Best Hikes in Oahu | 10 Exhilarating Hiking Trails in Hawaii

Oahu is characterized by imposing volcanic craters and gorgeous sandy beaches surrounded by turquoise waters. Not only is it home to the state capital, but it’s also the prime tourist hotspot in Hawaii. Oahu indulges you in an abundance of breathtaking views at the end of some of its best trails.

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly hikes or challenging ones that get you out of your comfort zone, this island has you covered. Hiking in Oahu offers stunning views of crashing waves against the mountainous backdrops, making it a worthy addition to your trip to Hawaii.

This guide will show you some of the best hikes on Oahu Island and how to plan for maximum pleasure. You’ll find information about trail conditions, lengths, and what you can look forward to seeing during your trek.

Now, enough with the pleasantries, let’s dive in with the Best Hikes in Oahu! 

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Map Of Best Hikes in Oahu, Hawaii

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10 Best Hikes on Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu is undoubtedly one of the best places for outdoor activities. The island is riddled with incredible views and cascading waterfalls in its verdant forests, most of which are a part of these hikes. 

Take a look at these top ten hikes you can look forward to in Oahu.

1. Ka’iwa Ridge Trail (Lanikai Pillbox Hike)

• Mileage: 1.6 miles (out-and-back)
• Elevation Gain: 613 feet
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

Although it’s relatively short, the Lanikai Pillbox hike can be quite challenging, especially for beginners. But on the upside, it’s highly rewarding. The hiking trail requires an uphill climb pretty much for the entire trek, but it ends with the most amazing views of Lanikai beach.

This trail begins with a few steep sections that require a bit of scrambling. It is unpaved with no guardrails, so a pair of sturdy hiking boots will be your best friend. Bring lots of water and sun protection because the route is mainly unshaded, and be careful on slippery rocks after a storm.

The Pillbox hike is popular for catching the island’s most beautiful sunrise and sunset — all while sitting atop a historic World War II relic. Painted with graffiti, the military pillboxes offer you the best vantage spot overlooking Kailua Bay and the surrounding Ko’olau Mountains.  

2. Diamond Head Crater (Lē‘ahi) Summit Trail

• Mileage: 1.9 miles (out-and-back)
• Elevation Gain: 515 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

If you’re keen on panoramic views of the metropolitan Honolulu skyline, the famous Waikiki beach, and the vistas of the Pacific Ocean, then you want to trek to Diamond Head. This trail has guardrails and information boards along the way, so you can expect smooth sailing.

The Diamond Head trail starts and ends with exceptional ocean views, but there will be a steep incline and stairs. You’ll gain over 500 feet as the trail ascends from the crater floor. This landmark is one of Hawaii’s best, so you’ll also need to make a reservation to access it.  

Apart from the coastal views, you’ll also get a glimpse into a bit of the island’s military history. Like the Lanikai Pillbox trail, this one features World War II bunkers. Take extra precautions after bad weather, as the concrete route is often very slippery. Early risers will love this hike — the sunrise is captivating and brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. 

3. Koko Crater Trail

• Mileage: 1.6 miles (out-and-back)
• Elevation Gain: 912 feet
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

Looking for another challenging hike up to one of Oahu’s craters — you’re in luck. Trek the Koko Crater trail for spectacular views of Honolulu’s eastern shoreline and Hanauma Bay. The trail has 1,000+ stairs along an old railway track, adding a historical element to the hike. 

Hiking to the Koko Crater requires a steep ascend. This bare trail has no shade, so be sure to bring all your essential hiking gear, like SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and plenty of H2O. About halfway through the hike you’ll come across a floating bridge, which is about 50 steps. There is also an alternative route (a safe bypass) if those nerves start to kick in.

On summer days, you’ll want to trek this trail in the early morning or late afternoon. That’s to avoid the scorching midday heat and catch magical sunsets. After a storm, the Koko Crater trail is often slippery and muddy, making it even more challenging, so be wary. 

