Did this trail again for the sunrise! Loved it. So worth it…read more Again, watch your steps, take your time, bring water and wear good shoes with a good grip. This trail is short but steep with rocks and slippery. The sunrise was amazing and we will do it again!!

Hiked the Lanikai Pillbox #2 Trail that starts from the back end on the Mauka side. It is longer…read moreand steeper than the Makai side. First takes you to #2 pillbox and #1 pillbox and if you continue on to the start of the other trail. Most hikers start at the trailhead by golf course on Makai side and only go up as far as the pillboxes. Found it to be a more interesting than the one most hikers take. Although they both shared the amazing views from the pillboxes. The beginning of hike is steep and rocky following a dry creek bed. Probably not the best route after heavier rain, can become slippery. There a variety of views of both valleys from the ridge, mountains and ocean. The trail has some scrambling, however not very difficult. Four of us that hiked it are all over 65 but seasoned hikers (well seasoned). It's best to hike this one early, not much shade. Wear proper shoes and bring plenty of water.

The Lanikai Pillbox hike is right around the corner from our place in Lanikai so we really don't…read morehave an excuse not to hike it. We didn't have to worry about parking so that made things a lot easier. The cars circle around our road looking for beach and hiking parking but if you start around 6-7am on a weekday you will probably be ok. You can also park at the Kailua beach parking lot and walk to the start of the hike. It's not a relaxing hike but it's definitely beautiful and unique once you get to the pillboxes. The views are so stunning! Definitely would recommend it for an early weekday hike.

A short, intensive but gratifying hike!…read more Maybe it was because it was 11:30am and I was wearing not the best shoes but this very short hike humbled me. It only took about 25 minutes to get up (and about 20 down) but everyone else is right, it is very steep on about 70% of it. If it has rained at any point in the previous 24 hours I would say climb at your own risk. Most people should relatively be fine but don't be afraid to take breaks and watch your step esp if you have little tread on your shoes. Also if you suffer from any sort of vertigo I'd say don't do this. The beast thing about this hike is not that the view is the final destination but there the entire time! You don't have to reach the top if you don't want too. I can assure you that you can stop on the side and see the coastline at any point. I would say there was a fair amount of people on the trail but not crowded. Parking is available on the side of the road in the residential which wasn't too difficult. Totally worth the trek!

A beautiful day for a hike! Every time I do this hike it's a little different. Today the waterfall…read morewas cold and bracing and there were a lot of people hiking the falls. We started out around 8:45 AM and by the time we reached the waterfall, it was getting full of families and pairs of hikers. I recommend go early to skip the crowds. The hike itself isn't too technical and there are only a few places where you have to step up high over a rock or scramble through a stream.

Lulumahu Falls was definitely one of the hikes I've wanted to do for a very long time…read more I've passed by it a number of times, so I knew exactly where it was. If you've driven up Pali Hwy - Kailua-bound, then you've passed by it. The parking and entrance is right at the intersection of Nuuanu Pali Road, you'll see plenty of cars parked. While there's no true entrance, cars do somehow figure out a way to park. You technically do need a permit to visit here as you are accessing State Forest Reserve land, which you can purchase at - https://trails.ehawaii.gov/camping/ - website. It's very easy to set up an account and make your reservation. It's only $2.50 for your entire party (not per person!). Print at least two copies (1 for your car and 1 with you). This hike is not as easy as a good amount of reviews make it out to be. It's not that kid friendly either. The main entrance is at the center of the parking lot. There is also another entrance to your right, near the road. The beginning part is fine. Flat and well maintained, graveled path through a bamboo forest. It's after your first jump or hop over a streamlet that can be more difficult because the hike is essentially gradually going up towards the mountain while crossing over the Lulumahu Stream multiple times until you reach the waterfall. Crossing the stream, you'll need to jump or climb from rock to rock, go under tree branches, step on slipper rocks (or just step in the water), and etc. You shouldn't get lost here as long as you hear the stream and stay near it. The objective is to follow the stream while looking out for those bright neon ribbons. But there are situations where you don't see any ribbon with multiple paths you can take. Being that it was my first time here, I probably took a few paths that was the more difficult one, but eventually made it at the end without any difficulties or setbacks. This seems to be a popular hike as it was quite busy at the waterfall. There were hardly any places to stand, and the "safe" areas are further away from the waterfall while if you want to get closer to get that under the waterfall photo, you'll need to pass some slippery rocks, jump here and there, and pass through narrow spaces. Of course, you can just put your shoes and feet into water to bypass. In the end, it was quite a nice waterfall and an interesting journey to get there. Wish it was less busy, but it wasn't overcrowded. There's no main path, so you can end up going through many difficult paths. I can upon a family of 4 literally walk up the stream, knee high in water. No clue where they came from, but I pointed to the direction I went. On the way down, you can take a different path. I went towards the right, and went down to the watershed. Look for the cement wall with graffiti. You can keep going down the walkway, and there is an opening at the corner of the fence towards the end, which will lead you back to the beginning, bamboo forest path. Overall, this was a fun and interesting hike! It wasn't easy, but not difficult or long. A good test of your balance to not get your socks wet! It takes about 45-60 minutes both ways depending on your level and path taken. Unless you want to swim and climb up stream. Hope to come back soon!

