Are you looking for the best hikes in Oahu? Maybe some easy hikes in Oahu or some kid friendly hikes in Oahu?
You’re in the right spot!
My family loves to hike! We were determined to find the best hikes in Oahu and made it our mission! We were not disappointed and wished we had more time to explore all the amazing hikes on the island!
Let’s explore some of the best hikes in Oahu, as well as some of the easy hikes in Oahu!
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Diamond Head Crater Hike
Diamond Head Crater Hike
Miles: 1.6
Location: Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii
Duration: 1-2 hours
Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
Diamond Head State Monument may be one of the most famous landmarks in Hawaii. This extinct volcano attracts millions of people looking for a great hike with amazing views.
The Trail
Diamond Head is a steep hike that involves lots of stairs. But do not worry. It is still categorized as a kid friendly hike in Oahu! My husband and I are trail runners in the mountains of Utah and we actually ran up this trail. I didn’t think it was difficult but I was in pretty good shape.
The is was an easy hike on Oahu that I highly recommend. Don’t be nervous I saw elderly people on this trail as well as small children. You will do great!
Parking
Parking is available at the start of the trail. There is an attendant to collect the entrance fee which is $5 per car. We arrived at 6:00 am and the lot was full! We ended up having to park about a mile away and walk to the hiking trail. If you are a pedestrian there is a $1 entrance fee. There are tour options to avoid the parking situation.
Side Notes
This hike has some amazing views, maybe the best in all of Hawaii. Be on the lookout for a cute light house and an excellent view of Honolulu. This hike is also really close to Waikiki, so if you are staying in that area be sure to check this hike out!
The trail can be very crowded. While we were able to run up the trail, we had to zig and zag around hikers. And when we say there is a lot of stairs, we are not joking! There are also tunnels and dark places that you need to go through near the top to get to the spectacular views.
This is a great family hike that can be added to your “kid friendly hikes in Oahu” list.
Moana Falls Hike
Moana Falls
Miles: 1.6
Location: Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii
Duration: 1-2 hours
Difficulty: Easy – Intermediate
Moana Falls is one of the most beautiful hikes in Oahu!
Moana Falls has been used in several movies and television shows such as Jurassic Park, Catching Fire, Lost, and Hawaii 5-0. The beauty is unreal, and it is no surprise these movies chose to use this trail to film at.
My husband and I are trail runners and wanted to make it our mission to find the best hikes in Oahu. Moana Falls is relatively close to Waikiki Beach, which was where we were staying. We wanted a short morning run, and this seemed like the perfect place. It did not disappoint!
The Trail
This trail was so amazing and beautiful it stopped me in my tracks so many times because it is gorgeous. (Maybe not the best for trail running if you haven’t seen the beautiful sites before!)
The trail was also muddy as it rains frequently in this part of the rain-forest. This did not bother me one bit. I did however have to slow down and be a little careful on parts. It was by far the most beautiful of the hikes we did in Oahu!
In my opinion this is the easiest hike in Oahu because you will not even realize that you have been hiking, it will feel more like exploring.
Parking
Parking is located at the bottom of Moana Road. The cost is $5. There is an attendant there during certain hours. However, we are early risers and went at 6:30 am, and there was no one on duty and we could find no way to pay. So if you want to avoid the cost go early!
Side Notes and Warnings
The Moana Falls Trail is part of Honolulu Mauka Trail System consisting of 18 trails in the area. Moana Falls is located in the Moana Valley. It leads up to a 150 foot waterfall. The trail to get to the waterfall takes you in the mountains of Koolau in a tropical rain forest.
The pool beneath the waterfall is not safe to swim in. There is a threat of getting infected with leptospirosis, which causes flu like symptoms for two weeks. The area near the falls is very muddy and slippery. I had a slip at one point while running. Use caution!
We did not venture to the top of the falls because we did not feel it was safe. Some hikers have fallen from the top. If you avoid the pool and venturing to the top, you will be fine.
I still define this as a “kid friendly hike in Oahu” because as long as you are smart you will be just fine.
Makapuu Lighthouse Hike

Photo Courtesy of Kaleismith on wikipedia
Miles: 2.0 round trip
Location: Honolulu Oahu Hawaii – Near Waikiki
Duration: 30 – 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
The Trail
This trail is moderate but beautiful and worth the climb (about 500 ft) The views from the top of the hike are phenomenal. You will have an incredible view of the whole island. If you look out to sea you will see hump back whales from December to May. This hike is worth checking out.
Parking
The gate opens at 7:00 am for the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail parking lot. If you would like to go earlier, you can park on the side of the road. Make sure you check the road signs and obey the law. There is also a parking lot at Makapuu Point (you will have to hike back to the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail parking lot to start the hike). If you want to avoid parking there is a shuttle service available.
