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    Nu'uanu Pali State Wayside

    4.4 (225 reviews)

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    Maxine P.

    We enjoyed our little side trip to the Nu'uanu Pali Lookout for a few different reasons. We were coming back from visiting a a Botanical Gardens on the Windward side and thought we'd check it out. Took the exit which took us through a lush forested road. Being locals we are not charged for parking, a nice perk that saved us 7.00. Upon arrival it was very windy. Hard to describe why the wind is a part of the attraction to this Historic sight but it is. Walking up to the lookout you will see multiple signs providing infortion about this location. The wind is double the normal strength as other areas of the island sometimes reaching speeds of 70 miles. It's created by trade winds blowing between mountains creating a natural wind tunnel that hits the side of the cliffs and heads to the lookout. It's a very unique experience. Aside from the wind fun, there is information about the Hawaiian battle fought here by King Kamehameha's warriors to unite the Hawaii islands. Their opposition lost their life being pushed back over the 900 foot cliffs during the battle. While viewing the stunning views below one wouldn't think of the loss of life in the location which also included a world II plane that crashed near by. I think some might say the location is haunted. There also hiking trails near by, although I would go on a less windy day than what we experienced. I would highly recommend a quick drive up here when vacationing in O'ahu.

    Sam R.

    Wednesday, 3/02/2021 - Stopped by Nu'uanu Pali State Wayside to check out the beautiful view. We stopped only for a quick photo and a quick look out. There is paid parking. Next time we'll explore this area. Located at Honolulu, HI 96817.

    Whodda thunk you'd see a cat and chickens hanging out together at the Pali Lookout???
    Herman E.

    I swear, every time I visit Oahu, I come here at least once. Sometimes twice. Brings back childhood memories I guess. Majestic views of the windward side of the island and the valley below. Don't run over any chickens when you're visiting here. $3 for parking.

    View on a clear day
    Scott F.

    Great spot to check out if you go to the other side of Oahu. You get to experience high speed winds while getting a good view of the island. The view changes depending on the weather. There were also some wildlife on the lookout.

    Stefanie C.

    On our last day in Hawaii, my fiancé and I met up with friends that suggested a hike near Pali Puka. The actual hike will be in a separate review (we ended up doing Pali Notches) but for a few minutes, we enjoyed the view of the lookout point. It was a pain to get to Pali Puka because of the amount of construction at the time. Fortunately we arrived so early in the morning that there was no one else in the parking lot. It got insanely busy later, and there's not much other parking nearby. What baffled me was having to pay for parking if you're not a Hawaii resident. It's not like they even check. If you ARE going to pay for parking, it's most worthwhile to go hiking for a few hours. Or carpool. The view is beautiful but better from atop the mountain.

    Nu'uanu Pali Lookout.
    Cindy Z.

    As you drive down HI-61, you're pass through sweeping views of greenery. Make a quick turnout to Nuuanu Pali Lookout, which is a section of the windward cliff of the Koolau mountain. There's a parking lot where you pay $2 by machine. This is quick stop as we spent only about 15-20 minutes here. Although short and sweet, the panoramic view of the coast of Oahu is gorgeous. It was amazing just watching the shadows of the cloud cross along the forest below. It's truly a sight to see, but don't expect too much as there is only one view from here.

    Vin S.

    Breath-taking views of the east coast and mountains. The Nu'uanu Pali overlook is worth the very short drive from 63 up to the crest of the old, crazy-steep and scary Pali Road. There is a lot of history here. From the battles of King Kamehameha where hundreds plunged to their deaths below, to the tortured construction of a drivable but insane road, this spot is definitely interesting. Most people only stay a few minutes. You good citizens are encouraged to pay for parking, which is kinda silly. Nobody I saw paid anything.

    $7 for about 10mins of views? Nah... drive on unless your a local and it's free for you.
    Weston W.

