Ultimate Oahu Hiking Guide: 11 Trails for Every Explorer

Explore Oahu: The Island’s Most Stunning Hiking Trails

Oahu, known as "The Gathering Place," is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of hiking experiences that cater to all levels of adventurers. From leisurely coastal walks along turquoise shores to challenging ridge climbs with jaw-dropping views, Oahu's trails showcase the island's stunning natural diversity. Whether you're trekking through lush rainforests filled with tropical birds, navigating steep ridges that provide panoramic vistas, or discovering hidden waterfalls tucked away in serene valleys, there's something for everyone. Oahu’s hiking trails are an ideal way to connect with nature and explore the island’s unique beauty, with many paths offering unforgettable perspectives of the Pacific Ocean, towering cliffs, and verdant landscapes. Whether you're a casual hiker or a seasoned trailblazer, Oahu’s diverse terrain invites you to uncover its wild side. Here are 10 breathtaking hikes that showcase some of Hawaii's most awe-inspiring scenery.

1. Diamond Head Crater Trail

‍Diamond Head Crater Trail is one of the most famous hikes on Oahu, offering spectacular views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. The trail takes you up the iconic Diamond Head volcanic cone, with a series of switchbacks and stairs leading to the summit. Along the way, you'll pass through historic tunnels and bunkers used during World War II. Although the trail is steep, it’s well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The reward at the top is a panoramic view of Waikiki Beach, the city skyline, and the vast ocean, making it a must-do hike for visitors to Oahu.

Trail Details:

• Length: 2.6 kilometers (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 1.5-2 hours
• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Starting Point: Diamond Head State Monument

Trail Highlights: Panoramic views of Honolulu, historic bunkers, and volcanic landscapes.
Insider Tip: "Arrive early to beat the crowds and the midday heat, and bring plenty of water."

2. Manoa Falls Trail

‍Manoa Falls Trail offers a lush jungle escape just minutes from downtown Honolulu. The trail winds through dense tropical rainforest, surrounded by bamboo, towering trees, and vibrant ferns. The main highlight is the 150-foot Manoa Falls, a picturesque waterfall cascading into a pool below. The trail is fairly easy, making it a popular choice for families and beginner hikers. While swimming at the falls is not allowed due to safety concerns, the serene atmosphere and stunning views make the hike well worth the trip. This trail is particularly beautiful after a light rain, when the foliage is vibrant and the waterfall is at its fullest.

Trail Details:

• Length: 2.6 kilometers (round trip)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Starting Point: Manoa Falls Trailhead

Trail Highlights: Lush rainforest, Manoa Falls, and tropical flora.
Insider Tip: "Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail can get muddy after rain."

3. Koko Crater Railway Trail

‍Koko Crater Railway Trail, also known as the “Stairmaster from Hell,” is a short but intense hike up the side of Koko Crater using old railway ties as stairs. This challenging ascent rewards hikers with incredible panoramic views of Oahu’s southeastern coastline, including Hanauma Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The trail follows a steep, straight path up the crater, and while it’s less than a kilometer to the top, the climb is relentless, with over 1,000 steps to conquer. Once you reach the summit, the views of the surrounding area are breathtaking and well worth the effort.

Trail Details:

• Length: 1.6 kilometers (round trip)
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Starting Point: Koko Head District Park

Trail Highlights: Steep stair climb, panoramic coastal views, and dramatic crater scenery.
Insider Tip: "Bring gloves for better grip on the old railway ties, and take your time to enjoy the view at the top."

4. Lanikai Pillbox Trail (Kaiwa Ridge)

‍Lanikai Pillbox Trail, also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, offers hikers stunning views of Lanikai Beach, the Mokulua Islands, and the windward coast. The hike is relatively short but includes a steep ascent up a ridge, where two old military pillboxes (bunkers) are perched, offering perfect vantage points for photos. The sweeping views from the top make this one of the most scenic hikes on Oahu. The trail is popular at sunrise, when the light casts a golden glow over the ocean and surrounding landscape. While the trail is not too long, it can be slippery after rain, so tread carefully.

Trail Details:

• Length: 3.2 kilometers (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Starting Point: Near Lanikai Beach

Trail Highlights: Stunning views of Lanikai Beach, Mokulua Islands, and WWII-era pillboxes.
Insider Tip: "Hike at sunrise for the best lighting and fewer crowds."

5. Maunawili Falls Trail

‍Maunawili Falls Trail takes you deep into Oahu’s lush interior, leading to a beautiful waterfall and swimming hole. The trail winds through dense jungle, crossing streams and climbing over roots and rocks. While the trail can be muddy and slippery, the payoff is a stunning waterfall that cascades into a cool, refreshing pool perfect for a swim. The hike is moderately challenging, with some steep sections and stream crossings, but the scenic beauty of the trail makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The waterfall is an idyllic spot for cooling off after the hike, surrounded by ferns and tropical plants.

Trail Details:

• Length: 4.8 kilometers (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Starting Point: Maunawili Road

Trail Highlights: Lush jungle, Maunawili Falls, and a refreshing swimming hole.
Insider Tip: "Wear water shoes for the stream crossings, and bring a towel for a post-hike swim."

6. Crouching Lion Hike

‍Crouching Lion Hike is a thrilling ridge hike that offers some of the most dramatic views on Oahu’s windward side. Although the trail is short, it’s steep and requires careful navigation along narrow, exposed ridges. The reward for the climb is a breathtaking view of Kahana Bay, the surrounding mountains, and the Pacific Ocean below. The hike is named after a rock formation at the summit that resembles a crouching lion. This hike is not recommended for beginners due to its steep, unmaintained path, but experienced hikers will be rewarded with some of the most jaw-dropping views on the island.

