10 Best Hiking Trails in Hawaii!

Hawaii has some of the most spectacular natural beauty of any state in the US, and hiking is one of the best ways to enjoy it. From the charming historic lighthouse of the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail to the open-air views of the Koloiki Ridge Trail, check out these 10 best hiking trails in Hawaii.

Diamond Head Summit Trail, Honolulu, HI

Diamond Head is one of Hawaii’s most recognizable landmarks, with amazing overlooks along the Honolulu coast. The historic summit trail is short but very steep, so prepare your legs for a workout and your eyes for a beautiful view.

Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail, Waimanalo, HI

The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a trail that brings you to, you guessed it, a fantastic historic lighthouse. It’s only two miles round trip so it’s perfect if you just want a fun hour or so outdoors.

Kalalau Trail, Kauai, HI

The Kalalau Trail is a well-known destination for Hawaiians and visitors alike. The full trail is a whopping 22 miles long, but you can choose any sections you want. This is a particularly challenging trail so it’s ideal for experienced hikers who want an adventure.

Waihee Ridge Trail, Wailuku, HI

If you want to explore the coast of Maui, the Waihee Ridge Trail is the perfect choice. This trail carries you along the coastline within the West Maui Natural Area Reserve. You’ll be able to enjoy several unique types of terrain along this 2.5-mile trail.

Lanikai Pillbox Trail, Kailua, HI

The Kaiwa Ridge is known for being a breathtakingly gorgeous locale, and you can see it all along the Lanikai Pillbox Trail. Take in views of Lanikai and Kailua on this challenging but rather short 1.8-mile trail.

Aiea Loop Trail, Aiea, HI

Want to spend a day out in nature but don’t want a particularly difficult or strenuous hike? The Aiea Loop Trail is your best bet. The trail is just under 5 miles long but it’s rated as easy to moderate so you can take your time and enjoy your surroundings.

Koloiki Ridge Trail, Lanai City, HI

Just outside of Lanai City, one of the best places to go for a fun day of exploration is the Koloiki Ridge Trail. It’s moderately difficult with an out-and-back distance of 4.2 miles, but the work you put in will earn you an amazing vista view.

Kalaupapa Peninsula Trail, Kalaupapa, HI

Kalaupapa has a solemn history as a quarantined leprosy colony, but today, it’s a rugged yet beautiful part of the Hawaiian landscape. Give yourself a challenge with the 3.5-mile steep hike.

Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls, Makawao, HI

Hawaii has no shortage of amazing waterfalls, but one favorite is Waimoku Falls, which you can access by hiking the Pipiwai Trail. The moderate trail is 3.8 miles out and back, but be sure to take a pause at the waterfall to take it all in.

Kaena Point, Waialua, HI

The view from Kaena Point is one you won’t want to miss. To get there, venture along the 3.5-mile trail that follows an old railroad and dirt road.

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Eastern most point of Oahu, Honolulu, HI
The Makapu‘u Point trail, within Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, offers outstanding views of O‘ahu’s southeastern coastline, including Koko Head and ... Read More
Mahana Pl, Lanai City, HI
4-wheel drive about a half-hour north from Lanai City and you’ll discover Kaiolohia, also known as Shipwreck Beach. This windy, 8-mile stretch of b... Read More
Kalaau Pl, Honolulu, HI
Access to Kuli`ou`ou Ridge Trail starts on the right at the hunter/hiker check-in station just past the Board of Water Supply cable gate. The trail... Read More
Diamond Head Road at 18th Ave., Honolulu, HI
The unique profile of Diamond Head (LÄ“‘ahi) sits prominently near the eastern edge of Waikiki’s coastline. Hawaii’s most recogni... Read More
Diamond Head Rd, Honolulu, HI
About Us: The trail to the summit of LeÊ»ahi (Hawaiian name for Diamond Head Crater) was built in 1908 as part of OÊ»ahu’s coastal defense... Read More
One Manele Bay Road, Lanai City, HI
Aloha! Bordering a marine preserve perched atop a rugged red-lava cliff above a white-sand beach, our ocean-side luxury resort in Lanai, Hawaii, wi... Read More
St.Louis Heights, Honolulu, HI
This ridge hike originates in Wa‘ahila Ridge State Recreation Area, and offers great views and viewing of native forest and birdlife. The tra... Read More
Ruth Place, Honolulu, HI
Wildland picnicking on a Norfolk Island pine forested ridge with fine views of Manoa and Palolo valleys. Enjoy hardy family hiking in the forest re... Read More
Kelewina Rd, Kailua, HI
Maunawili Falls Trail begins in mostly coffee and mountain apple trees. It crosses the stream in several places, winding through ginger, climbing g... Read More
770 Auloa Rd, Kailua, HI
This is a 5 miles long challenging hike of the three towering peaks of Mount Olomana, which some call the Matterhorn of Hawaii. The rewards will be... Read More
Kaelepulu Drive, Lanikai, HI
The Pillbox Hike in Lanikai (view panorama), also known as the Ka'iwa Ridge Trail, is a fun thing to do before or after visiting Lanikai Beach. The... Read More
End of Manoa Road, Honolulu, HI
The beginning of the trail crosses over a footbridge and then crosses a small stream through a grove of Eucalyptus trees. The 0.8 mile trail gradua... Read More
Nuuanu Pali Dr, Honolulu, HI
Judd Trail starts just below the parking area and proceeds across the stream. Exercise caution while crossing the stream, as the rocks are unstable... Read More
H1 West to go North on Pali Hwy, Honolulu, HI
Aiea Heights Drive, Aiea, HI
Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area is a 384-acre park located approximately 12 miles from Waikiki. Keaïwa Heiau is located at the park entry. ... Read More
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