4. Manoa Falls Trail 

• Mileage: 1.7 miles (out-and-back)
• Elevation Gain: 616 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Nestled in a tropical rainforest, this 150-foot waterfall is the cherry on top of this exciting hike. The Manoa Falls trail traverses through a verdant woodland with some of the most eerie tree roots. This lush valley has been a filming location for Jurassic Park and Lost.

The trail is well-maintained but predominantly unpaved. You’ll hike up several stairs, passing through a field of diverse flora. As you get closer, you’re welcomed by a serene gush of water, creating a tranquil atmosphere, but unfortunately you can’t swim here, so no dipping. 

Immerse yourself in the Manoa Valley and learn about native Hawaiian rainforest plants on this guided tour of the falls. The guide also takes you down memory lane, narrating the area’s history. Your hike ends with a delicious treat from Andy’s Sandwiches & Smoothies.

5. Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail

• Mileage: 4.7 miles (out-and-back)
• Elevation Gain: 1,512 feet
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

The Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail is one of Oahu’s most exclusive and scenic hiking trails. While it’s also one of the island’s most challenging hikes, the trail pays off big time by taking you through various terrains, from lush vegetation to open ridgelines.

This trailhead is located within private property, so you’ll need a prior reservation to access it. The hike starts off along a paved route and then gradually tapers off into a dirt track. Prepare to contend with rocky and steep sections; these require a moderate fitness level.

The lush shrubbery is, without a doubt, the icing on the cake of this Oahu hiking trail. You’ll meander through thick formosa koa and guava forests. The Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail gets a bit tricky after a rainy day. It gets muddy and harder to trek, so bring your best hiking shoes.

6. Mt. Olomana Trail (Three Peaks)

• Mileage: 4.5 miles (out-and-back)
• Elevation Gain: 1,696 feet
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

Are you looking for the most epic ridgeline views in all of Oahu? Look no further than this exhilarating trek to the Three Peaks. The Mt. Olomana trail is a challenging hike defined by steep inclines and rocky sections that will definitely require some boulder scrambling.

Before diving into the scenery and what you can expect along this hike, let’s first address the elephant in the room. The Olomana trail is treacherous, claiming six lives since 2011. This is evident by the terrifying warning sign at the beginning of the trail. It shares an alarming statistic, showing that most fatal falls often happen past the first peak.

Now that you’ve been cautioned let’s break down this perilous hike. You’ll climb up the side of the mountain while holding on to the ropes for dear life. The first peak is about 1.5 miles into the trek, afterward, you’ll go down a steep downhill to the second peak.

Only experienced hikers should trek on towards the third peak, as the route requires holding on to rope handlines and some 4th class scrambling.     

7. Ka’ena Point Trail 

• Mileage: 6.1 miles (out-and-back)
• Elevation Gain: 275 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

This moderate hike is characterized by a rugged, untouched coastline with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting. To access this gorgeous Oahu hiking trail, you’ll first need to get a permit from the Ka’ena Point State Park.

The Ka’ena Point trail hugs the volcanic coastline, giving you ample photo ops. Keep your eyes peeled for the various sea birds, marine mammals, and coastal plants along the way. 

This is one of Oahu’s best family-friendly hikes, making it ideal for the whole clan, including your fur baby. There’s primarily no shade along the trail, so carry plenty of water and wear sunscreen. The tip of the island boasts tidal pools, perfect for swimming and taking photos.

8. Waimea Valley Trail

• Mileage: 1.9 miles (out-and-back)
• Elevation Gain: 291 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Ending with some grassy waterfall scenery surrounded by utmost tranquillity, this easy hike to Waimea Falls is one of the best Oahu hiking trails. Why? Well, it is a relatively short hike to begin with, dotted with lush botanical gardens and a few historical sites along the way.

There is a required admission fee for adults and kids to access the Waimea Valley Trail. You’ll also be asked to wear a life vest if you intend on splashing in the pool after your hike. The trail is paved and fairly easy to navigate, but there’s over an 8% steep incline to contend with.

The unique thing about this paved hike is its cultural significance as a sacred place for indigenous Hawaiian culture. The valley is home to historic archaeological sites layered with traditional farming practices and cultural demonstrations, adding more meaning to your hike.

