Oahu is the iconic Hawaiian island with beautiful beaches, Hawaiian culture, and thrilling hikes. Here are 5 awesome hikes I enjoyed in January 2021.
Waimano Falls Hike Oahu
Waimano Falls is a must do hike for the sole reason that there is a rope swing at the falls! The hike is just 3 miles roundtrip, however, muddy miles take longer. It is easy to get lost on this hike, so download a map ahead of time.
The start of the hike is in a residential neighborhood so remember to be polite! This hike starts downhill, so reserve some energy to make it back out.
There are two critical forks in the trail. The first comes up quick and is pretty obvious, keep right and keep going downhill. The second fork can be trickier, and you must keep left. Note that the markers on the trees are inconsistent and can be misleading.
There is a lower, smaller waterfall which is where the rope swing is. If you climb up that waterfall and follow the river, there is a second larger waterfall. You can’t jump in the second waterfall, but it is arguably more beautiful and worth the short climb.
Wiliwilinui Ridge Hike Oahu
If you are lucky enough to have a clear day, Wiliwilinui is an awesome hike because you can see both side of the island on top of the ridge. Even if it’s not a clear day, it’s an epic hike up the ridge.
Wiliwilinui is about 5 miles round trip, and has limited parking. You have to go through a gated neighborhood to get to the trailhead, and a guard gives out limited parking passes. Because of this, I recommend going early!
I loved this hike, but want to note that it can be startling for someone uncomfortable with mud and heights with the steep, narrow path and drop offs.
Koko Head Crater Hike Oahu
Koko Head Crater is a tough hike, do not be fooled by the fact that you can see the top! The hike is essentially a steep staircase along an abandoned railway up the back of a crater.
Koko Head Crater hike is about 1.8 miles round trip with an elevation gain of over 1,000 feet. This is one of the toughest hikes I’ve ever done, but it was very rewarding with 360 degree views of southern Oahu! Just remember to take your time, take multiple breaks, bring water, and ideally do not hike this when the sun is at it’s peak.
Parking is easy with a large, free lot.
If you’re feeling like getting an extra workout (and helping with restoration!), grab a bucket of gravel at the bottom of the stairs, carry it up, and dump it at an orange flag.
Maunawili Falls Hike Oahu
Maunawili Falls is the hike for cliff jumping on Oahu! There is both a 10 foot and a 40 foot jump, all at your own risk. If you climb up the first waterfall, there is another 20 foot jump.
This hike is a little under 3 miles through a lush jungle. The path is pretty flat almost the entire way along a river. As you approach the waterfall, you will need to hike through the river, so bring your water shoes or just take them off at that point.
The parking for Maunawili is in a residential area – there are some rules about how far to park from a private driveway, so be sure to read ahead. Something else to note is that this is a very popular hike, ideally avoid the weekend.
Lanikai Pillbox Hike Oahu
The Lanikai Pillbox hike is short and sweet. I personally did this hike 3 times in a matter of 2 weeks because I was staying nearby and enjoyed it that much.
The hike is just under 2 miles roundtrip and I’d rate it as easy, though the mud can make it slippery. Parking is in a residential area and can be somewhat limited if you go during a popular time.
There are two pillboxes along the trail with great views of the Mokulua Islands and Kailua. Sunrise is a party at the pillboxes, on a weekend morning you can expect 100 people making the brief trek.
Final Thoughts
These are some of the coolest hikes I’ve ever done with some of the most stunning views! Be extra careful when hiking in Hawaii due to the slippery mud and distracting views, and always bring water.
Going to the Big Island of Hawaii? See my itinerary here.
Like this post? Share it on Pinterest!
