Hawaii is widely considered a romantic getaway for couples.
Especially if they’re on their honeymoon.
But there’s so much more to do in Hawaii besides hitting the beach. In fact, there are some amazing hiking trails in Hawaii.
And these trails offer a lot more than just fresh air.
Do Hiking Trails in Hawaii Offer Variety?
Hiking trails in Hawaii aren’t just a quick jog up a small hill and that’s it.
There are plenty of options for people with different skill levels and interests.
Even if you don’t want to actually hike, there are plenty of ways to take advantage of these beautiful trails.
Here’s just a little of what you can expect to find in Hawaii:
- Trail Running
- Kid Friendly
- Horseback Riding
- Dog Friendly
- Off Road Driving
- Rock Climbing
- Wheelchair Friendly
- Mountain Biking
- Hikes that lead to waterfalls, the beach, kayaking or any other water-based sport.
So there’s definitely hikes for every level, interest, and skill.
Now here are some of our favorite spots to find great hiking trails in Hawaii.
The Longest Hike: Kalalau Trail
This is a great hike for serious hiking enthusiasts.
Located on Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, if you’re looking for remote areas and untouched beauty, here’s where you’ll find it.
This hike is 22 miles roundtrip. It can be hiked in one day, but only if you’re a hardcore hiker.
Most people choose to camp at least overnight or make it a 2-3 day journey. A camping permit must be obtained.
Here’s what you can expect to see:
- High, rugged cliffs
- Coastal valleys
- Lush jungles
- Towering sea cliffs
Beware: this hike is known as one of the most dangerous in America.
Great Waterfall Hikes
The fabulous thing about Hawaii is that there are tons of waterfalls.
So here are a few hiking spots that allow you to see some of these beautiful waterfalls:
- Papalaua Falls, Molokai: Home to some of the highest sea cliffs in the world. If you don’t want to hike, a helicopter ride will work, too.
- Hanakapi’ai Falls, Kauai: Known as a long and difficult hike but the consensus is that it’s well worth it to see the falls.
- Manoa Falls: Oahu: Located at the foot of the Ko’olau mountain range. It’s one of the more popular hiking trails.
- Akaka Falls, Big Island: The most well known of waterfalls. You’ll enjoy 442-foot falls and gorgeous views.
- Maunawili Falls, Oahu: You’ll be trekking through the rainforest here, so wear clothing you won’t mind getting muddy. Really muddy.
Short Hikes In Hawaii
And for those looking to spend less time on the trails, we have you covered.
Here are our favorite short hikes:
- Poluluu Valley Trail, Big Island: A half hour hike. While it can be steep in parts, the views are worth it.
- Nahuku, Thurston Lava Tube: Only a 20-minute walk but you’ll be able to step inside a lava tube, go bird watching and see plenty of Hawaii’s native plant species the ohi’a blossom.
- Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail: A 2-mile hike on pavement that leads to beautiful views of the lighthouse and panoramic views of Oahu’s southeastern and windward coasts.
Lastly, one of the most famous hiking trails in Hawaii is known as Stairway to Heaven. The views are breathtaking but unless you want to put your life in danger or get arrested, stay away.
We love hiking and we love helping others find the trails that will help them make lasting memories.
Come back often to learn all about hiking and where to hike.
