Hiking on Oahu
Things to do > Hiking - More in this category > Fishing > Island Tours > Parasailing > SCUBA Diving > Shopping > Snorkeling > SurfingOahu has many hiking trails located all over its beautiful landscape. Hikes range from easy to strenuous and can take as little as half an hour to a full day. No matter which trail you decide to trek, it is imperative that you remember a few things. Always wear comfortable shoes; there is no sense traipsing over tree roots and sand stones in high-heels. Remember to bring provisions, always water and, on longer hikes, food. Also, being tropical, Hawaii is very hot and the sun can be brutal so wear sunscreen and a hat. Finally, remember that you are entering the world of nature and nature must always be respected and nurtured.
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The Diamond Head and Manoa Falls
The Diamond Head Trail is Oahu's most popular hike. It starts from inside the crater of Diamond Head and travels three quarters of a mile to the summit. On your way you will encounter a long dark tunnel. Some travel guides suggest bringing a flash light, but you can always wait until your eyes adjust to the darkness and make out the shadows around you. There is a hand rail to guide you. The trail ends with a panoramic view of Honolulu and Waikiki.
Manoa Falls Trail, just a few miles from Waikiki, is a short, peaceful walk through an abandoned arboretum of shady trees. The area is quite soggy so mosquito repellent is recommended before embarking on your walk. The path leads to the waterfall where you can rest and cool off in the plunge pool. The most extensive trail network around Honolulu is in the Tantalus and Makiki Valley area. This lush forest reserve is only 2 miles from the city and despite it being a tourist attraction, the paths are seldom crowded. The trails have fine views of Honolulu and the surrounding valleys.
The Aiea Loop Trail is found in the Keaiwa Heiau State Park. This hiking trail leads four and a half miles along a ridge that offers views of Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor and Koolau Range. About two thirds of the way look out for the wreckage of a C-47 cargo plane that crashed in 1943.
The Kaena Point Trail is a scenic coastal hike on the westernmost point of Oahu through a nature reserve. The path is unshaded but tide pools make for a great way to cool down.
There are also numerous clubs or tour companies offering guided hikes. The advantage of these clubs is that they sometimes have permits to access restricted conservation areas; places tourists do not usually get to visit. Sierra Club offers all levels of hiking in the Honolulu area. (538-6616) www.hi.sierraclub.org
Likehike is a gay hiking club that runs group hikes on alternative Sundays (455-8193).
Oahu Nature Tours has daily hiking and birding excursions on Diamond Head or in the Ko'olau rainforest. (924-2473) www.oahunaturetours.com
For hikes on the remoter parts of the island contact Mauka Makai Excursions (593-3525) www.oahu-eco-tours.com
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Oahu Travel Guide
