Hiking on Oahu: Find the Perfect Trail for You

Hiking is one of our favorite activities to do as a family. Luckily, Oahu is an amazing place to get out on the trail. With an abundance of options ranging from easy to difficult, there really is something for everyone.

From ridge views to oceanfront to interior trails, I’ve compiled some of my favorite Oahu hikes. Each hike also has a more in-depth post associated with it, so you can get a broader picture of what to expect. So let’s get out there and go hiking on Oahu!

Pu‘u Ma‘eli‘eli Digging Trail

If you only have a short timeframe and want to fit in a nice hike, I highly suggest Pu‘u Ma‘eli‘eli Digging Trail on the Windward side of the island. It’s a pretty chill hike away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular trails that has great shade, easy incline (with only a couple of moderate segments) and ends with amazing coastal views. Read More

Difficulty: Easy
Location: Windward Side
Kid-friendly: Yes

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Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail

Wiliwilinui is a 4.5 mile out and back ridge trail that is accessed through a gated community in Honolulu. The guard at the gate was extremely friendly and gave us a pass for the very limited parking near the trailhead. So make sure you go early morning to secure a spot. Its a really stunning hike with amazing views and at sometimes challenging inclines (to include a few stairs) So worth the effort though! Read More

Difficulty: Moderate
Location: East Side
Kid-friendly: Yes, age 8+ in my opinion.

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Makapuu Lighthouse Trail

This trail is very family-friendly, accessible to all and offers breathtaking views. The hike is about 2 miles roundtrip and the entire route is paved. Many families hike up with strollers and I’ve even seen some bikers (crazy!). It is a very popular hike, probably the most touristy I’m covering in this post so try to make it out to this one earlier or later in the day to secure easy parking and a more mellow experience. Read More

Difficulty: Easy
Location: East Side
Kid-friendly: Yes

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Aiea Loop Trail

Aiea Loop Trail is an interior island trail with a total distance at about 4 miles. It offers a nice workout but with a more relaxed vibe. The trail is both kid and dog-friendly and you’ll enjoy lush tropical jungle, gorgeous mountains and even some peek-a-boo ocean views. It has the potential for some serious mud so I might avoid this one after a heavy rain. Read More

Difficulty: Easy
Location: Central
Kid-friendly: Yes

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Kuliou‘ou Ridge Trail

Kuliou‘ou Ridge Trail is very similar to Wiliwilinui in many ways. Same area on the island and I believe part of the same ridge system. I might consider it less challenging than Wiliwilinui, but only slightly. The parking is easier because it’s not gated, but be sure to be considerate of the residents in the area. Gorgeous views await you on this trail! Read More

Difficulty: Moderate
Location: East Side
Kid-friendly: Yes, age 8+ in my opinion.

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Hanauma Bay Ridge Trail

Checking out Hanauma Bay is often on a visitor’s list of sites to see while on Oahu. What many might not realize is that there is a great hike just above, that offers an amazing downward view of the bay and gives you a pretty decent workout. It offers varied terrain, unique landscape views and really makes you sweat. Read More

Difficulty: Moderate
Location: East Side
Kid-friendly: Yes, age 8+ in my opinion.

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So what do you think? Have you been hiking on Oahu? I have just as many hikes that I still need to post about, so I’m sure I’ll be adding to this list in the near future. Till then, happy trails and Aloha!

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