Editor’s Note

These are unusual times, with some of our properties currently closed. No matter what you do, practice safe travels, remain aware of current hot spots and rest assured we’re working around the clock to keep you safe.

Some of the best hiking trails in the world can be found on Oahu and the Big Island of Hawaii, home to diverse landscapes ranging from lush rainforests to ancient lava fields and nearly every terrain in between.

Put on your hiking boots to stretch your legs and take in the natural wonders only these hiking trails have to offer.

Oahu

The Diamond Head Crater Trail should be at the top of your Oahu hiking list. It’s a steep climb to the top of this extinct volcano, but the views of Waikiki Beach and the surrounding towns will make up for any sore muscles.

If you’re looking for something more off the beaten path, try any of these additional Oahu trails ranging from easy to difficult.

Maunawili Falls

• Distance:  2 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Location: Maunawili Valley

 

Wear shoes you don’t mind dirtying to tackle this muddy trail. The hike is well worth the effort to catch a glimpse of (and dip your muddy toes into) Maunawili Falls at the end.

Ehukai Pillbox

• Distance: 1-2 hours
• Difficulty: Beginner
• Location: North Shore (Sunset Beach)

 

Hike this trail at sunset for breathtaking views of the North Shore’s pristine beaches, where you might even spot a native Green Sea Turtle or two!

Hanauma Bay Rim Trail

• Distance: 3.6 mile loop
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Location: Hanauma Bay

 

Rise and shine early to watch the sunrise from the Hanauma Bay Rim Trail, located within the Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve Park. Reward yourself with a refreshing dip or snorkel adventure in Hanauma Bay post-hike.

Makapu’u Lighthouse

• Distance: 1-2 hours
• Difficulty: Beginner
• Location: Makapu’u Lighthouse (Southeastern part of Oahu)

Carve out some time after you’ve finished hiking to look for sea life in the nearby Makapu’u tide pools and watch for humpback whales, which can be spotted from November to May.

Crouching Lion

• Distance: 1-2 hours
• Difficulty: Beginner
• Location: Kahana Bay

After a rain, take advantage of the freshwater flow and trek to a natural swimming hole on the Kalauao Trail, then descend through a beautiful eucalyptus grove in the Aiea Loop to see the rushing waterfall shaded by banyan and mango trees.

The Big Island

The stunning ecosystems of the Big Island provide trailblazers enough hiking to keep busy for months. Some of our favorites are in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including the Thurston Lava Tube and Kilauea’iki Trail, but here are several lesser known additional routes to consider as well.

Akaka Falls

• Distance: .4 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Location: Akaka Falls State Park

This short hike is mostly uphill, but you’ll be treated to two of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island after your climb. As you follow the paved footpath, you’ll first see 100-foot Kahuna Falls. Follow the loop around the bend and you’ll discover towering Akaka Falls which plummets 442 feet into a gorge.

Waipio Valley

• Distance: 3 miles roundtrip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Location: Northern Hamakua Coast

 

The lush Waipio Valley, also known as “The Valley of the Kings,” was once the childhood home of King Kamehameha I, who established the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1810. The Big Island’s tallest waterfall, Hiilawe Falls, cascades down 1,300 feet in the back of the valley. Most hikers park at the Waipio Valley Lookout and hike one mile down to the black sand beach.

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens Hike & Donkey Trail

• Distance: 1.5 miles
• Difficult: Easy
• Location: Hilo

 

If you have a green thumb, this hike is a must. You’ll encounter more than 2,000 different species of plants on this self-guided tour (a slow meander) that takes just about an hour to complete. If you want a longer hike, take the 2.5-mile (roundtrip) Donkey Trail down to Onomea Bay and Turtle Cove whose trailhead is just outside the gardens.

Pololu Valley Lookout

• Distance: 2.5 miles roundtrip
• Difficulty: Easy
• Location: Northeastern coast, at the end of Hwy 270

 

Take in the stunning cliffside views of the dramatic coastline at the northern end of the Big Island on a 25-minute hike down to the valley floor ending in a black sand beach. We recommend packing a picnic to enjoy before you hike back up the lush cliffs.

Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail

• Distance: 3 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Location: Waikoloa to Mauna Lani

 

The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is an old, restored Hawaiian hiking trail that connects the Mauna Lani and Waikoloa Resorts. Spot ancient artifacts, fishponds, and interesting archeological treasures along the way. In total, the trail stretches 175 miles along the island perimeter, but this section is a stunning hike around dramatic bends and beautiful blue ocean views. Stop for lunch at Napua and snorkel in one of the best spots to spot tropical sea life.

Venture off the beaten path to discover more of Oahu’s hidden gems.