This trail was absolutely stunning! The Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail is a popular, paved (thank…read moreGod), 2.5-mile roundtrip hike on Oahu's southeastern coast. It offers stunning ocean views, a historic lighthouse, and whale watching during winter. In all its vastness, you can't help but to be in awe by the endless deep blue sea of the Pacific Ocean, coastline, Rabbit Island, and the lighthouse itself (which you cannot enter). I cannot emphasize enough the importance of sticking to the paved path! It's not worth losing your life! A free lot is available but fills up quickly; overflow parking on the highway shoulder is an option. It's considered an easy-to-moderate hike with a consistent incline, but it's fully exposed to the sun, so going early, bringing water, and wearing sunscreen are essential. Overall, my family had an amazing experience and the views were spectacular! Definitely worth the drive from Waikiki!

So if you're in half way decent shape...skip this review. Enjoy it. It's very scenic. If you're…read morelike me...about 40 pounds over weight, loves cinnamon rolls more than exercise (I don't exercise). Read on. It's NOT flat! Google Maps shows a nice paved trail that goes back and forth. Not straight...because it goes up in elevation. How high?...I think I read about 500 feet. That's equivalent to a 35-40 story building. Paved trail is probably for the paramedics that need to rescue old chubby guys like myself (I didn't need to be rescued). Some will say it's an easy hike. I beg to differ. My wife will run a 10k in the same time I run/walk a 5k. Going up the thighs will burn and you'll sweat and maybe swear). On the way down your 60 year old hips, knees and ankles will be in pain with every step. Not sure why I agreed to do another hike after doing Diamond Head 2 days previous to this one. I'm definitely going to have to go back to Leonard's Bakery after this. Yes there are some that will push a stroller up. It is not super doable for everyone. It is Not flat! We did this hike in about an hour and 20 minutes. Enjoy the scenery as much as you can. It is pretty. But, once is enough for me. (ps, no restrooms and no shade)

This is not for the faint of heart. First peak is an hour and a half of serious cardio. Rope…read moresections and rapid, steep elevation. Pic is from second peak. Don't forget to bring enough water and snacks.

Tl:dr: the most technically challenging hike on the island, takes 5-6 hours round trip including…read morestops on each of the 3 peaks to take pictures, rest etc. People talk about mortality on this trail, although I don't think it's as dangerous as people made it out to be if you exercise common sense. Who should do it: most people can make the 1st peak. Trail from 1st to 2nd becomes noticeably narrower but it's short and about the same level of difficulty as trail up the 1st peak. 2nd to 3rd peak was where the challenge is - lots of vertical rock climbing, path is narrow, and ropes aren't all in good conditions. If you don't have good upper body strength, have knee problems, or are afraid of heights, it's not a good idea to do the 3rd peak. If you don't have good endurance, it's just going to be a long day. Words of caution: try avoid going after a rainy day because the trail becomes very muddy. It started raining when I was coming down from the 3rd peak and the ground became slippery. Better to go with a friend if you can - there are only a few people hiking past the 2nd peak and in case you get injured, it's good to have someone with you to help. Preparation: pack enough water, gloves (protect your hands from climbing), long pants, and a light windbreaker (waterproof is ideal). You never know how the microclimate changes in the mountain. Throw on some hiking shoes too if you have them. You can get away with gym shoes as I did but extra grip comes in handy on a muddy day. Views: view is the best from the 1st peak. Past that is more for the adrenalin and experience. Parking: no official parking lot for the hike, park across the bridge on the side of the roads. It's a ~15 minute walk to the trailhead. Have fun out there!

This is a great little hike that is not difficult at all. The trail seems mostly maintained for the…read moremost part. It was raining when we went, so it got super muddy, but that is to be expected and was totally fine. My only real disappointment was that you cannot actually get into the water to swim anywhere along the trail or at the falls. Also, be aware that they charge for parking, though they do offer a military discount if that applies to you. Overall, it is a nice, accessible walk through nature, just do not bring your swimsuit expecting to dive in.

