Top 6 Hiking Trails In Oahu: Waterfall Hikes, Summits, And More

By Abigail Kozak

Oahu is known for its unbelievable ocean views, incredible surfing, and national landmarks like the awe-inspiring Pearl Harbor National Memorial. It’s also well known for its abundance of hiking trails — you’ll find some of Hawaii’s top hiking trails in Oahu. If you’re looking for some of the best views on the island, start your journey on any of these unparalleled hiking paths.

Before you set off on any Oahu hike, it’s important to pack plenty of sunscreen, snacks, and in some cases insect repellent. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear like a pair of good hiking boots (save your flip flops for the beach), and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face from the sun’s harsh rays. Most importantly, don’t forget to pack plenty of water so you can rehydrate often, to avoid overheating. Hiking in Oahu is a little different than hiking in the Smokies or the Rockies!

From easy trails to more adventurous hikes, here are six of the best trails for hiking in Oahu.  

hiking in oahu

1. Diamond Head Summit Trail

Diamond Head Summit Trail is one of the most popular spots for hiking in Oahu. Located at the edge of Waikiki, this historic hiking trail is made up of a massive 475-acre crater. The trail to Diamond Head’s summit was built in 1908 as part of Oahu’s coastal defense system, and you’ll find several World War II bunkers on your way up the path. It’s a moderate hike that starts out easy with a paved walkway at the beginning of the trail, which then gets progressively steeper as you find yourself zig-zagging upward on one of countless switchbacks. Once you come out of the tunnel in the middle of the hike, the trail forks — the right fork is shorter with many stairs to the top, and the left fork is an easier (albeit longer) trail. Both forks lead you to the top of the crater, where you can see the ocean for miles, as well as 360-degree views of Waikiki and the surrounding terrain. In the winter, you might get lucky and spot some breaching humpback whales!

Length: 1.6 miles round trip

Duration: 1-2 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Fee: Yes (parking and trail access)

2. Koko Crater Railway Trail

Koko Crater Railway Trail, also known as Koko Crater Steps, is one of the most adventurous hiking trails in Oahu. It’s a steep, grueling climb to the top with absolutely no shade, which takes an average of 90 minutes to complete, depending on how many times you decide to stop and enjoy the view (or stop and catch your breath). Test your endurance up this abandoned railroad track dating all the way back to World War II. The track is mounted to the hillside and was used as part of an inclined tram to transport supplies to the summit lookout point. With an elevation change of nearly 1,000 feet, this hike is not for the faint of heart — it’s hard work, to say the least. Once you make it to the top, relish in the panoramic views of Honolulu’s shoreline. You sure earned it! Bask in the sun and maybe even take a few bites from your packed lunch — it might be awhile before you decide to head back down.

Length: 1.4 miles round trip

Duration: 1.5-3 hours

Difficulty: Strenuous

Fee: No

3. Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail

Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail is a moderate trail, offering stunningly beautiful views of Oahu’s coastline and nearby landmarks. Hike past the Makapuu Lighthouse, built in 1909, while scoping out the ocean for humpback whales passing by on their winter migration routes. Bring a pair of binoculars for whale-spotting, and also to watch for native bird species, like the iwa, frigate, and tropicbird.You might see flocks of seabirds in the area, as the nearby offshore islets offer these birds sanctuary. Although inaccessible, the lighthouse itself is an interesting viewpoint. It’s a picturesque red and white structure that once protected ships from the coastline’s craggy depths, and now serves as a historic landmark. Watch for World War II pillboxes as well, and keep your eyes peeled for the nearby islands of Molokai and Lanai, which are viewable in the distance on clear days. Although downward views of lush vegetation surround the trail, the path itself is very dry and feels more like a desert. Watch out for prickly cacti and avoid excess sun exposure as much as you can. Although uphill, the trail is paved, which makes it easily accessible for families with children and people of all ages. This trail is quite possibly the coolest lighthouse hike Oahu has to offer.

