Did this amazing hike again starting at a different location with an alteration due to a closure of one section of the trail. I love the combination of this trails because the variety of beautiful views, landscapes, type of surfaces. Dense lush rainforest to dryer areas with a variety of foliage. Started at the Makiki Arboretum trail, taking the loop to the right on the Maunalaha Trail. This section will get the blood flowing as you climb upward over a very rooted trail. Once you arrive at an area with metal benches there is an intersection of multiple trails. Take Makiki Valley Trail to the Right. After a short hike take the Moleka Trail to the Left. The Moleka trail becomes the Manoa Cliff trail which you stay on for a number of miles. If you struggle with narrow trails with drop offs this section may not be for you. There are beautiful views of Manoa Valley from the trail. Some sections of this trail can be muddy. In the past Hike once you go through the gate the Manoa Cliff trail takes a sharp turn to Left at Intersection of other trails. In our case there was a recent landslide and there was a warning sign not continue on the Manoa Cliff Trail. No problem we took Pauoa Flats Trail until we reached Kalawahine Trail and took a Left on it. Take this trail until you reach a paved road, take a right down the road until you see the next trailhead, Nahuina Trail which zig zags its way down. When you come to Makiki Valley trail go left. When you reach Kanealole take it to your right. This trail will take you back to trail you started on. Since there are so many different trails to do this loop I suggest using Alltrails download. We clocked over 10 miles. I'd rate it as intermediate. Bring plenty of water, I carry crampons in case there are muddy slippery areas. Would not do if heavy rain or strong winds expected. read more

See all

Afternoon hike at Manoa Cliff, Kalawahine, and Makiki Valley Loop Great trail, awesome views. Best if you can download the map as you loose service in several areas of the trail. My trail map also showed I hiked 7.3 miles and my husband stated 6.4, but either way it is long. Just be ready for a good long hike. We started in the rain so yes mud was around, and yes places were pretty slippery. But all in all not too bad to get around. Just wear good hiking shoes. Conditions: bugs, muddy, easy parking, great views, dog friendly, well maintained, wild flowers read more

See all

I did Manoa Cliffs-Kalawahine-and Makiki Valley loop as detailed here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/hawaii/oahu/manoa-cliff-kalawahine-and-makiki-valley-loop?u=i I liked the trail(s), which had vastly different flora and scenery throughout. There were many different trail junctions I came across, and it was EXTREMELY helpful to have the trailmap **pre-downloaded** onto my phone in the AllTrails app BEFORE I left the hotel. Make sure to download it before you leave for the hike, because I couldn't get any T-Mobile data service on this trail, and I only had very spotty voice service. The Map allowed me to figure out which trail to take at each of the many junctions I faced (many of the trail signs that the trail map took me on indicated that on parts of the hike I was on all of the following trails in the following order: Manoa Cliff, Pauoa Flats, Kalawahine, Nahuina, Waikiki Valley, and Moleka, b To get to the trailhead one has to take a long steep windy road high up into the mountain. By the trailhead there was limited parking (maybe 10 spaces??), and I ended up parking on the side of the road, as did others, since the official parking spaces were filled when I arrived; though plenty were available when I left. There wasn't a ton of mud, but there was definitely mud in multiple places, and thus I would recommend trail shoes to help avoid slipping in those spots; other than the muddy patches the trail is in excellent condition. Although the hike started out totally sunny, about 2 hours into the hike it started dumping rain like there was no tomorrow; it was nice and warm, but you might want to leave a towel and a fresh change of clothes in your trunk as this seems like it might be an area prone to sudden bursts of rain. read more

See all

This hike was a very adventurous and interesting hike. There isn't really a hike path but people have added color straps to the trees where it allows you to stay on track. I went during the raining season in March but it was well worth it . It may be a slippery hike so I strongly reccomend appropriate shoes to not slip. read more

Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Through the hiking trail - Hiking Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

