This little waterfall is often overlooked because it is surrounded by the most dramatic cliffs and greenery on all of Oahu. Though you can hike down to the falls from the Pali Lookout, the approach from below near the Pali Golf Course is much easier and less dangerous. Likeke Falls is an enchanting cascade of tumbling waters set beneath the iconic Pali Lookout. Likeke FallsĪ post shared by Hiro Fukushima you should go: A two-tiered waterfall surrounded by the best scenery on the island. Still, the location is mesmerizing to see in person and surely worth the trek. There’s a picturesque pool at its base, though swimming here is not allowed. Manoa Falls is a towering waterfall set against a sheer basalt wall. This is one of the few waterfall hikes on our list where your feet may not get completely covered in rainforest mud. The trail cuts through a dense bamboo forest, and, unlike most of the waterfall trails across Hawaii, this one is regularly maintained.Īs a result, the trail is wide and covered in gravel. Why you should go: Not far from Waikiki Beach and the University of Hawaii.Īmong the most accessible waterfalls on all of Oahu, Manoa Falls is popular among tourists and locals alike. Manoa Falls Photo: David Schueller / Shutterstock Related Read: The 15 Most Incredible Hikes on Kauai, Hawaii 1. Read on to uncover other Oahu waterfall secrets, such as the best waterfall swimming pools and the most secluded waterfalls on Oahu. Each of the trails on this list features at least one spectacular waterfall, and some contain several. While flip flops and sandals (slips, brah) will be adequate for easy, short trails, you’ll want grippy trail runners or hiking boots for tougher treks.īelow you’ll find many of the best waterfall hikes on Oahu. Be prepared - any unpaved trail will be slippery and squishy after recent rainfall. Fortunately, rain falls nearly every day on Oahu’s Ko’olau Mountain Range, which creates dozens of awesome waterfall hikes to discover.Īll of that rain also makes for muddy trails. Whales can be seen during the winter season.When it rains on Oahu, nearly every hike becomes a waterfall hike. The trail to leads to a remote and scenic protected area harboring some of the last vestiges of coastal sand dune habitat on the island, and home to native plants and In the case of the people on Oahu, the souls of the ancient’s journey to the westernmost point of the island which is at Ka ‘ena Point. Kaena Point or “Laina A Ka ‘Uhane” is known as the “jumping off point.” In ancient Hawaiian it is believed that the soul travels west before leaving this earthly realm. This unique hike is special in regard to its connection to traditional Hawaiian spirituality. Ocean and mountain views of Ka ‘ena Point. Keep going until you get to Kaena Point State Park. Use caution while hiking in these areas and make sure to wear the proper hiking shoes. This trail features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate, although most of the trail is easy there are parts of the hike that are very steep. This short 0.9-mile hike takes you to a natural arch on the side of Koko Crater. Location: Park at Halona Blowhole overlook. Popular among locals, you’re bound to enjoy this short, kid-friendly hike with incredible views of the Mokulua Islands. View of Kailua Beach from within a ” Pill Box” bunker during sunset. We do warn against going into the water due to the chance of contracting the bacterial disease leptospirosis. Due to the location and ease of the trail, this hike typically has a lot of hiking traffic but is definitely worth visiting. Hikers enjoy a well-maintained, 1.6-mail hike to a glorious 150ft waterfall. Location: 3860 Manoa Road past Lyon ArboretumĬonveniently located near Waikiki, this is one of the most popular waterfall hikes on Oahu. Young women taking in the beautiful ocean views near Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail. We deem this hike a must for hikers at all levels! If you are visiting during the Winter season, you may also see wondrous humpback whales breaching in the distance.Įasy parking located off Kalanianaole Highway (Hwy. Marvel at the scenic shoreline! With its short ascent (just under a mile), its paved trail, and its breath-taking views of Makapu’u beach and mountain ridges. Make sure to pack accordingly with the right shoes, plenty of water, sunblock, and don’t forget your camera! Because not everyone is experienced with hiking, we have listed our favorite hikes in order of difficulty, beginning with the easiest. And although it’s easy to get caught enjoying the beach located just a block from the hotel, we suggest exploring the island by way of hiking through it. The island of Oahu is remarkably beautiful from its clear blue ocean waters to its lush green mountain ranges.

Waterfall hike oahu