Barry PhilipsHawaii is famous for its beaches, volcanoes, waterfalls, tropical forests, dramatic cliffs, and spectacular ocean views. But beyond the beaches and luxury resorts lies another side of the islands that is best discovered on foot. From short volcanic crater hikes to challenging mountain trails and rainforest adventures, the top hiking trails in Hawaii offer something for almost every type of outdoor enthusiast.
Hawaii’s major islands—including Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Island of Hawaii—feature an extraordinary variety of landscapes. You can hike through an ancient volcanic crater in the morning, walk through a lush rainforest in the afternoon, and watch the sunset over the Pacific later in the day.
Some Hawaii hiking trails are relatively easy and suitable for beginners, while others require good fitness, proper footwear, preparation, and experience with steep or muddy terrain. Before setting out, hikers should always check current trail conditions, weather, access restrictions, and park notices.
Whether you are planning your first trip to Hawaii or returning for another adventure, these are some of the best hiking trails in Hawaii to consider.
Top Hiking Trails In Hawaii
1. Diamond Head Summit Trail – Oahu
The Diamond Head Summit Trail is arguably the most iconic hiking trail in Hawaii. Located near Honolulu and Waikiki, this relatively short hike takes visitors to the summit of Diamond Head, known in Hawaiian as Lēʻahi.
The trail is approximately 1.6 miles round trip and climbs about 560 feet. Although the distance is short, the trail includes steep sections, stairs, switchbacks, and a tunnel. The official Hawaii State Parks classification is moderate.
The reward is spectacular. From the summit, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of Waikiki, Honolulu, the southeastern Oahu coastline, and the Pacific Ocean.
Diamond Head is also interesting from a historical perspective. The trail passes through structures associated with Oahu’s former coastal defense system, including tunnels, bunkers, and the historic Fire Control Station.
Best for: First-time visitors, photographers, history lovers, and travelers staying in Honolulu.
2. Koko Head Crater Trail – Oahu
If you are searching for a challenging workout with an impressive reward, Koko Head Crater Trail is one of the best hiking trails in Oahu.
The trail climbs the side of Koko Crater using an unusual set of old railway tracks. Instead of conventional steps, hikers essentially climb hundreds of railroad ties toward the summit.
The ascent can be demanding, particularly in Hawaii’s heat and strong sunlight. There is relatively little shade, so carrying sufficient water and starting early can make the experience much more comfortable.
At the top, hikers are rewarded with broad views across southeastern Oahu, including the coastline and surrounding volcanic landscape.
Koko Head is particularly popular among people who want to combine sightseeing with a serious physical challenge.
Best for: Fitness enthusiasts, experienced hikers, sunrise seekers, and adventurous travelers.
3. Manoa Falls Trail – Oahu
Manoa Falls Trail provides a completely different hiking experience from Diamond Head and Koko Head.
Instead of dry volcanic terrain, hikers enter a lush tropical environment filled with towering trees, dense vegetation, and the sounds of flowing water and birds.
The trail leads to Manoa Falls, a dramatic waterfall surrounded by tropical vegetation. The scenery makes this one of the most popular rainforest hikes on Oahu.
Conditions can become muddy after rainfall, so appropriate footwear is important. Hikers should also exercise caution around slippery surfaces and changing trail conditions.
For visitors who want to experience Hawaii’s famous tropical rainforest without committing to an extremely strenuous hike, Manoa Falls is an excellent option.
Best for: Families with older children, rainforest lovers, photographers, and beginners seeking a tropical hiking experience.
4. Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail – Oahu
Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail is one of the more accessible scenic hikes on Oahu. The route follows a paved path toward Makapuʻu Point and provides beautiful views of the southeastern coastline.
The hike is particularly attractive because the landscape changes dramatically as you climb. Ocean views become increasingly expansive, while offshore islands and rugged coastal formations create a classic Hawaiian backdrop.
During the appropriate season, hikers may also have opportunities to spot humpback whales offshore.
The relatively straightforward route makes Makapuʻu Point a good choice for travelers who want spectacular scenery without tackling a highly technical trail.