    The view is great and worth a drive off the highway... but $7 to park!?, no bathrooms, no trails and nothing more than a scenic-overlook? Frankly I would have felt my money was well spent if they'd had a docent on hand to point out key features or history but just old signs covered in COVID social distancing BS? Not worth the 5-star view. Local can park free however so if you live in Hawaii it's worth the stop but I'd bet locals never use it. Punch bowl is a better use of your time frankly.

    Pali Lookout! Kualoa Ranch and Chinaman's hat in the distance on the left side.
    Jessica P.

    "Ohhhh," "Ahhhh," and "Can you take my photo?" are just a few common reactions from our guests whenever we bring them here. It's definitely a good indication that this landmark should be on ones itinerary, especially if there's already a plan to drive over the mountain to visit Kailua or Kaneohe from Honolulu. Even if you live here, the change in weather is a change in scenery, so there's always something new to see. A little bit of wind (okay maybe a lot!), some rain, sunshine, and cloudy blue skies are always in the mix! The incredible views are one thing. The deep historical significance is another. Named "Pali" meaning 'cliff' in Hawaiian, the Pali Lookout is an ancient site of the Battle of Nuuanu, where in 1795 King Kamehameha I won the struggle that finally united the Hawaiian Islands under his rule. As you stand behind the walls protecting you from the sheer cliff that drops thousands of feet below, let that history move you in some way or another. Can you envision warriors climbing up that thing? Holy shmokes! Parking is $3 per POV, so it says. The nice thing is residents are free! I've recently noticed parking reinforcement in the area, which is nice because his/her presence probably helps to keep the lot safe from crooks wanting to take personal belongings left behind. Just bring those items with you, just in case! There are a lot of feral chickens in the area, so don't be alarmed to hear roosters crowing. Some of them hide in the trees, but most of them also roam the roads running alongside their chickadees. P.S. When it's windy....Gentleman, hold on to those hats! Ladies, bring a brush for after the visit. Oh! Lots of bees flying around or even holding tight on the ground when it's really windy. There are a few hiking trails in the area, too. If you look up to your right or left from the lookout, you might even spot some humans standing on top of the peaks of those sharp pointed mountains! You'll have to find other reviews on that topic because ya won't be seeing me up there. Oh golly, no. N. O. Lol.

    01.04.16
    May A.

    Beautiful landscape! January 4, 2016 Stopped by here at the Pali Lookout to view the beautiful panoramic scenery of the windward coast of Oahu. The Lookout is located right above the tunnels. Windward is in the northeast side and you can see Kaneohe, Kaneohe Bay and Kailua. Free admission but there is fee for parking. We came pretty late in the day so there was lots of parking and a police or security parked at the entrance of the parking lot. Tourist buses come by here as it is a popular tourist spot. Hiking trails were closed when we visited. There is lots of greenery and mountains around. Spectacular and lovely picturesque overlook that goes beyond what your eyes can see. But, oh man, the wind! It was extremely windy. We came to view the scenic lookout around 7:30p and felt that strong trade winds that blows through the pass at the Nuuanu Pali Tunnels, which is what Pali Lookout is also well known for. I wouldn't bring anything that will be easily blown away by the wind like hats or caps... or toupees? Bring some warm clothes or light jacket. To give you an idea on how windy it can get up here, on extra windy days, you can lean into the wind and let the gusts hold you up. Crazy winds! If the gusts blow you off your feet, you're probably in for a hard landing! There is a history to this place. The Nuuanu Pali was the setting for one of the most important and bloodiest battles in Hawaiian history in King Kamehameha's campaign to conquer all of Hawaii. Hundreds of warriors were pushed over the lookout, and fell to their untimely deaths. There have been several reports of their lost souls seen wandering this area after dark. Haunted? Review #0427

    Welcome!
    Nadine C.

