Who doesn’t love exploring Hawaii and all of its breathtaking scenery? No matter if you’re a first-time or returning visitor to the most popular island of Oahu, there’s always more to discover and take in.
In this guide, you’ll learn about Oahu’s best hikes & views including amazing waterfalls & lookouts.
Get ready for these must-see spots in Oahu that you definitely don’t want to miss…
Going to Maui instead?
Check out The Best Things to Do in Maui and A Road to Hana guide!
Introduction
Reasons to Visit Oahu
Similar to other Hawaiian islands, Oahu is famous for its mesmerizing natural beauty and diversity of attractions. What makes Oahu special though is the mix of city life & tropical getaway.
Hawaii’s state capital Honolulu is located on the south of the island and shines with a selection of stores, restaurants, urban life, and proximity to the beach.
Breathtaking beaches, forests, mountains, and more make Oahu one of the greatest places to spend your vacation at. Not that you really needed any reasons to visit Hawaii!
Why You Should Hike Hawaii
Now, hiking is a little bit of a different story. There are people that hike (a lot) and people that just don’t.
Before ever visiting Hawaii I never really hiked either but these places totally changed my mind!
If you feel skeptical about hiking, don’t worry – this post is for you!
All these hikes & viewpoints are relatively easy to complete and will totally make you feel glad you did them. Not only will the paths take you through stunning scenery like luscious forests or higher elevations, but you will also be rewarded with awesome picture opportunities at the end of it. You will also notice that if you want to explore any place a little bit more secret/secluded, you will probably have to hike there – no pain, no gain!
If “actual” hikes still aren’t for you though, stay tuned til the end for some gorgeous lookout spots along the road that are super easy to get to…
Tips for Exploring Hawaii
Good to Know
Oahu Essentials
It’s definitely important to keep a few things in mind when packing your bag for a hike or road trip around Oahu…
- Sunscreen
- Swimwear (for beaches & waterfalls)
- Towels
- Mosquito spray
- Comfortable shoes (for hiking)
- Cash (for park entrances, food stands & more)
- Phone + portable charger
- Camera
- Toiletries like wipes etc. / first aid kit
- Guides/maps
The Best Hikes & Views
Viewpoint hikes
Diamond Head aka Lë’ahi
Hiking this beautiful 300,000-year-old volcanic crater has to be a must-do while in Oahu. The proximity to Honolulu makes Diamond Head an extremely popular landmark and easy to reach. Its location near the coastline of Waikiki grants amazing views of the cities & beaches around and allows for great picture opportunities. The hiking trail is mostly paved but can get pretty steep with many stairs at points – it’s totally worth it at the end though! Diamond Head State Monument also offers a visitors center, picnic tables, restrooms, and more if you feel like spending your day here.
Lanikai Pillbox Hike aka Ka’iwa Ridge Trail
This hike might be one of my favorites! Located in Lanikai, this at times steep trail will take you up the beautiful mountains looking over the beaches of Kihei and Lanikai. You’ll be able to see military bunkers with a colorful twist and breathtaking luscious greenery. The highlight of this hike definitely has to be the views of Mokulua Islands, two little islets in stunning turquoise waters. Reaching the top will most definitely make you feel like you’re on top of the world. For a little cool-off after finishing the hike, you can head to the nearby beaches. Compared to Diamond Head though, finding the start of the Pillbox Hike can be a little tricky since there is no parking lot right by.
Waterfall hikes
Mānoa Falls Trail
This beautiful hike through the luscious green rainforest leads to the stunning waterfall of Mānoa. Its location in the Mānoa Valley right by Honolulu makes it a great hike to squeeze into your day if you’re feeling adventurous. The waterfall is about 150 ft tall and makes for a stunning backdrop for pictures. The hike to the falls is relatively easy; depending on the weather though the trail can be muddy and slippery so come prepared. Don’t forget to also bring mosquito spray when going to this must-see spot in Oahu!
Waimea Valley Trail
Waimea Valley is popular for many reasons – This amazing place on the North Shore of Oahu has so much to offer with the beautiful Waimea Falls and hike through the botanical gardens filled with thousands of different plant species. The trail to the falls is easy and mostly paved making it great for beginners or families. The 45 ft tall waterfall features a large pool you can dip into when arriving here. It’s a truly magical location you have to visit. Going to Waimea Bay Beach Park and doing some cliff jumping after visiting the valley is a great way to end the day.
Viewpoints / Lookouts
Hālona Blowhole & Cove
If you’re not feeling like doing an actual hike but still want to have great views, this is the spot for you.
Along the road, you’ll find amazing spots just like this one – the Hālona Blowhole & Beach Cove. The views from this lookout on the southeast shoreline of Oahu and the crashing waves will leave you stunned. The highlight has to be the romantic beach hidden in a cove that can be visited when the waters are calm. It truly is a lovely spot!
Lāna’i Lookout aka Koko Crater Lookout
The Lāna’i Lookout is definitely worth a visit, even if it’s just a short one. Located right by the highway, it’s easy to make a stop here and the pictures you can take will turn out amazing. The beautiful rock formations by the shore make this spot super unique. If you feel like staying a bit longer, you have the option to hike up Koko Crater for more panoramic views of the island.
Nu’uanu Pali State Wayside
Lush green hills, waves crashing into shores, and the wind running through your hair at this breathtaking spot. At around 1,200 ft elevation this lookout offers stunning views of the Ko’olau cliffs and truly displays the picture of Hawaii one would have in mind. You will have to pay $7 per vehicle when coming here and it can get quite cold due to the wind so come prepared.
Makapu’u Point & Lighthouse Trail
Another great way to explore Oahu while on the road. This lookout is right off the highway overlooking the shore and beaches nearby. If you want to also add a little hike to this stop, you can with the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail. From about 500 ft elevation, you’ll discover amazing views of the island and the 1909-built lighthouse. It’s definitely worth a stop!
And there you have it – that concludes all of Oahu’s best hikes & views to explore!
Of course, there are so many more hikes, waterfalls, and viewpoints in Oahu but if it’s a short or first visit, this will tick most of the boxes.
Choosing the best hikes also depends on your personal preference, capabilities, and ideas. This list only highlighted a few universal ones.
Regardless, with these tips you should be all set for exploring Oahu the next time around!
BONUS
A “Road Trip | Hiking”-Checklist with all the necessities & tips you need!
↓ Make sure to download it for FREE ↓
The Ultimate Packing List for Road Trips (printable)
Please also share your favorite hikes & viewpoints in the comments! 🙂
Still looking for more travel tips? Check out Maui:
Maui’s Best Beaches || What to Do in Maui || Full Road to Hana Guide
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I love visiting Hawaii, I’ve been some 15 times now but I prefer to spend my time by the beach as I’m not much of a hiker – but short and not to tough walks I like. I did make it up Diamond Head though!
These all look amaaaaazing! It looks like my perfect holiday, hiking to all these beautiful locations, rather than just sitting on a beach! I especially like the look of Hālona Blowhole & Cove and the Ka’iwa Ridge Trail.
Would love to do more hiking in Oahu! I’ve only been once with my family and they are not much of hikers. Getting out on a trail early in the morning seems like a peaceful way to avoid crowds (of course if its not one of the really popular ones).
Oh wow – such beautiful trails and stunning views to hike. I think I would like to hike the Makapu’u Point & Lighthouse Trail as I love lighthouses. Thanks for this comprehensive list and info.
So gorgeous!
Thank you for all these great tips you shared, and the pictures are amaaazing ! just wow !!
I never been to Hawaï but I’ll definitely add it to my bucket list.😊