Best for: Families, casual hikers, photographers, and coastal-view seekers.
5. Lanikai Pillbox Hike – Oahu
The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is one of Oahu’s most rewarding short hikes.
Although relatively brief, the trail climbs toward historic military pillboxes overlooking the famous Lanikai coastline. The views from the ridge are extraordinary, with turquoise water, sandy beaches, green hills, and the Mokulua Islands creating a postcard-like landscape.
The trail can be steep and uneven in places, and the exposed terrain means that heat can become a factor.
Sunrise is particularly popular here because the eastern-facing coastline provides an unforgettable beginning to the day.
Best for: Sunrise hikers, couples, photographers, and travelers looking for spectacular views without a long hike.
6. Waimea Canyon Trail – Kauai
Kauai is often called the “Garden Island,” and its hiking opportunities demonstrate why. Among the island’s most remarkable landscapes is Waimea Canyon.
Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon stretches for approximately 14 miles and reaches depths of up to 3,600 feet. Its red, brown, green, and orange geological layers create one of Hawaii’s most distinctive landscapes.
Several hiking opportunities exist around Waimea Canyon and nearby Kōkeʻe State Park.
One standout option is the Canyon Trail toward Waipoʻo Falls. The route provides an opportunity to move beyond the roadside viewpoints and experience the canyon more intimately.
Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, geology enthusiasts, and hikers visiting Kauai.
7. Kalalau Trail – Kauai
The Kalalau Trail is one of the most famous and spectacular hiking routes in Hawaii.
Located along Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast, the trail takes hikers through an extraordinary landscape of towering sea cliffs, deep valleys, lush vegetation, and Pacific Ocean scenery.
This is not a casual walk. Sections of the trail can be demanding, and conditions may become challenging when wet. The terrain requires preparation, good footwear, sufficient water, and careful attention to weather and trail conditions.
The full route is a major undertaking, while shorter sections can provide a taste of the Nā Pali Coast experience.
Because access and camping regulations can change, hikers should always check current official conditions before planning an overnight journey.
Best for: Experienced hikers, backpackers, photographers, and serious outdoor adventurers.
8. Hanakapiai Falls Trail – Kauai
Hanakapiai Falls is another remarkable hiking destination associated with the Nā Pali Coast.
The route combines coastal scenery with a rainforest waterfall experience. Hikers travel inland from the coast through lush vegetation toward the impressive Hanakapiai Falls.
The combination of mountains, forest, streams, and waterfalls makes this one of the most memorable hikes on Kauai.
However, the terrain can become slippery and muddy, particularly following rainfall. Flash-flood risks can also make stream crossings dangerous, so checking current conditions is essential.
Best for: Experienced day hikers, waterfall lovers, photographers, and adventure travelers.
9. Awaʻawapuhi Trail – Kauai
For spectacular Nā Pali Coast views, the Awaʻawapuhi Trail is difficult to beat.
Located in the Kōkeʻe area, the trail descends through forest toward an overlook featuring dramatic views of the deeply carved valleys and cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast.
One important consideration is that the descent you enjoy on the way toward the viewpoint becomes an uphill climb on the return journey.
This makes the trail considerably more demanding than its distance might initially suggest.
Weather can also affect the experience. Clouds and rain may obscure the famous views, while wet conditions can make the trail muddy.
Best for: Experienced hikers, landscape photographers, and travelers seeking dramatic mountain views.
10. Pihea Trail – Kauai
The Pihea Trail offers another opportunity to experience the highlands of Kauai.
The route begins near the Puʻu o Kila area and provides views toward the Kalalau Valley before continuing through wetter, forested terrain.
One of the great attractions of Pihea is the contrast between the open ridge scenery and the lush interior landscape.
Conditions can change quickly, and muddy sections are possible, particularly in wet weather.
For hikers who want to experience Kauai beyond its beaches and famous coastal viewpoints, Pihea is a rewarding choice.
Best for: Experienced hikers, rainforest enthusiasts, and travelers interested in Kauai’s interior landscape.
11. Alakaʻi Swamp Trail – Kauai
The Alakaʻi Swamp Trail offers an unusual hiking experience that feels completely different from Hawaii’s stereotypical beach landscape.