Pretty nice trail with multiple entry points which gives you some options to do shorter loops or out and back. I chose to do a 2.8 mile loop which incorporates Manoa Cliff trail and puu ohia (mount tantalus) the Manoa Cliff leg is pretty straight forward, some switch backs to gain elevation and the majority of the hike is on a Cliff with view of the Manoa valley and the city in the distance. Major land marks to look out for is a Cliff side bench which is mid way between the Cliff side elevation gain and a gate for a nature preserve area. After the first gate there will be a fork for puu ohia on the left going up a little bit. You'll see a second gate if you went the correct way which leads into a bamboo forest. The right fork connects to a greater network of trails heading all the way up the ridge. You'll hit one radio tower then the road. The trail goes back into the forest just before the second tantalus radio tower where you'll see a fork. It'll be the wide entrance to the left that descends down. They'll be some views of diamondhead and downtown during the course then you'll be back on the road to the parking lot a bit. Nice to break out into a job back. The disappointing part about the rest of the loop is that half of it is on the roadside. You get into a little forest aft read more

Beautiful hike. A bit muddy but really nice views. It's on the side of the mountain but as long as you're careful you'll be completely fine. I don't know if the hike gets busy or not but you might want to go early because there was little parking stalls. We found parking fairly easily but idk how it is when it's busy. I suggest taking the pauoa flats route when you get to the G intersection. The view there is incredible. Bring a change of shoes as well just in case. This one was great. read more

Had amazing experience, hiking along this beautiful Manoa cliff. Surrounded by nature, it's so green, definitely coming back when I'm back on the island. Wow alot of avocado trees, but be careful! Of the cliffs trust me you don't want to fall down that 300-500'ft drop. I would suggest going in the early morning, because it's not an easy walk over. read more

Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - First stop - Hiking Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Great hike very close to Waikiki. It can be very challenging at times but once your finished it's well worth it. read more

See all

This was a fun and easy hike. Took us about 2 hours to finish it. I recommend to wear bug spray, because there were some mosquitoes here and there. You can wear sunscreen, but most of the trail was covered. So I personally didn't use sunscreen. Now finding this trail might be confusing, only because there are so many different trails along Tanatalus. To get to this particular trail, just drive up Round Top Drive. The trail is right before the house at 4059. Parking is located on the left and the trail will be on the right. Parking - http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#8UOoJpJufmMhEUsi49LeBA Trail - http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#vt0CuX8DhuG06ZybvEYnmQ As you continue on the trail, you will eventually see a bench http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu?select=BETWEjBkIFpSZqF6vw64SA#hYpYTWyd6mjcMCpblJ0Cwg This is great place for pictures and to take a short break ;D Continue on the trail and you will see tons of beautiful bamboo trees and eventually hit a gate http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#pbkh2QgLmoUl3TR0sSKd-Q go through the gate (and please close it behind you) and then you will continue one until you reach the second gate http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#qy_eb8wLj1UIXEVrIHsokA If you continue on straight you will notice that the Manoa Cliff Trail has now connected with the Pu'u Ohia Trail http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#aYauYy0-B4KFS15xZ5031A As you continue to follow the new trail, you will reach this shed that connects to a paved road http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#mKoPWztqbnl22eLIzZWCyQ follow the paved road http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#J-FrGfQ0LOq4UFRY-nFdNA until you reach a three way fork, then go to the far left choice http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#1dhqXX6F6CfLq6mHj1-d-A The left side is clearly marked with the Pu'u Ohia Trail sign, http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#w0MdkSKuIHdVF05YDnJdNg Follow the bamboo path http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#Xah8nt1MNW5Ufbp7prLZUg continue on the trail until you finally reach the road again! http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#uVUZuZlxsw-vv8sOY8exOA Please be careful as you are walking back to your cars. Most drivers aren't expecting to see people on the road. And with all the twist and turns they might not see you until last minute. For any hikers, I highly recommend using this website (http://www.explorationhawaii.com/hikes/). My friends and I are always referring to this website to either decide on a new hike or as guidance as we are hiking. read more

See all

Otherworldly. It's indescribable really how beautiful this experience was and the photos don't capture the widespread of it all. It's very easy to follow through and not very difficult in my opinion. It's about 1.6 miles total and the waterfall is at the end of it all. Perfect motivator. I 100% recommended going here it is not far from Waikiki. read more

Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Stream - Hiking Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

