Top 10 Best Hikes on O'ahu • 2025

One of our favorite things to do in Hawaii is enjoy the natural scenery and get some exercise on a hike. On the island of O'ahu there are many great hikes and it's not easy to make a Top 10 best hikes on O'ahu list. We're locals, we know the hikes, so if we had to...

To make it easy for you, we've listed the top 10 best hikes on O'ahu in order, starting with our #1 favorite (must do!) hikes. There's also some notes at the end about some that didn't make the Top 10 list. We were going to limit the list to just five, but then we remembered there's really some awesome hikes that we don't get to do as much because we live in town. Our sense of distance is different here in Hawaii and the North Shore seems a little far away sometimes. If you're going to the North Shore, move #6, #7 and #8 up your list. You might favor views over waterfalls, or exercise over historical significance so maybe our order of preference doesn't matter. Just read the descriptions and decide for yourself where you want to go. In some cases, hiking trails are connected and there are logical other things to do nearby the listed hike, so each one of these could take up most of your day. For all these hikes, don't forget to wear shoes (not slippahs!) bring a canteen of water (not single use plastic!), maybe some bug spray, eco-friendly sunscreen and of course some great sunglasses! 

Links for each hike links to AllTrails.com listing

1. Manoa Falls (and side trails)

This is a no brainer! #1 Favorite hike on Oahu! This one of course tops our Top 10 Best Hikes on O'ahu list. We love this one and always take visiting guests on this easy and very beautiful, crowd pleaser of a hike on their first day of visiting when they're still jet lagged.

The Manoa Falls Trail is a beautiful taste of paradise tucked away in the lush rainforest of Manoa Valley. The relatively easy 1.6 mile round trip hike offers an unforgettable hiking experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This trail takes you through a vibrant landscape packed with diverse native Hawaiian flora, culminating in the breathtaking Manoa Falls waterfall.

The trailhead is conveniently located just a short drive from Honolulu and there's lots of secure parking at the trailhead, just a few dollars, a dollar less for Kama'aina. As you begin your hike you'll immediately be surrounded by lush green plants everywhere! The path winds through a dense rainforest filled with towering trees and an array of colorful plants that let's you know you're really in a tropical paradise.

Along the way, there's placards that describe a lot of the nature and significance of the area. As you hike, take a moment to appreciate the vibrant variety of native plants that thrive in this rainforest. You might spot the Naupaka, a shrub with half-circle white flowers that often grows near the coast but can also be found inland. The colorful flowers and lush greenery create a stunning backdrop for your journey.

After a moderate hike, you'll finally hear the roar of Manoa Falls, and it’s a sight worth the trek! The waterfall cascades down about 150 feet, surrounded by a dramatic cliff face and lush foliage. The mist from the falls creates a refreshing atmosphere, and while swimming in the pool at the base is not allowed, the view is perfect for photos and soaking in the beauty of nature. The Manoa Falls Trail is not just about the hike; it’s also a reminder of Hawaii's unique ecosystem and the importance of conservation. This area is home to several endangered species and showcases the need to protect these delicate habitats.

While the main path is a nice exercise for anyone, those looking for more challenge and have more time can get muddy and maybe a little lost on a few side trails that are marked with signs closer to the waterfall. 

The Manoa Falls Trail is a must-visit for anyone on Oahu! As locals we still always come back to this one and bring all our visiting friends here on their first day. After a hike, you can drive through Manoa town and maybe go to the Farmer's Market at the Manoa Marketplace Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday mornings and definitely check out Leahi Health for some of the best plant based grindz on island!

2. Lulumahu Falls (off Pali Highway and then... )

A lot of fun adventures on O'ahu start on the Pali Highway. If you can't get enough of waterfalls and want a more challenging "local" hike with the possibility of getting lost and muddy, then check out Lulumahu Falls just off the Pali Highway on the right when you're driving from town. Just look for the turn off where all the cars are parked. The parking area is often the target of break ins so don't leave anything valuable in your car. 

