Prying yourself away from the pristine beaches, glamorous stores and world class surf, during a holiday in Hawaii can be one of the most rewarding experiences. Hawaii’s inland landscape is magical with lush, deep green bush, high volcanic mountains and the weather to make outdoor activities nothing short of spectacular. Some of the best holiday hikes in the World can be found in Hawaii; be sure to check them out on your next Hawaii holiday.
The Stairway to Heaven (AKA The Haiku Stairs)
When you see photos of hikes in Hawaii it is most likely the Haiku Stairs are one of the most common images you have seen. Located on Oahu this hike comprises of almost 4000 stairs up a steep mountain with absolutely spectacular views of the island from the top.
Originally built in the 1940’s to support a radio station the stairs have had little refurbishment since. Although this hike in Hawaii will give the best views around, it is also sadly now an illegal climb. Security guards man the entrance from dawn to dusk issuing hefty monetary fines of a few thousand dollars to those who are non-compliant. The reality is that the stairway to heaven is not safe enough for climbers as little by way of hand rails are there to prevent fatal falls.
This is one hike in Hawaii to oogle views from the safety of a computer.
The Diamond Head Trail (AKA Diamond Head crater hike)
Close to the popular tourist spot, Waikiki, Diamond Head is easily reached by bike or foot. From the car park the short Diamond Head climb travels up for around 30-60 minutes of walking to a clear lookout. The views form the summit are 360degrees capturing the serene ocean scape with the lush bush land, in one view. The climb is less than 250 metres high and travels through National park land. A popular Hawaii hike for all abilities and ages, expect to be with plenty of people and for the heat to be fierce at the top; a sun hat, glasses and sun screen is crucial
The Diamond Head Trail (AKA Diamond Head crater hike)
Close to the popular tourist spot, Waikiki, Diamond Head is easily reached by bike or foot. From the car park the short Diamond Head climb travels up for around 30-60 minutes of walking to a clear lookout. The views form the summit are 360degrees capturing the serene ocean scape with the lush bush land, in one view. The climb is less than 250 metres high and travels through National park land. A popular Hawaii hike for all abilities and ages, expect to be with plenty of people and for the heat to be fierce at the top; a sun hat, glasses and sun screen is crucial
The Kalaulau Trail
This 18km trail on the Hawaiian island of Kauai is a popular day hike for holiday makers. Stretching from Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Beahc along the beautiful Na Pali Coast, this hike in Hawaii will have travellers experience some of the best coastal views on the island.
A reasonable fitness level is required as the hike is not a flat one, encompassing sheer cliffs and narrow passage ways. The ground s uneven in places with intense drops for any poor foot choices; the hike is a serious one.
What hikers will receive in return is the only available access to this part of the region and a virtually secluded area to an otherwise popular island. Feeling as though the only creatures at liberty of the roaring ocean below can be both exhilarating and satisfying. For adventure enthusiasts this is the Hawaii hike for you.
Koko Crater Trail
On the Southern most tip of Oahu is a small section of old railway track which is now a popular hike in Hawaii.
Cleverly created from the railway sleepers themselves the entire track requires the steady footwork of stair climbing, even in flat sections. More than 1000 stairs in total to the summit will test the strength and endurance of all hikers even though the distance will take only 30 – 60minutes in duration.
This Hawaii hike is different to others in the region. Unlike a backdrop of deep green bush that is noticed in others, the Koko Crater Trail travels through a combination of dry green bush and overgrown grasses. From the summit a Northward view of Waikiki and Diamond Head can be seen and a rear view of unspoilt coastline. The climb is an arduous one but the rewards are plentiful.
Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail
On the southern point of Oahu not far from Koko Crater, is the Makapuu Point lighthouse trail. This Hawaii hike is a short one (3 kilometres distance) that ascends to a truly spectacular vista of Makapu’u beach stretching to the North Shore and the famous Koko Crater volcano in the distance. The trail itself doesn’t take walkers directly to the lighthouse itself. For safety reasons the lighthouse is fenced instead awarding views at a short distance with a backdrop of bright blue ocean behind the restored red and white structure.
One of the true highlights of this majestic hike in Hawaii is that there is an opportunity to see whales in the ocean below.
Gates open at 7am for cars to travel to the carpark and it is recommended to hike this trail early in the morning when the sun is cooler and crowds fewer. The trail is moderate to easy as it traverses over sealed paths, Although is a relatively steep incline.
A must visit hike in Hawaii for all members of the family.
Words by: alexchasingdreams.com
@alexchasingdreams