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Ever notice in December a lit up Christmas tree over the Kaimuki fire station? That's where this little well maintained grassy mini park is. There's no parking, no benches, and otherwise no amenities aside from I think a trash can. There is however, an amazing view of the city from Hawaii Kai all the way out to Ewa Beach as a perfect spot to watch the sunset. Couples will sometimes come here just to watch the city at night as it's quiet and peaceful. A fair number of dog owners let their dogs stretch their legs here playing fetch. Now, let's get back to that artificial metal tree. The city only lights it up during December at night using donations to fund the electrical cost. Jake Shimabukuro came to the rescue a few years later helping organize a rewiring and repair of the lights. Unfortunately, time and the environment have taken a toll and about half the lights don't work anymore. Note, photographers, you can't get a decent shot of the lit tree at the same time with Hilton Hawaiian's Friday fireworks. Angle just isn't there and distance is too far. It can get exceptionally windy, especially at night so bring a jacket. Access is either by a maintenance road or a trail near the fire station. Parking is whatever you can find on Kaimuki's crowded streets. It's an excellent place to bring your kids and dog if you live in the area and it's still worth coming to at night during December to view the tree.
One of my favorite parks in town area. Day and night it gives you both different views of the city area. Love when it's Christmas season and have the lights up for the money. Who ever sponsors to have the lights thank you so much for keeping the tradition going up strong. So people keep it cool we don't want things to disappear in the future makings. I would definitely recommend this spot prob for special occasions if you don't catch a crowd.
This is a special park in that its a top of an off shoot from Diamond head crater volcano. There is a steep paved driveway that you walk up in 2 minutes for a commanding 360 degree view of craters, oceans, city and mountains. Takes 2 minutes to walk the perimeter. Its grassy. No restrooms, benches or water fountains. This late day, it transformed to a dog park, it seemed. Great view for sunsets!
In the last month, I've been here about 10x just to relax and take some cool pics. There are no benches but small grassy are surrounded by a small wall. Its a great place to take a plate lunch and take in the beautiful sunsets. Theres views in all directions from Kaimuki to Hawaii Kai, to Diamond Head and Waikiki. In the evening theres always a group with cute dogs. Theres alway parking close by. You know there are some late night shenanigans going on here as there are alway beer bottles and laying around. I wish they would at least clean up after themselves!
Passive, active, maxi, mini. Public parks in Hawaii come in all shapes and sizes- there are some that are as small as a tiny residential lot while others can humongous in size over rolling hills and valleys. Puu O Kaimuki was once known as Menehune Hill and for Kaimuki folk, da bunker hill above and behind da Kaimuki fire station. That's because there was once an abandoned flat bunker type of bldg,loose rocks and keawe brush that made for great exploring during our wonder years. This was our battlefield, jungle, alien planet, you name it- a great place to imagine what adventures would lie ahead for some twenty somethings minus ten. Today, the area consists of a nice level grassy area that has spectacular views of Diamond Head, the Honolulu skyline, Wilhelmina Rise and Kokohead (when the trees and brush are trimmed back) There is a bldg that has cell-type antennas located on top. Official entry is via Ocean View drive which is just around the corner from the fire station. Usually on the night of the Kaimuki Christmas Parade there is a tree lighting ceremony on top of that hill where the lighted string tree can be seen by many parts of Kaimuki and when traveling on the freeway. The tree shines throughout the night during the Christmas holidays. This park is considered a passive mini park meaning it's not large (less than an acre) and does not have lights, table or benches. It is a daytime park, do not recommend going at night as it can get sketchy- posted hours are there for a reason. Really nice at sunset, would not stay there too much later than that. Still worth a visit during the day. There used to be geocaches there, not sure if it still holds true. Buy some snacks from the Crack Seed Store, walk up the asphalt walkway and daydream about the fun that decades of Kaimuki kids had up on bunker hill. Listen, can you hear their laughter? It's from that glorious and wonderful past known as small kid time.