I swear, my husband is trying to kill me. I can't really do hikes that are too steep because of some bad joint injuries, but he always convinces me that things are easier than they look and I believe him. This hike was much of the same. Driving up and parking on the road was easy, and although there's quite a bit of "upping" to start, it's fairly shady and cool. Once it starts winding up the mountain, the winds pick up, and the drop off is super daunting. Hubby kept telling me we were halfway there, for about an hour, and we weren't even close. At the top there are some beautiful views, you're serenaded by Indonesian songbirds, but there's no bathrooms, no water, and only one bench the whole hike. At the end, you have to snake down a never ending portion of tantalus road, and tourists make me nervous with the way they drive. Overall, for those with an adventurous spirit and limited to no injuries, this is likely one of the more fun hikes on the island. Next time however we will bring twice as much water, snacks, and maybe park closer to the trail end. read more

What a nice easy going hike with views, lovely birds and plants. A bit muddy even on a dry day but not slippery. Needed to get out and move around a little and glad I did! took my slow going self about 25 minutes to the bench, after which I just turned around. In that time, there's a great variety of moss and vines and trees, etc. there's a number of steps but nothing too difficult. Just beautiful. Took roundtop rd a ways pass tantalus lookout. read more

Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Hiking Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

There are two ways to do this loop hike which consists of the Manoa Cliff trail and the upper Pu'u Ohia trail. You can start at the Manoa Cliff trail and hike up Tantalus connecting with the Pu'u Ohia trail and then walking down Tantalus/Round Top Drive, or start at Pu'u Ohia trail and walk up Tantalus/Round Top drive. Or alternatively take two cars and leave one at both parking lots and when you're done drop drive everyone back to the other car and not have to walk the road at all. Just sayin'. Personally, I'd rather start with Pu'u Ohia as descending down the Manoa Cliff trail has some spectacular views looking out from the valley that you'd miss always looking forward as you ascend the Manoa Cliff trail. Also, I'd rather hike up Tantalus/Round Top drive on pavement than through mud. Bring bug spray, shoes you don't care about and hiking sticks. Did I mention bug spray already? Bring more. This trail gets muddy in certain places. My friends and I went in June, but it was breezy and the altitude keeps it relatively cool. The Pu'u Ohia trail parking lot is on the left side of the road right after the bend right after Kalaiaopua place. The trail is across the street and labeled with a sign. Pu'u Ohia is split into two parts, with Telephone Road connecting the two parts. Most of Pu'u Ohia is bamboo forest with a few good viewpoints concentrated in the areas prior to the dense bamboo forest. Shade is abundant but sunscreen is still advised. Stay to the left whenever you see a fork in the trail. Pu'u Ohia's first section exits on to Telephone Road. Go north, down Telephone Road for about a quarter mile until you encounter barbed wire enclosed structures with what looks like giant drums attached on a tower. If you don't have a hiking stick by now, desperately find suitable bamboo here. You will need it. The trail continues on the far-left side of the structures with a clearly marked sign. Lucky for you, it's almost all downhill from here, unlucky for you, it's a partial mud fest. At the end of your descent down the Pu'u Ohia trail, a fork in the trail appears. The left side takes you to Pauoa Flats trail. The right starts the Manoa Cliffs trail. Take the right and go through the metal gate closing it behind you. Here's where the views become amazing so take a few minutes to enjoy the view. You can even see Kailua in some spots. Eventually as you descend the Manoa Cliffs trail, you'll hit a fork. Stay to the right taking the path next to the sign that warns about cliffs, falling and dying (so dramatic State of Hawaii!). A few minutes later, you'll hit another metal gate. Go through and close it behind you. At this point, you're about half a mile from the viewpoint bench. It's a literal bench that overlooks Manoa Valley. On Google maps it's the sharpest point about half way through the hike with GPS coordinates 21°19'57.0"N 157°48'35.9"W. The rest of the hike is a simple descent down the mountain through various types of forest until you hit the Manoa Cliffs trail parking lot. There are anti-mud/anti-seed shoe brushes at the bottom to clean your shoes before and after the hike. If you didn't leave a second car here, enjoy a 0.8 mile hike back to your car, but hey at least it's on pavement. Just watch out for cars as there isn't much of a sidewalk. Side notes: You may notice a stone obelisk peeking out from the top of a hill. That's on a nearby residence that borders the trail. This trail comes within 60 meters of several residences on Tantalus so try to keep the noise down. At the end of the first Pu'u Ohia section, if you head south on Telephone Road, you'll come across a number of structures. There's a side trail (probably not legal) that's partially hidden behind them. That leads to a very short, but well maintained trail which overlooks the Manoa valley, but it's too overgrown to have any decent view of southern Oahu. There are no amenities aside from parking. This is a relatively easy hike, aside from the mud with good views and nice bamboo forests. read more

