Hawaii’s hiking is nothing short of top-notch. From the the diverse beaches and equally varied landscapes, the Hawaiian islands and their uniqueness have the power to make a single visit the trip of a lifetime. Hiking in Hawaii provides an up-close look at some of the best of the natural wonders the Aloha state has to offer.
Kauai Hiking
The Garden Isle & Awa’awapuhi
Let’s kick our Hawaii hiking in Kauai. As Hawai’i’s oldest rock, the island of Kauai is just that: old Hawai’i. Most of the island is inaccessible by vehicle but it is a hiker’s paradise.
Kauai’s wildness makes it an island for the ultra-adventurous. It’s perfect for those that want to get off the grid and venture into lush jungles, mind-bending canyons, and cathedral-like coastlines seen by many but canvassed by few.
In Kōke’e State Park, Awa’awapuhi Trail is a beautiful trek through the dense, vibrant jungle, with a coastal reward at the finish line. The downhill trail offers a few glimpses of the ocean through the jungle, but the sudden opening at the end of the trail is still unexpected and impressive. At once, you’re standing out on one of Kauai’s ridges with steep drop-offs on either side trying to make sense of the enormity of the scene. It’s a powerful glimpse at old Hawai’i and a timeless memory to bring home.
Kauai Beach Recommendation
The five-mile, rough sand road to Polihale State Park in Kauai is an adventure in itself (4×4 highly recommended)! The rough ride is worth it, though, as you pull up to a large, secluded beach with the perfect setup for spectacular sunsets. Beach camping is available by permit as well.
Hike Maui
Maui & Waihe’e
West Maui is a masterpiece, and the lookout atop Waihe’e Ridge Trail is the perfect place to bask in all its glory. The trail itself is a steep incline through a beautiful forested area before opening up to 360-degree views the rest of the way. There are several resting spots and photo lookouts that you’ll definitely want to take advantage of, especially on clear days!
One important thing to remember before setting out on this hike (and any hike): Wipe the bottom of your shoes on the footpads at the trailhead. Why? This ensures that you aren’t carrying invasive plant seeds into the mountains with you!
Maui Beach Recommendation
Olowalu Beach in Maui is incredible for a sunset hang and reef snorkeling, but the length and accessibility of this spot make it a favorite. The beach has a traditional entrance, but extends along the highway for miles! Where else can you pull off the road and step out onto a black sand beach?
If golden sands are what you seek, head for the area of Wailea, where a walking path follows along a decent stretch of the coastline. Because the area is home to a few luxury resorts, the path and beaches are very clean and well maintained. Pro tip: the area of rocks just south of the Four Seasons (yes, the same Four Seasons of White Lotus fame) is a favorite hangout for sea turtles!
Oahu Hikes
Koko Head
The Koko Head Tramway trail located on the outskirts of Honlulu, Hawaii’s capital city, may not be very far off the beaten path but offers easy-to-find yet extraordinary views of both land and sea. Take in the impressive cityscape view of the sprawling urbanity below after climbing the short but challenging track up to Koko Head. While the trail is high-trafficked, it’s still not quite as busy as it’s nearby sister crater, Diamond Head. If you’re not able to venture deep into the Hawaiian jungle, this city trek is perfect for you.
Oahu Beaches
Skip the crowded sands of Waikiki and head to the island’s windward coast for miles of white sand beaches. Many are just a quick pull-off from the main road, like Kualoa Regional Park, Kaaawa Beach and Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park.
Big Island Hikes
Hawai’i Island & Pololu
On the northern tip of the Big Island of Hawai’i, Pololu Valley is nestled in the Kohala Mountain Range. Formerly a massive volcano, the area is now an expansive landscape with sheer cliffs and oceanside views. The Pololu Trail is a steep descent (I recommend hiking shoes here… this coastal trail can get muddy) with beautiful views all the way down to a black sand beach! You can choose to relax on the beach or keep trekking across the beach up to Honokane Nui Lookout.
ADA Accessible Lookouts Across the Hawaiian Islands
Many of these lookout points and national parks are accessibility-friendly and/or have local tour operators that accomodate mobility differences.
Kauai: Kalalau Lookout, Pu’u O Kila Lookout, Pu’u Hinahina Lookout
Oahu: Tantalus Lookout, Halona Blowhole Lookout, Hanauma Bay Lookout, Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden
Maui: Haleakala National Park, Wai’anapanapa State Park
Big Island: Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Hiking in Hawaii is unparalleled. In a place where nature is embraced and interwoven into Native culture and customs, there’s no better way to honor Hawaiian heritage than by celebrating Hawaii’s hiking.
Disclaimer: We would like to urge all our readers to exercise caution and reconsider travel plans to Maui, Hawai’i, in light of the 2023 wildfire that significantly impacted the local community. The safety and well-being of the residents and their environment must be top priority.
If you are interested in helping the Maui community during this challenging recovery period, we encourage you to consider donating to the non-profit organization, Hawai’i Community Foundation, at hawaiicommunityfoundation.org or visit mauinuistrong.info for other verified support groups. Your contributions can make a significant difference in assisting the affected residents and aiding the recovery efforts.
