Oahu’s urban core often steals the spotlight with its world-class dining and shopping, but the true soul of the island lies just minutes from the high-rises. The rugged volcanic terrain surrounding Honolulu offers a dense network of trails that cater to every fitness level, from paved coastal walks to muddy ridge climbs. You can trade the sound of traffic for chirping songbirds and the scent of plumeria without ever leaving the city limits.
Hiking in Honolulu is more than just exercise; it is a cultural and historical experience. Many of these paths were originally carved by ancient Hawaiians or built during World War II, giving your workout a unique sense of place. However, the tropical environment demands respect, as the weather can shift from sunshine to dense fog and rain within an hour.
Because the terrain varies so drastically, choosing the right trail is essential for your safety and enjoyment. A "short" hike on a ridge line might be far more strenuous than a longer, paved path through a botanical garden. Knowing the elevation gain, the condition of the trail, and the parking situation will save you time and frustration during your vacation.
We have curated a list of the most rewarding trails within easy reach of Waikiki and Downtown Honolulu. Whether you are looking for a sunrise workout, a family-friendly stroll to a waterfall, or a leg-burning climb to a military pillbox, there is a path here for you. All you need is a pair of sturdy shoes and plenty of water.
In this guide, we break down the top trails based on difficulty, scenery, and accessibility. We prioritize safety by noting which trails are legally sanctioned and which require permits, ensuring you have a hassle-free adventure. You will find options that are accessible by public transport as well as those requiring a short drive into the valleys.
Before you hit the trail, remember that Oahu’s ecosystem is fragile. Stick to the marked paths to avoid erosion and to protect the native flora. Now, lace up your boots and get ready to discover the natural beauty that makes Honolulu a true outdoor paradise.
Mānoa Falls Trail
| Address | Na Ala Hele, Honolulu, HI 96822 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
It's an easy trail for me, though some would say it's moderately difficult. It's not far from Waikiki if you have a car. I came on a Tuesday late in April, and the trail was fairly busy, with the parking lots (US$7 to park) being almost full. The experience is enjoyable and a must for nature lovers. There are few other waterfalls on the island, but I would do this one if you only have time for one.
A great hidden gem a short drive from Waikiki area. One has a small fee to park your car and be aware it’s a bit muddy as the location gets a good amount of rain. On our visit it was not so bad. The falls were great and so peaceful to watch and listen to.
Easy trail that takes you through the Manoa Valley rain forest, and later to waterfall. It can rain unexpectedly, so bring a rain shell jacket. Next to the trail head is a cool Jurassic park looking structure. Inside, you can find old photographs of Honolulu from the 1800 and 1900's
There is also a junction at the end of the trail called, aihualama trail. This trail will take to Tantalus Lookout, Konahuanui Summit, and pauoa flats bench. It's all connected in a trail series called Round Top Forest Reserve.
Overall really cool hiking trail that is a must to see when visiting Oahu.
Non hikers get ready 😆! This was my 2nd hike but this was way more intense than my first at a lake. Wet, rocky, muddy, and straight up beautiful I tell you what!! Use the bathroom first, take water, a poncho if u dont want to be wet, shoes that take slick rocks well, and a camera!! Never seen anything like it in person! It was so dope. Rn it was 7 bucks to park.
Really huge Jurassic Park fan, so this waterfall hike was super cool. Very muddy, so come prepared with good footwear. Hike up can be slippery and slightly difficult heading to the falls, but coming back is all down hill, still slippery though! Not a long hike, but definitely worth the time. Get there early for a parking spot, lot is not very big.
Diamond Head Crater Trailhead
| Address | Kapahulu, Honolulu, HI 96815 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Climbed it. Conquered it. Collected the view.
Hiking Diamond Head was one of the highlights of my trip. I went early, which I highly recommend, because the sun in Hawaii does not play. The trail is manageable but not effortless. There are inclines, uneven terrain, narrow stairways, and that final staircase that will test your commitment. It is a workout, but it is absolutely worth it.
