a free scenic overlook. Reddit

As an open-air scenic wayside, Laie Point is accessible at all hours. However, it's best visited during daylight for safety and optimal viewing. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The main viewpoint offers stunning shots of the sea arch and the expansive ocean. Be mindful of the residential setting when framing your photos. Reddit

While some videos show cliff jumping, it's strongly advised against due to dangerous currents and massive waves. The area can be hazardous. Instagram

Landscape photography is very popular here, capturing the dramatic sea arch and ocean. Some visitors also enjoy photographing the local marine life if conditions permit. Reddit

🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience

Laie Point is primarily a scenic overlook. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views, take photos, and appreciate the natural beauty. It's a perfect spot for a brief, reflective stop during an island drive. Reddit

There are no major facilities like restrooms or picnic areas at Laie Point State Wayside. It's a natural viewpoint, so come prepared. Reddit

Due to limited parking and its nature as a quick scenic stop, Laie Point is best for short visits, typically 10-15 minutes. Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the terrain can be uneven. Given the ocean proximity, light, breathable clothing is ideal. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Laie Point State Wayside is a great quick stop for families looking for a scenic break during an island drive. The main draw is the stunning ocean view and the unique sea arch, which can captivate children's imaginations. However, due to limited parking and its location at the end of a residential street, it's best suited for short visits. Ensure children stay close and supervised, especially near the water's edge, as the terrain can be uneven and the ocean powerful. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers

For those on an Oahu road trip, Laie Point is an essential and easy addition to your itinerary, especially when exploring the North Shore. It's a perfect spot to pull over for 10-15 minutes to stretch your legs and capture some incredible photos. Combine it with a stop at Ted's Bakery for their famous chocolate haupia pie or explore nearby attractions like Kualoa Ranch. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Laie Point's Sea Arch

Laie Point State Wayside is most famous for its dramatic sea arch, a natural rock formation sculpted by the relentless power of the ocean. This iconic feature, visible just offshore, is a photographer's dream and a testament to the island's geological history. The arch is a key reason many visitors make the trek to this northeastern Oahu gem. Reddit

The arch is particularly striking when viewed from the main lookout point. It's a perfect example of coastal erosion at work, creating a unique and memorable landmark. While you can't walk to it, its presence dominates the seascape and offers a truly unforgettable visual experience. Reddit

Many visitors find themselves captivated by the arch, often spending their short visit trying to capture its essence through photographs. It's a natural wonder that embodies the wild beauty of Oahu's coastline.

Navigating Parking and Respecting the Neighborhood

One of the most frequently mentioned aspects of visiting Laie Point is the parking situation. With only about 10 parking spaces, they are described as 'super tight' and are primarily for visitors making a quick stop. This means that if you arrive when it's busy, you might have to wait or circle back. Reddit

Crucially, Laie Point is located at the end of a residential street. Visitors are consistently reminded to be respectful of the local residents and their homes. This means keeping noise levels down, not trespassing, and being mindful of where you park if you have to wait. The community aspect is a significant part of the experience here, and respecting it ensures the wayside remains a pleasant stop for everyone. Reddit

The advice from locals and frequent visitors is clear: treat this beautiful spot with care and consideration for those who live there. This ensures that the natural beauty can be enjoyed without causing inconvenience to the community.

Beyond the View: Local Insights and Safety

While Laie Point is a quick stop, it offers more than just a pretty view. Some visitors have noted the presence of shore fishermen, who sometimes catch impressively large fish, adding a dynamic element to the scene. Reddit It's a reminder of the ocean's bounty and the local connection to the sea. Reddit

However, it's vital to be aware of the inherent dangers associated with the location. The waves here can be massive, and the currents strong, making activities like cliff jumping extremely risky, as highlighted by some social media content. Instagram The 'tsunami hole' is a dramatic feature, but it also signifies the powerful forces at play. Always stay on designated paths and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

The consensus is that Laie Point is a must-see for its scenic beauty, but safety and respect for the local environment and community should always be top priorities. It's a place to pause, admire, and reflect, rather than an adventure park.

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