A Local’s Guide to the Best Hikes on Oahu for Beginners
We’ve spent many years exploring the spectacular hiking trails on the beautiful island of Oahu.
Our adventures taught us a lot about which trails are truly beginner-friendly. Some well-known hikes, like the Lanikai Pillbox trail and Koko Head, are often recommended to beginners, but in our experience, they can be challenging for those just starting out.
That’s why we want to share our list of the best hikes for beginners on Oahu. These include, The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse, Waimea Valley, Manoa Falls, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden and Diamond Head Summit trails.
(1) Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail
Location: Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail, Waimanalo, HI 96795
Admission fee: free
Elevation Gain: 500 ft
Distance: 2.5 miles out and Back
Hours: 7:00 am to 6:45 pm Daily
If you’re new to hiking on Oahu or just looking for a beautiful, easy trail, the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse is a must-visit. It’s our go-to recommendation for friends and family visiting the island, and there’s a good reason why.
First, the trail is fully paved, making it highly accessible. Whether you’re pushing a stroller or using a wheelchair, this trail is accommodating for all. It’s a smooth walk, taking us about 30 minutes one way at a leisurely pace. The accessibility, combined with the stunning views, makes it a family favorite.
Speaking of views, the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse trail offers one of the best sunrise views on Oahu. If you’re compiling a list of top sunrise hikes, this one should be on it. The early morning light casting over the ocean is just spectacular.
If you visit Oahu in the winter, you are in luck as winter brings an extra treat — whale watching. During the migration season (November- April), this trail is one of the best spots on the island to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures.
Just remember, it’s a popular destination, so parking can fill up fast. The lot is usually full after 10:00 am, but plenty of free parking is available if you arrive early or come towards the end of the day.
The views are incredible once you reach the observation deck at the top. You get this wide, open view of the ocean, and on a clear day, you can even spot Molokai and Lanai off in the distance. And, of course, there’s the lighthouse itself – a beautiful red and white structure that stands proudly against the blue sky.
The trail is exposed, so come prepared. We always bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water. To beat the heat, we prefer hiking at sunrise or later in the day as the sun begins to set.
Tip: You’ll likely find the gate closed for those early risers aiming for a sunrise hike. Don’t let this deter you. We often park on the street and join other hikers making their way in. It’s an early start, but it’s absolutely worth it.
(2) Waimea Valley Trail
Location: 59-864 Kamehameha Hwy Haleiwa, HI 96712
Admission fee: $25 per adult
Elevation Gain: 200 ft
Distance: 1.9 miles Out and Back
Hours: Tuesday- Sunday, 9:00 am- 4:00 pm, closed Mondays
Whenever we have visitors, another easy hike we recommend is the Waimea Valley trail. It’s a perfect stop on our North Shore Oahu road trip, blending the beauty of nature with a touch of adventure. Its also one of the best trails on the North Shore of Oahu.
The hike takes about 20-30 minutes to get to the waterfall, but there are plenty of spots to stop and take in the beauty along the way.
For us, one of the best parts of this hike isn’t just the destination; it’s the journey. We always take our time walking, admiring the diverse plant life. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone: a scenic hike and a botanical tour wrapped up in one.
The path is mainly shaded and paved throughout, which makes it accessible for everyone, whether you’re pushing a stroller or navigating a wheelchair.
A shuttle service is also available ($10 per person one way) for those needing assistance. Mobility-challenged guests may ride the shuttle free of charge.
Waimea Falls is one of the few waterfall hikes on Oahu where you can swim at the waterfalls base. The falls are 45 feet high and plunge into a large, welcoming pool. Life jackets are required for swimming, but don’t worry, they’re included in the admission fee.
Tips: First, this place gets busy. We’ve found that arriving right at opening time at 9:00 am lets you enjoy the falls with fewer people around. By 10:30 am, it typically starts to fill up. Alternatively, visiting towards the end of the day can also mean fewer crowds. The falls close at 4:00 pm, and we recommend arriving around 2:30 pm if going towards the end of the day.
Also, if you’re attending the Toa Luau at Waimea Valley, one of the best luaus on Oahu, your ticket includes free admission to the falls. It’s a fantastic way to combine cultural immersion with natural exploration, so take advantage of that.
(3) Manoa Falls Trail
Location: 3860 Manoa Rd, Honolulu, Hawaii
Admission fee: $5.00
Elevation Gain: 633 ft
Distance: 1.7 miles Out and Back
Hours: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Daily
Exploring Manoa Falls offers a lush escape into one of Oahu’s most beautiful rainforests. This is the most popular waterfall hike on Oahu due to its proximity to Honolulu and the easy trail.
The hike, taking roughly 1-2 hours roundtrip, rewards you with the breathtaking view of the 150-foot waterfall. Though the temptation to swim at its base might arise, it’s important to adhere to the signs prohibiting swimming for safety and preservation.
