Hiking Guides
Thanks to their short distances, panoramic views, and level of accessibility, the pillbox hikes on O’ahu are popular among both locals and visitors. There are four main pillbox hikes on O’ahu: Lanikai Pillbox, Maili Pillbox, Ehukai Pillbox, and Pu’u Ma’eli’eli Pillbox. These trails are not as adventurous as more challenging routes such as Moanalua Valley …
The Lanikai Pillbox hike is an iconic trail on O’ahu, frequently visited by locals and visitors alike. Though its actual trail name is the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, it’s most commonly referred to as the Lanikai Pillbox hike because of the concrete platforms built along the trail. At the top, hikers can climb atop the pillboxes …
While the Ehukai Pillbox hike does not receive near the attention of other more iconic hikes on O’ahu, it is hands down the best hike on the north shore. The north shore attracts visitors and locals alike with its laid-back vibe, white sand beaches, and world-renowned surf breaks, but that’s not to say adventurers looking …
There are several sought-after pillbox hikes on O’ahu, but none are as spectacular as the Maili Pillbox hike. Maili Pillbox, more commonly referred to as Pink Pillbox or officially as Pu’u O Hulu Trail, is located on the west side of the island. While Lanikai Pillbox hike is the spot for sunrise, Maili Pillbox takes …
Pu’u Ma’eli’eli Trail is a short and easy hike located on the east side of O’ahu. The trail is more commonly known as the “Kaneohe Pillbox” and is one of the four popular pillbox hikes on O’ahu. The structures known as pillboxes were originally constructed around the island for military purposes. Some structures were used …
One of the most iconic sights to see when driving around O’ahu is the nearby offshore islet, Mokoli’i Island. Mokoli’i Island is more commonly referred to as “Chinaman’s Hat,” due to its shape resemblance to a traditional Chinese hat. The islet sits directly offshore from Kualoa Regional Beach Park and can be easily accessed via …
The Kahekili Trail is a great option for those looking to experience the beauty and adventure of hiking on O’ahu without logging long miles. The trail is challenging but short and packs some of the best views on the entire island. Being located on the east side of O’ahu, the Kahekili Trail is a great …
Wa’ahila Ridge Trail to Mount Olympus was the first hike Cole and I did after moving to O’ahu. Talk about setting the bar high. The trail is adventurous, challenging, and worth every step it takes to reach the view awaiting you at the top. Wa’ahila Ridge Trail to Mt. Olympus is an epic ridge hike, …
Ka’au Crater Trail is hands down the best hike on O’ahu. Period. The trail has everything you could want in a Hawai’i hike: waterfalls, ridges, rivers, rope climbs, 360° views, and tropical foliage so green you’ll have to blink twice. The climb to the top of Ka’au Crater is physically demanding, thrilling, technical, mentally exhausting, …
Moanalua Valley Trail is gaining popularity as it offers a “legal” route to the top of the iconic Stairway to Heaven Trail on O’ahu. While Moanalua Valley Trail doesn’t actually have hikers traversing the metal stairs, it does lead hikers up the backside of the ridge with unobstructed views of the stairway and the east …