From exploring must-visit pillboxes from the 1940s and traversing up volcanos, Oahu is dotted with some of the best hiking trails in the world. Though Oahu isn’t the largest land mass, you would need months to explore all that it has to offer–if not more. So to help you make the most of the time that you have on this beautiful island, we’ve detailed the five best hikes in Oahu, Hawaii for gorgeous views, stunning scenery and a glimpse at its unique wildlife.
- Kaiwa Ridge Trail: Best for Incredible Ocean Views
- Waimea Valley Trail: Best hiking trail for Waterfalls
- Kaʻena Point Trail: Best for Soaking in Oahu’s Scenery
- Ehukai Pillbox Hike: Best Sunset Hike Near Waikiki
- Ka’au Crater Trail: Best for Climbing a Volcano
Here’s a detailed look at the five best hikes on Oahu:
Kaiwa Ridge Trail (Lanikai Pillbox): Best for Incredible Views
This is one of Oahu’s most iconic hikes, offering up breathtaking views of the Ko’olau mountain range and Lanikai beach. Climb up steep ridges, traverse bamboo forests, and explore hidden valleys along this 4-mile journey, and you’ll be rewarded with a sweeping panorama of the island’s most beautiful sights.
Note that while the Lanikai Pillbox is only about 30 minutes from the trailhead, there are trails that continue up and along the ridge. So, if you’re looking for a longer hike, this is a good option as you can continue on past the pillbox. It’s also worth noting that the base of the trail can get quite muddy. So much so that there is a rope tied to the trees to help hikers up the short, but slick muddy parts of the trail. That said, don’t wear your best shoes, but do be prepared to take some incredible photos at the pillbox and along the ridge.
- Distance: 4 miles (around 60 minutes total to the pillbox and back)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- How to get there: Take a 25-minute drive from Honolulu to the Kaiwa Ridge Trailhead.
- Parking: Kaiwa Ridge Trailhead (parking along the street across from Mid-Pacific Country Club)
Learn more about the Kaiwa Ridge Trail.
Waimea Valley Trail: Best Hiking Trail for Waterfalls
This 2-mile hike is ideal for those seeking a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Journey through a lush rainforest with cascading waterfalls, stunning streams, and giant koa trees which have been standing for centuries. The end of the trail will take you to Waimea Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pool at the bottom of the cascade.
Unlike most hikes in Oahu, there is an admission fee for Waimea Valley of $25 per adult–but it is worth the price. Upon entry, you can hike to the waterfall or take the shuttle (additional $10 per person). There, you can typically swim in the waterfall. If you’re keen to swim in the waterfall, be sure to call ahead the same-day to ensure that it’s open for swimming as it is up to the lifeguard’s discretion and it’s not a given that it will be open. However, if you’re not interested in swimming, it may actually be a good idea to visit on a day when it’s not open for swimming as there will likely be fewer visitors that day.
Quick word to the wise, don’t show up an hour or two before it closes. I made that mistake my first time there, thinking I could squeeze it in and not only was there a line of cars waiting to get in because there was nowhere left to park, but they stopped allowing new visitors in after 4:30 PM. So by the time I got parking, you could no longer enter.
- Distance: 2 miles (Under an hour)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- How to get there: Take a 25-minute drive from Honolulu to the Waimea Valley Trailhead
- Parking: There is a parking lot at the base for Waimea Valley near the visitor center
Learn more about Waimea Valley Trail and Waimea Falls, including opening hours and admissions fees.
Kaʻena Point Trail: Best for Soaking in Oahu’s Scenery
This 7-mile round-trip trail will take you past rugged shorelines, ancient dunes, and secluded beaches on your way to the iconic Ka’ena Point Lighthouse. As you ascend to the top, you’ll be surrounded by pristine beauty and vast ocean views stretching for miles in every direction. It’s a great hiking trail in Oahu for those that are looking to spend some time in nature but don’t necessarily need to traverse their way up a steep mountain. For this reason, it’s a good hike for those that want to enjoy a leisurely stroll, such as couples or even families.
One thing to note is that this trail is not shaded so you will be in full sun for the duration of the hike. Plan accordingly with hats, sunscreen and plenty of water and consider avoiding a hike around high noon as this is a notoriously hot hike.
- Distance: 7 miles (around 2 hours total)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- How to get there: Take a 45-minute drive from Honolulu to the Ka’ena Point Trailhead.
- Parking: There are two ways to access Ka’ena Point trail, both via beaches: North Shore’s Mokuleia (North Point access) and Waianae’s Yokohama Bay (South Point access).
Learn more about the Ka’ena Point Trail.
Ehukai Pillbox Hike: Best Sunset Hike Near Waikiki
Ready to witness the awe-inspiring Banzai Pipeline from a bird’s-eye view? Embark on an invigorating hike up to the Ehukai Pillbox, a hidden gem that was once a local’s best kept secret. In just 30 minutes, you’ll ascend from the bottom to the top, indulging in breathtaking ocean vistas that will leave you longing to stay atop forever. Because it’s so close to Waikiki, it’s a great spot for a hike before dusk and to catch the beautiful sunset over the Northshore.
