Hiking on Oahu Hawaii – East Coast
Lanikai Pill box
The trail is a relatively easy hike that offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. It owes its name to a nearby beach (Lanikai Beach) which is probably the most stunning beach on the whole island.
The trail is just over a mile long and takes about 20-30 minutes to hike to the top. The trail is known for its pillboxes, which are small concrete structures that were used as lookout points during World War II. While the trail is relatively short, it does have some steep sections, so be prepared for a bit of a workout. As you climb higher, the views become more and more spectacular, and you’ll be able to see the nearby islands of Mokulua and Rabbit Island.
Stairway to heaven
Hiking the Stairway to Heaven in Oahu is part of many hikers’ bucket list. The trail, also known as the Haiku Stairs, is a challenging and exhilarating hike that rewards those who complete it with breathtaking views of the island’s natural beauty.
Stairway to Heaven is an old military access route that was built during World War II. The trail consists of over 3,900 steps that climb nearly 2,800 feet in elevation. The steps are narrow and steep, making the hike a challenging and physically demanding experience.
However, the trail is technically closed to the public and hiking the stairs is illegal, which can result in fines or even arrest if caught by law enforcement.
Anyhow, if you still want to enjoy the impressive views and take a picture at the top of the stairs, there’s a back-side trail that will lead you to the exact place where the stairs end. Mind you this is an extremely demanding hike that will take you around 8 hours to complete. The trail is called Moanalua Valley Trail and you can find it on Alltrails app.
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail
If you’re looking for a scenic and accessible hike on Oahu, the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a must-visit destination. Located on the southeastern side of the island, the trail offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscape.
The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a well-maintained paved trail that stretches just under two miles round trip. The trail is relatively easy and suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The hike begins with a gradual incline that offers beautiful views of the ocean and coastline. As you climb higher, the views become more stunning, and you’ll be able to see the nearby islands of Molokai and Lanai on clear days.
About halfway up the trail, you’ll come across a viewpoint that offers a spectacular panoramic view of the ocean and coastline. This is a great spot to take a break and enjoy the scenery before continuing on to the lighthouse.
As you approach the lighthouse, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging. However, the reward at the top is well worth the effort. From the lighthouse, you’ll have a 360-degree view of the island, including the Koko Crater and the Ko’olau Mountains. One of the highlights of the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is the opportunity to see humpback whales during the winter months.
Hiking on Oahu Hawaii – West Coast
Puʻu O Hulu (West Side Pill Box)
This easy hike located on the west side of Oahu is probably one of my favorites. It shouldn’t take you more than 40 minutes to reach the top and the view you’ll get will take your breath away. I recommend starting the hike around an hour and a half before sunset and enjoy the nightfall from the top of the mountain. Coming down without sunlight is not a big problem since the path is clear and really easy to follow, but if you are not an experienced hiker maybe you’ll want to avoid hiking during the night.
Kaena Point Trail
This not-well-known trail takes you to a cave located in the northwest side of the island, offering stunning views of the coastline and the ocean. Following the path can be a challenge, since vegetation has covered it in many parts.
Hiking on Oahu Hawaii – Central Area
Manoa Falls Trail
If you’re looking for a relatively easy and family-friendly hike on Oahu, the Manoa Falls Trail is an excellent choice. The Manoa Falls Trail is a well-maintained trail that stretches just under 1.5 miles round trip. The trail is rated as easy and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
After about half a mile, you’ll come across the main attraction of the hike: the 150-foot Manoa Falls. The waterfall is a breathtaking sight, with water cascading down a series of rocky ledges into a calm pool below.
Waimano Waterfalls
Far less visited than its neighbor Manoa Falls, if you are trying to avoid the crowded touristic spots, this is probably the best option for you.
The Waimano Waterfalls trail is approximately three miles round trip and is rated as moderate to difficult. The hike begins with a steep incline that takes you up a hillside covered in lush vegetation. As you climb higher, the trail becomes more challenging, with narrow paths, steep drop-offs, and rocky terrain. The trail eventually leads you to a waterfall where you can go for a swim or jump into the water from the rocks.
Hiking on Oahu Hawaii – South Coast
Diamond Head Trail
The Diamond Head Trail is one of the most popular hikes on the island of Oahu, and for good reason. The trail offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the city of Honolulu, and the iconic Diamond Head crater. If you’re looking for a relatively easy and family-friendly hike on Oahu, the Diamond Head Trail is a great choice.
The Diamond Head Trail is approximately 1.6 miles round trip and is rated as moderate. At the top of the trail, you’ll reach the Diamond Head crater, a large volcanic cone that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Koko Crater Trail
The Koko Crater Trail is approximately 1.8 miles round trip and is rated as difficult due to its steep incline and rocky terrain. The trail is made up of a series of railroad ties that were once used to transport supplies up the mountain during World War II. These ties provide a unique and challenging surface for hikers. Be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and sturdy shoes, as the trail can be hot, humid, and strenuous at times. With stunning views and a unique terrain, the Koko Crater Trail is a hike that you won’t soon forget.
Tips for hiking on Oahu Hawaii
I found myself hiking while wearing flip-flops, at 7 PM (no sunlight whatsoever) and with not water at all only too many times. You know the phrase: Do as I say, not as I do. Please be prepared in advanced if you know you are getting on a trail. Here are some tips you should always follow:
-Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing that is suitable for the weather conditions. Flip-flops are a no-no.
-Download an offline map: I highly recommend the app Maps.Me. You can download all maps and then use them offline even when you have no reception (something quite common when you are on a trail). Sometimes the paths are not clearly visible and it’s super easy to get lost. I find maps on this app extremely accurate, even when you are off-road.
-Check the weather forecast: Hawaii’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to check the forecast before setting out on a hike. Guess who got caught in a storm in the middle of the mountain? Me, of course.
-Stay hydrated: Hiking on Hawaii can be hot and humid, so it’s essential to stay hydrated. Bring plenty of water with you and drink regularly throughout the hike to avoid dehydration.
-Protect yourself from the sun: The Hawaiian sun can be INTENSE, even on cloudy days. Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
-Know your limits: Hawaii’s hiking trails can be challenging, and some can be quite steep and rugged. Make sure you choose a trail that is suitable for your fitness level and experience, and take breaks as needed to avoid overexertion.
Tip: use the app All Trails to find trails that adjust to your limitations!
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