10 Best Hikes in Oahu for Every Type of Traveler

Oahu is the best island in Hawaii for hiking lovers. It has a view of the sea, green land, falls, and mountain ridges. If you are new to the sport or do this all the time, there's something here for everyone. This guide has the 10 best hikes in Oahu, from easy walks to the challenging ones. If you want to see nature, these hikes will give you the trips you will always remember on this island.

Diamond Head Crater – A Classic Oahu Hike

Diamond Head is one of the most well-known hikes of the island and a must for first-time visitors. This trail is short, clear, and has many paved parts, which makes it the easiest hike in Hawaii. Each hike is between one and two hours. The top gives an outstanding view of Oahu and the ocean. 

Manoa Falls Trail – A Beautiful Waterfall Walk

Manoa Falls is an easy hike through the jungle that leads to a large waterfall and is surrounded by lush greenery. This is suitable for a beginner and a family to go on water waterfall hike in Oahu. The path is so smooth, but it can become slippery after rainfall. The hike is around an hour round-trip. So make sure your kids wear suitable shoes and avoid getting too close to the waterfall.

Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail

The path to the lighthouse offers amazing views of the coastline without being a hard trek. It is good for people wanting an easy hike on Oahu with amazing views. The route is broad and safe, resulting in a great choice for families. In the winter, whales may be seen from the view. The trail is in an open location, so many go for the sunrise views too.

Lanikai Pillbox Hike – Short but Steep Adventure

The Lanikai pillbox hike is short, steep, and offers famous views of the sea in Hawaii. The trail takes you to the old bunkers that look out on the turquoise water and other offshore islands. It is maybe the best sunrise hike on the whole of Oahu because of its eastern location. It's not long, but it can be wet, so wear good shoes.

Kaʻena Point Trail – Wild and Peaceful Coastal Path

This trail is found on the west side of Ohau, and it feels very wild. This follows the coastline and shows cliffs, seas, and native animals. This path is Oahu's hidden hike, with less hikers than the other popular hikes. It will be a pretty simple hike with no steep points, so you can keep on walking. This is the place of monk seals and sa ea bird colony, so give them space at all times.

Aiea Loop Trail – Forest Hike with City Views

This hike is in a green and cool forest with sights of Pearl Harbor. This trail is nearly five miles long and works best for experienced hikers. It is also among the kid-friendly hikes in Oahu. This trail is peaceful, busy, or full of other people, so it is good to get a break.

Koko Head Crater – The Hardest Stair Climb

Koko Head Crater is one of the hardest hikes on Oahu. The trail is made of more than 1000 steep stairs. They come from old railway ties. The hike is tough, and beginners shouldn't try it. But when you are on top, you view the ocean and the city below it. Most workout lovers pick this hike for a good workout.

Ehukai Pillbox – North Shore Favorite

It is the best hike in North Shore Oahu, offering views of some famous surf beaches. The trail is short and steep, just like Lanikai Pillbox. This is a popular hike for sunrise hikers. This hike combines ocean scape, mountain views, and the culture of the islands. It is less busy than the other pillbox hikes on the island, so it feels like one of the quietest.

Waimea Valley – Perfect for Families

It is the best easy hikes for kids on the island of Oahu. The trail is flat and paved. It goes past many plants and gardens. It ends at a pretty waterfall where you are free to swim and play. This trip is more of a walk with lots of nice views. It is good for the family, older people, and new hikers. Along the trail, you can see signs about Hawaiians and their plants. It is among the safest waterfall hikes you can do.

Olomana Three Peaks – For Experienced Hikers Only

Olomana Three Peaks is a hard trail and not for all hikers. It is dangerous at times. It is on many lists of the hardest hikes in Oahu. It has big hills, trails on small edges, and rope sections. The sights from the peaks are grand, but safety matters most. This is not fit for kids or those new to hiking. For a big try, and if you have hiked some before, the trail shows a true test of skill.

Conclusion

From the easy coastal trail to the hard mountain climb, the 10 best hikes in Oahu have what you want for the traveler. This place is the best hike, and you will never ignore it. Check the weather, go early, and show respect to nature. It can be the best part of your Hawaiian trip when you know everything.