- Distance: 1.5 mi / 2.4 km (around 60 to 90 minutes in total)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- How to get there: Take a 20-minute drive from Waikiki Beach to the Ehukai Pillbox trailhead.
- Parking: Ehukai Beach Park
Learn more about the Ehukai Pillbox hike.
Ka’au Crater Trail: Best for Climbing a Volcano
This challenging 5-mile journey will take you up 2,000 feet of elevation through a tropical rainforest filled with fragrant flowers and exotic wildlife. The views along the way are worth every minute of effort, culminating in magnificent vistas of Oahu’s iconic mountain range, lush valleys, and the beautiful Waikiki skyline.
If you’re looking to hike a volcano but don’t have the time (or stamina) for a half to full-day hike, a good alternative is Diamond Head Crater. It’s a short drive from Waikiki and only takes about an hour. It’s a really cool experience in general. But be prepared for a lot of steps as it’s a man-made walkway/stairway up to the summit.
- Distance: 5 miles (3 to 6 hours)
- Difficulty: Difficult
- How to get there: Take a 45-minute drive from Honolulu to the Ka’au Crater Trailhead.
- Parking: The address of the trailhead is 3000 10th Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
Learn more about Ka’au Crater Trail.
Tips For Hiking in Oahu
Don’t forget to bring along plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and protective clothing for your hikes in Oahu. Also, make sure to check the weather in advance. Be sure to follow the directions carefully, wear proper footwear, and stay on the marked trails. It’s also worth noting that trails tend to get muddy. So beware that your shoes and pants may also get muddy, so it can be wise not to wear white shoes unless you’re prepared to clean them afterward.
- Bring plenty of water and perhaps a snack
- Wear a hat–not all trails are shaded
- Wear sunscreen (and carry it on you in case you need to reapply)
- Wear comfortable shoes, but beware trails can be muddy so maybe don’t wear your white shoes
- It can get hot in Oahu, so avoid hiking around high noon
- Be cautious of hiking trails that are on private property
- Watch for signs that say trails closed or private property (authorities may be called if you’re caught)
- Some hiking trails are illegal in Oahu (e.g., Stairway to Heaven)
- Parking at trailheads isn’t always great so be prepared to park on the side of the road
In case you were wondering about the wildlife in Oahu, there are very few highly dangerous species. For example, you won’t find rattlesnakes, crocodiles, brown bears or mountain lions. There are no venomous snakes natural to the area. And while there are bugs that bite, Oahu isn’t known for having deadly insects. However, there are scorpions, which can bite but are not poisonous.
Bottom Line: Best Hikes Near Waikiki
Hiking in Oahu is an unforgettable experience that no outdoor enthusiast should miss. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll through breathtaking scenery or an invigorating trek up one of the island’s rugged peaks, Oahu has something to offer everyone. With its picturesque scenery, diverse wildlife, and a vast array of outdoor activities, Oahu truly is an adventurer’s paradise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do you need a car in Oahu?
While having a car is highly recommended for exploring Oahu, it’s not absolutely necessary. The island has a well-structured public transportation system, known as TheBus, that connects most major sights and tourist destinations. However, if you plan on visiting more remote areas, like certain hiking trails or secluded beaches, a rental car might be beneficial. Remember that parking in Waikiki and other popular areas can be expensive and challenging to find. Alternatively, you can also consider other modes of transportation like taxis, Uber, or even renting a bicycle for shorter distances.
What is the best time of year to visit Oahu?
Oahu is a year-round destination, thanks to its tropical climate. However, the best time to visit Oahu largely depends on your preferences. The months of April to June and September to December are generally considered the best times to visit. This is when Oahu experiences mild and pleasant weather, and the tourist crowds are thinner. During these periods, you’re likely to find better deals on accommodations and flights, and the trails and beaches are less crowded, offering a more peaceful hiking experience. Remember, Hawaii’s weather can be unpredictable at times, so it’s always a good idea to pack rain gear alongside your beachwear.
What is the closest airport to Waikiki?
The closest airport to Waikiki is the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), also known as Honolulu International Airport. Located approximately 9 miles west of Waikiki Beach, it is the primary aviation gateway to the state of Hawaii and one of the busiest airports in the United States. It takes about 15-20 minutes to travel from the airport to Waikiki by car, depending on traffic. Various transportation options are available, including taxis, shuttles, and public transport, making it convenient for travelers to reach Waikiki from the airport.
Which airlines have the most comfortable economy seating?
Jetblue has the most spacious seating out of any U.S. carrier. However, JetBlue does not currently fly to Hawaii. If you’re looking for the most comfortable economy seat to Hawaii, consider Southwest, Delta Air Lines or United Airlines. Get the complete breakdown of the airlines with the most space in economy.