Hawaii's Best Hiking Trails Unveiled

Diamond Head Summit Trail, Honolulu, HI

Diamond Head is one of Hawaii’s most recognizable landmarks, with amazing overlooks along the Honolulu coast. The historic summit trail is short but very steep, so prepare your legs for a workout and your eyes for a beautiful view.

Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail, Waimanalo, HI

The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a trail that brings you to, you guessed it, a fantastic historic lighthouse. It’s only two miles round trip so it’s perfect if you just want a fun hour or so outdoors.

Kalalau Trail, Kauai, HI

The Kalalau Trail is a well-known destination for Hawaiians and visitors alike. The full trail is a whopping 22 miles long, but you can choose any sections you want. This is a particularly challenging trail so it’s ideal for experienced hikers who want an adventure.

Waihee Ridge Trail, Wailuku, HI

If you want to explore the coast of Maui, the Waihee Ridge Trail is the perfect choice. This trail carries you along the coastline within the West Maui Natural Area Reserve. You’ll be able to enjoy several unique types of terrain along this 2.5-mile trail.

Lanikai Pillbox Trail, Kailua, HI

The Kaiwa Ridge is known for being a breathtakingly gorgeous locale, and you can see it all along the Lanikai Pillbox Trail. Take in views of Lanikai and Kailua on this challenging but rather short 1.8-mile trail.

Aiea Loop Trail, Aiea, HI

Want to spend a day out in nature but don’t want a particularly difficult or strenuous hike? The Aiea Loop Trail is your best bet. The trail is just under 5 miles long but it’s rated as easy to moderate so you can take your time and enjoy your surroundings.

Koloiki Ridge Trail, Lanai City, HI

Just outside of Lanai City, one of the best places to go for a fun day of exploration is the Koloiki Ridge Trail. It’s moderately difficult with an out-and-back distance of 4.2 miles, but the work you put in will earn you an amazing vista view.

Kalaupapa Peninsula Trail, Kalaupapa, HI

Kalaupapa has a solemn history as a quarantined leprosy colony, but today, it’s a rugged yet beautiful part of the Hawaiian landscape. Give yourself a challenge with the 3.5-mile steep hike.

Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls, Makawao, HI

Hawaii has no shortage of amazing waterfalls, but one favorite is Waimoku Falls, which you can access by hiking the Pipiwai Trail. The moderate trail is 3.8 miles out and back, but be sure to take a pause at the waterfall to take it all in.

Kaena Point, Waialua, HI

The view from Kaena Point is one you won’t want to miss. To get there, venture along the 3.5-mile trail that follows an old railroad and dirt road.

Key Insights at a Glance

• Hawaii has some of the most spectacular natural beauty in the US.
• Hiking is one of the best ways to enjoy Hawaii's beauty.
• Top 10 hiking trails in Hawaii include Diamond Head Summit Trail, Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail, Kalalau Trail, Waihee Ridge Trail, Lanikai Pillbox Trail, Aiea Loop Trail, Koloiki Ridge Trail, Kalaupapa Peninsula Trail, Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls, and Kaena Point.
• Diamond Head Summit Trail offers amazing views of Honolulu coast.
• Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail leads to a historic lighthouse.
• Kalalau Trail is a challenging 22-mile trail on Kauai.
• Waihee Ridge Trail offers coastal views in Maui.
• Lanikai Pillbox Trail provides views of Lanikai and Kailua.
• Aiea Loop Trail is an easy to moderate 5-mile trail.
• Koloiki Ridge Trail in Lanai City offers a vista view.
• Kalaupapa Peninsula Trail has a steep 3.5-mile hike.
• Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls leads to a beautiful waterfall.
• Kaena Point trail offers a stunning view from the point.