Written by Terrance Davis
Terrance writes for Marina Hawaii Vacations, highlighting O'ahu and Waikiki's best sites, attractions, and events.
One of the best things about visiting Waikiki is its endless sense of both relaxation and adventure. The area, while small, is so diverse and packed with things to do. With its blend of tropical island beauty and modern city life, a trip to Waikiki is a paradise getaway that just about anyone can enjoy. Among Waikiki’s outdoor adventures are its many top-rated hiking trails. Follow along with this blog for more on Waikiki’s best areas to take a nice, long walk!
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In this Blog:
- Why Hiking Near Waikiki is a Must on Your Oahu Trip
- Diamond Head Crater Trail
- Manoa Falls Trail
- Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail
- Koko Crater Railway Trail
- Tantalus Lookout Trail
- What to Bring for a Waikiki Hike
- Take a Hike During Your Waikiki Escape!
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Hiking Near Waikiki is a Must on Your Oahu Trip
While the area is most known for its gorgeous beach, surfing, and shopping, some of O’ahu’s best outdoor scenery is just a short drive away. Going on a hike in Waikiki lets you see a whole other side of the island, with volcanic craters and rainforests within easy access on many of these trails. This makes it easy to enjoy a real sense of adventure right by your rental. The diversity of these trails also means you can enjoy the island at your own pace, for any type of hike, including a short morning walk or an all-day affair.
Diamond Head Crater Trail
Easily one of O’ahu’s natural highlights, the Diamond Head Crater Trail is one of the area’s most iconic and well-known landmarks. Enjoy stunning coastal views along this mile-and-a-half trail in this 300,000-year-old saucer-shaped crater. Those who visit should be aware that the walk from the trailhead to the summit is rather steep, so don’t underestimate the relatively short distance. Along with more vertical sections, the hike will feature paved paths, winding switchbacks, tunnels, and long staircases, making it a dynamic and fun hike the whole way through!
Manoa Falls Trail
Tucked away in the Manoa Valley, the Manoa Falls Trail winds through a lush tropical rainforest, offering a longer, more picturesque hiking experience. The nearly 2-hour trail can be a little muddy, and along the way, you’ll see dense forests of bamboo trees and waterfalls, including a 150-foot waterfall that is one of the tallest on O’ahu. While this trail is a bit wetter, the relative ease makes it an enjoyable hike for just about anyone, especially for fans of Jurassic Park, as Manoa Falls was used as a filming location for the 1993 classic.
Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail
Head toward the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline and see the magic of O’ahu’s southern coast. The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a roughly 2-mile round-trip and, as the name would imply, is marked by a large, red-roofed lighthouse, first built in 1909. Aside from views of the nearby Koko Head, you'll get a great look at the Pacific Ocean and O'ahu's coast. The trail also offers some wildlife viewing experiences, as it is known to be home to seabirds like the ‘iwa, frigatebird, and tropicbird, and is also a great spot to see migrating humpback whales while they’re in season from November to May.
Koko Crater Railway Trail
All aboard one of the more difficult trails on the island! This unique trail is made up of the abandoned remnants of an old tramway track used by the U.S. military during World War II. The tracks (often referred to as stairs) run up Koko Crater, an ancient volcanic tuff cone rising over 1,200 feet, and measuring around 1.5 miles in length. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Hanauma Bay, Diamond Head, and the Honolulu skyline.
Tantalus Lookout Trail
Why not make the most of the hike with some of the island's best views while keeping it easy? Walk from the parking lot of the Tantalus Lookout Trail for a half-mile walk that puts you in front of Honolulu’s best features, especially during a clear day or at sunset. The full hike from the bottom is quite a bit longer, at 2.5 miles, with around 600 ft of elevation along the way, making this a fun challenge for more experienced hikers. The relaxing hilltop is also perfect for afternoon picnics and a great place to spend time with friends and family.
What to Bring for a Waikiki Hike
Before heading out for a hike near Waikiki, make sure you have the right essentials. The island’s warm weather and sunny skies can make even short hikes feel intense.
- Water – Bring more than you think you’ll need, especially for exposed trails like Koko Crater or Diamond Head.
- Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat can make your hike much more comfortable.
- Comfortable Shoes – Some trails have stairs, mud, rocks, or steep sections, so wear shoes with good grip.
- Light Snacks – A small snack can help keep your energy up on longer trails.
- Binoculars – Bring a small pair if you plan to hike near overlooks or coastal areas. They’re great for spotting seabirds, distant views, and migrating whales in season.
- Phone or Camera – Many hikes near Waikiki offer incredible views, so you’ll want a way to capture them.
Take a Hike During Your Waikiki Escape!
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Make hiking a part of your island paradise escape, and complete your trip by booking a rental with Marina Hawaii Vacations! Our wide portfolio of properties is bound to have what you need, with rentals across Waikiki designed to maximize your comfort and enjoyment. Book direct with us and save big on third-party fees!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest hike near Waikiki?
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is one of the easiest hikes near Waikiki. The paved path, coastal views, and steady incline make it a great choice for families, beginners, and anyone looking for a scenic walk without a rugged trail.
Can beginners hike near Waikiki?
Yes, beginners can find plenty of great hikes near Waikiki. Trails like Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail and the walk to Tantalus Lookout are good options for a more relaxed experience. More challenging hikes, like Koko Crater, are better suited to experienced hikers or visitors seeking a tougher climb.
What is the best time of day to hike near Waikiki?
The best time to hike near Waikiki is usually in the morning or late afternoon. These times help you avoid the strongest midday heat and give you better lighting for photos. Sunset can also be a great time for scenic overlooks, such as Tantalus Lookout.