Continue up Pali Highway and through the tunnel. The next stop will be at the Pali Lookout. Exiting the tunnels will signal that you have now returned to Oahu's south shore. Position yourself into the right lane since the turn off is just ahead on the right.
The Nuuanu Pali is the location where King Kamehameha fought his final battle to unify the Hawaiian Islands under one rule. His warriors were relentless and won their battle by shoving their opposition over the Koolau cliffs to their deaths. Today, it offers beautiful views of the windward side. Kaneohe is on the left, Kailua is on the right and the Pali Highway lies below. This area of Oahu can get quite windy at times. Grab a few pictures and continue when ready. Return to the Pali Highway via the same road that took you to the Lookout. Once back on the Highway, get into the left lane and turn left at the "Old Pali Road" sign. You could continue along the highway, but this little detour brings some quick and interesting atmosphere and scenery. Old Pali Road is the original road that was built to cross the Koolaus back when many were on horseback. The road across the Pali was a thrill and definitely a better and shorter alternative than getting to the windward side via Makapu'u. Many of Hawaii's richest and most affluent lived and still live along Old Pali road. The older homes in this area are among the largest on the island. The canopies of trees along this road completely block out the sun. This road is full of many tight bends, so be careful to mind the speed limit. Along this road there is another hiking trail called "Jackass Ginger." This is a muddy trail used by many to get to the wonderful swimming hole. It is an easy hike, but it can be slippery and sometimes even crowded.
Return to Pali Highway at the intersection and continue along this stretch of highway toward the H-1 freeway. This part of the highway takes you through Nuuanu Valley and through the area where most of the foreign consulates are located. Korean, Philippine to name just two. Also along this part of the road is Queen Emma's Summer Palace. It is now a museum.
Continue along Pali Highway until you reach the intersection of Pali Highway and Vineyard Boulevard. Arriving at this intersection announces your official arrival into downtown Honolulu.