Side Notes and Warnings
This is a great kid friendly hike in Oahu. The views are incredible. It is better to do this hike early in the morning as the day goes on the hotter it becomes.
There is an option to view the Makapuu tide pool and blowhole. It is pretty dangerous and not recommended for kids. If you are adventurous you can go down a little bit farther and see the tide pools. If the waves are crashing it is not recommend going down that path.
Lanikai Pillbox Hike

Image Courtesy of Go Hawaii
Miles: 1 mile
Location: Westside Oahu (40 minutes from Waikiki)
Duration: 1 hour – 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
The Trail
The trail is moderate because the first part is very steep. Although, you are steadily climbing upward, the hike is not as intense as the first part. Many kids and families easily complete this trail. It takes about 20-30 minutes to reach the first pillbox. If you continue for about 10 more minutes you will reach the second pillbox.
The pillbox hike has some of the best views of the west side of Oahu. As you climb the views get better and better. This is a great hike for all ages!
Parking
There are a few parking spots located on the right side of the street that leads to the trail. More parking is located down the road on the left side.
Side Notes
This trail gets crowded quickly, so the earlier you go the better. Also, make sure to wear comfortable shoes. This is an easy hike on Oahu after the initial climb.
Waimea Falls Park
Waimea Falls
Miles: 1.5 round trip
Location: Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii – North Shore
Duration: 1-2 Hours
Difficulty: Easy
Cost: $14-$18
Waimea Falls has more than just hiking and that is what you are paying for. There is a beautiful botanical garden leading up to the falls. Swimming is also available once you get to the falls. A lifeguard is on duty and life vest must be worn.
The Trail
Waimea Falls is a paved trail up to a waterfall. I really struggled calling this a hike because 3/4 of a mile is not a hike in my mind. The site also charges $18 per adult, which I was skeptical about. On the bright side, if you have a stroller or wheelchair this is the perfect place to visit.
There are summer concerts and events available to attend. Some people even film in this location for movies.
This is probably one of the best easy hikes on Oahu.
Parking
Parking is free at Waimea Falls. If you travel farther down paid parking is available for the beach across the road. There is also a shuttle service available.
Side Notes
If you have a Go Ohau Card, this site is included. If swimming at the waterfall is unavailable the day you go, you will be able to come back at any time during over the next 10 days to experience swimming at the falls.
This is a perfect destination for a kid friendly hike on Oahu!
Things to Bring on Your Hike
These hikes are amazing and you are going to have a great time. There are a few things to pack for Hawaii but specifically for hiking in Hawaii. I recommend the following items:
Bug Spray
Hawaii is a tropical paradise for all creatures. Luckily, I didn’t get too many bites but better safe than sorry.
Sunblock
Some of the hikes like Moana Falls are completely covered but other hikes like Diamond Head you will be fully exposed to the sun. You do not want to get burned so make sure to apply some sunblock before hitting that trail.
Water Bottle
Always bring a water bottle when you are hiking. This is my number one rule. You do not want to get dehydrated along a trail.
Backpack
Bringing a backpack on your hike is a great idea. Store some extra energy boosting snacks. You can also store everything listed above all in one spot.
Runner’s Belt
Personally, when I hike I like to have my water handy. I love the runner’s belt because not only can I store my water but my cell phone can fit in the zipper pocket while I hike.
I hope these recommendations help you prepare for your hike! The images below will lead your straight to Amazon.
Best Hikes in Oahu and More!
Hopefully, you now can explore some easy hikes in Oahu and see which one is your favorite! My favorite was Moana Falls. If you have a favorite hike in Oahu, please let us know by leaving a comment below! Also, if you know of any other kid friendly hikes in Oahu comment below!
See More of Hawaii
Hiking in Oahu made me want to explore the other islands. I can’t wait to hike on Kauai, and then with my kids on Maui!
Have fun in paradise! If you are looking for more amazing things to explore in Oahu be sure to check out my One Week in Oahu Itinerary, Hanauma Bay, Pearl Harbor, best places to snorkel on Oahu , Polynesian Cultural Center and Where to get a Dole Whip posts!
Also, you may be interested in my One Day in Maui Itinerary, or my crazy experience driving in Maui on the road of death, if you decide to island hop to Maui.
Facebook Community
If you have any questions be sure to join my Facebook Travel Community This great community can help answer any questions you may have about your upcoming trips. Plus, I try to add any great deals or promotions that companies send me!
Oahu Waterfall Tour
If you want a hiking tour check out the link below by clicking the image! This tour is approximately 4 hours. The tour will pick you up from Waikiki.
Bonus
Be sure to get a copy of the Top 20 restaurants in Oahu! I will email you a copy!
Shirley
January 2, 2020 9:58 amIt’s been a very long time since I was on Oahu….this article makes me want to go back just to hike these awesome trails. Thanks!!
