If you’re planning a Hawaii island getaway, don’t forget your hiking boots. While flip flops will probably be the footwear of choice for most of your vacation, you’ll want to lace up the sneakers for these hikes – with endless ocean views, waterfalls, and coastal and mountains panorama photo opps, it’s definitely worth the effort.
Here are our picks for can’t miss hikes in Oahu:
1. Bayview beach to Kahuku Point to the northernmost point. This 2-mile hike is great for guests staying at Turtle Bay (the beach is next to the resort) who don’t have a car or don’t want to drive too far to get active.
2. Kuli’ou’ou Ridge Trail- For great views of the windward side of the island, take the 4-mile trek up 1800 feet. On a clear day you can see all the way to Maui.
3. Manoa Falls Trail- The payoff for hiking a relatively easy 2 miler? A 150 foot waterfall. An easy trip from Waikiki (about 15 minutes), it’s a great way to spend two hours.
4. Maunawili Falls Hike This 2.5 mile hike on the windward side of the island will have you crossing a river several times, but the 25 foot waterfall at the end is totally worth it. This covered hike is muddy, so wear closed toed shoes.
5. Ka’ena Point State Park- 5 miles roundtrip, follow old railway tracks on the westernmost point of the island. This remote spot is great for bringing your own picnic to have a private lunch along the trail. Make sure to look out for two blowholes along the trail.
6. Makapu’u Point- Claimed to offer the best views of any hike on the island, Makapu’u Point on the eastern side can’t be missed. From December to May, bring your binoculars or telescope for a chance to see whales.
7. Diamond Head- Roughly 2 miles roundtrip, Diamond Head is the most popular and well known hike in Oahu. Located very close to Waikiki, it’s an easy 15 minute ride from most hotels in the area. Tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temps and less people.
Tips for hiking on Oahu:
Exploring Oahu through the mountains and hiking trails is one of the best ways to see the raw, natural Hawaii. Remember to hike and swim at your own risk. Here are some tips to make sure you have a happy and healthy adventure in Oahu:
– Bring plenty of water
– Dress in layers – shorts or lightweight pants
– Wear sneakers or hiking boots, not just flip flops
– Apply sunscreen and bug spray before you go and again on the trail
– Bring a rain jacket if you’re going up in the mountains as the climate can change quickly