Oahu Hawaii is a hikers paradise! From east to west, north to south, this little island is covered in incredible hiking trails. Many of the easy Oahu hikes still offer incredible views without working up a sweat or feeling like you might pass out.
Hiking in Hawaii is an absolute must do on any trip to Kauai, Oahu or Maui. Whether you are a beginner or family looking for easy Oahu hikes or an expert hiker looking for more challenging Oahu hikes you’ll be able to find plenty of hiking trails to fill your Oahu travel itinerary.
In this blog we are sticking to easy hiking trails Oahu. These easy Oahu hikes are short in distance with little elevation gain and don’t have any crazy drop offs or sketchy trails. But don’t let that deter you. These easy hikes on Oahu will provide you with magical views and leave you in awe of the beautiful state of Hawaii.
5 Easy Oahu Hikes
Ka’ena Point Trail
Ka’ena Point Trail is unique as it can be completed from the south shore or the north shore of the island and it is one of the best easy Oahu hikes. From the south it is a 5.6 mile out and back trail and from the north it is a 5 mile out and back trail along the Farrington Highway.
This is a very easy hiking trail as it is mostly flat the entire way. It’s a great trail for kids, families and dogs however it is mostly uncovered so bring water and wear sunscreen. It undoubtedly will get hot! This Oahu hike is along the coast line and the views are fantastic the entire time.
At the end of the trail there are big sandy trails you can follow to explore the entire tip of the island or go rock hopping near the water. Additionally there are several calm water pools which are great for swimming if you need to cool off (you will).
Keep your eyes peeled for monk seals as this is one of the best places to spot them on the entire island. They are usually sunbathing on the rocks, which just so happen to be the same color as them. They can be hard to spot, but take a slow scan and look for shiny rocks. It just might be a seal. Chances are you will see at least one here!
Upper Kaneana Cave (Makua Cave)
Next on our list of easy Oahu hikes is Upper Kaneana Cave. Upper Kaneana Cave is an easy .8 mile hike to a cave that overlooks the west shoreline of Oahu. It is a quick and easy Oahu hike to complete however the trail is pretty narrow and overgrown. Long pants might be your best option to avoid getting scratched up.
Also the trailhead is a bit difficult to find. Park in the Kaneana parking lot near the lower Kaneana Cave. Walk along hwy 93 and you’ll see the trailhead just before the speed limit sign. There is no sign so keep your eyes peeled.
While you are here take the easy hiking trail to Lower Kaneana Cave as well. This is located directly across the road from the parking lot and is a much bigger cave than the upper cave. If you want to explore it fully, you’ll need a flashlight or headlamp as it gets very dark very quickly.
Diamond Head
Diamond Head trail is an easy 1.8 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail where you will gain 450 feet, and deserves a spot on the list of one of the best easy Oahu hikes. The trail is open every day except Wednesdays and there is a small entrance fee for those who wish to hike that are not Hawaii residents.
This trail is likely the most popular hike in Oahu due to its close proximity to Honolulu and rewarding views. The trail begins in the middle of Diamond Head volcanic crater and climbs about 500 feet to the top of the rim where you’re rewarded with stunning panoramic views.
While the trail does get steep in parts, the trail is extremely well maintained and short in distance. Once you reach the top, you can climb the bunkers for a 360 degree view of Oahu!
Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden Trail
Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden Trail is a 2 mile trail through Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden and is extremely scenic and beautiful. Along the trail you’ll come across a unique variety of vegetation, all labeled so you know what they are, and a beautiful lake with coin fish and ducks.
You’ll also get views of the Kualoa mountain chain which is an spectacular set of mountains that seemingly rise up out of nowhere.
The botanical garden is free is visit and a great place to enjoy a picnic with a view and go on a scenic drive if you have some extra time.
Makapu’u Light House Trail
Makapu’u Light House trail is one of the best easy Oahu hikes. This 2 mile round trip hike is completely paved and has only 500 ft of elevation gain. The easy hiking trail itself offers spectacular views of Oahu’s coastline including Koko Head and Koko Crater.
As you might guess, the trail ends at a historic lighthouse which makes for stunning photos. Here you also get outstanding views of the lush green coastline against the deep blue ocean as well as the offshore islets.
Give yourself about 2 hours to enjoy this hike. If it’s the right season this is a great place for whale watching which is an awesome treat at your destination.
Enjoy your hike!
It’s time to get hiking! These 5 easy Oahu hikes are some of the best hikes on the entire island of Oahu, yet require a quarter of the effort as most of them. We love a low effort, high reward hike! After all, vacation is meant for relaxing!
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