Summary
Looking for the best hikes in Hawaii? Look no further, as we’ve rounded up some of the greatest hiking trails in the Hawaiian Islands to help you plan your trip. Hawaii boasts some of the best hiking in the USA. Where else in the States can you hike for an hour while trekking by waterfalls and bamboo forests, before ending along the crater’s rim? The constant changes in the landscape, shaped by nature’s forces, have created a rare and stunning environment.
Traveling to Hawaii presents the ease of domestic travel while feeling like you’re in a different country. From the tallest mountain, Mauna Kea on the Big Island, to the breathtaking Waimea Canyon and Waipio Valley, Hawaii is truly an adventure paradise.
Best Hikes in Hawaii
Choosing a hike can be as challenging as deciding which white sand beach to settle on each day, but there’s no need to worry. Our list of the 17 best hikes in Hawaii has you covered.
Hiking on Maui
Pipiwai Trail – Maui
If you seek a trek that provides stunning scenery at a leisurely pace, the Pipiwai Trail is for you. This trail ascends through mango and guava trees, leading you into the bamboo grove.
After just half a mile, you’ll encounter the first waterfall. Makahiku Falls is a beautiful waterfall that drops hundreds of feet into a deep gorge, easily viewed from an overlook on the trail. The adventure continues as you re-enter the dense bamboo forest, winding around old banyan trees. After 2 miles, you will encounter Waimoku Falls, cascading down 400 feet. Swimming here is off-limits due to hazardous conditions.
- Trailhead: Kipahulu Visitor Center
- Distance: 4 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 650ft
Waihee Ridge Trail – Maui
If breathtaking views are your goal, then the Waihee Ridge Trail is a must-do. This moderate trail offers stunning vistas of Waihe’e Gorge, tumbling waterfalls, and the wild northern coast of Maui.
The 2.5-mile climb up to the 2563ft summit of Lanilili Peak is steady and manageable for any confident hiker. It’s best to start early to avoid the heat and typical afternoon clouds.
- Trailhead: Maluhia Rd
- Distance: 5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 1700ft
Sliding Sands Trail – Maui
For the adventurous spirit looking to complete an overnight trek, the Sliding Sands Trail is one of the best hiking options in Hawaii. Traversing through stark lava landscapes, you’ll discover a silence that is rare in most wilderness areas.
The initial section offers magnificent views with minimal vegetation, giving plenty of photo opportunities at stunning overlooks. If you prefer not to hike the entire trail, numerous guided hiking options are available, allowing you to experience the beauty of Haleakala National Park.
- Trailhead: Haleakala Visitor Center Parking Lot
- Distance: 22 miles
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Elevation Gain: Varies
Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk Trail – Maui
Not every hike in Hawaii has to be strenuous. The Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk Trail offers a relaxed 2-mile stroll, allowing you to enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean while possibly spotting sea turtles.
It’s best to hike early to avoid the midday sun. However, Wailea Beach is a perfect spot for sunset viewing, making it an ideal location to unwind after your hike.
- Trailhead: Polo Beach
- Distance: 3.6 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 138ft
Kalalau Trail – Kauai
Among the incredible hikes, the Kalalau Trail stands out for its perfect balance of difficulty and stunning rewards. This iconic hike on Kauai traverses the Na Pali Coast.
The 11-mile Kalalau Trail leads you to outstanding coastal beaches including Ke’e and Hanakapi’ai. If time allows, consider staying overnight at the remote Kalalau Beach; however, a permit is now required for access.
- Trailhead: Ke’e Beach trailhead
- Distance: 22 miles
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Elevation Gain: Approx 5000ft
Best Hiking on Oahu
Diamond Head Trail – Oahu
A formidable mass of volcanic rock on Oahu, Diamond Head spans 450 acres and encompasses one of the best hikes in Hawaii. The climb to the summit is around 2 miles and will certainly test your legs, especially with a steep ascent.
Once at the top, all your efforts will be rewarded with stunning views of the Hawaiian coastline, including downtown Honolulu and Waikiki Beach.
- Trailhead: Diamond Head Crater
- Distance: 1.6 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 560ft
Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail – Oahu
Offering stunning ocean views and a hint of history, the Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail on the Windward Coast is perfect for adventure seekers. The trail culminates at the lighthouse, which sits on a 600ft cliff above Makapuu Beach.
The journey to the trail’s end results in vistas that make the hike worthwhile.
- Trailhead: Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trailhead
- Distance: 2 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 500ft
Manoa Falls Trail – Oahu
Home to many stunning waterfalls, Manoa Falls is an accessible climb to 150ft of cascading beauty. Located just outside of Honolulu, this trail is popular among tourists and locals for its picturesque setting.
Although short, sturdy hiking boots are advised due to muddy conditions along the trail.
- Trailhead: Manoa Falls Trailhead
- Distance: 1.5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 633ft
Koko Crater Trail – Oahu
The Koko Crater Trail features a challenging climb over 1000 steps, remnants of an old railway built during World War II. The hike, lasting about an hour, culminates in spectacular views overlooking Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay.
- Trailhead: Koko Crater Railway Trailhead
- Distance: 2 miles
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Elevation Gain: 990ft
Kaena Point Trail – Oahu
If you’re seeking a more relaxed hike after conquering Koko Crater, the Kaena Point Trail offers a gentle trek with beautiful coastal scenery.