There's a few openings in the bamboo forest along the fence, never mind the signs that say "Off Limits" apparently that's not really enforced as this is actually a very popular hike with locals. If you follow the pink ribbons tied to branches some lead left, some lead right. To the right will take you through the bamboo forest and eventually open up to a gravel road that leads to a dirt or mud trail that generally weaves around a stream to the end of the trail. 

If you took the path to the left in the beginning, the bamboo forest opens up to a big beautiful valley that surrounds a reservoir. Follow the edge of the reservoir back down and you'll see the path opening up to some steps, a trail and you'll meet up with the other path (if you went right in the beginning) and you'll see the stream actually was built as part of the island's water supply system. There's a small dike waterfall that you have to balance over - be careful! It can be slippery and that would be a bad fall. Once past that, depending on how much it's been raining you might have dry rocks to hop or you might be sloshing through some water. In that case, the rest of the trail might get seriously muddy too. Either way, this is a very beautiful jungle hike! 

Some of the same foliage that you'll see on Manoa Falls and a lot of bamboo is everywhere here too. After the balancing dike part, that's where it gets interesting. There's actually pink ribbons that are tied in the wrong direction and it's easy to get lost. Basically at this point, you're going to follow the stream all the way up so don't venture too far away from it as you figure out which trail is the right way. It will weave back and forth over the stream, starting to left from the dike. As you proceed, the rocks will get bigger the stream will become heavier and you'll actually have to climb with your arms too, climbing up sometimes muddy faces of the stream. It's generally not too hard though and the reward is worth it when you get to the end: an impressive 100+ ft waterfall. People often wade in the water here, do so at your own risk and make sure you don't lose your sunglasses in the water!

After reversing course and getting back to your car, you'll be driving into Kailua on the Pali Highway. Another mandatory stop along the way is the Nu'uanu Pali lookout. We always take our visiting guests to this beautiful and historic overlook of windward O'ahu. This site is where the battle of Nu'uanu took place in 1795, where King Kamehameha I battled the defending forces of Kalanikupule, forcing them off the steep cliffs, resulting in Kamehameha I's conquest of the Hawaiian islands. You can also see the old Pali road that connected the windward and leeward sides of the island before the Pali tunnel was built.

There's a few more cool hikes connected to this area, if you still want to hike you could follow the Old Pali Road (better from the bottom of the Pali Highway) or another very cool but challenging hike with an impressive view is the Pali Puka hike. From the Pali Lookout parking lot, jump over the little wall by the bus parking and follow the trail up the hill, past the sign that says don't pass the sign. There's a trail that eventually leads to a steep narrow ridge- be careful especially when it's windy! Follow this ridge trail to the rocks to the "puka" which is Hawaiian for "hole" a natural arch that makes for a good picture frame. 

As you continue over the Pali Highway through Kailua, you have...

3. Lanikai Pillbox hike (especially at sunrise and then Lanikai Beach!)

Lanikai Pillbox Hike, officially known as the Ka'iwa Ridge trail, is a local favorite that really showcases the beauty of Hawaii, and it’s on everyone's Top 10 Best Hikes on O'ahu list. Nestled in the charming Lanikai neighborhood, this hike offers breathtaking views and a unique blend of history and adventure. As this area faces the east, it is especially wonderful to do this hike at sunrise if you can get motivated to wake up that early.

Starting along a fence line across the road from Mid Pacific Golf Course, the trail itself is considered moderate in difficulty. There's some full body climbing at some points and the possibility of slipping and getting muddy if it's been raining. Don't attempt this hike if it's been raining a lot. The path is about 1.5 miles round trip, and while it does have some steep sections, the well-maintained trail makes it manageable for most hikers. Though mostly rocky and dry, you’ll still find yourself surrounded by some greenery, and as you ascend, the anticipation builds for the stunning panoramic views that await you at the top.

