Top Oahu Hiking Trails

Steep, no-shade, climb to the top of Koko Head Crater that includes spectacular panoramic views of the east Honolulu shoreline, Hanauma Bay, and parts of Moloka’i. The 1,000+ step walking track consists of abandoned railroad ties that run along the crater’s west side to the top of Koko Crater. The military used them previously during World War 2 as part of an incline tram to transport supplies to a lookout post at the summit. Halfway up, there is a “bridge” portion without ground beneath ~50 rai…

The Diamond Head Summit trail hike is likely the most popular hike in Oahu, and for good reason. While fairly steep, this easy hike starts from the middle of the Diamond Head volcanic crater and climbs about 500 feet up the side to the top of the rim where panoramic views await. Diamond Head State Monument encompasses over 475 acres, including the interior and outer slopes of the crater. The Diamond Head crater is more than 3,500 feet in diameter and is part of the Hawaiian volcano chain from m…

A short hike to the base of Manoa Falls in the Manoa Valley in Honolulu, Oahu, the Manoa Falls Trail winds through a lush Hawaiian tropical rainforest filled with movie scene locations from Jurassic Park and LOST. The trail can be quite muddy, so proper closed toe footwear is recommended. Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed in the pool at the base of the waterfall but the views alone justify this easy hike. This area receives significant rainfall so check the weather before going to avoid fla…

This hike in West Maui Forest Reserve promises lush scenery, great views, and some exciting ridge-line hiking. It can be a little difficult to find the parking lot, keep an eye out for the red Camp Maluhia BSA sign when turning off of Kahekili Highway. Hiking the Waihee ridgeline up in the west Maui mountains overlooking the Waihe’e Valley is dramatic and always scenic. There is a well-groomed trail that is suitable for trail runners and hikers alike. The elevation climbs by means of clean swit…

This trail rises almost 1,800 feet before peaking on the spine of the awe inspiring Kuli’ou’ou Ridge. At the top of the ridge you are rewarded with sweeping views of the dramatic landscape around you. The trail is steep and can be wet and slippery so best to be prepared for muddy conditions, as is common with many hikes on the island.

Great short uphill paved trail along sea cliffs to observation deck and lighthouse with fantastic views. Whole thing is paved, there’s no shade so bring lots of water and go as soon as they open to beat the heat. Lots of lookouts for whales, you can climb down a path and get right next to the lighthouse. A parking area offers access to the trailhead. Follow the trail as it climbs up the western side of the ridge. Upon reaching the top of the ridge (about the halfway point), the trail switches …

Waimoku Falls via Pipiwai Trail is a unique and very special waterfall hike in Haleakala National Park where your adventures begin even before you reach the trailhead. Maui’s Hana Highway is sixty miles of scenic but curvy coastal road, reportedly featuring 620 curves and 59 bridges, most of which are single-lane bridges. If you relish your driving experiences then the Road to Hana alone is a “must-do”. The round trip to the falls and back takes in several great waterfalls before reaching the sp…

Great day hike down into and across a solid lava lake in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The Kilauea Iki Trail starts in the rain forest on the crater’s rim. The crater is a mile wide. The trail descends through the rain forest to the crater floor. You can still see steam from the vent that built Pu’u Pua’i cinder cone.

A short drive from Honolulu, this loop is great for the whole family. The trail offers incredible views of Halawa Valley and the southern coastline of Oahu. The hike takes up to 3 hours depending on your fitness level. Upon arriving to the trailhead, you’ll find a parking area, picnicking area, and restrooms. This loop can be done in either direction. Visitors interested in military history may find the B-24J Crash Site interesting.

Located in Kailua, on the windward side of Oahu, Olomana Trail (“three peaks”) is a strenuous hike with amazing views if you can make it to the top. It is not for those who are afraid of heights. Some of the sections of this hike require technical 4th – 5th class scrambling and the us