9. Judd Trail

• Mileage: 1.2 miles (loop)
• Elevation Gain: 190 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Defined by varying terrains from a shaded forest canopy to a boulder-filled section with overflowing waters, the Judd Trail is one of the most mesmerizing hiking trails in Hawaii. This is typically considered a fairly easy hike, with little to no elevation and maximum pleasure.

Begin walking along Nuuanu Stream toward a swimming hole that offers great reprieve on a hot day. The trail continues through a verdant forest, past towering trees and a historic stone arch bridge. This is one of Oahu’s best trails — it’s a loop, so you can hike it in any direction. 

The Judd trail is pet and kid-friendly, so it’s popular for dog hunting (the pup is the hunter, not you) and touring families. Wet conditions compromise the well-maintained and relatively flat path, so it’s best to avoid this hiking trail on rainy days. Take note that these conditions typically lead to road closures.

10. Koko Crater Botanical Gardens Trail

• Mileage: 1.7 miles (loop)
• Elevation Gain: 328 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Instead of hiking along the crater rim, how about you take a leisurely walk inside? This is an easy-to-moderate hike with a diverse collection of tropical plants and flowers within the botanical gardens. You’ll love the range of cacti, succulents, and indigenous African flora.

The hike takes you through a tranquil vegetated setting, but look out for the rocky, gravel sections and minor inclines. You’ll need a pair of sturdy hiking boots and a lot of water, as you’ll be exposed to the sun for most of the trail. Good news, though — weather rarely affects the trail’s accessibility.

You can take on this hike at any time of the day, but mornings may offer cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. You can access the trailhead from a small parking lot just off Kokonani Street. There is a port-a-potty at the beginning of the trail, but no other restrooms inside the loop.

How to Get to Oahu

As touched on previously, Oahu is home to Hawaii’s state capital, making it the prime spot for tourist arrivals and departures to the archipelago. The Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is a major airport serving both domestic and international flights.

Right outside the airport, you’ll find a couple of car rental outfitters waiting to serve your travel needs. It’s usually best to hire a rental car to move around Oahu. This gives you the freedom to explore the island’s top hikes without having to worry about local shuttles. 

>>>Rent A Car Here<<<

Best Time to Go to Oahu

Like many of the top destinations in the US, the best time to visit Oahu usually depends on the weather, accommodation prices, and how crowded (or not) the island will be. Take a note from some of America’s best national parks, and plan to visit Oahu in the shoulder seasons. 

In the off-season or shoulder seasons, there are fewer crowds to contend with, and accommodations in the surrounding area are often cheaper. Late winter (January to March), spring (April to June), and fall (September to December) are the best times to visit Oahu for a tranquil getaway. 

How Much Time Is Needed in Oahu

There are plenty of fun things to do in Oahu, so you’ll need a sufficient number of days to fully explore this amazing island. A minimum stay of five to seven days should be adequate to experience natural and historic attractions like the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor.

Where to Stay in Oahu

Seeing that you’ll be staying in Oahu for more than just a weekend, you’ll need an equally ideal place to stay. Luckily for you, there’s an abundance of resorts and hotels on the island, so you’ll have a wide pool to choose from.

Here’s a look at a few of the best options for you when looking for where to stay in Oahu. 

Luxury | Turtle Bay Resort

Spread over 1,300 acres of prime land on Oahu’s North Shore, Turtle Bay Resort offers the ultimate stay overlooking a secluded beachfront. Furnished with luxury amenities, the resort features a wellness and fitness center, multiple swimming pools, and six on-site eateries.

The elegantly decorated rooms and suites are impeccably designed, boasting a stunning view of the ocean. They feature light wooden elements and flatscreen TVs, so you may not want to leave your suite. 

An array of fun and exciting outdoor activities are on offer at Turtle Bay Resort. You’ll enjoy hiking, biking, and laying out on the sandy shoreline. And don’t miss out on savoring tasty meals at one of the resort’s many restaurants and bars. >>>Check Prices and Availability

Mid-Range | Wayfinder Waikiki

Situated about a five-minute walk from the famous Waikiki Beach, Wayfinder offers an amazing stay if you’re looking for all the luxury mod-cons but without the hefty price. 

