UPDATED MAR 2020. You don’t have to be a super-confident or experienced hiker to enjoy some of the incredible hiking trails that Oahu has to offer. I was once in the space where I wanted to try some trails but wasn’t sure where to go or if they’d be OK for me as a beginner and usually solo. This is why I have prepared a shortlist of the best Oahu hikes for beginners to get you started on your own adventures. These hikes are not only a good workout, but also and good chance to get outdoors and enjoy nature without the sheer drops of some of the scarier hikes or the skillful footing required of some of the more technical hikes and this is why they are great for beginners.
The 5 Best Oahu Hikes For Beginners And Tips For Hiking Them
Disclaimer
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Why I chose these hikes
I should mention that I chose these as beginner trails because they don’t require a lot of hiking skills in terms of footing, navigation, or a high level of fitness.
They’re still hikes though so the more fit you are, the easier they will be.
Also, the weather can influence how hard the hike is, so try to do them at cooler times of day to make them easier on you.
1. Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
This one is probably the best one to start with for beginners because it really isn’t a hike in the traditional sense.
It’s more like a walk up a paved road. If you are a beginner though, it is a good little trail to get your sweat on, build up your conditioning, and improve your stamina.
It’s a wide road and along the way, there is plenty of room to stop and take a break.
There is a sweet payoff at the top of the trail because the views are magnificent.
Extra tip: It’s especially beautiful at sunrise and if it’s whale season, keep an eye out for whales swimming by.
Full review on Makapu’u: A Guide To The Makapu’u Tide Pools – A Tide Pool Treasure
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2. Diamond Head Trail
This is another popular hike that is great for beginners.
The hike consists of a gradual incline with a lot of switchbacks and finishes off with an epic staircase to get to the top.
The lookouts at the top are amazing and well worth the hike – that is a common theme with all hikes really.
Again, there is room to step to the side and take a break if need be and the trail is super easy to follow so there is no risk of getting lost.
Extra tip: This is a very popular hike so go earlier in the day before the crowds arrive.
Full review on Diamond Head: A Guide To Hiking The Diamond Head Trail On Oahu, Hawaii
3. Manoa Falls
Another great beginner trail, though this one leads you through lush scenery to a waterfall.
It is not as strenuous as Diamond Head or the Lighthouse Trail so it is a little easier on the muscles, but it can be a little muddy and slippery at times so just take your time.
Though it’s a jungle trail it’s very well marked and easy to follow. If you like this trail then you will probably enjoy the Maunawili Falls Trail so check that one out too.
Extra tip: Plenty of insect repellent is needed for this hike – and all jungle hikes on the island for that matter.
Full review on Manoa Falls: Manoa Falls – A Guide To Hiking This Jungle Trail In The City
4. Koko Head Stairs
This is otherwise known as the stairs of doom but don’t let that stop you from conquering them. The hike involves 1048 steps of thigh burning goodness and, as you would imagine, the view at the top is stunning.
It’s a challenging hike in terms of stamina because the seemingly never-ending stairs will have your legs feeling like jelly.
The good news is that you can stop and step to the side when you need to take a breather. That will probably be a few times along the way, to be honest, because they are steep.
There’s plenty of room at the top to rest and enjoy the magnificent views before making your way back down the stairs.
Extra tip: Stop at Uncle Clays House of Pure Aloha for a refreshing shave ice afterward
Full review on Koko Head: Koko Head Stairs – A Guide To Conquering The Stairs Of Doom
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5. Lanikai Pillbox Trail
A dreamy trail that takes you up to an old pillbox whilst providing gorgeous views from Kailua to Waimanalo.
The view of the water really is incredible from up there and it is a great spot to watch the sunrise – maybe even jump in the water for a swim afterward.
The first part of the hike can be a little slippery, but this section is very short and the rest of the trail is quite stable so don’t let that first part scare you off.
Just take it one step at a time.
Full review on Lanikai Pillbox trail: A Guide To Hiking The Lanikai Pillbox Trail On Oahu, Hawaii
Safety tips for hiking on Oahu
Protect yourself against heat-related illnesses by keeping hydrated, using sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), and having some snacks with you as well (I usually have these energy gels
with me).
If you like to adventure solo like me, make sure you tell someone where you will be and when you expect to be done. I have a full post with tips for solo adventures here.
Always stick to the trails to keep yourself safe and avoid causing erosion to these beautiful areas.
What to bring with you
- Hat
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent (for Manoa Falls)
- Camera (I use a GoPro
) - Snacks or energy gels
- Good hiking shoes (I use the New Balance Minimus and they give me a lot of confidence as a hiker)
and they give me a lot of confidence as a hiker)I hope this guide can help you kickstart your adventures or even just squeeze in a few easy hikes while you are visiting the island.
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Koko Crater Stairs is not an easy hike & should be removed from this list. Dozens of people are air-lifted off this hike annually to the point where it may be shut down due to people being ill-prepared for this strenuous hike. It is essential to wear proper clothing, bring water & snacks & prepare your body to climb up these steps.
Definitely agree with your tips for this hike and think those are essential tips for every hike. It’s very easy in terms of skill since there is no climbing or technical skill needed to get to the top. This is why it is added to this list.