Top 15 Scenic Hikes on Oahu for Breathtaking Ocean Views

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• Trip Ideas
• Nature Travel

Get to know the island of Oahu on these hikes, which highlight the area’s main event: the gorgeous, glittering Pacific.

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Jillian Dara

When it comes to outdoor adventure, Oahu packs a punch. Within the island’s 597 square miles, visitors can find stunning beaches to unwind on, delicious local foods to enjoy, and miles upon miles of hiking trails to explore. Therefore, we have rounded up some of the best hikes on Oahu so you can soak in the scenery while trekking around this beautiful island.

According to Best of Oahu, there are close to 50 different hiking trails to choose from around the island. From beginner-friendly to more challenging routes, the island’s trails offer a variety of experiences. Moreover, there’s the high-stakes scramble on the Mount Olomana Ridge Trail or the cinematic, rainforest surroundings of the Mānoa Falls Trail. The one thing they all have in common, though, are the spectacular views of Oahu and the Pacific Ocean they highlight.

Here are some of the most distinct hiking trails on Oahu that every traveler should check out on their next jaunt to this stunning island.

1. Diamond Head Summit Trail

Located on the eastern side of Waikiki’s coastline, the crateral Diamond Head State Monument is one of the island’s most famous landmarks. This monument, which takes up a whopping 475 acres, offers numerous opportunities for visitors to enjoy, including a hike to the top. The summit trail, first built in 1908, is just 0.8 miles long. Although short, it is still challenging; on this quick walk, you’ll gain 560 feet of elevation. However, the breathtaking view is well worth the effort.

2. Waimea Valley Trail

The hike to Waimea Falls is more of a leisurely stroll than a workout, but it is stunning just the same. Upon entering the park, visitors can take a paved road on a 1.9-mile walk through a beautiful botanical garden. At the end, you will be rewarded with a glimmering lake and waterfall. Those adventurous enough can even enjoy a swim before hiking back out again.

3. Koko Crater Tramway Trail

Located just a short drive from Waikiki, the Koko Crater Tramway hike is popular among adventure lovers. The path up is a 1.6-mile track, that invites you to take it slow and appreciate stunning flora on all sides. At the top, you can also visit the Koko Crater Botanical Garden for even more greenery and panoramic views.

4. Lanikai Pillbox Hike

For the best views of the surrounding ocean, head up the Lanikai Pillbox Hike. This trail is a quick out-and-back, clocking in at just under two miles. However, like other hikes on the list, the elevation gains can be intense. The hike should take about 30 minutes to reach the top pillbox (you can venture another 10 minutes to reach the ridge’s highest point); once there, you will want to stay a while to take it all in. While the hike can be family-friendly, remember to wear proper shoes as it may be slippery in some locations.

5. Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail

The Makapu’u Point trail again offers visitors stellar views of the island’s coastline. At just 2.5 miles round trip, it’s an easy trail for almost anyone to complete. On the trail, you will also glimpse the red-roofed Makapu’u Lighthouse. The path is paved the entire route and there is little to no shade available along the way. Consequently, make sure to wear sunscreen, a hat, and pack plenty of water, even for the quick journey.

6. Waimano Falls Trail

Though the Waimano Falls Trail is beautiful and accessible year-round, it may be best to visit after it rains. That is when the pools are full and the waterfall is flowing. You can jump in using the ropes available at multiple entry points. The hike, located near Pearl City, is 2.9 miles out and back. AllTrails rates it as “hard,” so be sure to take your time, wear the right shoes, and pack plenty of water for this adventure as well.

7. Pu’u Piei Trail

Looking for an expert-level trail to try? Check out the Pu’u Piei Trail, but only if you’re truly ready. This trail is a mere 2.4 miles, but it may take over two hours to complete due to its steep incline and overgrown brush. If you go, stay on the ridge and on the trail. Though the summit is mostly covered in trees, you can still catch a glimpse of the lovely view below.

8. Ma’ili Pillbox Puu O Hulu Trail

This popular, 1.6-mile out-and-back trail leads you to the top of the Pu’U’Ohulu ridge, offering gorgeous oceanside views of Nānākuli and Waianae. This moderately challenging hike is known for its double “camel’s humps” and the bright pink pillbox (or military bunker) at the summit.

9. Mānoa Falls Trail

Head to Honolulu’s Mānoa Valley for cinematic views – literally. You’ll see locations from “Jurassic Park” and Lost throughout the 1.7-mile out-and-back trail that winds through a tropical rainforest. Your journey concludes at the base of a stunning 150-foot waterfall. Therefore, check the weather before you go and wear closed-toe shoes so you’re not struggling in the mud.

10. Ka’ena Point Trail

Want an easy hike through a state park that ends in natural swimming pools? This 6.1-mile out-and-back trail boasts sunshine and gentle paths. As you walk, select a cove, then head down to the water (where you might spot a seal or two!). Cool off in the surf before returning to the trail, which leads you through rugged natural landscapes amidst breathtaking coastal views.

11. Mount Olomana Ridge Trail

Hikers beware! This trail, which has led to fatalities in the past, should only be attempted under the best weather conditions by experienced climbers. However, if you are a skilled climber looking for a challenge, this hike takes you up a mountain using rope hand lines. Those who make it to the top are rewarded with sweeping views from three different peaks.

12. Kuli’ou’ou Ridge Hike

There’s no such thing as too many gorgeous views, right? Because you’ll find even more at the top of this 4.7-mile out-and-back trail near Honolulu. Ascend 1,800 feet over just more than three hours and be greeted by the green peaks and bright blues of a typical Hawaiian vista of Kuli’ou’ou Ridge.

13. Mount Olympus Awaawaloa

This challenging ridge hike takes you over rugged, unmaintained sections, rock scrambles, and up-and-down ridges. You’ll certainly work up a sweat, but it’s relatively safe for the average hiker. The summit rewards you with stunning views of Mānoa Valley and Palolo Valley. You can continue onto the Kolowalu trail, which descends into Mānoa Valley, or head back to the trailhead in the Wa’ahila Ridge State Recreation Area on a 5.9-mile out-and-back trail.

14. Mount Ka’ala Trail

Ascend 5,000 feet on this 7.1-mile out-and-back trail for a more challenging hike that includes a rope section. Your efforts will be rewarded when you reach the highest point on Oahu, where you’ll catch breathtaking glimpses of Waianae Valley, the coast, and the North Shore.

15. Hanauma Bay Ridge Trail

Get a good view of the spectrum of blue found in Hanauma Bay at the end of this paved, uphill 0.8-mile out-and-back route. Stop along the way for some pictures at the top of the ridge before descending a dirt trail that leads to a secret beach with a natural rock bridge. Ensure to wear proper footwear and bring sunscreen for this sunny, uncovered hike.