Summary
It’s hard to come up with a list of the best hikes in Oahu Hawaii, because there are so many good ones!
Oahu may be the busiest and most populated Hawaiian island, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t great Oahu hikes and nature trails to escape the bustle and see spectacular mountains, beaches, and waterfalls.
I’ve spent many months exploring Hawaii over the years, especially the island of Oahu, and I believe hitting up the hiking trails is definitely one of the best things to do in Oahu Hawaii.
A few of these trails are difficult or technical, but many easy hikes on Oahu are family-friendly and suitable for older folks, including some Honolulu hikes that are a short distance from the city.
Without further ado, here’s my guide to the top Oahu hikes and hiking trails! In my opinion, these are some of the best hikes in Oahu Hawaii.
Best Hikes In Oahu Hawaii
1. Stairway To Heaven (Haiku Stairs)
This Oahu hike is epic, scary, and slightly illegal. Still interested? The ‘Stairway to Heaven’ takes you to the top of the Ko’olau mountains via 3,922 metal stairs of pure adrenaline and doom. At some points, the stairway is almost vertical, clinging to the steep mountain side.
There’s an old World War II radio station at the top, but the stairway has been closed since the 1980s, and fines of up to $1,000 have been given to people caught climbing it. The area is even patrolled by security guards around the clock.
Nevertheless, thousands of people make the climb every year, and for good reason — it’s one of the most spectacular hikes on Earth!
Even after traveling in many countries now, this is still probably my favorite hike in the world. It may never be topped!
Distance: 2.3 miles (3.7 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 2,625 feet (800 m)
Difficulty: Hard
2. Moanalua Valley Trail
If you want to see the ‘Stairway To Heaven’ legally, with virtually no chance of fines, hike up the Moanalua Valley Trail on the backside of the same mountain. This is known as the back way for the Stairway To Heaven.
The Moanalua Valley Trail takes you up a steep, strenuous dirt path with ropes and no stairs, but you can reach the ‘Stairway To Heaven’ at the top and go back down in either direction when you’re done.
However, to stay 100% legal on this hike you will have to return the same way you came. If you hike up the Moanalua trail and then down the stairs, you run the risk of a fine as the stairway is not legal.
On a positive note, it’s possible to take great pictures on the stairs and then leave via Moanalua without hiking the entire stairway, allowing you to experience two epic hikes in one.
The Moanalua trail can be muddy after rain, so check conditions before you go; you definitely want good weather for this hike. Wind and rain can make it much harder and riskier.
Distance: 9 miles (14.5 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 2,800 feet (850 m)
Difficulty: Hard
3. Crouching Lion Hike
Crouching Lion is one of my favorite Oahu hikes. It’s a short but epic trail that ends with a panoramic view of the mountains and jungle at Kahana Bay, in northeast Oahu.
You can stop at this hill after an easy hike or keep going up the mountain; the trail will eventually merge with Pu’u Manamana, one of the scariest and most dangerous cliff trails in Hawaii.
All in all, Crouching Lion is definitely one of the best hikes in Oahu!
Distance: 0.5 miles (0.8 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 300 feet (90 m)
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
4. Lanikai Pillbox Hike
The Lanikai pillbox is one of the easiest Oahu hikes and also one of the most popular spots on the windward side of the island.
This hike takes you to a couple of World War II-era concrete bunkers above Lanikai Beach, and the 360-degree views from the top of the bunkers are amazing.
It’s a very short hike (you could probably do it in 15 minutes if you rushed), but it’s all uphill and a bit strenuous, making it feel quite challenging.
Last, but not least, the Lanikai pillbox is one of the best sunrise and sunset spots on the entire island!
Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 450 feet (140 m)
Difficulty: Easy
5. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden
This one’s not really much of a hike per se, but it’s more like an easy stroll on a path around a lake.
Even so, it’s one of the most stunning places on the island of Oahu, and it’s free to visit. This trail is great for families or older folks.
The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden showcases more than 400 acres of Jurassic Park-esque tropical scenery, making it perfect for a morning walk or jog. The lake has stunning reflections if you go in the early morning.
Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 100 feet (30 m)
Difficulty: Easy
6. Chinaman’s Hat (Mokolii Island)
The Chinaman’s Hat island, also called Mokolii island, is a neat little mini-island that got its name from its unique shape, resembling a traditional Asian rice farming hat.