The path to Manoa Falls takes you through dense tropical rainforests, providing ample shade, dirt, and rock terrain. Despite the occasional slipperiness and uneven footing, the hike is worth it.
As one of the island’s popular hikes, timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience. The trail tends to be busiest from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm.
To avoid crowds, we always arrive early, before 9:00 am, or late afternoon, around 4:00 pm. I wouldn’t start the trail after 5:00 pm to give yourself enough time to hike before it starts getting dark.
Tips: Remember to bring along some bug repellent. The lush surroundings and shaded pathways are beautiful, but they’re also home to mosquitoes, especially after a rain.
Also, wear sturdy shoes with good traction to navigate the slippery terrain. I’ve seen people wear flip-flops on this hike, and I wouldn’t recommend it, given how slippery it can get.
(4) Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden Trail
Location: 45-680 Luluku Rd, Kaneohe, HI 96744
Admission fee: Free
Elevation Gain: 505 ft
Distance: 2 miles Out and Back
Hours: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Daily
Next up is a photographer’s dream spot: the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens. If you’ve ever searched for the best photo spots in Hawaii, you’ve likely seen these gardens topping the list.
And let me tell you, they are as spectacular in person as in pictures. The views here are breathtaking, with the spectacular Ko’olau Mountain range as the backdrop and a peaceful lake in the foreground.
You’ll find yourself surrounded by various vibrant plants and flowers, adding pops of color to the lush greenery. It’s the perfect place to relax and take in the natural beauty of Oahu.
One of the best things about the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden trail? It’s free to enter and the easiest hike mentioned on this list. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to enjoy a leisurely stroll surrounded by stunning scenery.
The trail starts paved but eventually turns into a mix of gravel and dirt. Keep in mind that it can get pretty muddy if it’s rained recently. While the trail isn’t well marked and might get confusing, you’ll find your way eventually – it’s all part of the adventure.
Because of its popularity on social media, there are several areas within the park where you’re not allowed to go on the road. You’ll see signs reminding you of this. These rules are there for your safety, and it’s important to respect them.
Remember, this place isn’t just a photo op – it’s a natural area we must take care of. You’ll also notice security around, with staff patrolling in golf carts to make sure everyone is following the guidelines.
A heads-up about the closing time: they’re strict. Everyone must be out by 4:00 pm, so plan your visit accordingly. I usually head there around 2:30 pm; this way, you can avoid the biggest crowds and still have plenty of time to explore and snap those perfect shots.
(5) Diamond Head Summit Trail
Location: 4204 Diamond Head Rd, Honolulu
Admission fee: $5 per adult, $10 per vehicle
Elevation Gain: 560 ft
Distance: 1.5 miles Out and Back
Hours: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Daily – Last entry at 4:00 pm
As someone who’s navigated the trails of Oahu more times than I can count, I cannot finish this list without mentioning the Diamond Head trail.
This trail holds the crown as the most popular hike on Oahu and for a good reason. Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with 360-degree views of Waikiki, Honolulu, and Oahu’s south shore.
Its popularity means it can get extremely crowded, so reservations are now required. If you plan to tackle this iconic hike, book your spot within 14 days of your intended visit. I always tell people visiting us that it feels like we’re heading to the zoo because of the crowds.
You can make your Diamond Head Reservation here.
The trail starts on a paved path, but be aware it gradually becomes steeper, with some sections that are not paved. The trail is well-marked, with railings along certain stretches to help with navigation.
While Diamond Head is the most challenging trail mentioned in this guide, it’s still accessible for beginners. It’s an excellent introduction to Oahu’s hiking scene, especially when compared to more demanding treks like the Lanikai Pillbox Trail and the Williwilinui Ridge Trail.
Tip: It gets extremely hot during the day, so bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen and a hat. We talked to one of the park rangers, and we were told that Diamond Head gets the most dehydration cases, especially among tourists who underestimate the Hawaiian sun. Stay hydrated!!
Oahu Hiking Tips
Here are some tips to help you have a successful and enjoyable hiking experience on Oahu:
Car break-ins are common in Hawaii: Leave valuables out of sight when traveling around the island. This isn’t specific to hiking, but it’s important to remember.
The weather is unpredictable on the islands: Be prepared for the weather to change quickly and bring rain gear. It can be sunny one minute and pouring rain the next.
Make reservations for popular hikes: Some popular hikes like Diamond Head require reservations in advance due to the high volume of visitors. Make sure to plan and secure your spot.
Start early: Many hiking trails can get crowded as the day goes on, so it’s best to start early in the morning to avoid crowds and have a smoother experience. You can also go towards the end of the day to avoid the crowds.
Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes: The terrain on Oahu’s trails can be rocky and uneven, so wear appropriate shoes to avoid slips or falls.
Leave no trace: Respect the environment by not littering and leaving nothing behind except for footprints.
