Explore the island deeper, or climb a little higher, and you’ll find that Honolulu isn’t just about the beaches; it also has the most scenic trails in Hawaii. Hiking in Honolulu is one of the best ways to see the island’s wild side: its volcanic craters, rainforest paths, and coastal ridges.
This might be your first time finding out you can hike here, so we’ve got this guide for you where we listed down the best places to hike in Honolulu. Lace up your shoes, bring water, and let’s hit the trail!
1. Diamond Head Crater
Beautiful views of Waikiki await at the top of the iconic Diamond Head hike in Honolulu
Easily one of the most iconic places to hike in Honolulu is Diamond Head. The trail leads you up an ancient volcanic crater where you can enjoy great views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. It’s short but steady, making it a great intro to hiking Hawaii Honolulu style.
Here, you’ll pass tunnels, stairs, and lookout points along the way, which keeps things interesting. The payoff at the top feels big, even if the hike itself is manageable. No wonder it’s often listed among Honolulu’s best hikes.
If it’s your first time going here and you want to be guided, try joining a Diamond Head Crater hiking tour so you don’t have to worry about transport and DIYing your hike.
Diamond Head hiking trail information:
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
- Elevation gain: ~560 feet
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
2. Manoa Falls Trail
Walk through lush rainforest scenery on the way to the Manoa Falls in Honolulu
If you’re a beginner, try the Manoa Falls trail. The path to the falls takes you through a rainforest filled with bamboo, giant ferns, and tropical plants. It’s one of the most relaxing and best places to hike in Honolulu, especially if you want shade. The waterfall at the end feels like a hidden reward, even though the trail is popular.
Klook Tip: Wear shoes with good grip, because the trail can get muddy.
Manoa Falls hiking trail information:
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Elevation gain: ~800 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
3. Koko Head Crater Trail
Challenge yourself on the steep Koko Head Crater hike with rewarding coastal views | Photo by Jess Loiterton on Pexels
Seasoned hikers, this one’s for you. The Koko Head trail climbs straight up an old railway track with over 1,000 steps. It’s challenging but incredibly rewarding, especially for sunrise hikers.
Koko Head hiking trail information:
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours
- Elevation gain: ~912 feet
- Difficulty: Hard
If you’re looking to level up your hiking in Honolulu, this is the trail. The views stretch across Hanauma Bay and the southeast coast, making every step worth it.
Klook Tip: Not a seasoned hiker? No problem! You can join this sunset photo tour, where you’ll see the most scenic sunkissed places, including the Koko Crater Botanical Garden.
4. Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail
Enjoy panoramic ocean views along the scenic Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail | Photo by Satty Singh on Pexels
The Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail is a paved trail that proves you don’t have to struggle much to see beautiful views! It’s one of the easiest places to hike in Honolulu, with gentle slopes and ocean views.
Makapuʻu Lighthouse hiking trail information:
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Elevation gain: ~500 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
During whale season, you might even spot humpbacks offshore. The lighthouse at the top also adds a postcard-worthy finish. It’s great if you’re going with your family and just easing into hiking Hawaii Honolulu style.
Klook Tip: Bring your camera with you, or just live in the moment, and join this photography tour of Oahu! It’ll take you to the most beautiful viewpoints, including the Makapu’u Lookout.
5. Lanikai Pillbox Hike (Ka’iwa Ridge Trail)
Sunrise views shine at the Lanikai Pillbox hike | Photo by KEHN HERMANO on Pexels
Short, steep, and stunning—that’s the Lanikai Pillbox hike. It’s famous for its twin bunkers and unreal views of the Mokulua Islands. The trail may be quick, but you’ll take your time with the amount of views you’ll see along the way! This makes it one of the most photographed best places to hike in Honolulu (just outside the city).
Lanikai Pillbox hiking trail information:
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours
- Elevation gain: ~600 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
6. Aiea Loop Trail
Looking for something longer and quieter? Aiea Loop Trail gives you that peaceful forest escape with city and harbor views. It’s a favorite among locals and a solid pick for half-day hiking in Honolulu plans. The loop format means no backtracking, which keeps things fresh. It’s great if you want nature without the crowds.
Aiea Loop hiking trail information:
- Duration: 2.5-3 hours
- Elevation gain: ~900 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
7. Waimea Valley Trail
End your walk at Waimea Valley with a refreshing view of Waimea Falls | Photo from Thomas Shahan on Flickr
This is one of the most beginner-friendly places to hike in Honolulu, with a paved path leading to a beautiful waterfall. It’s more of a nature walk, so you can bring your families here. You can even swim at the falls on some days, which makes this hike extra refreshing!
Waimea Valley hiking trail information:
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
- Elevation gain: Minimal
- Difficulty: Easy
Klook Tip: Make sure to bring a swimsuit and towel and get the full experience on a Waimea swim and hike tour, where you’ll see views of Waimea Valley while enjoying a healthy picnic lunch.
FAQs about hiking in Honolulu
What is the best hike in Honolulu?
Diamond Head Crater is often considered the best hike in Honolulu because it has history, accessibility, and amazing views. It’s short enough for most travelers but still feels rewarding. If you want something more intense, Koko Head is a top pick.
What is the easiest hike in Honolulu?
Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail and Waimea Valley Trail are among the easiest options. Both have wide, well-maintained paths and minimal elevation challenges. They’re perfect if you want scenic views without a tough climb.
What part of Hawaii has the best hikes?
Oahu offers some of the most diverse hikes in Hawaii, especially around Honolulu. You get coastal views, waterfalls, ridges, and crater hikes all in one place. That variety makes Honolulu best hikes stand out for travelers.
Where is the Stairway to Heaven in Honolulu?
The Stairway to Heaven, also known as the Haʻikū Stairs, is located on Oahu’s east side. It’s currently closed to the public, and hiking it is not allowed. Instead, try legal ridge hikes like Aiea Loop or guided ridge walks.
These places to hike in Honolulu show just how adventurous the city can be. Pick a trail that fits your pace, plan ahead, turn your hike into a full day out, and make every step in Honolulu count. 🌺🥾
More Honolulu guides for you
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