    "Pali" in Hawaiian means "cliff". This is a great place to take out of town visitors! "Pali Lookout" is where King Kamehameha fought the famous Battle of Nuuanu. He won by pushing his enemies over the cliff, united the Hawaiian Islands, and became King! It's a VERY breezy place, so hold on to your caps and visors! Note: There are a lot of feral cats and chickens on the grounds. Watch out for falling rocks! Parking used to be free, but now there's a machine that collects money. I just ran in and ran out so it was free for me! Hawaii residents don't have to pay for parking. Just show your ID to the attendant if there is one. Views of the windward side of the island are amazing! Look for the Kaneohe Marine Corps Air Base and Hawaii Pacific University. This is a MUST SEE attraction!

    The sign says "Do not go past this point" but this is where we used to go down when I was a kid....
    Lori I.

    Gorgeous panoramic views of Kaneohe and Kailua! The Battle of Nuuanu ended here in one of the bloodiest battles by Kamehameha as he conquered O'ahu. I often forget about that when I go here so I thought I'd throw that in. I take my kids here because its FREE for us ($3 parking for non-residents of HI) and they think its hilarious to see the wind blowing people around. Don't underestimate the wind here. I've seen it blow hats, skirts, shirts, and hair right off people. Bottom line: Do not wear short dresses, hold onto your little kids and leave your toupee in the car.

    Judy S.

    The Pali Lookout is just a short drive east of Honolulu. The fee is $3 for cars in the moderately sized parking lot. The parking lot is also home to a lot of chickens, which proved amusing for small children. The Lookout has incredible views of the Koolau cliffs and lush Windward Coast. Do note that the winds are insane and very temperamental. When we arrived, the winds were strong and howling. But after a few minutes, the wind calmed down a little and the fog cleared for some really fantastic views. It's a perfect stop if you want to check out eastern Oahu or North Shore. After continuing through the Pali Tunnels, there's a decision point where you can go straight to Kailua (which is what we did) or turn left through Kaneohe along the coastline to head up to Haleiwa and Waimea Bay of North Shore.

    Not too windy....haha

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    Review Highlights - Nu'uanu Pali State Wayside

    The Pali Lookout is great to stop by and take a few photos of Kaneohe Bay and the Ko'olau mountains.

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    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    4.8(172 reviews)
    3.7 km

    Visiting Pu'u Ualaka's State Park is on my top ten favorite things to do in Honolulu. The Park…read moreoffers spectacular views of the entire Southside of the Island. I travelled up Mount Tantalus to the Park yesterday with my daughter. We travelled through beautiful dense forest at the Park entrance. At the highest overlook, we could see everything and more from Diamond Head out to (and beyond) the airport. We could see all of Honolulu. I felt like we were on top of the world! Plaques offer fascinating overviews of the history and geology of the landmarks below. We could even see inside the famous tuff cone, Punch Bowl! Nearby is the first macadamia nut orchard in Hawaii. The overviews are paved with railings and easily accessible. The Park offers picnic areas with a couple pavilions and picnic tables. There is a charge for non-resident parking of $7 that can be paid electronically. Resident parking is free. Parking is limited, but there are several parking areas. We had no trouble finding parking mid week. Warning signs tell guest not to leave valuables in the car. Pu'u Ualaka'a State Park is only two miles from downtown Honolulu (maybe a couple more miles to the top). The Park is an easy 5 star and worth a visit.

    There is a lookout in this park that provides a panoramic view of Honolulu and Waikiki. The view is…read moregorgeous. Also a perfect place to watch sunset. One thing to note is that it does get really windy here. There are two parking lots available near this lookout. The one right next to the lookout is very small. It only holds about a dozen cars. The safer bet is to park at the slightly further parking lot with only a five minute walk to the Vista point.

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    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

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    Kapiolani Park - Picnic in the park

    Kapiolani Park

    4.5(192 reviews)
    8.4 kmWaikiki

    My husband and I recently moved to this area from downtown Honolulu and we haven't really had a…read morechance to explore until this past Sunday. During this exploration, we found Kapi'olani park. This park was amazing!!! The views were beautiful, the park had an awesome vibe, and there are so many things to do. We ended up spending almost five hours there just enjoying the park, the beach, and the atmosphere.. If you're ever in the mood to get away from the hustle of Honolulu, I would highly recommend checking out Kapi'olani Park. It's truly worth it.