The panoramic view at the top overlooking Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean is breathtaking. You feel accomplished standing at the summit knowing you just climbed an iconic volcanic crater. It is both scenic and symbolic.
Logistically, the trail is well maintained and clearly marked. Bring water, wear supportive shoes, and pace yourself. If you are moderately active, you can do it. Just do not underestimate it.
Diamond Head was no joke, but the view was my reward. If you are visiting Oʻahu, this hike deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Relatively easy hike, if you can call it a hike. Well laid out made track. The only thing is it was pretty packed up and down so very hard to enjoy the views thoroughly.
But the views are worth it. You don’t need to be overly fit or a hiking enthusiast, we were up and down in less than an hour. Great 360 views over the ocean, waikiki and beyond.
Crowded. A bit annoyingly so, but it's manageable. We went for the 6am spot (gorgeous lighting and perfect temperature!) and there were already lines of people waiting to go in, and I hear it only gets worse as the day goes on. Hike was much easier than anticipated. Whole thing took us 1h45 minute from the bus stop, so maybe 1h15 from the visitor centre. Views are astonishing. Waikiki skyline/summit view is not quite as good as Punchbowl in my opinion; the strength of this hike for me was all the views you get while climbing. Definitely an essential.
Woke up 3am Oregon time to get tickets 1 month before our trip to get the date we wanted. Choose the 8am time frame with parking. Boy was it hot already and tons of people. When you get to the top so much waiting to take pics. Can't imagine how it is later in the day. Uneven trail, stairs, and a tunnel. A few benches along the way to sit. Not much shade. Beautiful view at top just a lot of people.
This tour was so amazing. Lucas the guide was awesome. Knowledgeable, helpful and entertaining. It was a small group making it more personable. Lucas made sure we saw the perfect views and was also a great photographer, taking the best photos and creating great videos. DEFINITELY recommend.
Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail
| Address | 2390 Okoa St, Honolulu, HI 96821 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Overall: One of the best ridge hikes with an incredible view of most of the island! A real must do with good planning in advance!
Parking: Gotta get a sign from the front gate. It has instructions on where you can park, but it is extremely limited.
Trail: Really split into two sections; the first half is pretty easy-paved or gravel and flat dirt from a road/path. Mostly covered in the canopy. Then you’ll see a bench with a sign for the second half of the trail. That’s where the stairs and brush begin and the difficulty goes up. There’s minimal shade after this. Some narrow areas but nothing crazy. Towards the radio tower you’ll start to encounter some areas with ropes for assistance that are in varying condition - so check first. Otherwise it was pristine-no trash so please help keep it beautiful.
Conditions: Be prepared for mud. STRONGLY advise checking weather a few days before attempting. You don’t want to get caught inside a cloud with minimal visibility in the wind and rain on the trail because it is a muddy mess. Easy to slip and fall.
Gear: Saw all ages with varying levels of equipment. Some barefoot, some with boots and hiking spikes, others with running shoes and poles. Personally I’d recommend at least trail runners or hiking shoes - saw a few groups in running shoes turn back due to muddy conditions.
Not for beginners, says steady incline it was steep. Very steep. It was fun when I wasnt absolutely dying. Had to crawl on hands and knees at one point over a bunch of roots, once I got to the top of the root there were stair that were like 22 inches tall. Thought going down would be easier than going up but it was only faster, came down and almost popped my shocks and slid about a quarter the way down. Overall will be doing again 9/10.
