Visiting Pu'u Ualaka's State Park is on my top ten favorite things to do in Honolulu. The Park…read moreoffers spectacular views of the entire Southside of the Island. I travelled up Mount Tantalus to the Park yesterday with my daughter. We travelled through beautiful dense forest at the Park entrance. At the highest overlook, we could see everything and more from Diamond Head out to (and beyond) the airport. We could see all of Honolulu. I felt like we were on top of the world! Plaques offer fascinating overviews of the history and geology of the landmarks below. We could even see inside the famous tuff cone, Punch Bowl! Nearby is the first macadamia nut orchard in Hawaii. The overviews are paved with railings and easily accessible. The Park offers picnic areas with a couple pavilions and picnic tables. There is a charge for non-resident parking of $7 that can be paid electronically. Resident parking is free. Parking is limited, but there are several parking areas. We had no trouble finding parking mid week. Warning signs tell guest not to leave valuables in the car. Pu'u Ualaka'a State Park is only two miles from downtown Honolulu (maybe a couple more miles to the top). The Park is an easy 5 star and worth a visit.

Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Park offers some of the best views of the greater Waikiki and Honolulu area…read more It's well worth the drive up for the panoramic vista that stretches from Mānoa all the way to Diamond Head, and out toward Honolulu Airport and Pearl Harbor. The park officially closes at 6pm, but I've walked in after hours before to enjoy the city lights, and the views are just as impressive at night. It's a bit off the typical tourist path, so it doesn't get overly crowded. Highly recommended if you want a different perspective of Honolulu.

What an amazing place to visit just a short distance from tourism in Waikiki. About 20 minutes from…read moreWaikiki you find this paradise that includes a 150 foot waterfall! You can get here by driving to the park and park at a paid lot at the beginning of the trailhead or park about .3 miles downhill in a residential area. Just mind the sign so your car does not get towed away. Also you can take an uber to the falls that drops you off near the parking lot at the beginning of the trail. The trailhead to the falls is not long but provides some challenges. First of all the trails is often muddy so wear proper shoes. Don't wear white unless you plan to get dirty. Plus as you get closer to the trail it is up hill so prepare for that. Also grab a walking stick, that hikers have left or bring one. This may help with the uphill climb or mud. Lastly, I suggest you bring bug spray and cover as the bugs can be bad. If you forget spray, they do sell some at the park. Once you are all set: enjoy the trail. Best to come on weekday and when it's open at 6am to avoid crowds. The sights among this trail are beautiful and peaceful when you are alone. So amazing that Lost was filmed here. Along the trail you may also see some beautiful birds and smaller waterfalls. When you are done hiking, leave your walking stick for the next guest. Also if you want to clean off your shoes there is a hose by the bridge. Enjoy!!!!

Service- 3 stars Ambiance- 5 stars…read more I usually hike this trail once a month to put myself out in the jungle and get away from concrete and I love it every time. This trail is located deep and all the way in Manoa valley- past the gym, Manoa elementary school where the road becomes pretty much a one lane street until you get around to the stop where you pay the attendant. I think this part is what disappoints me the most is because kama'aina still have to pay to hike this trail. Geez. If you are kama'aina, you have to present your ID to the attendant where you will have to pay $4. Not sure what the cost is for tourists or non-residents. There are lots of spaces to park when you past the attendant. You have the option to park at your first right past the old Treetops restaurant or further down. There is a restroom and little convenience shop if you want to purchase a souvenir, ice cream, water, etc for your hike. This trail can get super muddy and dangerous after rainfall so I would use caution if you choose to hike during wet season. There are big rocks you will have to step over all throughout the trail so be sure to go with proper hiking shoes with good grip. The waterfall at the very end isn't much but a good little reward as a picture opportunity. Folks can no longer go into the water due to leptospirosis. I highly recommend visiting this spot if you're a hiking person and nature lover!

A beautiful day for a hike! Every time I do this hike it's a little different. Today the waterfall…read morewas cold and bracing and there were a lot of people hiking the falls. We started out around 8:45 AM and by the time we reached the waterfall, it was getting full of families and pairs of hikers. I recommend go early to skip the crowds. The hike itself isn't too technical and there are only a few places where you have to step up high over a rock or scramble through a stream.