Length: 2 miles round trip

Duration: 1-2 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Fee: No

4. Lanikai Pillbox Hike

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike takes you on a short and narrow trail, featuring two military bunkers and panoramic views of Lanikai Beach. In case you’re wondering how the hike got its name, in military terms a pillbox is a defensive site full of narrow loopholes through which defenders can fire weapons at their attackers. Because of its grade, this hike is ranked as moderate, and generally takes about 45-60 minutes to complete. Although it’s a popular hike, there are plenty of quiet areas along the path, and the trail is a fascinating experience full of stunning views and interesting history. You’ll reach the first bunker about 20 minutes into the hike, and the second after another 10 minutes or so of hiking. From there, you can choose whether you turn around and head back, or you can continue on the Kaiwa Ridge Trail which leads to a residential area about an hour farther. Once at the top, enjoy breathtaking views of Kailua Bay, Lanikai Beach, and the Mokulua Islands. The increasing grade of the climb is well worth the effort as you’re rewarded with absolutely stunning views at the end.

Length: 1.5 miles round trip

Duration: 45-90 minutes

Difficulty: Moderate

Fee: No

5. Manoa Falls Trail

Manoa Falls Trail is just a short drive from downtown Honolulu, but feels like you’re miles and miles away! The lush, tropical rainforest is drizzly all year long, which means the hike to the 100-foot-high Manoa Falls is completely shaded by overhanging trees. This popular hiking trail was also the filming location for several Jurassic Park movies, and television shows “Lost” and “Hawaii Five-O.” It’s no wonder Hollywood producers chose this incredible oasis as the backdrop for their filming — surrounding the trail are eucalyptus trees, brightly colored tropical flowers, enormous banyan trees, and a bamboo grove, all of which makes for a picture-perfect tropical background. The trail can get muddy in places, so appropriate footwear is recommended (no sandals), and the rainforest’s high humidity means insect repellent is a must. Manoa Falls is at the end of the trail, and its 100-foot-high falls are glorious. Once you reach the falls, enjoy the stunning views of the waterfall but keep in mind that the pools beneath the falls are strictly for visual enjoyment, and that swimming is prohibited.

Length: 1.6 miles round trip

Duration: 1-2 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Fee: Yes (parking)

6. Waimea Falls Trail

It’s no secret that a trip to Hawaii is a very special vacation. If you’re wanting to take a hike through sacred land, Waimea Falls Trail is the right hike for you. It’s also one of the best easy hikes Oahu has to offer. It’s a fully-paved trail with gentle hills, but you can opt to take the more strenuous side paths instead of the easier main path if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous. Along the way, you might spot the alae’ula, a native Hawaiian bird who lives in the ponds on the way to the falls. There are many educational signs along this trail, designed to help you learn about Hawaiian culture while making your way to the waterfall. For additional education on all things Hawaiian, the area surrounding the trail often hosts cultural demonstrations, workshops, and performances. When you arrive at the waterfall, there are changing rooms for you to put on your swimwear and then cool off with a refreshing swim in the pool below the falls. Swimming is generally allowed (conditions permitting), and there are lifeguards on duty to keep everyone safe.

Length: 3.5 miles round trip

Duration: 1-2 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Fee: Yes (trail access)

These are just the top six — there are dozens more amazing trails for hiking in Oahu. Visit this page for a list of additional waterfall hikes, and this page for a list of additional hikes with scenic views. RCI is full of tips and information to help you plan your Hawaii getaway.

There will come a time on your Hawaiian vacation when you’re all hiked out. For filling the rest of your time in Hawaii, give these handy articles a read to discover the top 10 attractions in Hawaii, four amazing Hawaiian hidden gems, and a full seven-day itinerary for exploring Oahu.

Where To Stay In Oahu With RCI

Turtle Bay Resort — Kahuka

Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas — Kapolei

‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach — Honolulu

Ambassador Hotel Waikiki — Honolulu

Club Wyndham at Waikiki Beach Walk — Honolulu

Club Wyndham Royal Garden at Waikiki — Honolulu

Club Wyndham Waikiki Marina Resort at the Ilikai — Honolulu

Grand Waikikian, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club — Honolulu

Hawaiian Sun Holidays — Honolulu

Hokulani Waikiki, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club — Honolulu

Imperial Hawaii Vacation Club — Honolulu

Kuhio Banyan Club — Honolulu

Lagoon Tower, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club — Honolulu

Lifetime in Hawaii — Honolulu

Park Shore Waikiki — Honolulu

Pearl Hotel Waikiki — Honolulu

Shell Vacations Club @ Waikiki Marina Resort at the Ilikai — Honolulu

Sweetwater at Waikiki — Honolulu

The Grand Islander, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club — Honolulu

The Modern Honolulu — Honolulu

The Twin Fin — Honolulu

Vacation Internationale Aloha Towers — Honolulu

Vacation Internationale Fairway Villa — Honolulu

Vacation Internationale Royal Kuhio — Honolulu

Vacation Internationale Waikiki Sky Towers — Honolulu

White Sands Hotel — Honolulu

RCI does not endorse any shore excursion guide, vendor, or service provider described. It is the individual’s responsibility to investigate the safety and suitability of any activity and the credentials and fitness of any guide, vendor, or service provider. RCI expressly disclaims any liability for engaging in any activity and for using any guide, vendor, or service provider mentioned.

