Where to Hike: Oahu

Vacations with me are never really overly relaxing… I always have to be on the go, whether that means hiking, biking, shopping, or trying a new workout class. For our Hawaiian vacation, we opted for a lot of hiking since neither of us are beach people. We hiked over 70 miles… I still can’t believe it!
We hiked all types from easy/beginner level to advanced/expert. Here’s our favorite hikes!
Kaniakapupu Ruins

A short walk through a bamboo forest will take you to the historical ruins of King Kamehameha III’s summer home.
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 0.25 miles
Wet/Dry: Wet
Lulumahu Falls Trail



Just past the start of Kaniakapupu Ruins Trail is the start to Lulumahu Falls. You’ll hit a small damn that is waterfall-like, but keep going! There are a few river crossings. The waterfall at the end is gorgeous and you can walk (or swim) out to it! The trail is under cover, but you’ll need bug spray!
Difficulty: Intermediate
Length: 2.5 miles
Wet/Dry: Wet
Wa’ahila Ridge Trail




This intermediate level hike will produce stunning views on a clear day! This is a great warm-up if you’re planning on doing other hikes that involve bouldering and scrambling.
Difficulty: Intermediate
Length: 5.0 miles
Wet/Dry: Check recent weather. Trail is exposed and will be wet after rain
Makapuu Lighthouse


An easy paved hike out to an overlook over the lighthouse with great views out over the ocean on the way out and even better views looking back at the island at the end.
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 2.0 miles
Wet/Dry: Dry
Ehukai Pillbox

This was a quick but strenuous hike up to the World War II bunkers. Good for an afternoon or evening for good sunset views.
Difficulty: Intermediate (due to elevation increase)
Length: 2.0 miles
Wet/Dry: Dry
Moanalua Middle Ridge to Haiku Stairs


Extremely difficult but legal way to get to the top of the Haiku stairs.  See my previous post for the full details.
Difficulty: Advanced/Expert
Length: 6.5 miles to top of stairs
Wet/Dry: Check weather – very wet/muddy after rain!
Koko Crater Railway




1,048 steps up the side of the crater made from an old railway bed. It looks short… until you’re halfway up. Don’t let this short trail fool you, it’s very strenuous in the blazing sun!
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.5 miles
Wet/Dry: Dry
Diamond Head Crater



On our first attempt to get this trail, we were turned away because there was no parking left. So the second time we parked outside the crater and walked in. This is an incredibly popular trail, but the views from the top are pretty good. Beware of the gnats at the top though!
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.5 miles
Wet/Dry: Dry