Service- 3 stars Ambiance- 5 stars…read more I usually hike this trail once a month to put myself out in the jungle and get away from concrete and I love it every time. This trail is located deep and all the way in Manoa valley- past the gym, Manoa elementary school where the road becomes pretty much a one lane street until you get around to the stop where you pay the attendant. I think this part is what disappoints me the most is because kama'aina still have to pay to hike this trail. Geez. If you are kama'aina, you have to present your ID to the attendant where you will have to pay $4. Not sure what the cost is for tourists or non-residents. There are lots of spaces to park when you past the attendant. You have the option to park at your first right past the old Treetops restaurant or further down. There is a restroom and little convenience shop if you want to purchase a souvenir, ice cream, water, etc for your hike. This trail can get super muddy and dangerous after rainfall so I would use caution if you choose to hike during wet season. There are big rocks you will have to step over all throughout the trail so be sure to go with proper hiking shoes with good grip. The waterfall at the very end isn't much but a good little reward as a picture opportunity. Folks can no longer go into the water due to leptospirosis. I highly recommend visiting this spot if you're a hiking person and nature lover!

Love this ridge trail for a good workout with amazing views from the summit and as you climb up to…read moreit. As ridge trails go it less narrow and a good one to start with in the Hawai'i Kai area. A good part of the trail zig zags up the mountain until you reach the picnic table. At this point we take a break, have a snack drink more water in preparation for the more difficult climb. Soon you reach the series of steps on the ridge that climb on and on up the mountain into the clouds at times. After the never ending steps you reach the summit. If cloudy wait and the clouds open up to stunning views of other side of island. This hike is well worth the journey. Make sure to have plenty of water and snacks. We use poles, they are really useful in coming back down to help save your knees. There is only street parking so be prepared to walk up road to trailhead. If raining better to go a different day.

This trail was very challenging, but the view worth every minute walking…read more It took us about 4 hours to go up and down because we were taking a lot of time. Really close to the top it became slippery, but besides that the walk is great. Parking can be an issue because there are not official parking, but going there early ensure you a spot.

TLDR: 5/5 - Two sections of parking lots both with restrooms, an incredible beach and not too…read morecrowded depending on where you are! Wow this place took my breath away! Parking: 5/5 - Personally did not have an issue parking here there were plenty of spots available at around 10:30/11. But there is another lot a further down the road. I prefer the one that i was at however I felt like the other lot going up to Lainkai was more for fisherman and kids. Location: 5/5 I had Lainkai Beach saved on my list so going to this one was a bit unexpected but they deliver the same views and even better that there's a restroom! Restroom was super clean too With that being said it was pretty windy which wasn't a problem but know that its blowin. The sand as well is that fine white sand which is super pretty but it sticks to you so if you're not a sand person...well...you're going to have to accept your textured fate. I wish I could've stayed here longer honestly. I love the fact that there's a foodland nearby to get some lunch and lounge here. There were families of course what are you going to do but there's enough space I feel like without too much crowding. The water was a postcard blue, warm and clear and tranquil. I'd come back here time and time again

We decided to spend the day at Kailua Beach Park soaking up some vitamin sea while enjoying a…read morecouple of plate lunches. We arrived around 11A, and both the parking lot and the beach were already slammed. We got lucky and snagged a parking stall just as someone was pulling out. Finding a spot on the sand took a little longer, but eventually we found a place to nestle. The water was beautiful. The waves were mostly soft rolling breaks with the occasional stronger set that could catch you off guard if you weren't paying attention. Overall, I think it's a great beach for inexperienced swimmers, but I probably wouldn't recommend it for families with toddlers who just want to wade near the shoreline. Those occasional waves have enough push to knock over the littles. One thing I appreciated was how well-maintained the restrooms were compared to some of the other beach parks around the island. They also have a foot rinse station just outside the bathrooms, which made it easy to rinse off the sand from our feet and slippahs before heading back to the car. Such a simple feature, but one I always appreciate. Would I come back? Absolutely. The soft white sand, beautiful warm water, and relaxed vibe make it easy to spend an entire afternoon here. Just come early if you want a fighting chance at parking.

The trail head is located inside a residential area, you'll need to get a parking pass from the…read moregate entrance and only park at the designated lot. It's a very low key hiking place, rarely known for the tourists, and mostly for locals. I like how beautiful the view on top and not crowded at all, the unpaved trail could get very slippery and muddy after the rain. Make sure to brush your shoes before and after the hike, and protect the local wildlife.

Beautiful hike in the Waialae Iki 5 neighborhood. I live up here, so I can tell you that it's best…read moreto do it when it's dry. Even when there hasn't been rain for a week, spots on the trail will be muddy and slippery. Best to leave your white shoes at home. Views can be hit or miss depending on the cloud cover. On a clear day, you can see Diamond Head in the distance and the Windward side of the island from the very top. The first part of the trail is relatively easy with just a gentle incline. Once you hit the stairs and the rope portions, it gets more difficult. Overall, I would say it's a moderately difficult hike, but I never felt like I was in danger of falling off the ridge. For the latest info, go to https://www.waialaeiki5.org/trail.