This challenging hike is hidden behind a gated community. But don't let that deter you from attempting. Parking is limited and controlled by a gate guard when you first enter the neighborhood, so go early to beat the crowds and also guarantee parking at the trailhead. As others have mentioned, if parking is full you could park outside the neighborhood and walk up. But that Hill is absolutely strenuous and you would want to save your energy for the hike. The trail starts off with a steady incline all the way to the actual entrance which is marked by a sign. At that point. It's basically stairs and muddy footholds all the way up. So prepared to get muddy and leave the cute shoes and outfits at home. You would want to carry your water in a backpack or Camelback so your hands are free. On some of the more difficult parts. There are plenty of ropes to get you up and they are all pretty sturdy. If you have gloves that would help. Once you get to the radio tower, it's a short walk to the final end of the trail where you will be rewarded with fuse the entire east side of Hawaii. You definitely don't want to go if it's been raining as the trail is definitely muddy and slippery already enough. And just when you thought going up was difficult the way down is even harder as you have to really be careful with your footing in order to not slip and hurt yourself. Take your time and if need be go down backwards, hands and foot. Just make sure you watch where you put your feet. Although it's a challenging hike, the reward at the top more than makes up for it. It can get crowded as the afternoon goes along so definitely recommend going as early as possible so that you can beat the crowd up and down. And also not have to worry about passing folks on the single muddy trail. On sunny days the trail is fully exposed to the Sun and elements, so make sure you wear sunscreen or long sleeves for my fair skinned friends and bring the lots of water. There was a lady that took her dog all the way to the top but you could tell that dog has been on a lot of trails. So if you're a pup does not used to hard strenuous hikes, definitely recommend leaving them at home.
Great hike wasn’t super difficult but a nice view and still a good workout. Don’t go when it’s recently rained since it’s pretty muddy and would be hard to do if it’s wet.
first part EASY. walk in the park.
second half once you see the stairs, MODERATE.
once you see the ropes, HARD. esp coming down.
trail is MUDDY, SLIPPERY and you are bound to get DIRTY.
BUT: views are insane. gorgeous. gets cloudy but clouds blow by fast.
TIPS: come early for parking. i came 8am and parking lot was empty. by 11am it was FULL.
Kaʻau Crater Trail
| Address | 3000 10th Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
This hike is hard and beautiful and has a little of everything! You will cross rivers, hike through jungles, climb up waterfalls, Rapel down slippery slopes, walk across narrow ledges, enjoy incredible 360 degree views from the top, get muddy, wet, tired … and have a blast! Bring lots of water and some snacks and wear trail shoes with good traction that can get dirty. It took us 6 hrs total.
I am an avid hiker and mountaineer from Washington State, and I must say this hike lived up to my standards of epicness! But that wet rock and constant mud really made it intense. I did the shorter version of the loop scrambling up past all of the waterfalls to the outlet of the crater where I hung the left and took the shortcut trail to get back onto the ridge, opting to forget the remaining thousand feet of mud to get to the top of the mountains. Absolutely beautiful rainforest and creek and waterfalls and ridge.
Epic trail right under my nose.I was put onto this case by my friend.Tom, we had the entire trail right beforesels.It was an extreme experience around noon, literally.It felt maybe one of the pair of individuals on the trail.How awesome is it to have your personal experience? We walked all the way to "water fall one" see pictures of the largest ones. We brought as soon to be celebrity with us. Her name is lucy, she a fine K9. had a great time. Ima be back!!
Im def Gonna get back out there and do some water therapy, and some air baithing. Medium difficulty.
Always check weather as it dictates, trail ease or complexity, due to wet mud and steep gradients.
You got this. I believe you not wheelchair chair accessible.
Pretty cool hike, do not go when muddy as progress slows dramatically waterfalls are cool.
Unbelievable.. breathtaking views! But boy-oh-boy is it a tough "hike." There's actually a lot of climbing involved, and you have to make sure you have on the right shoes.. hiking boots with a good gripping tread on the soles. Gloves would be useful as well for climbing ropes to pull yourself up over rocks and waterfalls. You will get muddy and wet. It is scary as heck when you get up really high on the waterfall, and there's nowhere to go but further up.. because there is no going back down! 😳 Be sure to bring plenty of water, and maybe some granola bars for snacks. It's going to be a long day. Oh.. and bug spray is a MUST!!! 🦟🦗🪲🐞🐜🦋🐛🦟🐌
Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve
| Address | Honolulu, HI 96822 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (808) 587-0400 |
Wonderful short hike, depending on your pace. There is some slippering mud with the wrong shoes. Be careful of the water because of pathogens. Stay safe and enjoy!