See all

Finding this yelp listing for the "Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike" frustrated me. Everything, from the address to 90% of the reviews here, differed from my understanding of what I know as the "Manoa Cliff Trail". As a result, I read through all 14 reviews (really) and highly recommend Ariana M's review of 4/30/15. It's most accurate and provides very easy to follow instructions for all parts of this 2 hour loop hike. My hike of the Manoa Cliff Trail differed slightly (details at end of review). THE GOOD: * This is an easy hike with little elevation change (600 feet) mainly because you start by driving almost 4 miles uphill. * The hike takes about 2 hours total, travelling through bamboo forests and a brief, gated stretch which is home to the rare native Hawaiian land snail. Some reviewers have mentioned hikes as long as 6 hours or 6 miles; I can only assume they veered off on a network of interconnecting trails. The Manoa Cliff Trail itself (and the connecting trails mentioned in this review) are quite short and easy to follow. * Because it's a loop, no backtracking is required. * It's interesting to see the community of attractive homes on Tantalus and Round Top. THE LESS GOOD: * To prevent backtracking you'll go from one trail to another and finally to the road (Tantalus). The final section of this hike is pretty, but on pavement. * If you're seeking a challenge, this isn't it. (You are, however, on a cliff. One side of the Manoa Cliff Trail is steep). * I saw no land snails. NET/NET: * This is a perfectly fine trail to get you out and moving if that's all you're seeking. It's way up high, with many vistas. Round Top Drive (and Tantalus) is known for such views. RECOMMENDED ROUTE: 1. Take Round Top Drive up about 3.75 miles, parking on the left (exactly where Ariana recommends). The Manoa Cliff Trailhead signs are across the street. 2. Hike Manoa Cliff Trail to Kalawahine Trail (passing by the detour to the Pu'u Ohia Trail) to Tantalus Drive. At Tantalus, turn left and walk back down the road to your car (Tantalus turns into Round Top). * The "Manoa Cliff Trail" hike is #43 in Suzanne Swedo's book, "Hiking the Hawaiian Islands". The hike is about 2.5 miles total. read more

Beautiful easy hike through a rain forest. We hiked it with our small kids and after about 20 minutes of hiking we were rewarded with gorgeous views. The cliffs are a bit steep and one has to watch out especially when hiking with small children. The trail is quite muddy which is normal for this part of O'ahu and this time of the year. Plenty of parking at the trail head. read more

See all

Sometimes I wish all of the trails in Hawaii were legal and maintained because of the wide trails, the well marked signs/maps, and because its just so much easier to navigate But then again, I've heard that hikes that aren't legal gives you a rush you definitely wont get on these legal hikes. :) Anyway, after reading Lora's review these seemed to be a perfect morning hike that would be easy to follow, work up a little sweat, and detox from a heavily alcohol induced weekend. My friend and I started hiking around 10:30 and finished around 2. Lora H. wasn't lying when she said this hike was longggg. I started freaking out near the end since I had a Doctor's appointment and I was afraid I wasn't going to make it. We actually ran for the end of it so we could make it in time to grab lunch and make it in time for my appointment. #foodtrumpseverything I followed Lora's direction to a tee and I advise you to do the same. We also grabbed a map at the entrance and that helped to see how many miles each trail was and where we were in reference to the entrance. Although not much of a scenic trail except at the top (where you can see the Waianae Coast, Diamond Head, and Honolulu) http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu?select=RrZBXDRLR2eqAjsk51fkJw#wnS2aTCnGT2_qU4j5ACLMQ the birds, flowers, bamboo forests, and plants were fun to explore as we trekked through the mud and what felt like never ending trails. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu?select=RrZBXDRLR2eqAjsk51fkJw#HyBivoCquu0ymNgu0uSoBQ All in all would I do it again? Probably not. Just cause it was so long and the views were okay. Not to say I wouldn't recommend this to anyone but if you are looking for a breathtaking view don't have high expectations. But if you are looking for a hike to clear your head, get away from town, discover yourself this is definitely a must. YELP 365: 221/365 read more

Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Views from the top - Hiking Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

This is a great trail for an easy (but somewhat long) weekend hike. I wouldn't recommend this hike alone unless you are used to steep drop offs and windy roads (to get up to the trail). If you decide to tackle this trail, do yourself a favor and read Ariana M.'s review. She gives detailed directions that are truly SPOT ON. I took a screen shot of her review before heading out, and I was happy I did. As Ariana M. points out, the start of this trail is right before the house at 4059. I'll skip details on how to get through the trail since my fellow Yelper really covered it all, and give you a few quick notes instead. 1. Safe hike for baby wearers. I wore my 7 mo in the front and had no problem other than being tired toward the end. 2. Bring lots of water and bug spray. No need for sunblock in my opinion because this is a shaded trail. We did get a few bites each, so bug spray is a must. 3. Beautiful bamboo forests in this trail, very much worth bringing your camera or phone for pictures! 4. There are a few "scary" parts on this trail. This was my ninth hike so I am by no means a seasoned hiker, but I did not like the steep drop offs one bit! It's totally doable, even for people who fear heights... but just bring company. Happy hiking! read more

See all

This hike was really Challenging because we couldn't find out way to the top and it took us about an hour to get to where the 3 path splits! So we took the path back down the Nature center cuz it was raining and muddy so we just left. But the view and the hike up was fun and felt really great to be out doors with the nature! read more

Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Like the woods - Hiking Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

The Pu'u Ohia trail connects to the Manoa Cliffs trail. It takes about less than 15 minutes to get up to the bamboo forest. The trail entrance is before Telephone Road and you'll see a small parking lot across of the trailhead. We just went to see the bamboo forest up there and it was unbelievable! Has a really nice breeze coming through and don't forget to bring bug repellent! We forgot to bring, so we had to hurry out before the mosquitoes attack us! It's a bit muddy there, but it's manageable. Just be careful, and don't slip! read more

Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Bamboo forest - Hiking Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Such such SUCH an amazing place!! The first hike is the main one, which leads to the big waterfall. The water is nice: refreshing, not too cold (especially after the hike) and a fabulous view. About 10-20 feet before the falls is a different trail; AIHUALAMA. It's quite long and with a lot of different obstacles but such a good and challenging trail! Once you finish it you get to the PAUOA FLATS trail which is much shorter but an easier trail. At the end (of the right side) you get rewarded by a beautiful view and a bench where you can sit for a little bit and rest. Overall, this would be my main hike in Hawaii. I kept being recommended to go to Diamondhead but honestly, it doesn't compare. The views are better, the air is fresher, the hike is less crowded... I would definitely say this is the #1 spot to explore in Hawaii. $5 dollar parking which is a deal!! read more