Above the Kaimuki Fire Station on Koko Head Avenue, you will find Puu O Kaimuki Mini Park. It is not really much of a park, as it is a viewpoint. While you could walk up the dirt path in front of the park, it is much easier to enter from the concrete pathway on Ocean View Drive. There is a confusing sign in front along with a chain rope that makes it seem like it is not okay to enter the park. But it is okay as long as you visit during the hours posted. The walkway is a little steep, but it should be no problem for most people. Much easier than actually hiking to one of the places that you see here. The park has an expansive view of East Oahu. You can see the Honolulu skyline to your west, Diamond Head to the south, Pacific Ocean to the east and the Koolau Mountains to your north. This park is also the spot of a tradition in Kaimuki during the holiday season. This is the site of the Kaimuki Christmas Tree which is a holiday light attraction that can be seen by the nearby community and by drivers on the H-1 Freeway passing through. The only con about this viewpoint park is that it is prone to vandalism. There is a structure on top of the park that was full of graffiti. I would not recommend venturing alone here at night. Puu O Kaimuki is a nice find. You would not expect a place in Kaimuki to have such a great view, but this turned out to be a great spot to take Facebook worthy landscape photos of Honolulu.
***DATE NIGHT APPROVED LOCATION!*** Most locals know this park by "Christmas Tree Park" The reason being is because there is a man-made pole there from the remnants of a once radio tower that is lined with Christmas lights that are configured in the shape of a Christmas tree. As winter comes and the holidays is approaching after thanksgiving usually the lights are turned on at night in green and can be seen from different areas in Honolulu. Its quite beautiful. FAST FACTS: Please be mindful of the residents that live near this park, especially when going in the evening. The park does have hours, and there have been incidences of police coming in at night because of noise complaints but other than that if you come here and practice respect, by not being too noisy, obnoxious then you'll definitely avoid having to be put in that situation. PARKING: Its residential street, so you can only park along the side streets in front of homes. DAY: This park is really peaceful with breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Manoa, Waialae, Kahala and also Hawaii Kai. I recommend coming here as later in the day around 1-2hrs before sunset. Its much cooler and if your a dog owner its a perfect time as other dog owners also come around this time and play around here. There are trash bins so no problem not having a place to dispose of garbage. There are lots of room here to place a mat on the comfortable grass. Perfect for picnics, and just lounging while waiting for the sunset. NIGHT: In the evening you'll be surrounded by the lights of Honolulu. When it is not winter time this park is pitch dark and is only lit by the surrounding city and neighborhood lights. As breathtaking as it is during the daytime, the night view is another treat on its own. Its another story when its a full moon, a view worth seeing. Overall this park is one of a few date night spots I recommend on going to after dinner or dessert (Via Gelato down the road). It's a great place to talk, reflect, relax, and just to find a peaceful place to just unwind while looking at the quiet and peaceful ambiance of the city in the evening. SYOY! 05/10/18
This little park is so majestic. There are two sets of steps on the Koko Head Avenue side or a steep slope up on the Oceanview Avenue side to enter. Once up the views are amazing. Great for pictures, picnics, or just to get away for awhile. At night while driving on the H-1 for a brief moment you can see the lights of the tree.
I had no idea that Pu'u O Kaimuki Mini Park existed until my professor mentioned it. It is wonderful to have a professor that likes taking field trips. This park is the perfect place to see multiple sides of Oahu with sweeping views. You can see as far as Waianae on one side, Hawaii Kai on another, and Diamond Head. There's even the ocean to see. This park is also the place to find the popular Kaimuki Christmas tree. It is a metal tree decorated with lights. One thing that may be tough is getting to the top. There is a ramp that is a little steep on one side, and a staircase on the other side. That seems to be the only way to get up to the field where the park is. There are no restrooms here and parking is street parking only. Best time to come is during the day as the street parking often fills up at night.
This mini park may not compare to the other larger and more accesible public parks out there, but it's definitely one of my favorite spots in Kaimuki. Located right above the Koko Head Fire Station, it is a steep trek to reach the top of the park, but once you get there, the view of Kaimuki and the city beyond is amazing. During the Christmas season, a giant Christmas tree (made of metal and lights) is lighted and can be seen above the fire station. I usually go up here if I want to get away and clear my thoughts (kinda like a secret hiding place). And while I would prefer to keep it a secret, this park deserves a review of its own on the pages of Yelp.
