Megan Shute for Only In Your State on 12 Hawaiʻian hikes to add to your bucket. list. Our Volcano Explorer tour visits the crown jewel of the Big Island, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and Thurston Lava Tube.
The Hawaiʻian Islands are home to some of the world’s best hiking – but not everyone is experienced enough to complete the 22-mile Kalalau Trail, or the illegal and dangerous Stairway to Heaven. In fact, I only know a handful of people who could ever complete these hikes – and one of them runs marathons. Luckily, you will also find some pretty incredible hikes that provide stunning views without too much effort. From paved coastal trails to waterfall hikes through the jungle, here are 12 of the best outdoor hikes in Hawaiʻi, perfect for beginners to complete.
1. Manoa Falls
Just miles from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu is the lush Manoa Valley, and this beautiful 2-mile round trip hike through bamboo and banyan trees leads to a picturesque waterfall – and in less than 45 minutes one way. We love this easy hike in Hawaiʻi for the absolutely stunning waterfall at the end, and we think you will, too!
2. Wai Koa Loop Trail
The moderate 5-mile Wai Koa Loop Trail meanders through the Wai Koa Plantation, by serene lagoons, a historic dam, and a majestic mahogany forest. Ideal for everyone from running enthusiasts to families with young children, the trail is relatively flat, and can be easily walked in two to three hours. A scenic hike in Hawaiʻi, this is a great morning hike to do before the sun hit’s its zenith.
3. Poluluu Valley Trail
Often bypassed for other lookout points on the Big Island is Polulu Valley, perhaps due to the fact that you must drive to the end of the Highway 270 to reach this picturesque location. If you do make the drive out here, don’t settle for the views from the lookout – definitely take the time to hike the Awini Trail that leads down to the stunning black sand beach. The half-hour hike is steep at times, but the views – and the destination – are well worth it. This scenic hike in Hawaiʻi is a must-see for stunning ocean views.
4. Iao Valley State Park
In the late 15th century, Maui’s ruler, Kaka’e, designated Iao Valley as an Ali’i burial ground, and in 1790 Kamehameha the Great defeated Kalanikupule and the Maui army during his quest to unify the islands during the Battle of Keaniwai. With a variety of short hiking trails leading through the park, you’re sure to find one that suits your needs. We love Iao Valley State Park for its incredible scenery and easy, short hiking trails.
5. Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, a short and sweet two-mile hike on a paved trail to a historic lighthouse at Oahu’s southeastern point, features sweeping panoramic views of Oahu’s southeastern and windward coasts. It’s hard not to love this kid-friendly hike in Hawaiʻi that boasts panoramic ocean views, where you can spot a whale or two!
6. Thurston Lava Tube
Located in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, this short 20-minute walk through a thick forest leads visitors to a 500-foot lava tube that once carried molten lava. The Thurston Lava Tube at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is like walking through a fairy tale!
7. Twin Falls
Also known as Hololawa Falls, these twin waterfalls are the first notable attraction on Maui’s Hana Highway coming from the north. Many guidebooks will argue that the falls are not worth the hike, but we tend to disagree. While the falls are short, the picturesque pools are quite lovely. This scenic hike in Hawaiʻi is hard to beat, especially as the trail is so easy to do.
8. Lanikai Pillboxes
A short hike up to three old U.S. Marine pillboxes on Oahu’s east side provide views of Kailua Bay, Kaneohe and beyond. This one-mile hike not only provides stunning views of Windward Oahu – but a glimpse into World War II history as well. During the 1940s, the structures were equipped with telescopes, and soldiers would keep watch for enemy ships and send all relevant information back to Kaneohe Bay Naval Air Station. This hike belongs on your outdoor hike in Hawaiʻi bucket list, because it’s such a great historical exploration.
9. Maha’ulepu Trail #1
This heritage trail is the last stretch of coastline along Kauai’s southern shore that has yet to be developed. The trail leads you from the southeast corner of Shipwreck Beach alongside sand-dune cliffs, Kiawe groves, limestone formations, and rocky inlets. Kauai offers so many great scenic hikes in Hawaiʻi, and this heritage trail tops our list!
10. Hawaiʻi Tropical Botanical Garden
This 1.5-mile trail meanders through a beautiful botanical garden, home to more than 2,000 species of flora. Consider taking the 2.5-mile round trip donkey trail to Onomea Bay and Turtle Cove. This is a great kid-friendly hike in Hawaiʻi, offering plenty of boardwalks, and easier, well-maintained trails nearby.
11. Waihou Spring Trail
This trail, located in Upcountry Maui at the end of Piiholo Road, leads hikers through a Cypress, Eucalyptus, native Hawaiʻian Koa, and Halapepe forest. The upper trail is perfect for families, while the lower trail is reserved for more experienced hikers. If it’s an especially hot day, consider this scenic hiking trail in Hawaiʻi to soak in a little shade with its natural Hawaiʻian beauty.
12. Kaena Point
The northwestern tip of Oahu is home to Kaena Point State Park, a magical place full of hidden gems, including heart shaped rocks, tide pools, stunning cliff faces, and a natural reserve area created to protect nesting albatrosses, Hawaiʻian monk seals, and the fragile native vegetation. According to ancient Hawaiʻian lore, Kaena Point is the “jumping off” point for souls leaving this world. Kaena Point State Park is a must-see if you’re looking for some spectacular scenery while you’re hiking on Oahu.