What makes this hike most interesting is the history behind the pillboxes, which are concrete bunkers built by the military. Built during World War II, these concrete structures were part of the coastal defense system used to protect against potential threats. On a clear day you can see Molokai and if anyone says you can see further they're lying. The pillboxes themselves are decorated with colorful graffiti, which adds a fun touch and makes for great photos. There's actually two pillboxes, you don't have to go to both but if you pass the second one the hike continues down through a grassy meadow into the neighborhood below. Not really recommended to venture too far from the second pillbox unless you're going to go all the way to end of the rocks by the water where it's another beautiful view of Lanikai on one side and Waimanalo on the other. 

After you’ve checked out the views and snapped some photos, the best part is that you can head down to Lanikai Beach after your hike to enjoy one of the world's most beautiful beaches! Just a short stroll from the trailhead, this beach is famous for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect spot to cool off, relax, and enjoy the serene surroundings. The beach is family-friendly and offers excellent conditions for swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding out to the islands out there that the locals just call the Mokes. If you wanna do that, check out Kailua Beach Adventures where you can rent a kayak, go on a guided tour and buy some cool shades! 

At some point you'll need some supplies and a bite to eat and there's no other place you'll want to go besides Kalapawai Market. They have a more sit down style restaurant in Kailua town but Kalapawai Market is our favorite place to get a hummus bagel and coffee and drinks for the beach!

4. Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail (and tide pools)

The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Hike is a nice easy hike with a beautiful coastal view. If you’re looking for a peaceful way to get some exercise, this hike offers beautiful views of the ocean, a historic lighthouse, and the option to explore the tide pools below.

The hike is conveniently located at the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trailhead, where parking is available in a big designated lot. On busy days this lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is a smart move. If you can’t find a spot, there’s some street parking available nearby, though you’ll want to be mindful of any signs to avoid getting a ticket.

The trail itself is about 2 miles round trip and is considered easy to moderate in difficulty, making it accessible for hikers of all ages and skill levels. The path is paved and well-maintained, with a gentle incline that allows you to take in the picturesque surroundings as you ascend. Along the way, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the ocean and the dramatic cliffs of the southeastern coast of Oahu. Look out at the water, this is the place to spot whales in the winter months and sea turtles swimming below.

As you approach the summit, you'll arrive at the iconic Makapu’u Lighthouse. Built in 1909, this historic lighthouse has played a crucial role in guiding ships safely along the coast through the Kaiwi Channel between Oahu and Molokai. Standing at 110 feet tall, it’s one of the oldest lighthouses in Hawaii and has guided s/v Gemini and other wayward sailors home from Molokai on many occasions. This channel crossing is well known by Hawaii watermen, the venue for the annual Molokai Hoe paddle race and the inspiration for one of our latest sunglasses models.

Along the way, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous and want to get salty, you can make your way down to the tide pools at the water’s edge below the hike. After you’ve soaked in the views from the top, heading down to the rocky shoreline is a fantastic way to extend your day. The tide pools are where you'll find some local Hawaii marine life, including sea urchins, starfish, and various fish species. Just be sure to time your visit with the tides and be careful not to go when the seas are rough and pounding on the rocks.

After the hike, if you want to cool off, one of our favorite beaches is just around the corner. Makapu'u Beach is just off the right as you're driving around the point, downhill towards Waimanalo. 

5. Koko Crater

The Koko Crater Hike, also known as the Koko Head Stairs, is an adventure that promises not only a great workout but also some of the most best views on O'ahu. If you’re looking for a hike that combines history, stunning scenery, a challenging workout, then this is the perfect spot for you.

Everyone's Top 10 Best hikes on O'ahu list is going to include the Koko Head Stairs. This trail consists of 1,048 steep, railroad-style stairs that lead up the side of Koko Crater, an extinct volcanic cone. Originally built during World War II as a military lookout, these stairs were used to transport supplies and troops to the summit. Today, they serve as a popular hiking trail and a great way for locals and visitors to connect with the island’s history while getting in some exercise.

The hike is about 1.5 miles round trip, but don’t let the short distance fool you! The ascent is steep, and the stairs can be challenging, especially as you make your way up to the top. As of this writing, the stairs have been somewhat repaired but some could be in varying states of repair so be careful! As you tackle the stairs, take your time to appreciate the views that you see around you. The trail is mostly in the sun but shaded in some sections by trees and vegetation. Unless you're doing this as a workout, you'll want to pause and catch your breath along the way. The view of the Maunalua Bay and the neighborhoods around Hawaii Kai is worth every step!