This little island is located on the windward side of Oahu. The best way to reach it is by kayak, or sometimes it’s also possible to wade to it when the tide is low.
You may not see this one on many lists of the best Oahu hiking trails, but the climb to the top of the ‘hat’ is a good, rocky scramble, rewarding you with amazing views of the Ko’olau mountain range!
Distance: N/A
Elevation Gain: 200 feet (60 m)
Difficulty: Moderate
7. Diamond Head Lookout
The Diamond Head hike features a paved trail with railings most of the way, taking you to the top of the old Diamond Head volcano crater.
From the summit, you can look out over Waikiki and the entire Honolulu cityscape, and see the remains of some World War II pillboxes.
This trail can be quite busy with tourists at times, but I still think it’s worthwhile for the spectacular views from the summit.
Distance: 1.8 miles (2.9 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 500 feet (150 m)
Difficulty: Easy
8. Pink Pillbox Hike
The Maili pink pillbox hike is another ridge hike that takes you to some small World War II bunkers on the west side of Oahu, including a pink painted bunker at the top of the ridge.
You can walk inside any of these concrete bunkers or climb on top of them, which offers great views of the Waianae neighborhoods in the distance.
This hike is gaining popularity but is still not as crowded as some other trails like Diamond Head or the Lanikai pillboxes!
Also known as the Maili Point Hike, this one ends with fantastic views of the nearby beaches, highway, and suburbs from above.
It’s a fun family-friendly Oahu hike with a mild set of dirt switchbacks to the top of the mountain. Pets and kids can do it, and the main challenge lies in the mid-day heat.
The graffiti-covered pillboxes provide stunning views of the coastline and ocean at Waianae. There are slit windows inside the bunkers, so you can look outside while escaping from the sun for a bit!
Distance: 1.2 miles (2 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 500 feet (150 m)
Difficulty: Easy
9. Ka’ena Point Trail
The Ka’ena Point hike takes you to the remote western tip of Oahu island. You can hike this from two different starting locations (Waianae or North Shore), both offering beautiful views.
Ka’ena Point is a relatively quiet part of the island and also a wildlife sanctuary, making it great for spotting Hawaiian monk seals, humpback whales, and more!
During one hike, I counted half a dozen monk seals lounging on the rocks at Ka’ena Point.
This is a 5-6 mile roundtrip hike to Ka’ena Point, but the trail is flat all the way, making it relatively easy overall.
This hike is considered family-friendly and great for kids, although it’s best to avoid the midday heat. Additionally, it’s one of the premier sunset spots on the island.
Keep in mind if you do Ka’ena Point for sunset, you will be walking back to your car in the dark, so it’s advisable to bring a headlamp.
If hiking from the southwest trailhead (Waianae), remember you have to park outside the gates, as they lock at 7 PM.
Distance: 5.5 miles (9 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
10. Ka’ena Point Pillbox
If you want to extend your hike at Ka’ena Point, consider climbing the nearby ridge to see an old military pillbox with fantastic views of the surrounding area. This is a great way to enhance one of the best Oahu hikes!
The side trail to the Kaena Point pillbox is short but quite strenuous. Part of the challenge is finding the path to the top of the ridge, as it’s unmarked, rocky, and somewhat overgrown. The pillbox trail starts here. You’ll definitely want proper hiking shoes, not sandals. Bring a good headlamp if you go for sunset.
In terms of difficulty, I would compare this spur trail to the Lanikai pillbox hike, though it feels harder because you first hiked out to Kaena Point to see it. It’s essentially like doing two Oahu hikes back-to-back; they’re both fairly easy trails individually, but together, they become a bit more exhausting.
At the top, you get to view Ka’ena Point from above, with a pleasant breeze and the sounds of sea birds, plus breathtaking views of the sunset and whales breaching in the distance.
It’s one of the best sunset hikes on Oahu, and to top it off, we had the entire place to ourselves — most people just hike to Ka’ena Point and call it a day.
Distance: 0.5 miles (0.8 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 425 feet (130 m)
Difficulty: Moderate
11. Pu’u Ma’eli’eli Trail
This is one of the lesser-known Oahu hikes, and it’s pretty easy.