Located in the highlands of Kauai, the trail passes through a wet montane environment featuring native vegetation, mist, and boardwalk sections.
The area receives significant rainfall, meaning that muddy conditions are possible even when weather elsewhere on the island appears pleasant.
The trail can be demanding, but the environment makes the experience especially memorable.
It is an excellent choice for travelers who want to see a less conventional side of Hawaii.
Best for: Experienced hikers, nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventurous travelers.
12. Pipiwai Trail – Maui
The Pipiwai Trail is one of the best hiking trails in Maui for travelers who want waterfalls, rainforest, and dramatic scenery in one adventure.
Located within the Kīpahulu area of Haleakalā National Park, the trail passes through lush vegetation and a famous bamboo forest before reaching the Waimoku Falls area.
Walking through the bamboo forest is one of the highlights. The tall bamboo creates an almost surreal atmosphere as sunlight filters through the vegetation.
The trail also provides opportunities to experience Maui’s greener, more secluded side.
Best for: Rainforest lovers, waterfall enthusiasts, photographers, and adventurous families.
13. Sliding Sands Trail – Maui
For hikers looking for an entirely different environment, Sliding Sands Trail in Haleakalā National Park offers an unforgettable volcanic landscape.
Rather than lush rainforest, hikers encounter an immense high-altitude volcanic environment featuring cinder cones, unusual geological formations, and expansive views across the Haleakalā crater.
The elevation is an important consideration. Hiking at high altitude can feel significantly more strenuous than the same distance at sea level.
Weather can also change rapidly, with strong sun, cold temperatures, clouds, and wind all possible.
This trail is best approached with proper preparation rather than treated as an ordinary short walk.
Best for: Experienced hikers, photographers, geology enthusiasts, and visitors seeking volcanic scenery.
14. Waiheʻe Ridge Trail – Maui
Waiheʻe Ridge Trail is one of Maui’s outstanding mountain hikes.
The trail climbs through the lush West Maui Mountains, providing views of ridges, valleys, waterfalls, and the surrounding coastline.
On clear days, the scenery can be spectacular, but clouds can quickly move across the mountains.
The climb requires reasonable fitness, and muddy conditions are possible after rainfall.
For visitors who want a mountain experience without committing to a multi-day backpacking adventure, Waiheʻe Ridge is a strong option.
Best for: Intermediate hikers, photographers, mountain lovers, and active travelers.
15. Kīlauea Iki Trail – Island of Hawaii
The Kīlauea Iki Trail offers hikers an opportunity to explore one of the most fascinating volcanic landscapes in Hawaii.
Located in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, the trail descends into the Kīlauea Iki crater and crosses a landscape created by volcanic activity.
The experience is particularly interesting because hikers are not simply looking at a volcano from a distance—they are walking through a volcanic crater.
The landscape can feel dramatically different from Hawaii’s tropical coastal areas, demonstrating the incredible geological diversity of the islands.
Best for: Volcano enthusiasts, geology lovers, photographers, and adventurous first-time hikers.
How to Choose the Best Hiking Trail in Hawaii
Choosing the right Hawaii hiking trail depends on your fitness level, available time, interests, and tolerance for difficult terrain.
If you are a beginner, start with relatively accessible options such as Diamond Head, Makapuʻu Point, or Manoa Falls.
If you want a serious physical challenge, Koko Head, Waiheʻe Ridge, Sliding Sands, or some of Kauai’s more demanding trails may be better choices.
For waterfall lovers, Manoa Falls, Pipiwai Trail, Hanakapiai Falls, and Waipoʻo Falls should be high on your list.
If dramatic ocean views are your priority, Diamond Head, Lanikai Pillbox, Awaʻawapuhi, and the Nā Pali Coast trails offer some of the most memorable scenery.
Best Time to Go Hiking in Hawaii
Hawaii can be hiked throughout much of the year, but weather conditions vary considerably between islands, elevations, and individual trails.
Early morning is often a smart choice because temperatures are generally more comfortable and popular trails may be less crowded.