See all

This is absolutely an AMAZING hike!! Highly recommended. About a 3 hour hike, that spans over 6 miles and gains about 1260 feet in elevation. It's actually not just one trail you are on, but a labyrinth of trails that take you through rainforests, bamboo forests, past a stream, beautiful native plants....absolutely a must do for hikers! The trail starts at the Hawaii Nature Center - there is ample parking there for hikers. So to get to the start of the trail, follow the directions to the Kanealole Trail - the trail starts by the restrooms of the Hawaii Nature Center. Note: after you park your car, you'll see signs for the trails. So go on the Kanealole trail and from here, follow that trail. You get the toughest part of the hike out of the way - a steep climb up the forest. The tree roots made natural stairs for you to climb. It's a bit of a climb, you definitely get a workout! Stay on this trail and then you'll hit the 4-way junction with the Makiki Valley and Ualakaa trails. Turn right onto the Makiki Valley trail. This takes you through a dense forest, you'll see a bamboo forest, it's just amazing and beautiful! There are guava trees, beautiful white ginger plants, throughout your hike - and I swear there are avocado trees somewhere because I kept seeing avocados, but couldn't find the tree. Now you stay on this trail and keep going until it joins the Moleka Trail. Turn left onto the Moleka Trail. As you continue, the trail opens up to a parking lot on Round Top Drive at the end of Moleka trail. Cross Round Top Drive to the Manoa Cliffs Trail. Take that trail which opens up to Tantalus Drive. Get onto Tantalus Drive - make sure to take in the view of the entire Waianae Coast on your right, then the east coast withi a spectacular view of DIamond Head on your left. Keep walking 100 yards up the street to the Nahuina Trail entrance, on the left side (Diamond Head Side) of Tantalus drive. Continue on down Nahuina trail...then you'll reach Kanealole Trail again and continue to wear you started. And just FYI... a few places, the signs will point you in two separate directions - i.e. sign will say Manoa Valley Loop trail and point left and right.... just go left each time and you'll be good - although I think they all end up in the same place but I just chose left. Honestly my favorite hike so far on Oahu! Diffuiculty, easy to intermediate. Intermediate only becasue of the length. Well maintained trail, absolutely a great hike! read more

See all

I'll always remember this hike as the one that launched me toward, but not to, my death. This was entirely my fault, for as others mention, the six miles takes longer than expected, and I started to feel rushed to beat a path out - I'd somehow thought I could do this hike, go to Lanikai, AND make it back to Waiola for shave ice before 6pm! I started jogging along the backside of the Manoa Cliffs portion where there are lots of roots crossing the path. I caught my foot on one and launched myself right over the edge of the trail. Now I'd say this section was more ravine than cliff, but it was a long way down, I was solo, and my cell had no service here. I flailingly grabbed onto some vines shortly after I tumbled over, and I was able to carefully pull myself out. Obviously I was super shaken up, but I took it as a lesson to lay back and appreciate nature rather than rush it, and the rest of the trip was great. And I did get my shave ice. There are some really nice views and variations in vegetation as you wind your way in and out of the forest, but, near-death aside, I feel this is a bit more of a hike you'd do as a local because it's close and active rather than as a tourist because you're going to get a knockout hike. There are sporadically lovely vistas and I'd take a tougher path like this over following a line of people to a waterfall and back, but if I wanted to immerse myself in this kind of scenery, I think Kauai and Maui have better options. read more

------BRING BUG SPRAY------ Due to time and company, I only hiked (well, more like walked) in a few minutes down the trail from the parking lot to reach a bamboo grove, since the bamboo forest was all I really wanted to see this time. With zero breeze, the mosquitos swiftly descended upon us. I got 6 bites on one arm (and a handful of other bites elsewhere) in the under 5 minutes I was in the grove taking pictures before we decided to GTFO of there. It looked like an interesting trail, and I'll probably revisit it at some point, but not without bug spray and/or a long sleeved shirt and pants (and maybe one of those beekeeper type hats). read more

One of several well-maintained and pleasant trails in the tantalus area (though of the tantalus hikes, I prefer Makiki Valley Loop). Quiet and calm. Has a couple views and some bamboo forests. Can get muddy. read more

Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Hiking Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Pretty easy trail. Takes any where from 1.5 hrs - 2.5 hrs, depending on your pace. Its 2.5 miles long. Mostly shaded. Some small water crossings. My kids loved it! They're ages are 12 and 7. Bring some water. Park by the nature center, there is a parking lot on the left where the trail begins read more

I absolutely loved this hike. It was confusing at first to find because we ended up going up the road as if we were driving up tantalus. You can type it in your "maps" app the location of the hike but it will not bring you to the exact spot. The trail will not show because you'll have to walk up the street from the parking lot. As long as you drive straight into the housing, there will be a parking lot to your left. You can bring your dog :) and please bring bug spray. The hike was not a over view scenery hike, but the trail itself was beautiful in many areas. read more

See all

Beautiful quiet hike . My friend I did about the 2.3 hike we went just past the bench. The forest was full of birds singing. So peaceful. We also crossed paths with a mongoose who stopped to check us out. Think next time I'll stop at the center and get a map. read more