    This park has always held a special space in my heart. There's a certain special power at this…read moreparticular park that I can't put my fingers on. Located just across from Kaimana Beach, I come here after my weekday swims to dry off in the sun and immerse in its solitude. When here, the world feels quieter, calmer -- like everything noisy in my head softens to a whisper and the litter of cluttered thoughts melt away with each song of the birds. Maybe it's the mana of the ancients still lingering, guarding the spirit of this cultural sanctuary. A memory of Hawaiʻi from a simpler time, still alive in the bones of the land. Opened in 1877 by King Kalākaua and named for Queen Kapiʻolani, it ranks among the oldest public parks on Oʻahu -- sprawling across about 300 acres. The loop around the park is about 1.7 miles. Originally a Horse Racing Venue, the land was initially created for the Kapiʻolani Park Association, which organized horse racing events for Hawaiian royalty and elite families. The racetrack, called the Kapiʻolani Park Race Track, was a central attraction and helped foster equestrian culture among the aliʻi (nobility). Presently, it's also home to the Honolulu Zoo, Waikīkī Shell and the Bandstand, home of the Royal Hawaiian Band. With Diamond Head towering over the park like a gatekeeper, the park is scattered with all kinds of trees -- coconut palms swaying hypnotically in the breeze, monkeypods stretching wide, and banyan trees casting deep shade for anyone escaping the midday sun. These trees also serve as homes to all sorts of birds: the bold Red-crested Cardinal, the bright green Rose-ringed Parakeet, and the graceful Manu o Kū -- Honolulu's official bird. They're pure white seabirds that nest impossibly on bare tree branches. Of all the trees here, the banyan is my fave. They're spectacular in how they grow -- with long roots that drop from their branches like ropes. When those roots touch the ground, they become new trunks, and the tree keeps expanding outward. What starts as a single tree becomes something that looks like an entire forest. To me, the banyan is a living symbol of community. The strongest among us aren't the ones who stand alone -- they're the ones who grow wide enough to support others. Every branch sends down roots, not to separate, but to deepen connection. Over time, what began as one becomes a sheltering canopy for many. Kapiʻolani Park is peaceful during the day, but it comes alive in the evenings. You'll hear the joyful sounds of kids playing soccer and football, people doing yoga under the trees, and families laid out on picnic blankets under the fading sun. There's plenty of metered parking -- just 25 cents for 30 minutes, probably the cheapest in the city -- but fair warning: spots fill up fast in the evenings. Parking is free on the mountain side of the park. But that also fills up quickly in the evenings and weekends. Peace

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    Kapiolani Park
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    Leahi Millennium Peace Circle Garden

    Leahi Millennium Peace Circle Garden

    4.8(11 reviews)
    9.4 kmDiamond Head

    Finding the peace…read more.. Literally as Yelp direction kept leading me to Kapiolani Community College though close but not where it's at as it's actually to the left of Diamond Head State Park entrance which is quite easy to find. This little park is a slight hidden place that's pretty green and decently maintained with a couple of areas for you to enjoy one is closer to the entrance that has a lovely peek of the Wilhemina Rise area and a lovely place that I thought would be the perfect photo op spot for a cool gift from a thoughtful friend with BunBun is this cool cooler tote from TJ's! Using one of a bunch of stones and some benches for a place to relax and noticed a giant rock with a plaque that's a time capsule which will be opened on October 24, 2049! The other section is a bit more shaded as this circular garden has some stones placed with various peace quotes and though wanted to take more pics there was a gentleman chilling and didn't want to disturb him and majority of the area does have a path for easy access between gardens and up to Diamond Head as I've been here countless times and never knew this area existed is quite insane lol! A great spot for those that can't do the hike but enjoy a bit peace of time. Thank you!

    A chill little park outside of Diamond Head State Park. Great place to sit under the trees and…read morerelax after a hike at Diamond Head and before catching the bus back to town.

