Oahu is a well-known beach destination, but it's also home to beautifully scenic hikes that can make you feel like you've stepped into another world--and you'll work up a good sweat while you're at it! During my week-long solo trip to the island, I experienced some of the best hikes in Oahu for beginners and adventurers alike.
Whether you're visiting for a week or on a layover between island hopping, these are my personal picks for Oahu hiking, by difficulty from calm to challenging, and what to expect. Each one is beautiful and photogenic, and you won't need a guide.
And if you enjoy this post, you'll love my list of Oahu beaches to visit, too!
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What You'll Need
- Backpack or bum bag
- Bottled Water or a hydration pack
- Hiking Boots, sandals, or sneakers with good grip
- Permits, depending on the trail. None of the ones I listed require permits at this time; however, some of the most popular ones, like Diamond Head, require reservations.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Trail Maps or apps, especially if you're hiking solo
- Travel Poncho or light rain jacket, just in case.
Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail (Easiest)
This trail is perfect if you're looking for something leisurely, scenic, and accessible. Located on the east side of the island, the Makapu'u Trail is a paved, two-mile round-trip climb with dramatic ocean views. You might even spot whales in the winter--I was geeked to see a couple in January!
This Oahu hike near Honolulu is family and stroller-friendly, with bonus side trails for the more adventurous. Definitely one of the best hikes on Oahu for beginners.
The parking lot for this trailhead is along Kalaiana'ole Highway and open from 7 am to 6:45 pm. The trail is still accessible outside of these hours; you just have to park parallel.
Pro Travel Tip
There's no shade on this trail. Plan for a morning hike, wear plenty of sunscreen, and a good sun hat.
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Lanikai Pillbox Trail (Moderate)
This 1.6-mile trail is a favorite for sunrise hikes that overlook Lanikai Beach, as well as the Mokulua Islands, and luxury beach homes below. The Lanikai Pillboxes hike starts off steep, with ropes to help you get up some stretches that are nearly vertical, but levels out as you go! And I found some points of the trail to be quite narrow.
Because it's one of the most Instagrammable hikes in Oahu, it gets crowded as everyone is chasing the perfect selfie. The "pillboxes" that you'll encounter higher up on the trail are leftover bunkers from World War II and make for nice lookout points and photo ops.
There's no designated parking at the trailhead, but there is free parallel street parking all around. The entrance is in a residential area, so be mindful of neighbors and pay attention to street signs that may restrict parking in some areas.
Read my tips on how to take insane photos of yourself while traveling!
Keālia Trail (Hardest)
Located on the North Shore, Keālia Trail summits the Waianae mountains, and was the most difficult hike I tackled on the island. This 7.6-mile trail has a combination of switchbacks, big rocks, and jungle terrain that locals love, and many tourists overlook!
It's one of the Oahu hidden hikes and one I'd recommend for people with an abundance of hiking experience or a lot of nerve. The views are unreal, but the trail is challenging and long, so bring plenty of water and snacks. There's a covered picnic area along the trail, and free parking and restrooms near the entrance.
Pro Travel Tip
Cell service can be a little spotty on this trail. Download a trails map or AllTrails before heading out, and let someone know you're going.
You'll be hungry after this one. Here are my Oahu restaurants to try on vacation!
And if you prefer a more done-for-you experience, check out these Oahu guided hiking tours:
More Favorite Oahu Moments
I hope this list of some of the best hiking places in Oahu helps you have a better trip. And sharing is caring, so be sure to pin this mini Oahu hikes list for later and follow me over on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
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