See all

This is a nice hike, about 1 1/2 hours up and 1 hour down. Its about 6 miles long. We went after the rain and so it was quite muddy but nothing dangerous. The trails are clearly marked and the views are quite awesome. There is a bamboo reserve near the top, and bamboo forests everywhere. If you go after the rain or when its raining, be prepared to get really muddy so bring extra clothes and shoes so that you can change before you get back into your car. We didn't run into any mosquitoes during the hike but they hang around the parking lot and infest your car so beware! read more

Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Hiking Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

Please be careful when trying to find the trail head. The exact map shows it starting on the side of the road right after a sharp curve. It showed the start relatively close to the bottom of the road. My friend and I hiked up about 30 minutes through a very over grown "trail" littered with trash only to find it was an area that a few homeless people live. Very scary! Please be advised, this was not a trail. read more

Ok this IS NOT an easy hike! It's all hill all the way up!! I have asthma and was it was difficult for me. It was paved which was nice and the views were great but definitely not a hike to a beginner. read more

Gorgeous hike! It is family friendly as the short hike has "stairs" and little rocks on the trail spread purposely to prevent mud. We did something very dangerous and hiked the river over the rocks for a bit (there are access points to the small river), I fell into the water a few times because it was very slippery in several places, but we both had good shoes and it wasn't out first time doing something like this. Then we found a dead bamboo trunk and used it as a walking stick which helped a lot on the more advanced trail which heads off to the west close to the waterfall and continues for a long hike toward the next mountain ridge. I would recommend this easy Manoa falls hike, we saw kids there, families, parents carrying infants, larger people, and older people. read more

Cute stroll, fresh rural air close to town, nice views of makiki-manoa valley. I went a few times and would definitely go again. Can be rainy and smart move to bring bug spray! Dog friendly too if your pup also likes to hike. read more

This hike is a fun one but be warned it is challenging! Especially if youre a beginner hiker. The initial path gives you the option of going two ways, if you go left the incline will be much more gradual with a few steeper spots, go right and the incline is INTENSE with lots of tree roots to pick through. You have to go on both paths eventually though so pick your poison. Im a slower hiker and it only took us about 1 1/2 hours. The view is spectacular and woods are nice with lots of shade so it never gets too hot. Make sure to bring water! I wouldnt recommend it for younger kids but teenagers would be ok. Make sure to take all valuables with you, someone tried to break into my friends car while we were hiking! read more

See all

Manoa Cliffs Trail is a beautiful hike located on Mount Tantalus, perfect for escaping the city without having to travel far. The trail can be muddy and slippery if it has rained even a little bit recently. This being Manoa Valley, you know it has rained recently so wear real shoes. The trail has a plethora of native plants and is home to a native forest restoration project: http://manoacliffreforestation.wordpress.com/the-project/ The hike itself is pretty easy with only a few parts where there is an actual cliff on one side of you. And for the most part, there are a lot of trees and bushes that would break your fall. Being deathly afraid of heights, I was not too bothered by this trail, which is saying a lot because I get scared standing on top of a chair. And because you drive up to almost the top of Tantalus to start the trailhead, its pretty flat with occasional short rises and falls along the trail. The worst part was walking 1/2 mile uphill on the paved road when we were done. Most of the hike is in the jungle, but from time to time you pop out to a gorgeous view of blue skies and civilization in the distance. I cannot wait to explore the remaining trails which all connect up there. When we got to the map pictured at the end, we decided to keep going on what we thought was the end of Manoa Cliffs Trail. Half of the group headed back because they had to be somewhere. Come to find out, that map was outdated so when we thought we were completing the Manoa Cliffs Trail, we had already done that and moved on to the Kalawahine Trail (formally known as Manoa Cliffs Trail). When we popped out onto Round Top Drive, we had to walk about 1.5 miles back to the car. Even the walk on the paved road was lovely. The road is littered with avocados and we were lucky enough to find one that was still in good shape. read more

The tantalus trails are a must for anyone hiking on O'ahu.

