EThe editors · 3 Hikes with a view lists — switch
Best hikes on Oʻahu
Eleven trails from a short lighthouse walk to a ridge climb.
11 placesTwo or three days
- 1. Lanikai Pillbox (Kaʻiwa Ridge)Pillboxes above Lanikai. Steep at the start, sunrise is best.WindwardFree to visit
2. Diamond Head (Lēʻahi) summit trailThe crater rim. Timed entry, paid for visitors.Waikīkī & Diamond HeadPaid entry
3. Waimea Falls (Waihī)A paved valley walk to the falls.North ShorePaid entry
4. Koko Crater Railway TrailOver a thousand railway-tie steps. Go early.East sideFree to visit- 5. Hauʻula Loop TrailA shaded loop through ironwoods above Hauʻula.WindwardFree to visit
6. Kawela Bay banyansAn easy walk through the banyans.North ShoreFree to visit- 7. Wilhelmina Rise lookoutA drive-up view over Kaimukī to Diamond Head.HonoluluFree to visit
- 8. Kaʻena Point TrailA flat, hot walk to the island’s far tip. Albatross in season.West sideFree to visit
9. Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse TrailA paved path to the lighthouse. Whales in winter.East sideFree to visit- 10. Kuliʻouʻou Ridge TrailA full morning to the ridge, with Waimānalo below you at the top.East sideFree to visit
11. Mānoa Falls TrailA muddy rainforest walk from the top of Mānoa.HonoluluFree to visit
Started from the pins on Explore Now or Never’s Best Hikes on Oahu (the map). Places and notes checked and written by us; opening times change, so check before you go.