6 Short Hikes On Oahu That Are Worth The Walk

Though the most urbanized of the Hawaiian Islands, Oʻahu’s many hiking trails do not disappoint. Some of the island’s most stunning views, waterfalls, and tropical plants can be seen with just a short trek. Here are some of Oʻahu’s shortest hikes that are worth the rewards.

1. Crouching Lion Trail

Hiking Trail, Park

For panoramic views of Kahana Bay, hike the half-mile unmarked trail up to a rock formation known as the Crouching Lion. The trail goes straight up the mountain and although it’s short, it can be very dangerous and slippery if done after a rainstorm—there have been many fatalities on this trail so hike in a group. From the top, hikers see all the way into Kahana Valley and much of the coastline.

2. Diamond Head Summit Trail

Hiking Trail, Natural Feature

Ariel views of Diamond Head, Oahu | © GE Keoni

From the summit, visitors take in sweeping views of sea cliffs and beaches on the left, and the urban centers of Waikīkī and Honolulu on the right. Though only 1.5 miles, the trail climbs 500 feet through tunnels and up steep stairs to a set of bunkers up on the volcano’s crater rim.

3. Turtle Bay Resort to Kahuku Point

Resort

Starting from the Turtle Bay Resort parking lot, this 2.5-mile walk follows the pristine shoreline and finishes at the northern-most point on Oʻahu, Kahuku Point. The trail is completely flat and kid-friendly, with many places to take a swim, lie on a secluded beach, view native birds nesting in the sand dunes, go tide pooling, or watch Hawaiian monk seals. It’s possible to connect to other trails or head west instead of east from Turtle Bay Resort for an extended adventure.

5. Koko Crater Trail

Botanical Garden, Hiking Trail, Park

Koko Crater Railway Trail | © Remi Yuan/Unsplash

To appreciate the beauty of this dormant volcanic crater, hikers set out to tackle over a thousand wooden railway tracks that act as steps leading to the summit. Though clocking in at less than two miles roundtrip, this strenuous uphill hike is only for those who want a serious workout—the extremely fit run up and down in about 20 minutes— but it’s well worth the effort for the spectacular panoramic views. East Honolulu and Hanauma Bay can be seen from above, while looking down into the crater provides a birds-eye view of the Koko Crater Botanical Garden.

6. Manoa Falls

Hiking Trail, Natural Feature

This easy 1.5-mile out-and-back trail takes hikers to the base of Manoa Valley and is suitable for all skill levels. The path winds through the lush Hawaiian rainforest, ending with a close-up of Manoa Falls.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.