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    Leahi Millennium Peace Circle Garden
    Leahi Millennium Peace Circle Garden
    Leahi Millennium Peace Circle Garden

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    Moanalua Gardens

    Moanalua Gardens

    4.3(142 reviews)
    5.6 km

    Moanalua Gardens is such a lovely, central place on Oahu to come and enjoy a little rest and…read morerelaxation in nature. My husband and I have been coming here for years, and remember coming here when we first started dating. The price went up a little bit to a few bucks a person, but it's still worth the entrance fee. We came back here with our kids, who had never been, and they had so much fun playing in and around the huge trees, running around the big open spaces, and feeding the ducks in the duck pond. A picnic was a delight at a table, and we brought a blanket to sit on and eat snacks again a little later while we were walking around. The bathrooms are nice and renovated. Really appreciate that touch. Overall, a great place to come for a little communue with nature.

    Having lived on Oahu most of my life, I'm surprised it took me this long to finally visit Moanalua…read moreGardens. For years, I was confused by the closed freeway gates, but we finally found our way in this past weekend. After grabbing some sweets in town and failing to find parking, we decided to head toward Moanalua. A last-minute turn (and some dramatic screams from my sister) landed us safely through the gates. Pro tip: Keep an eye out for the entrance--it comes up fast! Entry for Kama'aina is a very reasonable $4 per person. While it's not the most expansive botanical garden I've ever seen, it is a peaceful "secret" oasis right in the city. The massive monkeypod trees provide incredible shade for the many picnic tables available. We loved the duck pond and watching the turtles. You can even buy food to feed them, which is great for families. It's quiet, uncrowded, and perfect for a slow stroll across the bridge and along the stream. Just be sure to follow the signs and take your valuables with you when you park! And the bathroom , although indicates women, the signs hanging in the doors indicate men and the other two women. Restroom is nice and clean and I liked the classic farm sink and faucet.

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    Moanalua Gardens
    Moanalua Gardens
    Moanalua Gardens

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    Kaka'ako Waterfront Park - Waterfront

    Kaka'ako Waterfront Park

    4.0(115 reviews)
    6.1 km

    If you're looking for a place to picnic, walk, or get away from the city, Kakaʻako Waterfront Park…read moreis the place to go! The park is very spacious and well-kept. There are trash cans, tables and chairs for picnicking, bathrooms, and showers throughout the park available for the public to use. Walking along the waterfront is so relaxing and the walking path is nicely paved with a great view of the ocean. There are always lots of people at the waterfront fishing, surfing, hanging out, running, and walking their dogs. I love coming here to walk my dog, since the park feels very safe and is always clean. Parking: There's a huge free parking lot in front of the entrance to the park that has a ton of stalls. The lot always has empty stalls available.

    If you haven't been go check it out. Nice park with plenty parking and hard stand restrooms. We…read morewent on a Sunday and I did park for free. I didn't swim here. I came for the 2025 Hawaii Hot Girl Walk. We met at field across the street from park then walked the whole park. The path is paved and you don't have to worry about getting lost. It's a simple down and back route and the coast. The walk was less than a mile down to 0.80. There down and back was almost 2 miles total. The weather was nice and had a great breeze throughout walk. Some people there were walking, hanging out or swimming. I would say it was swim at your own risk. They did have some areas that lead down to the water. Other areas people climbed down the rocks. I can't wait for the next Hot Girl Walk. You can find them on IG and Facebook for next event.

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    Kaka'ako Waterfront Park
    Kaka'ako Waterfront Park
    Kaka'ako Waterfront Park - Great view

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    Great view

    Foster Botanical Garden - The open-air butterfly garden is a must see area of Foster Botanical Garden.