It’s another short pillbox hike that provides views of Kaneohe Bay and the entire windward side of the island. You can even sit and watch the U.S. Marine Corps planes flying in and out of the base at MCBH.
The other bonus is that it’s a little known hike, so it’s typically not crowded. We were the only people on the trail!
Distance: 2.3 miles (3.7 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 600 feet (180 m)
Difficulty: Easy
12. Upper Makua Cave
This short but steep hike to Upper Makua Cave is not recommended if you have a fear of heights. It’s a guaranteed adrenaline rush.
It’s a hidden gem on the west side of the island, and there were only a couple of other people on the trail when I visited.
The view from inside the cave resembles a picture frame showcasing the west coast! It’s a very unique sight.
Distance: 0.6 miles (1 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 425 feet (130 m)
Difficulty: Easy
13. Hanauma Bay Ridge Trail
This is a short, paved hike that provides sweeping views of the beautiful Hanauma Bay, a renowned snorkeling spot in Oahu. The hike can be as long (or short) as you wish.
Most people will only follow this trail to the ridge top and then turn around, but if you continue south along the bay, you can find a natural rock bridge by the sea and other intriguing sights.
Morning is the best time to do the Hanauma Bay Ridge Trail since it’s ideal for photos and not overly hot. The trail starts from a locked gate right by the entrance to Hanauma Bay.
Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 500 feet (150 m)
Difficulty: Easy
14. Mauna Lahilahi
Mauna Lahilahi is a small, rocky mountain on the Makaha coast, surrounded by beautiful beaches on both sides.
This hike is somewhat of a hidden gem on the west side of Oahu. You can reach the top in only 15 minutes, but it involves some short rock scrambling that may be daunting for inexperienced hikers. Proceed with caution.
At the summit, you’ll enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the Makaha coastline, with Papaoneone Beach and the Hawaiian Princess Resort dominating the landscape.
Distance: 0.5 miles (0.8 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 200 feet (60 m)
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
15. Koko Head Stairs
The Koko Head hike is akin to Hawaii’s version of the famously challenging Manitou Incline in Colorado. The hike to the top of this old volcano crater is a significant workout, hence the nickname ‘Stairs of Doom.’
The elevation on this hike isn’t as steep as the Manitou Incline, but Hawaii’s midday heat and humidity can still make it pretty tough. While it’s not a dangerous hike, it’s a real fitness test and may not be enjoyable for everyone.
I’ve trekked the Koko Crater trail many times over the years, and it’s always a blast. I initially disliked this hike, but I’ve since grown fond of it. It easily belongs on a list of the best hikes in Oahu!
The good news is that this is also one of the best places for watching the sunset or sunrise on the entire island of Oahu. I’ve climbed Koko Head nearly a dozen times for sunset, and the view at the top is consistently spectacular.
Distance: 1.6 miles (2.6 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 900 feet (275 m)
Difficulty: Moderate / Hard
16. Koko Crater Rim
If you’ve ever wanted to walk along the rim of an extinct volcano crater, here’s your chance! The Koko Crater Rim trail loops around the top of the Koko Crater.
The north rim of this crater is challenging and can be dangerous, but the south rim (the side closest to the ocean) is much tamer and safer. If you only hike the south rim, it’s moderate in difficulty.
Part of the fun of the Koko Crater Rim hike is that there are numerous ways to explore it. You can start from the Koko Crater Botanical Garden and loop around the entire crater rim, or alternatively, just hike along the south rim and come down the Koko Stairs.
There’s even a path on the south rim intersecting with the Koko Arch hike (below), allowing you the chance to do three hikes in one!
Distance: 2.4 miles (3.9 km) roundtrip (full loop trail)
Elevation Gain: 1,025 feet (315 m)
Difficulty: Moderate / Hard
17. Koko Arch
This is a brief, easy hike that leads to a natural rock arch on the south slope of the Koko Head crater.
The arch is colossal, and it’s purported to be a great spot for sunrise too. The main trailhead launches by the road at the Halona Beach Lookout, and it’s only half a mile to the arch, so you can reach it in under 10 minutes.
If you aim to make this a much longer and more challenging hike, you can ascend the arch and trek along the south Koko Crater rim up to the top of Koko Head, and then descend the Koko Stairs (or the opposite route)!
Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 350 feet (110 m)
Difficulty: Easy
18. Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
This delightful family-friendly hike features a lighthouse, a number of World War II pillboxes, and (if you’re lucky) humpback whales! The best time to observe whales here is from November to May.
The Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail is situated on the southeastern corner of Oahu, and it’s one of the few places on the island where you can glimpse such a picturesque lighthouse, which is why I consider it one of the top hikes in Oahu.
Although the trail is entirely paved, it requires a bit of an uphill trek and is fully exposed to the sun, so you’ll want to bring a hat and sunscreen for this adventure.
Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 500 feet (150 m)
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
19. Lulumahu Falls
This is a pleasant 50-foot waterfall near the Pali Highway that you can reach in about 45 minutes of hiking. It’s manageable for all ages, although you’ll need to manage some mud, slippery rocks, and mosquitoes. Proper footwear and bug spray are advisable.
Lulumahu Falls is a charming waterfall hike, and if you have time, you can find a second waterfall and some Hawaiian ruins in this area. Take a detour through the bamboo forest to locate Luakaha Falls and the Kaniakapupu Ruins (the summer home of King Kamehameha III).
Technically, a permit is required for any part of this hike, although it doesn’t appear to be enforced. Most people skip the permit, but it’s quite inexpensive and you can purchase permits online here if you desire peace of mind.
Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Lulumahu Falls — a lovely waterfall hike in Oahu.
20. Manoa Falls
This beautiful 150-foot waterfall can be accessed via a short, easy trail spanning through the jungle. Combine it with the nearby Lyon Arboretum for even more tropical scenery!
Manoa Falls is conveniently located near Honolulu and is suitable for all ages, although the path is somewhat rocky and can get muddy after rain, so wearing sturdy shoes is suggested.
Keep in mind, this waterfall is on the leeward side of Oahu, so it tends to be seasonal and dries up quickly. Check conditions before you visit.
The optimal time for a visit to Manoa Falls is after significant rainfall, or during the wetter months (November to March), or it may be a disappointing trickle.
Distance: 1.7 miles (2.7 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 500 feet (150 m)
Difficulty: Easy
21. Likeke Falls
This is one of the shortest and easiest Oahu hiking trails. If you maintain a good pace, you can reach the waterfall in just 15 minutes!
Likeke Falls is located on the windward side of the island, and along the trail, you’ll come across exotic plants and mountain scenery. The peculiar yellow flowers on this hike are Rattlesnake Gingers.
While the waterfall itself may not be particularly remarkable, I believe it’s well worth the simple trek.
Distance: 0.8 miles (1.3 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 200 feet (60 m)
Difficulty: Easy
22. Pali Puka
This is a brief but intense hike that commences from the Pali Lookout and concludes at a ‘puka’ (window in the rock) that offers views across the entire windward side of Oahu.
It’s an enjoyable hike, but I’d classify it as moderate due to the uphill nature of the route, characterized by slippery tree roots and sometimes steep drop-offs. It’s not extremely dangerous since you can largely avoid the cliff sections by submersing yourself in the forest, but I wouldn’t recommend it for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights.
Like many hiking trails in Oahu, this one is unsanctioned. The hike starts from the bus parking lot at the Pali Lookout, but the entrance can be a bit challenging to spot initially if there are many tour buses parked. Just keep an eye out for a small clearing in the jungle accompanied by a caution sign.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 500 feet (150 m)
Difficulty: Moderate
23. Maunawili Falls
If I had to pick a favorite waterfall hike in Oahu, it would probably be Maunawili Falls. While it may not be an expansive waterfall, it features a fantastic swimming hole below, and you can climb up and leap from the rocks.
I would rate this as either an easy or moderate hike. The path leading to the waterfall doesn’t take long, but it includes stream crossings, muddy patches, and mosquitoes. Along the way, you’ll traverse beautiful jungle scenery.
The main trailhead for Maunawili Falls is currently closed indefinitely, but it’s still possible to access the waterfall via an alternate trail from the Pali Highway, which is longer and more challenging.
Distance: 2.8 miles (4.5 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet (300 m)
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
24. Olomana (Three Peaks)
The Three Peaks hike (also known as Olomana) is one of the most difficult hikes in Oahu, Hawaii, and it might also be the most perilous mainstream hike that Oahu offers.
