My favorite view of Honolulu at night is from the top of ‘Alewa Heights. You don’t run into tourists there since it is a quiet, residential zone. But a friend of mine took me there the first week after I moved to O’ahu. We took my uncle’s rickety, old van up the mountain (which was an adventure in itself). The roads are steep and only worsen as you climb higher. 

Once there, you are treated to an unobstructed view of Honolulu. At night, it is breathtaking! The sight of the lights twinkling below had me falling in love with the island instantaneously. My eyes only strayed to make sure the van hadn’t rolled down the mountain!  Scary as the incline may be, I envy the lucky bums who live up there. =)

Sadly, I don’t have exact direction on how to get there since I always went with my friend as navigator. We usually first enter Houghtailing St. off of School street, right on Hillcrest, left Skyline Drive, right on Puna, left on Aulii which becomes Alewa Drive and just follow that street up. There are curves and turns that may be confusing. If you look at a map, you can probably figure out your way to the top. I would recommend driving a sturdier vehicle with good brakes, if you decide to go.

If you actually decide to go, be careful driving. And if you go at night, be mindful of the residents.  They will not be happy if noisy tourists start disrespecting their neighborhood.