Groove Hawaii’s Wind Tunnel vs. Nuuanu Pali Lookout
Two blow-out experiences examined side by side.
Photos: David Thompson, David Croxford
LOCATION
Wind Tunnel
The Groove Hawaii in Kakaako, a “go-kart racing and family entertainment park,” at 805 Ala Moana Blvd., opened in May.
Pali Lookout
Nuuanu Pali State Wayside, 1,200 feet above Kailua and Kaneohe, off the Pali Highway.
HOW IT WORKS
Wind Tunnel
160-horsepower diesel engine spins a huge carbon-fiber fan positioned beneath a tube, 10 feet wide by 12 feet tall.
Pali Lookout
Trade winds funnel between two 3,000-foot peaks in the Koolau mountains, gaining speed as they go.
WIND SPEED
Wind Tunnel
Up to 140 miles per hour.
Pali Lookout
Variable. On a good day, winds can be twice as strong as winds at lower elevations. Occasionally, gusts top 74 miles per hour—hurricane force.
DO FEET LEAVE THE GROUND?
Wind Tunnel
Yes, that’s the whole idea. The wind tunnel is designed to simulate skydiving.
Pali Lookout
Hopefully not. If the gusts blow you off your feet, you’re probably in for a hard landing.
SAFETY BRIEFING AND TRAINING SESSION
Wind Tunnel
Yes. It takes about 15 minutes.
Pali Lookout
No. Just use common sense and you’ll be fine.
ATTIRE
Wind Tunnel
Flight suits, helmets and goggles are provided.
Pali Lookout
Anything goes. But short skirts are not recommended.
WAIVERS, WARNINGS, AND LEGAL DISCLAIMERS
Wind Tunnel
Participants must sign document releasing Fly Zone Bodyflight Inc., the Canada-based operator of the wind tunnel, from all liability.
Pali Lookout
Do not leave valuables in car unattended.
COST
Wind Tunnel
$66.50 for two minutes of air time. It seems longer.
Pali Lookout
Non-residents pay $3 to park; residents park free. Stay as long as you like.
AMENITIES
Wind Tunnel
“Go-kart” track, climbing wall, billiards, arcade, pizza, portable toilets.
Pali Lookout
Panoramic views, wind-sculpted trees, reproduction of painting by Herb Kane showing Kamehameha’s warriors forcing Oahu’s defenders off the edge of the cliff, portable toilets.