First timer. Went during night. Awesome view. Got to see lights from a top as well as check out the light tree. Felt like I wasn't in Hawaii. It could be like a casual romantic stroll at the park during the night
I only come here twice a year for the awesome fire works view on fourth of july and new years. However there are no bathrooms, only street parking on adjacent streets. Steep incline to get to the top not good for elderly. The little foot traffic makes this park relatively private if your willing to hike it. Its not lit at night however so pick your stays safely. They also removed the benches. My thanks goes out to the community that made this past years tree lighting possible. Mahalo nui loa.
Very simple little park with a giant Christmas tree lit during Christmas time. Not much to see or do, but it's a nice place to look at the city lights and enjoy the view.
Keeping it Kaimuki... A mini park that I knew that I never knew lol! With just a few weeks to enjoy the tree a top the hill lit so beautifully and bright it's a place that I rarely get to enjoy and take in at my leisure since parking in the area is quite the real challenge. This year I did have some bucket list places that I really wanted to visit and why not start at a place that's been in my neighborhood since not knowing is quite shameful and decided Christmas Eve was the night that I needed to see it so I arrived early before the sunset and luckily did find parking right across the street and am happy to finally take it all in. It does sit right a top the fire station and there is a path that will take you straight up there which is all dirt so a rainy day will make climbing a challenge so it is something to keep in mind as there isn't any seating or covering as well but was surprised to find many to take the trip up to enjoy the sunset and tree along with the stunning view of Kaimuki and beyond. A free place to take it all in and enjoy and wished I did come up earlier to enjoy the sunset as this place is totally recommended and will be back. Thank you! read more
6 years ago
Who would've thought this tiny little hill in Kaimuki would make for the perfect picnic spot? This tiny little park nicknamed "Christmas tree park," lights up during the holidays (literally). It's been a while since I've last been here and the last time I was here, I'm pretty sure the lights on top of the Kaimuki Christmas tree were broken. This park is breezy with not too many places to sit, aside from the wall that lines the front of the park--so bring a picnic blanket! There are a few trees that line the park but I'd also highly recommend bringing an umbrella, the Kaimuki sun can be pretty brutal! There's no restrooms here so go before you visit. There's a small incline you'll have to climb to get to the top but nothing too crazy. All in all this is a great place to stop to enjoy the view of the quaint neighborhood of Kaimuki. read more
Ever notice in December a lit up Christmas tree over the Kaimuki fire station? That's where this little well maintained grassy mini park is. There's no parking, no benches, and otherwise no amenities aside from I think a trash can. There is however, an amazing view of the city from Hawaii Kai all the way out to Ewa Beach as a perfect spot to watch the sunset. Couples will sometimes come here just to watch the city at night as it's quiet and peaceful. A fair number of dog owners let their dogs stretch their legs here playing fetch. Now, let's get back to that artificial metal tree. The city only lights it up during December at night using donations to fund the electrical cost. Jake Shimabukuro came to the rescue a few years later helping organize a rewiring and repair of the lights. Unfortunately, time and the environment have taken a toll and about half the lights don't work anymore. Note, photographers, you can't get a decent shot of the lit tree at the same time with Hilton Hawaiian's Friday fireworks. Angle just isn't there and distance is too far. It can get exceptionally windy, especially at night so bring a jacket. Access is either by a maintenance road or a trail near the fire station. Parking is whatever you can find on Kaimuki's crowded streets. It's an excellent place to bring your kids and dog if you live in the area and it's still worth coming to at night during December to view the tree. read more
5 years ago
One of my favorite parks in town area. Day and night it gives you both different views of the city area. Love when it's Christmas season and have the lights up for the money. Who ever sponsors to have the lights thank you so much for keeping the tradition going up strong. So people keep it cool we don't want things to disappear in the future makings. I would definitely recommend this spot prob for special occasions if you don't catch a crowd. read more