Lisa
January 2, 2020 6:31 pmI want to go back too!
Missy
January 2, 2020 10:55 amWe love lush wet forest types hikes. Looks like we need to go there next.
Lisa
January 2, 2020 6:30 pmI highly recommend it!
Stacey Billingsley
January 2, 2020 1:39 pmSo beautiful! I’d love to go to Hawaii one day. I hope to. These pictures are simply stunning! I love that lighthouse, too.
Lisa
January 2, 2020 6:29 pmYes, there are so many beautiful spots!
jen
January 2, 2020 5:44 pmgreat hikes..lots of variety!!
Lisa
January 2, 2020 6:29 pmFor sure!
Brooklyn
January 2, 2020 6:14 pmI haven’t made it to Hawai’i….YET! I love seeing all the hikes available. I didn’t consider myself a hiker until the military made me do it lol…but I actually enjoy it. When I make it to Hawai’i I’ll definitely have to check out the lighthouse and pillbox hikes. Those views are breathtaking!
Lisa
January 2, 2020 6:29 pmAwesome, Moana Falls was unbelievable as well!
Leeanne
January 2, 2020 6:42 pmHawaii is my younger daughter’s dream trip. We need to get there and do some of these hikes. The views are amazing.
Lisa
January 3, 2020 3:25 pmIt has always been my dream trip too but I have been so many other places and randomly decided to go!
Taci- Life Beyond Zebra
January 2, 2020 6:43 pmWe went to Oahu when I graduated high school! It was so pretty, I got to see a lot of what you have here to. So cool!
Lisa
January 3, 2020 3:24 pmI love looking at the pictures and dreaming of going back! It is so pretty!
alison netzer
January 3, 2020 7:12 amWe did Moana Falls and it was not so easy. Of course a trail runner whizzed past us like it was no big deal. Love these hikes in Oahu, great list.
Lisa
January 3, 2020 3:23 pmI thought it was very slippery, I was probably in the best shape of my life when we went so it seemed easier.
Jordan
January 3, 2020 7:29 amI love hiking, so this post was right up my alley. These spots look amazing, especially the waterfall and the lighthouse. And thank you for the notes and warnings on these. Good insider tips to know.
Lisa
January 3, 2020 3:21 pmI love hiking or really running on trail! Especially in Hawaii!
Courtney
January 3, 2020 8:05 amThe views look amazing!
Lisa
January 3, 2020 3:20 pmSo amazing!
kmf
January 3, 2020 9:44 amI love day hikes especially in beautiful places like this. Pinning for my next visit!
Lisa
January 3, 2020 3:19 pmOh good!
Heather
January 3, 2020 10:54 amThis looks like an amazing place to hike and to visit in general. Someday we will get there. There are just so many places to visit in this world!
Lisa
January 3, 2020 3:17 pmHawaii is as good as everyone says! Such a great place!
Lucinda
January 6, 2020 10:25 amI love to hike and Hawaii is definitely on my bucket list. These hikes look great!
Lisa
January 6, 2020 8:09 pmThey were so much fun!
Sydney Delong
January 6, 2020 12:07 pmBeautiful! Looks like I need to get in shape before going to Hawaii!
Lisa
January 6, 2020 8:09 pmIt helps for sure! Even snorkeling is kind of tough, but good exercise
Leslie W.
January 6, 2020 2:21 pmI’ve done Diamond Head. Need to do the rest 🙂
Lisa
January 6, 2020 8:07 pmFor sure! I love hiking!
Lisa
January 6, 2020 2:25 pmGoing on the bucket list! Thank you for sharing.
Lisa
January 6, 2020 8:07 pmOh good!
vanessa
January 6, 2020 5:42 pmHawaii has been on my bucket list since I had a bucket, but it’s happening very soon. Your pictures just inspired me more to make it happen.
Lisa
January 6, 2020 8:07 pmI know it is like that one destination everyone has in there bucket!
Holly
January 6, 2020 7:04 pmGreat places to hike! I live on Oahu years ago and some of these were my favorites!
Lisa
January 6, 2020 8:06 pmThat would be awesome to live there!
Angela
January 6, 2020 8:28 pmSo excited to check out Moana Falls this summer. I have done Diamond Head but when I was much younger, worried how I will do with all those stairs now! Wish me luck!
Lisa
January 7, 2020 9:17 pmI loved Moana Falls, It was unreal being in a jungle!
Maria Gustafsson
January 6, 2020 8:54 pmGreat list Lisa, my brother and his family are into hiking, and heading to Hawaii in a couple of weeks. I’m going to send them this list!
Lisa
January 7, 2020 9:16 pmAwesome! I hope they have an amazing time!