Ending at a picturesque lighthouse, this trail is perfect for a mid-hike swim and offers chances to see monk seals or whales.
- Trailhead: Ka‘ena Point Natural Reserve Area
- Distance: 3.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: Negligible
The Haiku Stairs Are Closed
The Haiku Stairs, famously dubbed the “Stairway to Heaven,” are a widely known hike, though hiking the trail is illegal and incurs a hefty fine. Many still attempt to climb, but we strongly advise against it due to safety concerns.
The trail has been closed for safety reasons and plans are in place to remove the stairs to prevent further attempts. Heed our warning: do not attempt this hike.
Hiking on the Big Island
Kilauea Iki Trail in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – Island of Hawaii
An adventure to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a bucket list choice, and hiking the Kilauea Iki Trail is incredibly memorable. Transitioning from lush valleys to the stark crater floor, you’re in for a stunning experience.
Walking across the crater floor allows for unique views of the majestic mountain surroundings, giving a glimpse into the active volcanic landscape.
- Trailhead: Kilauea Iki Trailhead
- Distance: 4.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult
- Elevation Gain: 400ft
Kauai Hikes
Awa’awapuhi Trail – Kauai
The Awa’awapuhi Trail is one of the best hikes in Koke’e State Park, culminating in breathtaking views from an overlook high above the Na Pali Coast.
Ensure to reach the very end for spectacular vistas overlooking the valley. The acoustics from your vantage point are captivating, with sounds of wildlife resonating through the area.
- Trailhead: Koke’e Road
- Distance: 6.2 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 1180ft
Hiking on Molokai
Kalaupapa Peninsula Trail – Molokai
The Kalaupapa Peninsula Trail is truly unique, located on one of the least visited islands. This trail offers insight into a significant historical site while promising stunning views of Molokai’s Pali Coast.
Hiking here typically requires a special permit, and guided opportunities are available, providing insight into the island’s fascinating yet challenging history.
- Trailhead: Kaluapapa Trailhead
- Distance: 6.4 miles
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Elevation Gain: 1735ft
Lanai
Lanai is a small, charming island in Hawaii with two luxury resorts and a quaint hotel, and it’s one of the region’s best-kept secrets.
Puu Pehe (Sweetheart Rock)
The Puu Pehe trail is an easy trek to an iconic viewpoint. This coastal hike spans 1 km from Manele Bay to Hulopoe Bay and leads to the striking landmark of Sweetheart Rock, which juts dramatically from the water.
- Trailhead: Four Seasons Lanai
- Distance: 1.4 km (.8 miles)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 41 meters 134ft
Koloiki Ridge
Koloiki Ridge is a popular hike known for its stunning views of neighboring islands, Molokai and Maui. This 7.2 km (4.5 miles) trail is easy to navigate and leads to incredible vistas overlooking Maunalei Valley.
- Trailhead: Sensei Lanai Four Seasons
- Distance: 6.8 km (4.2 miles)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 222 meters 728ft
Monro Trail
The Monro Trail offers expansive views of various Hawaiian islands. The trail is currently closed for construction, but it is a multi-use trail typically used for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
- Trailhead: Sensei Lanai Four Seasons
- Distance: 19.8 kilometers (11 miles)
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Elevation Gain: 790 meters 2591ft
Lanikai Pillbox Hike
The Lanikai Pillbox Hike, also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, is a favorite among hikers in Kailua on Oahu. This relatively short 1.8 miles (2.9 km) hike features two historical military bunkers, or “pillboxes,” used during World War II.
From the trails and pillboxes, breathtaking views of Lanikai Beach, Kailua, Mokulua Islands, and the windward coast unfold before you. Under clear skies, you may even spot Molokai and Lanai from a distance.
- Trailhead: Located on Kaelepulu Drive close to the Mid Pacific Country Club. Due to residential restrictions, parking nearby may be limited; consider parking farther away and walking or biking to the trailhead.
- Distance: Approximately 1.8 miles (2.9 km) round trip.
- Elevation Gain: The trail gains around 500 feet (152 meters) in elevation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Hawaiian island is best for hiking?
All of Hawaii’s islands, from Kauai to the Big Island, offer fantastic hiking options adorned with lush tropical vegetation. However, hiking on Oahu is particularly notable, as it caters to all experience levels and consistently showcases striking views of the coastline.
Is hiking free in Hawaii?
While many hikes in Hawaii are free, you may encounter paid parking at certain trailheads. Additionally, entry to protected areas like Haleakala National Park requires a permit. For current fees and information, visit the National Park Service website.
Final Thoughts
Hiking in Hawaii is an extraordinary experience featuring otherworldly landscapes. The dynamic mix of rainforests and volcanic terrain provides ever-changing vistas along the trails. The land’s edge rises dramatically from the ocean, creating breathtaking cliffs and overlooks that should not be missed.
Map of Hawaiian Hikes
While enjoying a relaxing beachside vacation, Hawaii beckons adventurers to explore its hiking trails, where sweats mingle with stunning scenery. Any winding path might lead to the view that defines your unforgettable journey. Get hiking!