This is a special park in that its a top of an off shoot from Diamond head crater volcano. There is a steep paved driveway that you walk up in 2 minutes for a commanding 360 degree view of craters, oceans, city and mountains. Takes 2 minutes to walk the perimeter. Its grassy. No restrooms, benches or water fountains. This late day, it transformed to a dog park, it seemed. Great view for sunsets! read more
In the last month, I've been here about 10x just to relax and take some cool pics. There are no benches but small grassy are surrounded by a small wall. Its a great place to take a plate lunch and take in the beautiful sunsets. Theres views in all directions from Kaimuki to Hawaii Kai, to Diamond Head and Waikiki. In the evening theres always a group with cute dogs. Theres alway parking close by. You know there are some late night shenanigans going on here as there are alway beer bottles and laying around. I wish they would at least clean up after themselves! read more
Passive, active, maxi, mini. Public parks in Hawaii come in all shapes and sizes- there are some that are as small as a tiny residential lot while others can humongous in size over rolling hills and valleys. Puu O Kaimuki was once known as Menehune Hill and for Kaimuki folk, da bunker hill above and behind da Kaimuki fire station. That's because there was once an abandoned flat bunker type of bldg,loose rocks and keawe brush that made for great exploring during our wonder years. This was our battlefield, jungle, alien planet, you name it- a great place to imagine what adventures would lie ahead for some twenty somethings minus ten. Today, the area consists of a nice level grassy area that has spectacular views of Diamond Head, the Honolulu skyline, Wilhelmina Rise and Kokohead (when the trees and brush are trimmed back) There is a bldg that has cell-type antennas located on top. Official entry is via Ocean View drive which is just around the corner from the fire station. Usually on the night of the Kaimuki Christmas Parade there is a tree lighting ceremony on top of that hill where the lighted string tree can be seen by many parts of Kaimuki and when traveling on the freeway. The tree shines throughout the night during the Christmas holidays. This park is considered a passive mini park meaning it's not large (less than an acre) and does not have lights, table or benches. It is a daytime park, do not recommend going at night as it can get sketchy- posted hours are there for a reason. Really nice at sunset, would not stay there too much later than that. Still worth a visit during the day. There used to be geocaches there, not sure if it still holds true. Buy some snacks from the Crack Seed Store, walk up the asphalt walkway and daydream about the fun that decades of Kaimuki kids had up on bunker hill. Listen, can you hear their laughter? It's from that glorious and wonderful past known as small kid time. read more
8 years ago
Above the Kaimuki Fire Station on Koko Head Avenue, you will find Puu O Kaimuki Mini Park. It is not really much of a park, as it is a viewpoint. While you could walk up the dirt path in front of the park, it is much easier to enter from the concrete pathway on Ocean View Drive. There is a confusing sign in front along with a chain rope that makes it seem like it is not okay to enter the park. But it is okay as long as you visit during the hours posted. The walkway is a little steep, but it should be no problem for most people. Much easier than actually hiking to one of the places that you see here. The park has an expansive view of East Oahu. You can see the Honolulu skyline to your west, Diamond Head to the south, Pacific Ocean to the east and the Koolau Mountains to your north. This park is also the spot of a tradition in Kaimuki during the holiday season. This is the site of the Kaimuki Christmas Tree which is a holiday light attraction that can be seen by the nearby community and by drivers on the H-1 Freeway passing through. The only con about this viewpoint park is that it is prone to vandalism. There is a structure on top of the park that was full of graffiti. I would not recommend venturing alone here at night. Puu O Kaimuki is a nice find. You would not expect a place in Kaimuki to have such a great view, but this turned out to be a great spot to take Facebook worthy landscape photos of Honolulu. read more