The views from the top are what this hike is all about. On a clear day, you’ll have a panoramic vista of the southeastern coast of O'ahu, including Hanauma Bay and the Kaiwi Channel to the Pacific Ocean stretching out as far as the eye can see. Unless it's cloudy you'll see Molokai and maybe even as far as Lanai on a clear day. 

At the summit, you’ll also find what's left of the military bunkers and crane machinery for the rail lift, which add an interesting historical element to your visit. It’s a great spot to take photos and soak in the beauty of nature while reflecting on the history of the area. After enjoying the views and snapping some pictures, many hikers spend time at the top just hanging out and enjoying the fresh air. Just remember to bring a water canteen to stay hydrated, this is one particular hike that's exposed to sun and the climb can be quite demanding!

After the hike, the surrounding neighborhood of Hawaii Kai has Kona Brewing Co, a popular local hang out to get a bite to eat and drink. Resist the temptation to go to Haunama Bay nearby, it's a tourist trap. It's beautiful, don't get us wrong. But its crowded and all the coral is trampled on. If you want to snorkel from the beach, go to Shark's Cove on the North Shore instead. While you're on your way to the North Shore... 

6. Crouching Lion (and Kahana Bay / Beach)

(All Trails says it's closed, hmm... people probably still do it, proceed at your own risk)

The Crouching Lion Hike is one of the best and well known hikes on the north windward side going towards the North Shore, off Kamehameha "Kam" Highway on O'ahu. This hike offers an adventure that combines nature, beautiful views, a good amount of exercise and a chance to relax and enjoy it all at the summit. If you’re looking for a hike that delivers both natural beauty and a good workout, then this is the perfect spot for you!

To get to Crouching Lion, drive up the Kam Highway past Kane'ohe Bay, past Kualoa Ranch and just past Kaaawa, the road will wind up a hill around a cliff. You'll want to look for parking along the road there and enter the woods where last we checked there was a "Do Not Enter" sign. Crouching Lion Trail is relatively short, measuring about 1 mile round trip. However, don’t let the distance fool you, the hike is steep in some places and requires some climbing, making it suitable for those with a moderate fitness level. The trail is unmarked and can be a little tricky to navigate in spots, so be careful as you make your way up. 

As you climb in elevation, you’ll find breathtaking scenery that defines the windward coast. The trail begins in a lush, tropical setting, surrounded by lots of greenery and the sounds of chirping birds. Towards the top it gets rockier, but still green. The air is fresh, and the scent of the ocean wafts through the trees, making the hike a truly immersive experience. This hike is actually where we shot the scenes from this cool video we made about Lani Shades, check it out!

Once you reach the top, the view is nothing short of spectacular. At the top people say they see a big rock in the shape of a lion in a crouching position, but I don't know what they're talking about. The views of Kahana Bay and the surrounding coastline are truly breathtaking and what this hike is all about. The summit is a great place to take a break, catch your breath, and soak in the beauty of the landscape. 

After the hike down, if you want to check out another one of O'ahu's beautiful beaches, Kahana Bay is right around the corner, just a short drive further on Kam Highway. The bay is less crowded than some of the other beaches on the island, making it a peaceful spot to just relax and soak up paradise.

7. Ka'ena Point (way out there!)

Check out this official link about Ka'ena Point from Hawaii DLNR

For those who want to really get as far away on O'ahu that you physically can, Ka'ena Point is literally at lands end on the northwest tip of O'ahu. This hike isn't for everyone, but it's definitely for you if you want some exercise, want to find a really nice secluded beach and you love birds. This is the main place on O'ahu where sea birds such as the beautiful and majestic Mōlī Laysan albatross come to nest and hatch their young. 

