Hiking

Take a hike on Oʻahu and reward yourself with panoramic ocean views and lush mountain scenery. One of Oʻahu’s most famous landmarks and most accessible hikes is up the slopes of Lēʻahi (Lēʻahi Head). Just minutes from Waikīkī, this moderately challenging trail includes two sets of stairs as well as dark tunnels and old military bunkers that open out to stunning panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu.

On the eastern tip of Oʻahu is the Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail, which features breathtaking views of the indigo Pacific Ocean and whale watching in winter months. For a more off-the-beaten-path hike, travel to the western tip of the island to Kaʻena Point. This sacred area offers a dramatic lava shoreline and views of the Waiʻanae coast. For a lush hike not far from Waikīkī, take a short drive to Mānoa Valley and hike through beautiful rainforests full of bamboo trees and native flora, ending at a beautiful Mānoa Falls. In Central Oʻahu, the challenging ʻAiea Loop Trail offers phenomenal views of Hālawa Valley and the majestic Koʻolau mountains.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon stroll with a Botanical Collections Specialist as they take you on a journey through Waimea Valley on the North Shore, highlighting beautiful blooming plants and fruits along the way. This walk is offered on Thursdays at 12:00pm starting at the ticket booth. Discover stunning views as guides help you identify native and exotic plants, showcase the valley’s indigenous birds and lead you to various streams including the beautiful Waimea Waterfall. Back in Honolulu, venture to lush Makiki and go on a tropical forest hike at the Hawaiʻi Nature Center. See and learn about some of the most varied tropical plant life in the Islands as you and your guide trek along this moderate loop hike.