Exploring Hawaii's Natural Beauty: 15 Must-Try Hikes

Here, we've curated a list of the 15 best hikes in Hawaii, providing you with a perfect opportunity to take in the stunning landscapes and recharge your creative spirit.

Despite Hawaii's small landmass, it's home to over a quarter of the species on the United States' endangered list, making it a unique destination for nature enthusiasts. Hiking in Hawaii not only allows you to witness these rare plants and animals but also offers a chance to immerse yourself in the islands' diverse ecosystems.

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Let's dive into the 15 best hikes in Hawaii, perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers:

‍Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail, Oʻahu

Best for beginners and families

2 miles round trip, 1 hour, easy

This scenic hike on Oʻahu leads to the historic Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse, perched on a 600ft-high sea cliff. It's an easily accessible trail, suitable for non-hikers, pets, and strollers, offering stunning views of the Kaiwi Coast and the Pacific Ocean. Plus, between November and May, you might spot North Pacific humpback whales during their migration.

‍Kaiwa Ridge Trail (Lanikai Pillbox Trail), O‘ahu

Best for sunrise views

1 mile, 1 hour, moderately difficult

Catch a breathtaking sunrise over Lanikai Beach and the famous Na Mokulua ('twin islands') on this 1-mile uphill trek. The Kaiwa Ridge Trail takes you to two concrete pillboxes, offering magnificent panoramic views.

‍Koko Crater Botanical Garden Loop, Oʻahu

‍Best for nature lovers

2 miles, 1 hour, easy

Explore the 200-acre Koko Crater Botanical Garden in East Honolulu, featuring a 2-mile loop trail with rare and endangered dryland plants, cacti, palms, baobabs, and succulents.

-Kaʻena Point Trail, Oʻahu

‍Best for wildlife enthusiasts

3.5 miles, 3 hours, easy to moderate

Discover the Kaʻena Point Natural Area Reserve, home to native coastal plants, seabirds, and occasional dolphin and whale sightings (in winter). This trail provides constant views of the Pacific Ocean and holds cultural significance to Native Hawaiians.

-ʻAkaka Falls Loop Trail, Hawaiʻi Island

‍Best accessible waterfall hike

0.5-mile round trip, 30 minutes, easy

Witness two waterfalls, including the dramatic 442ft ʻAkaka Falls, at ʻAkaka Falls State Park. This short paved walk is perfect for a quick waterfall experience.

-Ehukai Pillbox Hike, Oʻahu

‍Best for North Shore views

2 miles, 1 ½ to 2 hours, moderate

Explore the northern Koʻolau Mountains, offering sweeping views of Oʻahu's famed surf breaks and beaches. The trail leads to WWII bunkers with incredible vistas.

-Kīlauea Iki Trek, Hawaiʻi Island

‍Best for volcano enthusiasts

4 miles round trip, 2 ½ hours, moderate to difficult

Hike through native ohia trees and explore the otherworldly Kilauea Iki crater floor. The trail crosses pahoehoe lava rock and offers a unique perspective of volcanic activity.

-Kuliouou Ridge Trail, Oʻahu

‍Best for mountain panoramas

5 miles round trip, 3 hours, moderate to difficult

Summit the Koolau Mountains for a 360-degree view of Windward Oʻahu and the south shore. The trail takes you through shaded areas, native ohia and koa trees, and man-made stairs to the summit.

-Pipiwai Trail, Maui

‍Best waterfall hike

4 miles round trip, 2 to 3 hours, moderate

Located past Hana on Maui's eastern coast, this trail leads you through lush tropical vegetation to two waterfalls, including the stunning 400ft Waimoku Falls. The highlight is the hike through a dense bamboo forest.

-Kalōpā Nature Trail, Hawaiʻi Island

‍Best easy rainforest hike

0.7 miles, 1 hour, easy

Discover solitude in the Kalōpā Native Forest State Park, offering an easy walk through a lush rainforest with large ohia trees and native forest flora. The cool and rainy climate adds to the charm.

-Waihee Ridge Trail, Maui

‍Best day hike

5 miles round trip, 4 hours, moderate

Explore the West Maui Mountains on this hike, featuring a steady climb through native rainforest. The trail offers views of Makamakaole Falls and a panoramic vista of Maui's north shore and Waihee Valley.

-Waihou Spring Trail, Maui

‍Best for families

1.8 miles, 2 hours, easy

Perfect for families, the Waihou Spring Trail in Upcountry Maui follows an old forest road through planted pine and eucalyptus trees, providing a scenic and easy hike. More adventurous hikers can continue to Waihou Spring.

-Summiting Nounou Mountain (Sleeping Giant), Kauaʻi

‍Best hike with views of East Kauaʻi

6.1 km (3.8 miles) round trip, moderately easy

The trek up Nounou Mountain offers spectacular views of East Kauaʻi and its coastline. Three trails lead to the summit, with the East Trail being the most popular and least challenging.

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Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Hiking Experience in Hawaii:

• Always wear a hat, sunscreen, and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially on coastal trails.
• Consider sturdy hiking boots and rainproof clothing for rocky, uneven, and muddy terrains.
• Pack a fleece or down jacket, even in summer, as conditions can change quickly at higher elevations.
• Carry a flashlight for safety, as darkness falls rapidly after sunset on the trails.
• Treat all freshwater before drinking to avoid health risks.
• Be aware of potential environmental hazards, including volcanic smog, flash floods, and unsafe swimming areas.

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