To get to the trailhead, drive as far as you can on Farrington Highway on the North Shore. The road ends at a parking lot and there's a gate where people can get a permit and drive their trucks further in to camp, but you can just park for free and hike. The trail is about 5 miles round trip, mostly level and basically follows the rough unpaved road with a parallel foot path along the cliffs by the water. There's often local boys parked along the way by the cliffs in their lifted Tacomas, camping and fishing. Definitely one place on the island you'd need a 4x4 to drive if you weren't hiking.

The hike features beautiful rocky coastal scenery all along the way and you'll find a few nice secluded sandy coves and small beaches where you can chill the day away. On one of these beaches is where we did one of our latest photo shoots for our new Makani style Lani Shades. 

An interesting thing about this hike is that there used to be a railroad line back in the day that went all around Ka'ena Point but it was abandoned and dismantled many decades ago. The hiking path goes over some of the remnants of the old rail line. Follow the foot path or the unpaved road along the cliffs until you get to a gate that protects the bird sanctuary. You can enter the gate, just don't bring any pets and definitely bring your trash out with you.

Once inside the gate you can follow the path all the way to the point, observing the birds from a distance. Some of them will swoop right over you and some lay and rear their eggs in nests close to the path. If you weren't into birds before this hike, you probably will be afterwards because those albatross are really cool! They do a crazy dance that's some kind of mating ritual and the bird parents are so attentive of their (furry?!) gray hatchlings.

The sanctuary is also home to several other seabird species, including the endangered Hawaiian petrel (or ‘ua’u) and the wedge-tailed shearwater (or ‘a’o). These birds nest in the area, and the trails are designed to protect their habitats, especially during nesting season. If you’re lucky, you might spot some of these magnificent birds soaring above the cliffs or nesting in the rocky crevices. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will especially appreciate the opportunity to observe these unique species in their natural environment.

Ka’ena Point Hike ends at the lands end where you can look south and see all of the West Oahu coast and Waianae Mountain range. It really gives you perspective on the geography of Oahu. At the very end point you'll find the ruins of an old lighthouse (replaced with a smaller modern navigation aid) and WW2 era pillbox that has been decorated with colorful graffiti. There's often monk seals sunbathing on the beach below and in the winter months you'll see whales breaching here far away from pestering whale watching boats.

One thing we love about Ka'ena point hike is you'll see several signs marking marine debris drop off stations. While we don't love to see marine debris, it's good to see people trying to do something about it.   

While you're on the North Shore, every Top 10 Best Hikes on O'ahu list includes...

8. Ehukai Pillbox (and North Shore beaches)

If you want to see another WW2 pillbox and you're on the North Shore already, maybe to surf the world famous Bonzai Pipeline or nearby Sunset Beach, then we recommend parking over at Sunset Beach neighborhood park and crossing over to climb up the hill through the trees into the Pūpūkea-Paumalū Forest reserve ... (and to get those lines over the u, just hold the u key down, it gives you all those options). This lovely hike features nature, exercise and rewards you with a beautiful view of the North Shore coast at the top. 

This hiking trail is about 1.5 miles round trip and is considered moderate in difficulty. The ascent is steep at points, but the well-maintained path and the presence of sturdy steps make it manageable for most hikers, including families with older children. Along the way, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of the island, which makes the journey even more enjoyable. It’s a great way to get some exercise while soaking in the beauty of the Hawaiian landscape.

As you climb higher, the anticipation builds for the stunning views that await you at the summit. Once you reach the top, you’re greeted with panoramic views of the North Shore coastline. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the distant Waianae Mountains on one side and the expansive ocean on the other. 

One of the most interesting aspects of the Ehukai Pillbox Hike is the two pillboxes themselves, which were built during World War II as part of the coastal defense system. These concrete structures add a unique historical element to your hike and are often adorned with colorful graffiti, making them popular spots for snapshots. 

After enjoying the views from the top and perhaps having a little picnic, you can head back down and spend some time at the nearby beaches. Ehukai Beach, also known as Bonzai Pipeline, is famous for its world-class surf breaks and is a hotspot for surfers and spectators alike, especially during the winter months when the waves are at their biggest. If you’re not a surfer, it’s still a wonderful place to relax, soak up the sun, and watch the surfers ride the massive waves. Just a short drive away, you’ll also find Sunset Beach, another stunning stretch of sand that’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing. 