* Savings are based on the bookable rate through RCI and are calculated by comparing the current market rate (as determined by RCI in its discretion) versus the pricing available for certain RCI North American members for comparable rooms. Access to the full advertised discount may require an upgraded membership tier or the use of RCI points and/or trading power.

1 RCI Travel offers members a Best Price Guarantee subject to change without notice at the sole discretion of RCI Travel. If you find a lower rate for a hotel booking, car rental, or destination activity on another U.S.-based travel site within 24 hours, contact RCI Travel. Some restrictions apply. For terms and conditions for the RCI Travel Best Price Guarantee, go to RCI.com.

RCI Travel hotel stays are available to RCI® subscribing members only. For RCI Travel terms and conditions, visit RCI-Travel.com.

Rental offer and rental inventory are made available by a Florida licensed entity Resort Rental, LLC (operating as Holiday Rentals, LLC in MD and TX), whose address is 6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando, FL 32821, License Number: CQ1059961. Registration as a Seller of Travel does not constitute approval by the State of California. Exchange: CST: 2046555-50. Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST-26552. Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602357907. Rental: CST: 2081369-50. Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST-36515. Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602560941. Hawaii Seller of Travel Reg. No: TAR-6309.

Hawaii TAT Broker ID #TA-023-193-6000-01. © 2022 RCI, LLC. RCI® and related marks are registered trademarks and/or service marks in the United States and internationally. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

Registration as a Seller of Travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

Exchange: CST: 2046555-50. Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST-26552. Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602357907. Rental: CST: 2081369-50. Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST-36515. Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602560941. Hawaii Seller of Travel Reg. No: TAR-6309.

Rental offer and rental inventory are made available by a Florida licensed entity Resort Rental, LLC (operating as Holiday Rentals, LLC in MD and TX), whose address is 6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando, FL 32821, License Number: CQ1059961.

RCI does not endorse any shore excursion guide, vendor, or service provider described. It is the individual’s responsibility to investigate the safety and suitability of any activity and the credentials and fitness of any guide, vendor, or service provider. RCI expressly disclaims any liability for engaging in any activity and for using any guide, vendor, or service provider mentioned.

* Savings are based on the bookable rate through RCI and are calculated by comparing the current market rate (as determined by RCI in its discretion) versus the pricing available for certain RCI North American members for comparable rooms. Access to the full advertised discount may require an upgraded membership tier or the use of RCI points and/or trading power.

1 RCI Travel offers members a Best Price Guarantee subject to change without notice at the sole discretion of RCI Travel. If you find a lower rate for a hotel booking, car rental, or destination activity on another U.S.-based travel site within 24 hours, contact RCI Travel. Some restrictions apply. For terms and conditions for the RCI Travel Best Price Guarantee, go to RCI.com.

RCI Travel hotel stays are available to RCI® subscribing members only. For RCI Travel terms and conditions, visit RCI-Travel.com.

Rental offer and rental inventory are made available by a Florida licensed entity Resort Rental, LLC (operating as Holiday Rentals, LLC in MD and TX), whose address is 6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando, FL 32821, License Number: CQ1059961. Registration as a Seller of Travel does not constitute approval by the State of California. Exchange: CST: 2046555-50. Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST-26552. Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602357907. Rental: CST: 2081369-50. Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST-36515. Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602560941. Hawaii Seller of Travel Reg. No: TAR-6309.

Hawaii TAT Broker ID #TA-023-193-6000-01. © 2022 RCI, LLC. RCI® and related marks are registered trademarks and/or service marks in the United States and internationally. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

Registration as a Seller of Travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

Exchange: CST: 2046555-50. Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST-26552. Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602357907. Rental: CST: 2081369-50. Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST-36515. Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602560941. Hawaii Seller of Travel Reg. No: TAR-6309.

Rental offer and rental inventory are made available by a Florida licensed entity Resort Rental, LLC (operating as Holiday Rentals, LLC in MD and TX), whose address is 6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando, FL 32821, License Number: CQ1059961.