TOP 5 HIKES
Experience the Top 5 breathtaking hikes and connect with nature like never before!
The Ehukai Pillbox hike, also known as The Sunset Pillbox hike, offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the scenic views of Ehukai Beach, renowned for the Banzai Pipeline on North Shore. This trail winds through forested areas, featuring wide paths that are ideal for larger hiking groups. Despite its manageable length of just over 2 miles (3.4 kilometers), the hike includes several steep ascents which may pose a challenge to novice hikers. The junction has multiple trails intersecting, so it's advisable to begin early and hike with someone familiar with the area. Carrying a GPS-enabled phone is highly recommended. Rain can create slippery conditions on certain sections of the trail, so it's important to check the weather beforehand and wear appropriate footwear with good grip
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.3 mi
#1 Ehukai Pillboxes
#1 Ehukai Pillboxes
Waimea Falls provides an excellent family-friendly activity with a leisurely forest walk culminating at a swim-friendly waterfall. It's the only paid trail on the list, offering a scenic route that's accessible even with strollers and interactive for all ages. For convenience, you can opt for a trolley ride directly to the waterfall or for the return journey. At the waterfall, complimentary lifejackets are available for swimming in the pool beneath it. Nearby, there's a snack shack offering hot dogs, water, and shaved ice. For a more substantial meal, the restaurant at the entrance is highly recommended, where you can enjoy watching peacocks roam freely.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.5 mi
#2 Waimea Valley
#2 Waimea Valley
This well-maintained, moderate loop trail takes you on a gradual ascent through pine tree forests and tropical fruit trees, offering glimpses of lush green canyons and a variety of bird species. Spanning 2.5 miles roundtrip, it is celebrated as one of the more accessible trails on the North Shore, suitable for larger groups, children, and even dogs. Hikers can enjoy views of the Ko’olau Range and catch partial views of the town of Lai’e along the way. The trailhead, clearly marked with signage, is located on Maʻakua Rd, just north of Hauʻula Beach Park.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.5 miles roundtrip
#3 Hau’ula Loop
#3 Hau’ula Loop
This trail loop provides expansive views of Oahu's northern side, featuring breathtaking mountain and valley scenery, stream crossings, dense forests, and ridge ascents. The initial section of the trail is the most manageable, with gentle switchbacks that wind through native plants and wildlife, making for a pleasant hour to hour-and-a-half stroll. A rest spot in an open clearing marks a natural turnaround point, or hikers can opt to extend their journey for another 1 to 2 hours to complete the loop. The latter part of the hike inclines more steeply but continues to reward with stunning views. The trailhead is well-marked for easy access.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5.5 miles Roundtrip, 2.5-3.5 hours
#4 Kaunala Loop Trail
#4 Kaunala Loop Trail
Kaena Point is a unique hiking destination on Oahu's North Shore, situated at the island's western tip. Accessible only via a 2.5-mile hike from the small town of Mokuleia, this trail leads to the remote Kaena Point, a significant bird sanctuary. Along the way, hikers might be fortunate enough to encounter monk seals resting on the rocks, particularly during certain times of the year, or catch sight of whales in the distance during the winter months. It's important to note that there are two distinct trails leading to Kaena Point: one from the west side of Oahu and another from the North Shore. It's advisable to ensure you're researching information relevant to your chosen route before embarking on the hike.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5 miles 2 hours and 30 minutes