Many tourists and locals have died on the second and third peaks, including some as recently as 2022. It’s essential to be aware of the risks involved and approach this hike carefully. This trail is serious business.
If you want to make this hike safer and easier, you can simply go to the first or second peak and turn back; the most scenic views are generally from the first and second peaks anyway.
Nevertheless, even if you plan just to ascend to the first peak, be conscious that there’s a rock climbing section near the end that can be intimidating, so I wouldn’t recommend it for those uneasy with heights.
The ominous third peak of Olomana is where the primary danger lies. At times during the hike, you’ll be climbing vertically on exposed terrain (or with ropes) where a fall could be long and fatal.
Bring water and a friend along for this challenging hike. Weather is also a critical factor. It’s especially dangerous if wet or raining, so always monitor current conditions before setting out.
If you only complete the first peak, you can finish the hike in about 3 hours roundtrip. However, if you venture to the third peak and back, allocate more time.
Distance: 4.5 miles (7.2 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,850 feet (575 m)
Difficulty: Hard
25. Waimea Falls
This family-friendly North Shore hike features a lovely swimming waterfall and botanical garden. Hiking Oahu has never been more enjoyable than during a stroll through the Waimea Valley.
Most of the trail is flat, and along the way, you can enjoy a tranquil jungle valley filled with various exotic plants and several Hawaiian cultural sites.
Due to its relative ease and the abundance of beautiful scenery for such a short hike, I’ve rated this trail as one of the best Oahu hikes. It’s certainly one of the best North Shore hikes!
Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
26. Ehukai Pillbox Hike
Also known as the ‘peace pillbox’ hike, this is a pleasant trail on the North Shore offering views of Ehukai and the coast from above.
Along the hike, you’ll encounter two concrete World War II pillboxes. The view from the first one is obstructed by trees, but it’s still enjoyable to walk inside the bunker. From there, you’ll continue past some boulders and down the hill until you reach the second pillbox, which provides stunning views of the North Shore.
Overall, it’s a family-friendly hike with a fair amount of elevation gain, akin to the Lanikai pillbox trail, although this one has significantly more shade as you’ll be hiking through a forest for most of the trail.
The trailhead for the Ehukai pillbox hike is clearly marked and starts from the parking lot of Sunset Beach Elementary School, located right next to Ehukai Beach Park.
Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 650 feet (200 m)
Difficulty: Easy
Map Of Oahu Hikes
Here’s a map of Oahu hikes for planning your trip. You can click on the icons to get more information and directions for each point of interest, but keep in mind that some locations on this map may be approximate.
For more detailed information on finding the exact trailheads for some of these hikes in Oahu, check out my individual travel guides for each hike.
Always remember to keep the trail clean, be considerate of other hikers, and leave no trace. Thank you, and happy travels!
Honolulu Hikes: Best Hikes In Honolulu Hawaii
If you’re primarily interested in Honolulu hikes that are easily accessible from the city, here are a few recommendations.
These are some of the best hikes in Honolulu and the surrounding area:
- Diamond Head Lookout (Easy / Moderate)
- Ka’au Crater Trail (Hard)
- Koko Head Stairs (Moderate / Hard)
- Kuliouou Ridge Trail (Moderate)
- Manoa Falls (Easy)
- Mount Olympus (Hard)
- Wiliwilinui Trail (Moderate)
Best Easy Hikes On Oahu
Oahu has numerous easy hikes suitable for families with children and older individuals.
Here are some of the best easy hikes on Oahu Hawaii:
- Lanikai Pillbox Hike (Kailua)
- Diamond Head Lookout (Honolulu)
- Manoa Falls (Honolulu)
- Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden (Kaneohe)
- Likeke Falls (Kaneohe)
- Pu’u Ma’eli’eli Trail (Kaneohe)
- Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail (Hawaii Kai)
- Waimea Falls (North Shore)
- Ehukai Pillbox Hike (North Shore)
- Ka’ena Point (North Shore)
- Pink Pillbox Hike (Waianae)
Best Oahu Tours
Oahu Hotels
More Hawaii Travel Tips
Thank you for your time! I hope you found this list of the best hikes in Oahu Hawaii enjoyable. There are excellent hiking trails scattered across the island.
Don’t forget to check out the complete list of the best things to do in Oahu Hawaii!