After a nice hike and some sun on the beach, it's just a little further drive along the Kam Highway to Shark's Cove, Waimea Bay and Hale'iwa town, the center of North Shore life. Be sure to stop at 9th Island Vegan for some delicious plant based grindz, Coffee Gallery for the most chill North Shore cafe experience and Il Gelato Cafe for an afternoon buzz.

9. Ka'au Crater / Mau'umae / Wiliwilinui / Kuli'ou'ou ridge (sort of connected)

Okay, we're really cheating here! There's several hikes that start in the neighborhoods around Aina Haina that are all relatively close together, converge on the same ridge and if you made a turn somewhere they would be connected. Ka'au Crater actually starts in Pālolo Valley and Kuli'ou'ou Ridge Trail starts in Kuli'ou'ou Valley (duh!) but they all seem to go in the same direction, up a ridge in southeast Oahu. Honestly, this whole area in southeast Oahu is very beautiful and you can't go wrong if you just looked up any of these trails on Google Maps and just picked one, Google maps will tell you where the trailhead starts. Every Top 10 Best Hikes on O'ahu list includes at least one or two of these!

All these trails feature beautiful natural scenery, good exercise and stunning views of the island. These trails all start in a residential neighborhood and feature a steady climb up a well worn path of medium difficulty through the different levels of Hawaiian flora. These are all pretty well forested with lots of native plants and the trees, like all hikes up in elevation change as you climb and go through different ecosystems. There's a stream that runs through one of these trails, or maybe more than one of them depending on if it's been raining lately.

If you're going to pick just one of these, then I'd probably say pick Kuli'ou'ou trail. The photos on this post were mostly taken there. There are signs along the trails that tell you where to go and what trail you're on and you can make a turn and end up on another one. Be careful you don't get lost! Each one of these trails are about 2 to 5 miles round trip, 20 miles round trip if you made a bunch of wrong (or deliberate?) turns and did them all. While these hikes are distinct, they’re all part of the same mountain range and offer connections through various ridges and trails. 

The main appeal of these hikes in this area is that as you climb to the summit of the ridge you can see on either side with stunning views of both the south and east coasts of Oahu. Looking over Maunalua Bay and the east side of Diamond Head on one side and over Waimanalo and Kailua on the other side with the Kaiwi Channel and vast expanse of the mighty Pacific Ocean in between. Nothing feels like natural Hawaii more than seeing the beautiful blue sea through the lush green jungle. Even better on these hikes you might be seeing these views from above the clouds.     

After all this hiking when you get back down to sea level you'll be close to town, Hawaii Kai side. Maybe check out Kahala, there's a few nice beaches in the area or continue driving along Kalaniana'ole Highway around Makapu'u to take the scenic route to the windward side of Oahu.

10. Olomana (Three Peaks) / Maunawili (Falls) Trail(s)

Just as in #9, we're sort of cheating here too. A Top 10 Best Hikes on O'ahu list wouldn't be complete without mentioning at least one of these! At the bottom of the Pali Highway before you drive into Kailua or turn right and go to Waimanalo you have an area that is referenced as a few different hikes but they're actually connected and offer some of the same scenery. The difference is that Olomana (Three Peaks) as the name suggests, is a climb up some steep ridges, offering an impressive view of the Ko'olau Mountain range and windward O'ahu from the top. Maunawili (Falls) Trail is more of a forrest valley hike by a stream and a waterfall at the end. These hikes are in the same area and they connect at different points. You can access them generally from Auloa / Maunawili Roads to the right as you're driving down the Pali towards Kailua.