Rain is an important consideration. A trail that is manageable in dry conditions can become muddy and slippery after rainfall.
High-elevation routes require additional preparation because temperatures can be much cooler than at sea level.
Always check current park announcements and trail conditions before starting your hike. Official Hawaii State Parks information lists hiking opportunities across Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and the Island of Hawaii.
Essential Hawaii Hiking Tips
Before heading out on one of the top hiking trails in Hawaii, preparation is important.
Carry enough water. Even relatively short hikes can become difficult in hot and humid conditions.
Wear appropriate footwear. Sandals may be unsuitable for steep, muddy, rocky, or uneven trails.
Start early. Morning temperatures can be more comfortable, and early starts can help you avoid some crowds and intense midday heat.
Check the weather. Rain can dramatically change trail conditions.
Stay on marked trails. Avoid taking shortcuts or entering dangerous areas for photographs.
Respect the environment. Hawaii’s ecosystems are fragile, and visitors should avoid damaging plants, disturbing wildlife, or leaving trash behind.
Know your limits. A beautiful viewpoint is never worth risking your safety.
Check closures and reservations. Some popular hiking destinations have access requirements, reservations, or temporary closures. For example, Diamond Head requires reservations for non-residents, and official park notices can change in response to weather and other hazards.
Hawaii Hiking Trails Comparison Table
| Hiking Trail | Island | Approx. Difficulty | Main Attraction | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diamond Head Summit Trail | Oahu | Moderate | Waikiki & ocean views | First-time visitors |
| Koko Head Crater Trail | Oahu | Hard | Crater summit views | Fitness enthusiasts |
| Manoa Falls Trail | Oahu | Easy–Moderate | Rainforest & waterfall | Nature lovers |
| Makapuʻu Point Trail | Oahu | Easy–Moderate | Coastal views | Families & casual hikers |
| Lanikai Pillbox | Oahu | Moderate | Beach & island views | Sunrise & photography |
| Waimea Canyon Trail | Kauai | Moderate | Canyon scenery | Landscape lovers |
| Kalalau Trail | Kauai | Hard | Nā Pali Coast | Experienced hikers |
| Hanakapiai Falls | Kauai | Hard | Waterfall & rainforest | Adventure travelers |
| Awaʻawapuhi Trail | Kauai | Moderate–Hard | Nā Pali cliffs | Photographers |
| Pihea Trail | Kauai | Moderate | Kalalau Valley | Experienced hikers |
| Alakaʻi Swamp Trail | Kauai | Hard | High-elevation rainforest | Adventurers |
| Pipiwai Trail | Maui | Moderate | Bamboo forest & waterfall | Rainforest lovers |
| Sliding Sands Trail | Maui | Hard | Volcanic crater | Experienced hikers |
| Waiheʻe Ridge Trail | Maui | Moderate–Hard | Mountain & valley views | Active travelers |
| Kīlauea Iki Trail | Hawaii Island | Moderate | Volcanic crater | Volcano enthusiasts |
Related
Conclusion
The top hiking trails in Hawaii demonstrate just how diverse the Hawaiian Islands really are. Hawaii is much more than beautiful beaches and tropical resorts. Its mountains, volcanoes, valleys, waterfalls, forests, cliffs, and volcanic craters create an extraordinary playground for hikers.
For a classic introduction to Hawaii hiking, the Diamond Head Summit Trail is difficult to beat. Kauai is the place to go for dramatic mountain and Nā Pali Coast scenery, while Maui offers unforgettable rainforest and volcanic landscapes. The Island of Hawaii, meanwhile, provides opportunities to explore some of the most fascinating volcanic terrain on Earth.
The best Hawaii hiking trail ultimately depends on what you want from your adventure. Some travelers may prefer a short hike with an incredible viewpoint, while others may want a demanding full-day trek through remote wilderness.
Whatever trail you choose, prepare carefully, respect the natural environment, monitor the weather, and never underestimate Hawaii’s terrain.
With the right preparation, hiking can transform a trip to Hawaii from a simple vacation into an unforgettable adventure through some of the world’s most extraordinary landscapes.