As a state full of fascinating history — including wars, royalty, and mythology — there are countless ghosts who have taken up residence among the 1.4 million residents that call the Hawaiian Islands home. These ghosts reside across the eight main islands, though nowhere is there a higher concentration of varied ghost stories than along Oahu’s beautiful — and haunted — Pali Highway. From ancient Hawaiian legends to major battle sites, the highway meanders through the Ko’olau mountains between Honolulu and the Windward coast and is one of the most haunted roads in Hawaii. Is the H-3 Highway cursed? Let’s find out.

keppet/Flickr
Though there are several legends and tales of paranormal activity near the Pali Highway, there is one story more fascinating than the others; It is said that Pele and the demigod Kamapua’a – a half man, half pig – had a bad breakup and agreed to never see each other again. Legend has it that you cannot take pork over the Pali Highway, because it means that you are symbolically taking Kamapua’a from one side of the island to the other.

If you try to bring pork across, your car will stop at some point along the journey and an old woman with a dog will appear. To continue on your way, you must feed the pork to the dog.
justin s./Flickr
Also haunted is the famous Nu’uanu Pali State Wayside, where magnificent views of windward Oahu and ghost stories are plentiful. The lookout point is the site of a major battle during King Kamehameha’s campaign to unify the Hawaiian Islands. 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.

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Just a mile from the breathtaking Pali Lookout is another haunting tale; more commonly known as King Kamehameha III’s summer home, the Kaniakapupu Ruins can be found near Lulumahu Falls.
Cliff Kimura/Flickr
Dating back to 1847, the structure was only used for a few decades before being abandoned and reclaimed by nature. The small single-story three-tiered structure was constructed with western influence and the guidance of Hawaiians — the slightly off-centered windows were built as such in order to ward off the spirits of the Night Marchers, who are commonly thought to roam the area near the Pali Lookout. Unfortunately, you are not allowed to visit the ruins and must simply admire this stunning piece of Hawaiian history in photographs.
Jai Mansson/Flickr
The Huaka’ipo, also known as the Night Marchers, are the spirits of ancient Hawaiian warriors who have been cursed to march the islands for eternity. The Night Marchers are said to march in a single line, often carrying torches and weapons while chanting and playing drums. To protect yourself, you must lie on the ground face down in respect. Otherwise, the Night Marchers will kill you; and nowhere is the legend of the Hawaiian Night Marchers more prevalent than near the Pali Highway.
The tales of paranormal activity on the Pali Highway are numerous and absolutely haunting — though we can understand your disbelief if you’ve never experienced the chill of a ghostly encounter.
Laurence Cymet/Flickr

What do you think about the Pali Lookout Ghost? Do you believe the H-3 in Hawaii is cursed? Do you believe the Pali Lookout Legends? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

If you are searching for even more haunted places in Hawaii to visit, check out these little-known haunted places in Hawaii. You may be surprised to learn some of the ghost stories that surround these destinations. And if you are brave enough to travel on a haunted road, make sure you are prepared for anything that may come your way. Check out our road trip packing list and some of the best road trip snacks for your journey.

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Pali Highway Ghost

Courtnie Erickson | September 03, 2022

What are some other haunted places in Hawaii to visit?

The Hawaiian Islands have quite a remarkable history that is filled with culture, warriors, and more. Along with this history are places that will send chills down your spine. In fact, there are dozens of destinations around the Hawaiian Islands that are believed to be haunted by various spirits. One of the most haunted places is the Iao Theatre. Located in Wailuku, this theater has been a hot spot for paranormal activity for years. There is even audio and video footage of lights flickering, unexplained voices, and more. Fortunately, it is believed the main spirit is a female known as Emma who is quite friendly.

Are there any haunted hiking trails in Hawaii?

Yes! The King’s Trail is believed to be the most haunted hike in Hawaii. This is an old coastal lava rock road that circles the Big Island. It was once the road that connected many of the island’s villages and was the main route for travel decades ago. Today, it has become a popular hiking trail that is believed to be haunted by ghosts of ancient Hawaiian warriors who once used the trail. If you are brave enough to explore this haunted trail in Idaho, listen for drumming, chanting, and even battle cries. You may even see what looks like a procession of flickering torches.

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Pali Highway, Pali Hwy, Honolulu, HI, USA