Beautiful, lush, scenic and captivating beyond words.... BUT... the mosquitoes have teeth, and they don't care how many friends you got, they'll take you and all your friends on, no problem. So bring repellent, or stop off at the blood bank for a few bags before or after you go to the watershed, because you are going to need a refill... if you don't believe me, F.A.F.O..
The waterfall is okay, you can't get down close to it because they have it blocked off with signs. I'm sure the waterfall is more impressive as the water flow increases. The waterfall hike is well traveled, slippery in some spots but not much mud because it's layered with rock in most places. However....the AIHUALAMA trail is very muddy but the view at the end is worth it. AIHUALAMA is a tight trail with multiple switchbacks and obstacles.
Beautiful gardens with an incredible abundance of variety. Very well maintained and friendly staff. You can even get a shuttle ride from the parking lot to the falls. The audio tour is a good deal.
If you like hiking and beautiful scenery and waterfalls. Go.....like, right now. It's an amazing journey. They ask everyone to leave at 7pm. The trail gets really slippery due to the rain and mud, so be careful and wear the appropriate attire. Other than that have fun!
Koko Crater Railway Trailhead
| Address | 7604 Koko Head Park Rd #7602, Honolulu, HI 96825 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Loved this hike! The last third gets very steep, but personally I found the climb up manageable. Coming down was a different story- the first half took me a while to navigate safely, so definitely take your time and wear good footwear. I saw a couple of would-be heroes slipping and hurting themselves.
I’d strongly recommend arriving as early as possible. On my descent, once it passed 8am, I could really feel the sun starting to hit me.
The views from the top are fantastic. There’s a decent-sized platform where you can rest, and you can technically climb higher using the rocks or additional rail tracks. Both require careful navigation, but it’s worth it to reach the end of the mine track. Overall, a really cool and rewarding hike!
A pretty cool trek but defo not for the faint hearted. It’s basically vertical & you defo need a level of fitness, though we did see many active elderly people confidently do the hike. Can be dangerous when rainy. Even though it was raining for us, the view at the top is beautiful. Cool hike & worth hiking. I prefer this over diamond head - it’s free too!
No amount of time on the stairmaster could’ve prepared me for this hike. Definitely go early, I’m talking as the sun is rising, and prepare to be humbled. The view from the top is well worth the struggle. To get to the very top, there’s two bridge sections you’ll have to climb, but if you’re wary of heights, each has its own bypass. With time spent at the top enjoying the view, it took us about 2 hrs to complete.
For a fit individual the hike will take about 25 minutes up and 20 mins down (slight run down is easier than walking down).
Not an easy hike, and there are sections that have an open space between the steps which can be a bit scary but all do-able (even saw a small puppy do the hike with the owner and another guy who did the hike 4x same morning...!!) The view at the top is incredibly rewarding!
Definitely start your hike before the sunrise. In the afternoon the sun will be on you as you hike up making it much hotter. (Sun rises from the other side of the stairs in the morning). Car park was relatively full when I arrived at 6:03am (the time of sunrise).
Highly recommended for anyone that wants a challenging hike!
Koko Head is a volcanic tuff cone located in the suburb of Hawaii Kai, about a 25 minute drive east of Honolulu proper. The trail uses a defunct railway track built during WW-II. The track was originally used to transport military personnel and supplies to the summit, where they once had radar installations. Ascending to the summit requires clambering up 1,048 wooden "steps" that served as crossties for the railway. It's a steep, sun-exposed hike covering about 3/4ths of a mile each way, with a gain of about 1,000 feet in elevation. The hike is strenuous--smart to carry plenty of water and energy snacks, and to go very early or on an overcast day to avoid the midday sun. About halfway up a ravine traverses the path of the old railway, so there is a short trestle, and the crossties elevate to about 15 feet above the ground. There is also a sensible side-trail you can take to avoid this elevated section. At the summit you are treated to 360 degree views of the surrounding area, including a distant view of Diamond Head and the Honolulu skyline, and of Hanauma Bay closer by. You access the trail head via Koko Head District Park; the entrance gates are open from 4 am to 11 pm. There is plenty of parking near the trail head, and one of the parking lots has public restrooms. There is no water or facilities available on the hike itself. There is a government/military shooting range down one side of the mount, so you might hear distant gun shots as you hike. If you are very fit, you might make it to the summit in 20-30 minutes (some people run up in 15 minutes); if you are in decent shape you might make it up in less than an hour; if you don't workout regularly you should do something else instead.