This trail is definitely for beginners. We are not avid hikers, so it was perfect for us. As recomended, you need to wear closed-toe shoes. The trail starts off paved and turns into dirt and gravel. So many beautiful old trees and bamboo. There is parking at the beginning of the trail and it is $7. There are bathrooms and a gift shop. The waterfall at the top is beautiful. read more

This is a nice hike. It took us about 2.5 hours and we stopped to email a couple of times and we went pretty slow on the muddy parts. It hadn't rained but it was still muddy. It is a loop. If you go to the left you will be on the wetter side, which I think is better for uphill (I wouldn't have wanted to come down that side). It was cool that one side was a lot like a rainforest and the other side was more like a regular forest. There was a small parking lot, which was really nice. Also, it was shaded, which was great. read more

Great hike for a workout, and very long. Had a little trouble finding it because of my stupid GPS. It's at the junction of Makiki Heights and Makiki. I agree with Yuko-it was more like 4-1/2 hours for me, but I did linger a lot at the beginning looking at all the birds and trees and stopped several times to take pictures, and took one wrong turn that added about 1/2 a mile. Still, I ran a lot of the trail, and without the wrong turn, it still would have taken me 4 hours, so I think the only way this would take 3 hours is if you were not stopping at all and running part or all of the trail. I followed Lora's directions with good results except for one point that I should have been able to figure out. After you come to the junction of the Makiki Valley and Ualakaa trails, the direction is left onto Makiki, not right. Maybe this meant right if you are looking directly at the two Makiki trails? This wouldn't be a problem for most people that were aware of which trail they just came off of, but I had run up the mountain and was a little winded, then saw a bird I thought might be one of the honeycreepers I hoped to see (it wasn't) as I came up to the junction, and wasn't paying attention. So...I went back the same direction I started from because when I finally turned around to see which way to go, it was the Makiki trail to the right when coming from the direction I had just come from... :/ and because I was jogging, I didn't notice at first. I thought it looked too much like what I had just come up, especially when I stepped on these two boards I recognized, but I wasn't sure and I thought maybe since it was part of the same trail and parallel to the other half it was just similar, so I just kept running down-it was so much easier than running up. :) Then I got back to the cute little bridge over the stream and realized I had definitely gone back on the same part of the trail, so I had to turn around and run back up the mountain again...So you want to take a left onto Makiki Valley trail when you get to the top. Probably not an issue for most people with a better sense of direction/awareness. Another thing to be aware of is that the Manoa Cliffs trail is made up of both the Manoa Cliffs Trail and the Old Manoa Cliffs Trail with an additional name that I don't remember. This was one of my favorite parts of the hike. The protected area within the gates is really pretty, and after the Old Manoa Cliffs Trail (to the left after the gate), you get to the amazing view on Tantulus drive. This was my absolute favorite part, and if you don't have 3-4 hours, you might just go up to Tantulus drive for the view and park in one of the lots and run the Cliff trail or Nahuina trail. There was one turn not explicitly pointed out here. After Nahuina trail, before you get back to Kanealole trail, you need to turn left onto the Makiki Valley trail. That takes you to Kanealole trail. Lora's directions were pretty great though, and she made the point that when in doubt, turn left on Makiki Valley or Manoa Valley trails, which is the reason I didn't get lost when I wasn't sure if I was on the right trail! When I hiked this on Saturday, I saw maybe 10 people total, the entire time, so it's a good place to go if you are not a fan of hikes like the Manoa Falls trail that are loaded with noisy tourists. I only saw one guy with a noisy kid on the Manoa Cliffs trail, and it didn't take long to lose them. Also, this hike wasn't easy-definitely intermediate in my opinion due to length, and also depending on weather conditions. It started raining when I got on the Moleka trail and didn't stop before I finished, so it was very muddy and slick. I was wearing hiking shoes and still sliding a lot. There are some steep areas, particularly on the Nahuina trail that made it more difficult. I say intermediate because I imagine easy as being something that people can take their kids on, and this was far too long for kids, and the Nahuina trail was a little treacherous for little ones in the rain/mud, so keep in mind that it is more difficult when the weather is bad. Overall, great hike if you want to have some solitude and a good workout. I felt comfortable hiking alone with my cell (didn't lose service at all), and most of the people I saw were running trails. Bring a big bottle of water and wear supportive shoes you don't mind getting muddy-it's long. read more