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With such varied topography and a range of microclimates, Hawaiʻi can often make you feel like you’ve stepped through a portal to another planet after just a short drive. My husband and I love to take our daughter hiking. We live on Oʻahu, and the island offers some really thrilling hikes with unparalleled views, unique wildlife, and rugged landscapes. Here are some of the best around the island to explore with your family.
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Lanikai Pillboxes
Watching the sun break free from the horizon between Nā Mokulua, the “twin islands,” is a sight that’s hard to beat, even in Hawaiʻi. But really, the views make this hike worth the effort any time of day. Looking out to the ocean as you ascend the dusty trail, you’ll see Molokaʻi, and even Maui, on a clear day.
When we make the trek, the top rewards us with views in all directions. The Koʻolau Mountain range rises like a great wall at our backs, and it’s easy to see from this vantage that we stand inside a giant caldera, formed by an ancient – and thankfully, extinct – volcano.
Sunrise over the Mokuluas – Photo by Amanda Phung on Unsplash
The steep trail is a good challenge for teens. Younger hikers, like my three-year-old daughter, may need help on the more difficult sections of the trail. Parents, be sure to use caution near areas with steep drop-offs.
- Distance: Around 1.5 – 1.8 miles (0.8 – 1 mile each way) to the main pillboxes.
- Time: 1 to 1.5 hours round trip, depending on pace and breaks.
Lulumahu Falls
Want a taste of the rainforest? Nestled near the peaks of the Koʻolau Mountains, this lush trail benefits from the frequent rains that are drawn to the mountain like a magnet. Early on, you will encounter a peaceful bamboo grove before the trail winds its way uphill towards a tall, plunging waterfall.
There are plenty of opportunities to play in the stream along the trail. Young explorers (and even older ones!) will enjoy hunting for small fish, and you may even spot a crayfish. But be warned, they are fast!
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A feisty new friend – Photo by Alina Bwy
One of my talents is managing to get cold in almost any environment, even the tropics. However, hoping to reap some of the benefits of a cold plunge without exposing myself to actual sub-zero temperatures, I committed to braving the small pool at the base of the waterfall, perfect for a quick dip. If you’re feeling more adventurous, like my friend’s twelve-year-old daughter, you might choose to take an exhilarating shower in the 50ft falls before you head back down.
- Distance: About 1.7 miles (2.7 km) to 2.5 miles (4 km) round trip.
- Time: Around 1 to 2 hours return journey, depending how long you spend at the waterfall.
Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail
I don’t know what it is, but there’s something a bit magical about a lighthouse. My three-year-old was waiting for a glimpse of the lighthouse the whole hike up, and squealed with delight when it finally came into view as we approached the summit. This trail is perfect for hiking with a stroller as it is paved the whole way; however, the incline still provides a good workout for those looking to raise their heart rate.
To the Lighthouse – Photo by little plant on Unsplash
Young hikers will love the excitement of trying to spot whales amid the breakers during the winter months. Whale watching season in Hawaiʻi runs from December to May, when the whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaiʻi to mate and birth their young in the warmer waters.
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As families hike, the trail is punctuated with interesting and informative signs that inform the curious about those whales and area wildlife, as well as the topographic features visible from the breathtaking vistas (these are also good opportunities for water and snack breaks!).
- Distance: About 2 miles round trip.
- Time: Around 1.5 hours, depending on breaks.
Waimea Valley and Falls
Winding alongside the Waimea River, the paved trail in the Waimea Valley is shady, easily accessible, and culminates at a picturesque waterfall. However, there is a lot to see along the way. The valley has been a botanical garden since the 1970s and includes many rare and endangered plant species, some native to Hawaiʻi and others from around the world. There are also many cultural sites in the valley, such as Hale o Lono, a heiau (Hawaiian temple) dedicated to the god Lono, and the Kuʻula Shrine dedicated to the fishing god Kuʻula.
Plenty of signage along the way allows visitors to learn more about the history of this sacred place. For eagle-eyed explorers, there is the opportunity to spot native birds such as the ’alae ’ula, the red-beaked Hawaiian Moorhen, who live in the wetland areas here.
The ’alae ’ula can be spotted here if you are sharp-eyed and careful not to disturb them – Photo by Alina Bwy
My friend brought a stroller for her toddler, but my daughter did just fine on her own with some encouragement. Several gravel paths diverge from the main trail if you want to explore a little more. There are also guided tours and cultural events that take place here, such as regular hula performances at the amphitheater, and various festivals throughout the year.
- Distance: About 1.5 miles round trip.
- Time: The hike takes around 1.5 hours, but factor in time to spend at the waterfall and explore historic sites and the botanical garden.
Koko Head
Over a thousand disused railroad ties stack against the dry face of this old volcanic crater to form a steep trail. If you feel like you have been missing the Stairmaster, this challenging hike is a great option for more experienced hikers and older kids. If, like me, you have indeed been missing the Stairmaster, be ready to get lapped by the regulars who do this hike as their daily workout.
Peak intensity – Photo by john ko on Unsplash
Panoramic views from the peak stretch from Honolulu to Makapuʻu and make it all worth the effort. This is an excellent position to watch either sunrise or sunset.
- Distance: About 1.6 miles round trip.
- Time: 1-2 hours depending on your pace.
Things to Remember
- Check the weather forecast and be aware of local weather warnings for extreme conditions like high winds or flash flooding, especially if you plan on hiking in forested areas or near streams.
- Be respectful – stay out of closed-off areas, be respectful of sacred sites, keep to trails, and pack out what you pack in.
- Don’t forget the essentials: water, sunscreen, a hat, snacks, and appropriate shoes.
- Pack a swimsuit and towel for waterfall hikes if you plan to swim.
- Choose hikes that are appropriate for all family members’ ages, skills, and fitness levels. Hiking in a new climate can be more stressful on your system, so keep that in mind.
When You Go
Getting There From Los Angeles
Delta, United, American, Southwest, Alaska, and Hawaiian Airlines offer daily flights to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) from LAX. There are connections to all other major islands from there.
Flight time is approximately five and a half hours each way.
An excellent discount site for rental cars and flights is Booking! We literally save hundreds using it.
Where to stay on Oʻahu
Turtle Bay
Turtle Bay Resort on Oʻahu’s north shore has a wide range of family-friendly activities, excellent dining, and an amazing pool for kids, complete with water slides.
Kahala Hotel and Resort
Set right on the beach in a sheltered bay, Kahala Hotel and Resort is a great choice for families who want to spend the majority of their time in the water. The hotel is close to Waikiki and all that Honolulu has to offer, and arguably has the best buffet brunch on Oʻahu.
Surf Jack Hotel & Swim Club
Surf Jack Hotel & Swim Club is an intimate hotel with a quirky and vintage feel. There is an exceptional restaurant, Mahina and Suns, overlooking the pool. The perfect place for families to hang out and relax with pupus and a drink.
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