Olomana (Three Peaks) hike is the most challenging of these hikes. This 4 mile round trip hike involves a lot of climbing as you ascend through different ecosystems. This hike is particularly fun and challenging to do at sunrise and a few years ago we made a cool video about it, check it out! As you climb up the steep cliffs, there's rope at some points that people have installed, as with a few other hikes (like Lanikai Pillboxes and Crouching Lion) make sure you test the rope first before you put all your weight on it and trust it with your life. Olomana has some narrow steep ridges, especially on the second and third peaks and this hike isn't recommended when its windy or it's been raining a lot. In fact, if you just want to do the first of the three peaks you might be just as happy. The view from the last two peaks isn't much different than from the first.

Maunawili (Falls), the "Falls" is in parenthesis because last we checked the main entry point to just this hike is closed as they say they're doing some kind of maintenance on the trail. The residents nearby are probably just tired of people parking in their neighborhood to go on this hike so they are keeping it closed. Please always be mindful and respectful of the residents who live near these hikes, we want to always be welcome to enjoy these activities. There is a back way to get to the Falls trail, if you follow the route for Maunawili Trail at one point there's a sign that points towards the Falls, unless they took it down.   

If you don't get lost and you do manage to find the back way to the Falls, you might be one of the only ones there and this waterfall, though not as high does have a bigger and deeper pool and people like to jump in and swim here. Do so at your own risk. This is where we did some of our first float tests of Lani Shades to see how well they float in fresh water. Maunawilli (Falls) Trail is about 4 miles long round trip, longer if you get lost trying to find the back way to the falls and is considered moderate difficulty with mostly well worn paths, some climbing and a little bit of bush whacking.

One of the nicest parts of hiking any of these hikes is that when you're finished you're on your way into Kailua and can enjoy some of O'ahu's nicest beaches and chill out in one of the coolest towns on island. 

Oahu hikes final thoughts...

So you see we kind of cheated with this list a little and combined several related hikes. But if you know Oahu hikes, you'll notice a few didn't make our Top 10 Best Hikes on O'ahu list:

1. Diamond Head Crater Trail. This one is on everyone's Top Ten Best Hikes on O'ahu list, but is it over rated? In our humble opinion, maybe... I mean, it's got the best view of everything from the top, the most impressive pillboxes and very interesting history but if you've done all the other hikes we mentioned then you checked all those boxes and Diamond Head Crater hike is so crowded now you have to make a reservation to visit. It's $10 for parking in the crater too. As a local, I've done it at least 5 times already. I'll pass. 
2. Makiki Valley Trail. Ooooh, did we forget this one? This a great hike too! Would definitely be in the Top 10 if we weren't trying to be fair and include North Shore hikes. This would be a very long post if we included all the awesome hikes on O'ahu!
3. Aiea Loop Trail. Another local favorite with views and wide paths for trail running. This might be #11 if we were making a Top 11 List, but... it's kind of hard to find as it's in the middle of the island through a residential neighborhood and really a "locals" hike if you've done all the other hikes.
4. Pink Pillbox in Waianae. We heard this one was cool, but honestly we haven't done it yet! Seriously, it's way out on the west side, a long drive from town and it's a relatively short hike for such a long drive. If you're crazy about pillboxes, we've already included several but if you want to see a pink one, then yeah maybe go check this one out. We'll go hike it eventually. If you've done it, let us know in the comments what you think!
5. Haiku Stairs. AKA "Stairway to Heaven." This one is honestly, hands down, without a doubt, not just the #1 best hike on O'ahu but probably the best hike in the world! Too bad it's illegal and Mayor Blangiardi (fakkah!) is pushing to have the stairs removed. It's been a long legal fight in court and the Friends of Haiku Stairs are not finished fighting yet trying to save the Stairs and open them back up. I've done it 3 times, it's amazing! There's a long back way to get there and if you have to go, please don't be like these clowns! There's lots to the story and it's really an amazing hike worth saving. Please check out the website and consider supporting the cause!     

So this is what we think of hikes on O'ahu. If there's a hike on O'ahu that we didn't mention at all that you think is your favorite... don't tell anyone- maybe keep it a secret? 

Top 10 Best Hikes on O'ahu 

Written by human locals living in Hawaii, with just a little AI assist

All photos taken by the author(s)