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Hiking Trails on Oahu, Hawaii

Jolene Kaneshige

Aloha and E Komo Mai (Welcome) to our island home! You’ve landed in Hawaii and are ready to propose, but that is not all you are hoping to do! Are you ready to discover all of its natural beauty through a hiking trip, but don’t know where to start? Look no further! We have compiled a list of a few of our favorite hiking spots on Oahu!

The Trails: Diamond Head, Koko Head, Makapuu Lighthouse Trail

Diamond Head

  • History: This crater was originally named Leahi by the Hawaiians. According to legend, the goddess Pele and her younger sister, Hiiaka, when deciding on an island to settle on, saw the crater; Hiiaka thought the crater looked like the brow of a tuna. In the 19th century, British sailors believed they discovered diamonds in the crater, giving the crater its current name Diamond Head. The “diamonds” they found were calcite crystals with no value. The crater was later used as a military lookout during the early 1900’s.In 1968 it was dubbed a National Natural Landmark.

  • Difficulty : Moderate

  • Fees : $5 per car and $1 per pedestrian to enter the hiking grounds.

  • Duration: (Depending on Fitness level) About 1.5 hours-3 hours.

  • Last admission to the hike is at 4:30pm

  • Reservation may be required

  • Reference: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument/

Makapuu Lighthouse Trail

  • Hawaii’s shipping industry was beginning to boom and construction of the lighthouse began in the mid 1880’s. Once Hawaii was annexed to the United States, the federal government supplied the funds to complete construction in 1906 and the lighthouse was operational in 1909. After construction was completed the lighthouse was outfitted with the largest and best lens for its time. Not long after the lighthouse began operations it was equipped with the island’s first radio beacon! In 1977, the lighthouse was listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Then in 1987, the Coast Guard gave the surrounding area to the State of Hawaii. The trail since then has undergone quite a makeover with more paved trails and other improvements in 2015 that has made it a popular spot for hikers!

  • Difficulty: Moderate.

  • Fees: None.

  • Duration: 1-3 hours

  • Reference: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/hiking/oahu/makapuu-point-lighthouse-trail/

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike (Kaiwa Ridge Trail)

  • History: Originally built in 1943, their primary function was to serve as observation stations. After the war, the ridge was sold to various private individuals and eventually acquired by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources. Decades later it is a popular hike and landmark.

  • Difficulty: Moderate.

  • Fees: None

  • Duration: 1 hours

  • Reference: http://www.lanikaipillbox.com/

I hope this short list helps you find that perfect trail to truly appreciate the beauty of our island! If you have any other questions, feel free to ask any of our friendly staff members! We are always glad to help! Ready to plan your surprise proposal in Hawaii? Send us a message! We would love to tell your story!