Best Hiking in Hawaii: Oahu’s Top 10 Hikes For Trail Lovers to Explore

Some of the Best Hiking in Hawaii can be found on Oahu. Here are the top 7 hikes for trail lovers to explore:

1. The Diamond Head Trail is famous for its breathtaking views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. It is a moderately challenging hike that takes you through a historic military bunker and provides an unmatched sightseeing experience. The trail is only 1.6 miles long, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels.

2. The Manoa Falls Trail is a perfect hike for families, offering a breathtaking 150-foot waterfall nestled in a vibrant rainforest. This enchanting trail spans approximately 1.6 miles, allowing nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the beauty of this tropical paradise.

3. The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a coastal adventure with stunning ocean views. Spanning 2 miles, this trail leads to a historic lighthouse that provides a picturesque overlook of the Pacific. During the winter, there’s a chance to catch a glimpse of majestic humpback whales.

4. Waimea Valley offers a special hiking adventure that combines cultural and botanical exploration. The trail is 1.5 miles long and takes you to Waimea Falls, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. During the hike, you will come across a variety of rare and endangered plants, making it a wonderful experience for nature lovers.

5. The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is famous for its beautiful views of Lanikai Beach and the Mokulua Islands. It is a 1.5-mile hike that takes you to old military bunkers called “pillboxes.” The view from these spots is absolutely amazing.

6. The Aiea Loop Trail is a challenging hike that takes you through a forested area with different types of terrain. This 4.8-mile loop is perfect for birdwatching and offers a great escape from the city, even though it’s close to Honolulu.

7. Ka’ena Point Trail: If you want an adventure, go to the Ka’ena Point Trail. You can hike to the farthest point on the west side of Oahu. The trail is about 3.5 miles long and has amazing views of the coast that you won’t find anywhere else.

8. The Kuliouou Ridge This trail offers a rewarding but challenging hiking experience. It is a 5-mile round-trip that takes hikers through beautiful Hawaiian forests and provides stunning views of the Windward Coast.

9. Three Peaks (Olomana) Trail: If you’re an experienced hiker looking for an exciting adventure, the Three Peaks (Olomana) Trail in the Olomana region is perfect for you. This tough hike takes you to three different peaks, each offering breathtaking views of the island.

10. Wai’anae Kai Forest Reserve: If you want a real wilderness experience, the Wai’anae Kai Forest Reserve is the perfect place to go. It has many trails that are not marked, so it’s great for people who like to explore and go off the beaten path.

Oahu’s hiking trails are perfect for all kinds of nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can choose from coastal hikes with beautiful ocean views or rainforest trails that lead to stunning waterfalls. Oahu has so many amazing natural wonders to discover. So, get ready with your hiking boots and have an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors of this wonderful Hawaiian island. Just remember to respect the environment, follow Leave No Trace principles, and be fully prepared for an amazing experience in Oahu’s remarkable wilderness.