Hiking

Forget the beach – Hawaiʻi is for hiking! Okay, well we still love the beach. But, don’t forget the lush tropical mountainsides. Hiking in Hawaii will lead you along trails with breathtaking views.

There are trails for every skill level. Take a leisurely walk through a botanical garden. Scale a steep hill in 20 minutes for breathtaking panoramic views. Or make a weekend expedition and explore country only accessible by foot. Sites to see are waterfalls, sea cliffs, volcano steam vents and more.

The lookout at the top of the Makapuʻu Trail.

Hawaii.com has extensive hiking guides for Oʻahu’s trails. Whether you are looking to hike iconic trails like Diamond Head and Makapuʻu or are interested in getting off the beaten path, you’ll find what you’re looking for here.

On a neighbor island? We’ve got you covered. On Maui we recommend one of the many trails of Haleakalā National Park. You’ll feel like you’re in another world. And here’s the bonus: you can stay for sunset and watch the sun sink from one of the tallest sea mountains in the world.

The Big Island of Hawaiʻi has many different options. You can trek over lava fields or wander near waterfalls. We recommend both.

Kauaʻi boasts the Holy Grail of all hiking: Kalalau trail on the Nā Pali Coast. This is for avid hikers only, but the experience of a lifetime is guaranteed. Not an avid hiker? No problem. Kauaʻi’s beauty is accessible to everyone. There are many hiking adventures to be had on Kauaʻi.

Speaking of adventure, the island of Molokaʻi is definitely the place for the outdoor adventurer. You can take the long steep trail down to (and back up from) Kalaupapa, if you’re up for it. Kalaupapa, only accessible by foot, boat, or plane, is a small community of people. If you are familiar with Father Damien, this is where he cared for patients with Hansen’s disease. Kalaupapa is a beautiful and heart-touching place to visit. Also on Molokaʻi is a less arduous hike to the back of Halawa Valley to swim under Moaʻula Falls.

Though the island of Lānaʻi is small, it is big on natural wonders. Hiking here is romantic, whether you are ascending Lānaʻi Hale or hiking along the ocean’s tide pools.