Exuding bohemian flare, every room is decorated with modern furnishings and floral patterns that create that perfect island vacation. And the views of the 18-hole Ala Wai Golf Course make it an even better stay.

Wayfinder offers an outdoor swimming pool, a gym, and a fitness center to keep you in tip-top shape during your stay. You can also indulge in local cuisine at the on-site restaurant before heading to the bar for a nightcap. >>>Check Prices and Availability   

Budget | Polynesian Hostel Beach Club

If you’re looking to indulge in the best of Oahu without breaking the bank, look no further than the Polynesian Hostel Beach Club. Featuring dormitories and private studios with en-suite bathrooms, the hostel offers a budget-friendly stay on Oahu’s south coast.

The club has a common room with a TV for entertainment, as well as Wi-Fi throughout the property, BBQs, and laundry facilities. There are also a lot of great attractions nearby, like the Waikiki Aquarium and Kapiʻolani Regional Park. >>>Check Prices and Availability

Camping in Oahu

Camping is very popular in Oahu, and it’s not hard to see why. The island is speckled with numerous campgrounds, all offering sensational views, waterfalls, and unmatched serenity.

You’ll find all types of campsites dotted across Oahu, from tent and RV sites to cabins and unique farm stays. Depending on what you’re looking for, you can rent a spot at a campsite for as little as $50 per night.

Camping is also allowed in Oahu’s state parks except for Wednesday and Thursday nights. The Sand Island State Park is only open for camping Friday through Sunday nights. Keep in mind that reservations for camping in Oahu should be made less than 30 days in advance.  

Read More: Where to Stay in Oahu | 10 Best Hotels & Lodgings

FAQs About the Best Oahu Hikes

Still uncertain about how to plan the perfect hiking trip to Oahu? Have a look at these answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding hiking in Oahu.

What Is the Most Difficult Hike on Oahu?

Oahu has many great hiking trails, but a few of them are considered quite dangerous. Hikes along the Koko Crater and Wiliwilinui Ridge trails are deemed highly challenging due to the narrow routes, but most would say the Three Peaks hike is the most difficult trek in Oahu. 

The Olomana Trail has claimed multiple lives since 2011, and officials have even gone as far as posting a notice board to warn hikers about the risky hike. Only experienced hikers should attempt this trek. Beginners and moderate hikers will want to skip this one.

What Are the Best Waterfall Hikes on Oahu?

Tucked in lush rainforests, Oahu’s waterfalls offer a much-needed reprieve from the heat on hot summer days. The island boasts a number of epic waterfall hikes, including the likes of Manoa Falls, Likeke Falls, Waimea Falls, Maunawili Falls, and the Jackass Ginger Pool.

Is Hiking Better in Maui or Oahu?

Depending on the type of hikes you’re looking to take, both Maui and Oahu offer an array of hiking trails to stretch your legs. Oahu is better suited for a beach getaway with access to city amenities, while Maui is ideal for visitors looking for a remote island holiday.

If you’re planning on taking multiple hikes, you can’t beat Oahu. No matter where you are on the island, there’s always a stunning scenic trail nearby.  

Tours Of Oahu

What To Pack For Oahu

• Bathing Suits
• Shorts
• Leggings for yoga or hiking
• Sun Hat
• Sunscreen
• Hiking Sandals
• Regular Sandals
• Hiking Shirt
• Sports Bra
• Hiking Shoes
• Hiking Socks
• Hiking Backpack
• Comfy Dress

The Best Hikes Oahu Has to Offer All Wrapped Up

You’ll find lots of hiking trails in Oahu, so there’s no shortage of fun outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for idyllic spots perfect for strolling along the sands, like Sunset Beach on the North Shore, or up for a rugged hike on the west side, Oahu has you covered.

Plan a comprehensive 5-day Oahu itinerary, add these top ten hikes to it — and you surely won’t be disappointed. From unique crater rim hikes to leisurely walks through dense forests leading to gushing waterfalls, Oahu’s best hikes have a special treat for every kind of hiker.

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