    Foster Botanical Garden

    4.5(283 reviews)
    3.6 kmKalihi

    What do I want to do on my birthday? Let's go take a walk in the park!…read more With the hustle and bustle of the holiday weekend and events here and there, I wanted somewhere less crowded and quiet. Foster Botanical Garden came to mind. I haven't been here for a very long time! The entrance is located along Vineyard Blvd. - westbound, right after the Kuan Yin Temple. There's plenty of free parking. Out of all the City and County botanical gardens, this is the only one with admission, but it's well worth the price - $5 for adults, $3 for Hawai'i Residents, $1 Children 6-12 (so, 13+ are adults?), and free for kids 5 and under. There is a free docent-led 90-minute tour at 10:30am - every Monday and Wednesday to Saturday - anyone can join. Walk-ins okay if there's space, or make reservations via email or phone. Before heading in, you can grab a map and a bird checklist. The garden itself is very well kept and quite spacious. There are two restrooms - one on the left and another on the right. They were quite clean! All areas, trees, and plants are clearly marked. Be on the lookout for the "exceptional trees" such as the Baobab, which looks like elephant legs; Cannonball Tree, Kapok, and etc. The Orchid Collection in the greenhouse has a nice variety with the infamous Corpse Flower. Overall, a very nice, well-maintained place to visit and worth the admission fee. Even though you're in town, next to the freeway and busy streets around, you still feel a sense of relaxation and calm while connecting with nature and admiring the vast collection of trees and plants. I wouldn't mind getting the annual pass for $25 just to take my lunch here!

    Was still open at the end of the year and New Year's Eve which was lovely for a holiday stroll :)…read moreWas kinda busy which was nice because usually when we got it's kinda empty. People want to come during the holidays :D

    Photos
    Foster Botanical Garden - A closer look inside a Cannonball Tree (Couroupita guianensis) flower. These trees are commonly seen around Hindu temples in India.

    A closer look inside a Cannonball Tree (Couroupita guianensis) flower. These trees are commonly seen around Hindu temples in India.

    Foster Botanical Garden - The Corpose Plant is one of the most popular specimens in our collection! This endagered species only blooms once every 2 to 5 years.

    The Corpose Plant is one of the most popular specimens in our collection! This endagered species only blooms once every 2 to 5 years.

    Foster Botanical Garden - The Main Lawn located on the norther, mauka most portion of the botanical garden.

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    The Main Lawn located on the norther, mauka most portion of the botanical garden.

    Booth District Park

    Booth District Park

    4.6(25 reviews)
    2.6 km

    We went to Booth District Park a few weeks ago. It was my first time going there that I remember…read more It's a pretty big park and they have parking spaces all around the park. We went there for the playground but there wasn't any spaces in front of the playground so we had to walk just a little to get there. It's a really nice park to go to if you're in the area. They have a nice field, playground, basketball courts, and pickle ball courts. The playground is a little different from others because it has a zip line for kids. You hang onto a handle and with enough momentum you can swing yourself to the other side. My daughter loved that when we went to a park in California and we just never saw one of those in Hawaii. But now we know... They do exist! The playground is also in the shade so you won't get fried when waiting for your kids to finish playing. And there is a bench to sit and rest while you wait. Great park, we hope to go back there soon.

    This is a hidden gem in the heart of Pauoa…read more When I heard about the Yelp Earth Day Challenge, Booth Park immediately came to mind. My husband works for the DOE and wanted to "check out" this park last year. Although we live in Moiliili, the drive is quick since it's right off the freeway. So glad we did... It's now one of our top 3 parks to take the boys! The facilities are well maintained, shaded by the huge trees that offer parents and kids shelter from the midday sun. My oldest son (4.5yrs) loves the swings and riding his scooter around the basketball and tennis courts. My youngest (3rd) enjoys jumping off the concrete benches and mastering the playground (which is more elaborate than the usual city park playgrounds around town). There's spinning chairs, slides, a mini zip line, drums, and chimes that kids can make music with! So cool! Parking is fairly easy to find around the park perimeter. Area has been consistently safe when we take the kids (about once every couple of weeks). Great for all ages but adult supervision is still recommended esp for the littles.

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    Booth District Park
    Booth District Park
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    Happy 100 Mr. Ing- thank you for sharing

    Nu'uanu Pali State Wayside - parks - Updated May 2026

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