Charlotte
January 6, 2020 9:07 pmI love hiking! I’m putting this on my list for it I ever get to visit Hawaii!
Lisa
January 7, 2020 9:16 pmOh good! I highly encourage Hawaii at list one time in life!
Suzan
January 7, 2020 5:34 amSuch a lush, beautiful area. So nice to view from altitude! Thank you for sharing the hikes.
Lisa
January 7, 2020 9:14 pmIt is beautiful, the view from the top is amazing!
Amy Irvin
January 7, 2020 8:27 amThis is a great experience you’ve shared. Bucket lists status!
Lisa
January 7, 2020 9:13 pmOh for sure!
Robin
January 7, 2020 9:25 amI want to do them all!!! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Lisa
January 7, 2020 9:12 pmNo problem!
KENDRA
January 7, 2020 1:38 pmBeautiful! Great list. I love the lighthouse hike option!
Lisa
January 7, 2020 9:09 pmEvery hike is so beautiful in Oahu!
Lisa
January 7, 2020 9:12 pmAll the hikes in Ohau are beautiful for sure!
Noelle Collins
January 7, 2020 1:58 pmIt looks like you had a lot of beautiful paths to hike!
Lisa
January 7, 2020 9:08 pmTotally, so many great options!
Wendy Robinson
January 7, 2020 5:27 pmLots of great tips for memorable hikes.
Lisa
January 7, 2020 9:07 pmThanks!
Tracy
January 7, 2020 6:47 pmI need to get back to the Islands soon! I’ve never actually spend time on Oahu, but I’ve loved hiking on the other islands!
Lisa
January 7, 2020 9:06 pmI want to explore the other islands. We went Maui and Oahu.
Tonya | the Writer Mom
January 7, 2020 10:13 pmBeautiful… I haven’t done much hiking, but would love to. Someday, we will visit Hawaii and check out some of these trails.
Lisa
January 8, 2020 9:59 pmOh it is on a wish list for sure!
Katherine Wolfe
January 8, 2020 5:25 pmThese hikes look amazing! Thanks for sharing!
Lisa
January 8, 2020 9:58 pmNo problem! I love hiking
Brianna
January 8, 2020 7:15 pmEvery single one of these hiking trails looks amazing! Thank you for sharing.
Lisa
January 8, 2020 9:58 pmEverything is just amazing in Hawaii especially the hikes!
Annette
January 8, 2020 9:48 pmSuch a relaxing and peaceful hike! These are the best!!
Lisa
January 8, 2020 9:57 pmOh Thanks, I love hiking!
Beatriz
January 8, 2020 10:55 pmIt looks so amazing!
Eva
January 9, 2020 8:42 pmStunning photos of a gorgeous place. One of these days…
Lisa
January 10, 2020 6:22 pmIt really is stunning!
Michele
January 13, 2020 6:16 amWe love to get outdoors any time we travel. Hikes are always fun and Hawaii has been on my bucket list forever! Maybe we will get there soon!
Lisa
January 13, 2020 1:42 pmIt is a great adventure full of fun and relaxation!
Melissa Jones
January 13, 2020 10:33 amBeautiful and amazing photos! What fantastic adventures!
Lisa
January 13, 2020 1:40 pmIt was so beautiful!
Lisa
January 13, 2020 2:08 pmSo many great hikes! We’ve done Diamond Head before and it was breathtaking!
Anushia
March 21, 2020 11:30 pmCan’t wait for the things to get back to normal and see these beautiful place and go for a hike! Great article! Hawaii is on my bucket list!
Lisa
March 23, 2020 11:13 pmI would love to go to Oahu again! So beautiful!
Karen
December 7, 2020 10:59 pmI’m all about the day hikes and these trails do look like the best hikes to try in Oahu. Will definitely want to hike them on my next trip to Hawaii.
Lisa
December 9, 2020 10:19 amThey are so fun!
alison netzer
December 8, 2020 9:06 amWe took a hike in Oaha once with a guide and it was so off grid that I don’t even remember the name. These are great hikes you mentioned. I can’t wait to go back to Hawaii.
Lisa
December 9, 2020 10:18 amHawaii is paradise and hiking is out of this world!
Kristen W Allred
December 8, 2020 9:58 amI would love to go to Hawaii and try some of these hikes out. Moana Falls is especially intriguing since Lost was filmed there. I just told my daughter that’s where we need to go….someday!
Lisa
December 9, 2020 10:17 amIt was my favorite hike! It is incredible!
Denise
December 9, 2020 8:00 amI would love to hike in Hawaii! It looks amazing and I love your photos!
Lisa
December 9, 2020 10:14 amIt is so beautiful! I can’t wait to go back!
Julie Gazdecki
December 9, 2020 11:08 amI’ve seen so many great hikes in Hawaii. I would love to do the hike to lighthouse.