Lulumahu Falls
| Address | 4459 HI-61, Honolulu, HI 96817 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (808) 587-0166 |
Beautiful waterfalls. Great hike. This was a moderate to difficult hike, make sure your footing is solid, lots of mud and wet rocks.
This will be a quick guide to find the falls, as it is not always obvious you're going the right way.
To start, the sign says you need a permit, I did not have one and was fine. But proceed at your own caution. There are pink and orange ribbons tied around some of the trees that show you the path. The futher along I got, the less I saw, but maybe that's because I was SO concerned with my footing. The dirt lot is just off the highway, there is a small opening in the gate you can get through. Walk through the bamboo forest until you come to a hole in a fence, ok the other side is just grass and a hill up to a path. Follow the path down past the reservoir, them you'll come to another opening in the fence. Hike up the steps and around the concrete fenced structure. Up some more step until you come to a dam. Here is where I crossed the creek. There are several different paths up to the falls but they will all get you there. I tried to take a picture whenever I crossed the creek. Following the path to the right after the first crossing leads you up and down a steep path with roots to use as your steps. You'll cross the creek a second time and come to a downed tree and a limb with doggy bags hanging from it. Keep going up the trail and you'll come across two big boulders in your path that you sneak past. Once more across the creek and eventually you'll come to a tree seemingly growing out of a rock. Once you continue past that you'll have to scramble past a roack wall with a small waterfall. I went to the left amd climbed up the rocks, which is not for the faint of heart, I saw a path to the right which was also straight up. Maybe there's a third way around? Not sure. Once you make it past that last obstacle your home free to the waterfall! Take time to soak it in.
Hopefully this helps as I had NO idea where I was going.
Great hike. Be careful when it is raining or has rained a lot recently. You have to cross the creek and it can be dangerous if there is a lot of water flowing. Also. IT'S SUPER MUDDY QHEN WET!!! Other than that, it's a pretty hike. Make sure you take an extra pair of shoes whenever you get back to your car you might want to wear something clean.
It's a fairly short hike that's easy to moderate depending on the conditions. The waterfall is best following a rain, but the rain makes the trail slick and muddy. There are areas where you have to traverse rock. The area is also used for hunting, so be sure to take the trail marked with ribbon. There are usually other hikers on the trail as it is a popular location. Parking can be challenging, so I recommend going early. Don't forget to order your hiking permit.
This trail is not an official hiking trail. We missed the parking lot on the first time by because its just a big dirt lot on the side of the road. Be prepared to balance on rocks to cross a stream multiple times and you're shoes will get muddy. It is worth it to see the waterfall in the end. While its not an official trail, there are orange and pink markers tied to the trees to help guide you. However the trail does fork multiple times and you can find markers both ways. My husband and I seem to have found the more difficult climb up. When heading up to the waterfall, if you're spending the majority of the time on the left of the stream, you're on the more difficult side. On our way down, we stuck to the opposite side, and it was so much easier, flatter, and quicker. I'd recommend wearing bug spray. My husband didn't get bit but i got multiple bug bites. Also be sure to bring your own water.
Follow the pink and orange ribbons. There are multiple ways to get up and back. One thing I wish I had known was that the entrance to the area and the main trail is through a gated fence with a sign that reads "hunting area." That is the proper way to go. If you take the path further to the right you will get to go through some dense bamboo forest, but it will not get you to the main trail without having to backtrack or go through a sketchy hole in a fence.
Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail
| Address | Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail, Waimanalo, HI 96795 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 6:45 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:45 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:45 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 6:45 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:45 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 6:45 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 6:45 PM |
| Phone | (808) 587-0300 |
This is a GREAT paved trail that is family friendly. SUPER well-maintained with trash cans and places to sit and take a break along the way. Be advised that there's no restrooms or water so be sure to plan accordingly.
We arrived about 6am and parked along the road (the gate doesn't open until 7am). We (both 65 years old) made it from the road to the top in about 40 minutes stopping often for pictures. The round trip from the road is almost 3 miles. Out and back was 1hr 22 mins at an easy pace. Amazing views and plenty of different angles to get great pictures.
If you aren't used to hiking any elevation, this will be challenging, but if you're in good shape, it's an easy hike. Best of all -- it's FREE!
Fantastic hike! The initial climb is definitely on the steep side, but the fully paved trail makes it manageable, and there are plenty of spots to pause and catch your breath. A few helpful tips: bring plenty of water, wear comfortable shoes, apply sunblock, and wear a hat — just be ready to hold onto it since the breeze gets stronger as you gain elevation.
At the end of the trail, you’re rewarded with the lighthouse and a truly breathtaking panoramic view that makes every step worth it. Happy hiking, stay safe, and enjoy the journey!
There are a lot of photos of the lighthouse ( which is nice), but don't forget to enjoy the stunning views along the way. Absolutely gorgeous Hawaii!! The paved path makes the hike easier and so does the ocean breeze. The views from the top gives a beautiful panoramic view of the coast.
This is one of the must-do trails on Oahu, especially for families with children. The trail is fully paved, which makes it easy to navigate with strollers and provides a safe and comfortable walking experience.
The hike itself is not difficult, but it is longer than it may seem, so we were definitely tired by the end. However, the effort is well worth it. The higher you go, the more beautiful the views become.
The scenery along the way is stunning, and the trail is very well maintained. The breathtaking views at the top make this hike one of the highlights of our trip to Oahu. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting the island, especially families looking for an accessible outdoor adventure.
Park opens 7 AM, closes 7:45 PM. Lot is not open until 7 but you can park on the side of the road.
Recommend for sunrise hike. Nice paved path and well kept path. Took us approximately 30 minutes to get to the top, 10 minutes to enjoy the views, and 25 minutes to get down. This hike has NO shade so hike either in the early morning or late evening. Safe for dogs (but be careful of the black pavement). Not difficult for children either.
At the viewpoints you can sometimes see whales!
Koko Crater Stairs (Summit)
| Address | 7430 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96825 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
2nd time on this trail. First time was over 15 years ago and most recently 1 month ago.
Really great hike that can be done within 1-1.5 hrs out and back. 2 areas where it’s not a solid trail- holes between the wooden planks that you can fall through if you’re not careful- but I found out there are bypasses that you can do off your the right when going up and on the left when you are coming down.
Always people overestimating their abilities and when we were there, someone had to be taken away by an ambulance… I think just make sure to start early if you aren’t in good shape and take breaks along the way. Also, bring plenty of water and electrolytes.
Great views from the top!
What a view from the Koko Crater Stairs Summit. A very steep climb but worth it. Step by step and taking your time will get you to the approximately 1,100 vertical feet climb. Best to hike in the morning before the heat of the sun gets really warm.
Beautiful views and an amazing spot to watch the sunrise! It's definitely a hike that will take a toll on your legs but well worth it. There's a metal platform at the very top that you can get an excellent 360 degree view with and a bunker that will provide some shelter from the wind or rain if needed. There are also a couple of wooden platforms overlooking Honolulu just before the very top.
Amazing views, but the hike is no joke. Old, young, and out of shape people beware. Up is tough, but down is what gets you. I was able to make up and down without stopping, but I also trail run 25-35 miles per week.
It was amazing, but definitely challenging. Reaching the top felt incredibly rewarding. I noticed the trail continued, so I decided to hike a bit farther down the other side. I wouldn’t recommend it, though…the path becomes increasingly difficult to follow and eventually almost disappears.