Trail Details:

• Length: 1.6 kilometers (round trip)
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Starting Point: Kahana Bay

Trail Highlights: Steep ridge climb, panoramic views of Kahana Bay, and dramatic cliffs.
Insider Tip: "Be cautious on the narrow ridges—this hike is best for experienced hikers."

7. Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail

‍‍Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail is a family-friendly hike along Oahu’s southeastern coastline, offering stunning views of the ocean and the historic Makapu’u Lighthouse. The paved trail makes this an accessible hike for all ages, and the reward is a spectacular view of the rugged cliffs, the blue waters of the Pacific, and, during the winter months, migrating humpback whales. The trail also features viewpoints that overlook the dramatic coastline and tide pools below. The iconic red-roofed Makapu’u Lighthouse, perched on a cliff, adds to the scenic beauty of this hike.

Trail Details:

• Length: 4 kilometers (round trip)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Starting Point: Makapu’u Lookout

Trail Highlights: Scenic ocean views, Makapu’u Lighthouse, and whale watching in winter.
Insider Tip: "Bring binoculars during whale season (December to April) for a chance to spot humpbacks."

8. Kaena Point Trail

‍Kaena Point Trail is a coastal hike along the northwestern tip of Oahu, leading to the secluded Kaena Point Natural Area Reserve. The trail follows a rocky coastline, offering views of crashing waves, tide pools, and native seabirds. Kaena Point is one of the few places on Oahu where you can see monk seals resting on the shore, as well as nesting albatrosses during the winter months. The flat trail is relatively easy but long, so be prepared for a full day of hiking. The reward is a remote and pristine nature reserve that feels a world away from Oahu’s bustling tourist spots.

Trail Details:

• Length: 8 kilometers (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Starting Point: Kaena Point State Park

Trail Highlights: Coastal views, native wildlife, and the secluded Kaena Point Reserve.
Insider Tip: "Start early to avoid the heat, and bring plenty of water and sunscreen."

9. Moanalua Middle Ridge Trail

‍Moanalua Middle Ridge Trail offers a challenging and thrilling ascent to the summit of the Haiku Stairs (Stairway to Heaven). This trail begins in Moanalua Valley and meanders through dense forest before climbing steeply up a narrow ridge. The hike is known for its strenuous ridgeline sections that offer breathtaking views of the valley below and the surrounding mountains. The final reward is reaching the top of the Haiku Stairs, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Oahu’s windward coast and the towering ridges around you. This hike is only for experienced hikers due to its steep and exposed sections.

Trail Details:

• Length: 13 kilometers (round trip)
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Duration: 6-8 hours
• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Starting Point: Moanalua Valley Park

Trail Highlights: Ridgeline views, dramatic landscapes, and the summit of the Haiku Stairs.
Insider Tip: "Bring gloves for the rope sections and start early—this hike is long and strenuous."

‍10. Ehukai Pillbox Hike

‍Ehukai Pillbox Hike, also known as the Sunset Pillbox Hike, offers stunning views of Oahu’s famous North Shore, including Sunset Beach and Pipeline. The trail climbs through forested hills to two old military pillboxes that now serve as excellent viewpoints for surfers and sunset watchers. The trail is relatively short but includes some steep sections. From the pillboxes, you can enjoy panoramic views of the North Shore’s white-sand beaches and the crashing surf below. This hike is particularly popular during the winter months when the North Shore’s legendary waves attract surfers from around the world.

Trail Details:

• Length: 2.6 kilometers (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Starting Point: Sunset Beach Elementary School

Trail Highlights: Pillboxes with panoramic views of the North Shore and iconic surf spots.
Insider Tip: "Visit in the late afternoon to catch the sunset over the North Shore’s famous beaches."

11. Ko'olau Summit Trail (KST)

‍The Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST) is one of Oahu's most thrilling and challenging hikes, running along the spine of the majestic Ko’olau Mountain Range. This trail offers intrepid hikers jaw-dropping views of Oahu's windward coast, sweeping valleys, and the Pacific Ocean. The KST is not a single trail but a series of interconnected ridgeline trails that vary in difficulty, with some sections featuring steep, narrow ridges and exposed paths. It’s an epic adventure for experienced hikers seeking an adrenaline-pumping trek through Oahu’s rugged wilderness.

The trail begins near the Pali Lookout and follows a series of ridges and peaks that make up the island’s backbone. The path is often muddy and overgrown, and the ridgelines can be windy, but the effort is rewarded with unparalleled views of the island’s dramatic cliffs and lush valleys. Some sections of the trail even connect to well-known ridge hikes like Moanalua Middle Ridge and Haiku Stairs.

Trail Details:

• Length: Varies by section (several kilometers)
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Duration: 6-10 hours (depending on route)
• Trail Type: Point to Point or Out and Back
• Starting Point: Pali Lookout or Moanalua Valley

Trail Highlights: Stunning ridgeline views, rugged terrain, and a thrilling ascent along Oahu’s famous mountain range.
Insider Tip: "This trail is for experienced hikers only—bring plenty of water, food, and navigation tools as conditions can change quickly."

Embark on these thrilling hikes and discover the natural beauty of Oahu, from scenic coastal walks to challenging ridge trails with unbeatable views. Each hike offers a unique experience, showcasing the island’s diverse landscapes, making Oahu a hiker’s paradise.