All it takes is some energy, love for nature, excitement for landscapes, and a pair of good walking shoes to go on a hike. If you are in Hawaii, hiking is definitely a must-do to discover the very own nature of the islands. Here is a list of the top 5 hikes in Hawaii! We listed the challenging hikes as well as the easy ones, so pick up one of the trails that fit you best and start your adventure!
1. The Olomana Trail in Oahu
If you are not afraid of heights and challenging hikes, the Olomana Hike is the ideal trail for you! This hike can be relatively difficult if your body is not prepped, so please be responsible and assess your ability before taking on the challenge. The three peaks in this trail are worth the sweat, with the first peak only 1.5 miles from the start of the hike, offering an amazing view right away. You may have to climb up some rock walls, so make sure you have the right shoes. This trail is best suited for experienced hikers, making it one of the top things to do in Oahu if you’re up for an adventure!
2. Diamond Head Summit Trail in Oahu
Built in 1908 for the Oahu coastal defense system, the Diamond Head Summit Trail is now one of the most preferred Oahu hikes. It is about 1.6 miles (2.6 km), and it is a bit easier than the Olomana Trail. It is a round-trip hike, starting from the Diamond Head volcano crater. The good news is that you can arrive to the first lookout in about 15 minute! The last entrance is at 4:30 pm, so make sure you make it to the trail in the first half of the day. Ps: There is no place to buy water at this trail, so make sure you bring your own.
Note: The key for a happy hike is drinking lots of water. It can get especially hot in Hawaii, so make sure that you are hydrated. If you fail to drink enough, you might end up with a terrible headache. Pick up the right shoes, and let Hawaii astonish you as you are walking!
3. Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail in Oahu
If you are looking for an easy hike with stunning views of the eastern shore, you should definitely make your way to the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail. During the winter months (December to April), some hikers are lucky enough to spot humpback whales migrating offshore! Even if you don’t catch a glimpse of the whales, the breathtaking views of Waimanalo Beach and the Olomana peaks will make the hike worthwhile. The only downside is that it can get quite hot, so be sure to bring a water bottle and stay hydrated.
Tip: If you’d like to get even closer to these majestic whales, And You Creations offers an incredible Waikiki Whale Watching Tour! It’s the perfect way to experience these magnificent creatures up close and personal.