Kuli‘ou‘ou Ridge Trailhead
| Address | Kuli'ou'ou Valley Trail, Honolulu, HI 96821 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (808) 291-6697 |
A beautiful and picturesque mountain trail. It’s a good idea to allow 3–4 hours just for the walk up and down. Plus some time to rest or have a picnic in the great outdoors. I really love the diversity of the natural landscape. There are fascinating types of woodland; it feels as though, at times, you’ve stepped onto another planet. How beautiful the island must have been before the industrial era. I recommend it to lovers of beautiful views and walking trips.
Pros:
Family-friendly and dog-friendly.
Lush, immersive forest scenery.
Short and easy, great for all skill levels.
Well-marked and easy to follow.
Beautiful views.
Cons:
Can get a bit muddy after rain (bring good shoes).
Limited street parking.
PARKING -Very few spots to park alongside the road. Don't block any driveways or you'll get a ticket. 🎫
This hike is 100% on the Moderate-Hard difficulty. The trail starts out easy but gets harder as you go up.
🥾 We took both my kids (infant/toddler) in backpacks as we went up. We even let the toddler walk ¾ of the hike up but had to non-stop watch him like a hawk due to the edges and cliff sides. The last 20mins are like Koko Head steps but the views are worth it. ⛰️
There is a covered picnic table area 80% of the way up for a good break area.
Please take the water jugs 🍶 from point 1 to point 3 to help you and other hikers wash off when comming down.
I'd recomend 10+ years of age on hike if you're going all the way to the summit. Or if they can follow directions well to stay away from the edges and drops.
Great hike with a rewarding view at the end! There are two convenient spots for resting. The first is a little shelter with a couple of tables and benches not long after the trail straightens out a bit. The second is a bench overlooking a fantastic view in-between what I consider the most challenging portions of the hike, just after a fairly steep climb up some roots and not long before the steps start.
This is a great hike to do with friends and if you’re up for a challenge with kids. It is a longer hike we spent 3 1/2 hours getting to the summit and an hour and 50 minutes coming back down. It had been raining the few days prior and so a good portion of the upper trail was quite muddy, especially along the stairs so bringing hiking poles is very helpful. Definitely bring plenty of water and lots of snacks as this is a long hike and there will be some scrambling through tree roots that are very slippery especially if it has been raining.
Despite the difficulty the view up at the top and even just as soon as you get to the first ridge is definitely worth the struggle up. It can be pretty windy up at the top so you can bring a little jacket and if you have your kids with you hold onto them once you get up to the top.
ʻAihualama Trail
| Address | Na Ala Hele: Aihualama Trail, Honolulu, HI 96822 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
This is a great trail. Tried getting up to the ridge from the other side on the Judd trail and this is 100% easier. Well traveled and relatively flat the entire way. The manoa falls trail is easy, so this is a great supplement if you want to burn a couple lore hours with a great view up top.
Beautiful nature hike to the waterfall. Parking was $7 and plentiful. Make sure you have hiking boots as some of the hike can get slippery. There is another much longer and challenging hike you can attempt if you’d like at the waterfall which I did not do.
This trail is more moderate for any experienced hiker... But if you are not that active and or have any pre-existing conditions that make it difficult for you to walk on a steep incline with slippery rocks and mud do not take this hike to avoid injury on your vacation.
It will take about 2 hours round trip and be VERY muddy at the top and will ruin your shoes. This is more of a trail for working out as opposed to a tourist trail.
While out there were many people were in flip flops/tennis shoes not prepared for the mud and rocks. And also has NO water 😬
There's not many views during the hike but at the end is a nice look out point that's breezy and cool! Note this will NOT take you to the top of the falls!
This is a great trail for those that enjoy hiking, it connects with other trails: Manoa Falls, Pauoa Flats, Nu'uanu, and Pu'u Ohia. This isn't something I'd recommend for your little ones, if you mind getting muddy/dirty, or you're protective of your ankles/knees. There are places where stepping in/thru water is required. Climbing under/over debris may be necessary as well. However, the views and wildlife are worth the mud and sweat.