***DATE NIGHT APPROVED LOCATION!*** Most locals know this park by "Christmas Tree Park" The reason being is because there is a man-made pole there from the remnants of a once radio tower that is lined with Christmas lights that are configured in the shape of a Christmas tree. As winter comes and the holidays is approaching after thanksgiving usually the lights are turned on at night in green and can be seen from different areas in Honolulu. Its quite beautiful. FAST FACTS: Please be mindful of the residents that live near this park, especially when going in the evening. The park does have hours, and there have been incidences of police coming in at night because of noise complaints but other than that if you come here and practice respect, by not being too noisy, obnoxious then you'll definitely avoid having to be put in that situation. PARKING: Its residential street, so you can only park along the side streets in front of homes. DAY: This park is really peaceful with breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Manoa, Waialae, Kahala and also Hawaii Kai. I recommend coming here as later in the day around 1-2hrs before sunset. Its much cooler and if your a dog owner its a perfect time as other dog owners also come around this time and play around here. There are trash bins so no problem not having a place to dispose of garbage. There are lots of room here to place a mat on the comfortable grass. Perfect for picnics, and just lounging while waiting for the sunset. NIGHT: In the evening you'll be surrounded by the lights of Honolulu. When it is not winter time this park is pitch dark and is only lit by the surrounding city and neighborhood lights. As breathtaking as it is during the daytime, the night view is another treat on its own. Its another story when its a full moon, a view worth seeing. Overall this park is one of a few date night spots I recommend on going to after dinner or dessert (Via Gelato down the road). It's a great place to talk, reflect, relax, and just to find a peaceful place to just unwind while looking at the quiet and peaceful ambiance of the city in the evening. SYOY! 05/10/18 read more
This little park is so majestic. There are two sets of steps on the Koko Head Avenue side or a steep slope up on the Oceanview Avenue side to enter. Once up the views are amazing. Great for pictures, picnics, or just to get away for awhile. At night while driving on the H-1 for a brief moment you can see the lights of the tree. read more
I had no idea that Pu'u O Kaimuki Mini Park existed until my professor mentioned it. It is wonderful to have a professor that likes taking field trips. This park is the perfect place to see multiple sides of Oahu with sweeping views. You can see as far as Waianae on one side, Hawaii Kai on another, and Diamond Head. There's even the ocean to see. This park is also the place to find the popular Kaimuki Christmas tree. It is a metal tree decorated with lights. One thing that may be tough is getting to the top. There is a ramp that is a little steep on one side, and a staircase on the other side. That seems to be the only way to get up to the field where the park is. There are no restrooms here and parking is street parking only. Best time to come is during the day as the street parking often fills up at night. read more
17 years ago
This mini park may not compare to the other larger and more accesible public parks out there, but it's definitely one of my favorite spots in Kaimuki. Located right above the Koko Head Fire Station, it is a steep trek to reach the top of the park, but once you get there, the view of Kaimuki and the city beyond is amazing. During the Christmas season, a giant Christmas tree (made of metal and lights) is lighted and can be seen above the fire station. I usually go up here if I want to get away and clear my thoughts (kinda like a secret hiding place). And while I would prefer to keep it a secret, this park deserves a review of its own on the pages of Yelp. read more
10 years ago
First timer. Went during night. Awesome view. Got to see lights from a top as well as check out the light tree. Felt like I wasn't in Hawaii. It could be like a casual romantic stroll at the park during the night read more
13 years ago
I only come here twice a year for the awesome fire works view on fourth of july and new years. However there are no bathrooms, only street parking on adjacent streets. Steep incline to get to the top not good for elderly. The little foot traffic makes this park relatively private if your willing to hike it. Its not lit at night however so pick your stays safely. They also removed the benches. My thanks goes out to the community that made this past years tree lighting possible. Mahalo nui loa. read more
15 years ago
5 years ago
11 years ago
Love including this park into my jog. Such a great view of the area and usually empty of people. Thanks everyone for keeping the park clean and the park maintenance for keeping the grass cut with all the rain we have been experiencing!! read more
12 years ago
10 years ago
More info about Puu O Kaimuki Mini Park
951 Koko Head Ave
Honolulu, HI 96816
Kaimuki
Directions
(808) 373-8013
Call Now
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Outdoor Amenities
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Ask the Community - Puu O Kaimuki Mini Park
When do they turn off the lights?
It's seasonal.. historically the light stopped being lit after New Years. I don't know if that changed since they recently redid the lights. But.. normally when it is on, they turn it off 6am. Per fire station there.
Review Highlights - Puu O Kaimuki Mini Park
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14 years ago