I was looking for an entrance to swim in Mānoa Falls because I thought you could swim in the falls. I got lost so I ended up hiking this trail. Hiked from Mānoa Falls and exited at Kalāwahine trail. So, I am not sure if there is any entry point aside from Mānoa Falls. From Mānoa falls, you would have to pass a steep part where you would have to put you feet in between tree roots to pass. Lots of crouching from fallen trees and some narrow path. It was also rainy.
Kaʻena Point Trail
| Address | Farrington Hwy, Waialua, HI 96791 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | (808) 587-0300 |
Absolutely breathtaking. Get here before the sun rises, you won’t regret it! About 6 miles total, easy to hike, stunning views the entire way. The albatross nesting grounds were amazing!! Our kids had the most magical time seeing the albatrosses in their natural habitat. Get here early for good parking but also to enjoy the walk while the sun rises.
It says 2.25 miles one way to predator fence. Approximately 1 mile inside the predator fence, so you're looking at around 5 miles minimum if you do it fully.
Path was flat consisting of large gravel, then transitioned to sand for the last half mile or so. Fine sand paths past predator fence.
I will call this area,"A true beach."
One hour drive from honolulu but it is well worth to visit this place. Away from vendors and businesses and away from lots of people and traffic.
When you are here, there is only sea, sound of wind, sun and yourself.
That is why I call this area a true beach.
Do enjoy the pictures and videos I uploaded.
If you want to enjoy a true pure beach than visit the Ka'ens point trail.
Highly Highly Recomended !!!
This is a beautiful hike! There is free parking at the beach down the road, you have to leave before sunset. That is when they close the access gate. Bring a lot of water and a few snacks to eat. I recommend hiking in some type of hiking boots due to any rain causing muddy conditions. If the trail has a huge puddle, most of the time there was a side trail with no water on it. I hiked during cool weather, but there is little to no shade so keep that in mind when planning the hike. At the end of the hike and top of the mountain you have a chance to see Laysan Albatross (Phoebastria immutabilis) (Mõlī).
Great experience at Kaena Point. The trail is well maintained and best done early morning as the heat of the day can get pretty overwhelming. The total miles from point to point and back is close to 7 miles but we'll worth it. There is a new addition to the trail called the the Coastal Trailhead and it gets you closer to the water without any danger from the waves buy close enough to have an ocean and waves views the whole way until the communication tower. Absolute a must do while in Hawaii. We encountered plenty of marine life including Hawaiian Monk seals, albatross birds and fish. The area is good for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, 4 wheeling up to a certain point. Come and explore the area then head up to Polo Beach and enjoy the beach for a splash in the waters.
Essential Tips for Hiking in Honolulu
The key to a successful hike in Honolulu is preparation, not just physical stamina but logistical planning. The microclimates and volcanic rock require a different approach than hiking on the mainland. Here are the non-negotiables for your safety and comfort.
First, start your hike early in the morning, ideally before 8:00 AM. This helps you avoid the intense midday sun and the afternoon cloud cover that often obscures the best viewpoints. Second, always carry more water than you think you need; the humidity is deceptive and you will sweat more than usual.
Third, wear proper footwear. Flip-flops are only acceptable for paved coastal paths; for ridge hikes like Koko Head or Olomana, you need shoes with aggressive tread to grip the loose volcanic scree. Fourth, never leave valuables in your rental car, as trailhead parking lots are notorious for break-ins. Leave your windows down or the doors unlocked if the car is empty to prevent smashed glass.
Finally, respect the ‘Kapu’ (forbidden) signs. Some trails, like the Stairway to Heaven, are closed to the public and carry heavy fines for trespassing. Sticking to legal trails ensures that rescue services are not put at risk and that the land is preserved for future generations.
The trails around Honolulu offer a unique opportunity to see the island from a bird’s-eye perspective. The effort you put into the climb is always rewarded with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Diamond Head, and the Ko’olau mountain range. By following local etiquette and packing out what you pack in, you help keep these incredible resources open for everyone. So grab your pack, set your alarm early, and earn those breathtaking Hawaiian views.