Lulumahu Falls was definitely one of the hikes I've wanted to do for a very long time…read more I've passed by it a number of times, so I knew exactly where it was. If you've driven up Pali Hwy - Kailua-bound, then you've passed by it. The parking and entrance is right at the intersection of Nuuanu Pali Road, you'll see plenty of cars parked. While there's no true entrance, cars do somehow figure out a way to park. You technically do need a permit to visit here as you are accessing State Forest Reserve land, which you can purchase at - https://trails.ehawaii.gov/camping/ - website. It's very easy to set up an account and make your reservation. It's only $2.50 for your entire party (not per person!). Print at least two copies (1 for your car and 1 with you). This hike is not as easy as a good amount of reviews make it out to be. It's not that kid friendly either. The main entrance is at the center of the parking lot. There is also another entrance to your right, near the road. The beginning part is fine. Flat and well maintained, graveled path through a bamboo forest. It's after your first jump or hop over a streamlet that can be more difficult because the hike is essentially gradually going up towards the mountain while crossing over the Lulumahu Stream multiple times until you reach the waterfall. Crossing the stream, you'll need to jump or climb from rock to rock, go under tree branches, step on slipper rocks (or just step in the water), and etc. You shouldn't get lost here as long as you hear the stream and stay near it. The objective is to follow the stream while looking out for those bright neon ribbons. But there are situations where you don't see any ribbon with multiple paths you can take. Being that it was my first time here, I probably took a few paths that was the more difficult one, but eventually made it at the end without any difficulties or setbacks. This seems to be a popular hike as it was quite busy at the waterfall. There were hardly any places to stand, and the "safe" areas are further away from the waterfall while if you want to get closer to get that under the waterfall photo, you'll need to pass some slippery rocks, jump here and there, and pass through narrow spaces. Of course, you can just put your shoes and feet into water to bypass. In the end, it was quite a nice waterfall and an interesting journey to get there. Wish it was less busy, but it wasn't overcrowded. There's no main path, so you can end up going through many difficult paths. I can upon a family of 4 literally walk up the stream, knee high in water. No clue where they came from, but I pointed to the direction I went. On the way down, you can take a different path. I went towards the right, and went down to the watershed. Look for the cement wall with graffiti. You can keep going down the walkway, and there is an opening at the corner of the fence towards the end, which will lead you back to the beginning, bamboo forest path. Overall, this was a fun and interesting hike! It wasn't easy, but not difficult or long. A good test of your balance to not get your socks wet! It takes about 45-60 minutes both ways depending on your level and path taken. Unless you want to swim and climb up stream. Hope to come back soon!

Background On Diamond Head State Monument: Hawaii's most recognized landmark is known for its…read morehistoric hiking trail, stunning coastal views, and military history. Crater was formed about 300,000 years ago during a single, explosive eruption that sent ash and fine particles in the air. As these materials settled, they cemented together into a rock called tuff, creating the crater, and which is visible from the trail in the park. Most of the vegetation and birds were introduced in the late 1800s to early 1900s. -The trail to the summit of Lē'ahi was built in 1908 as part of O'ahu's coastal defense system. The 0.8 mile hike from trailhead to the summit is steep and strenuous. The walk is a glimpse into the geological and military history of Diamond Head. At the summit, you'll see bunkers and a huge navigational lighthouse built in 1917. The postcard view of the shoreline from Koko Head to Wai'anae is stunning, and during winter, may include passing humpback whales. Background On Visit: Decided to hike to see the views up top. Park hours: 6:00am - 6:00pm daily (Last entry period is 4:00 pm. Must enter and be on the trail by 4:30 pm.). Diamond Head State Monument will be CLOSED on Christmas Day (December 25) and New Years Day (January 1). Fees: Non-resident visitors hiking Diamond Head State Monument pay an entry fee of $5 per person (children 3 and under are free) plus an optional $10 per vehicle parking (inside the crater) fee. They have to reserve a date and 2 hour time slot restriction (You can stay longer. So don't feel rushed.) through the Hawaii State Parks Diamond Head Reservation Portal, available up to 30 days ahead. Tickets cannot be purchased at the gate. Visitation Rights: Been to Diamond Head State Monument once. Type Of Hike/Features: Out and back type of hike (1.5 - 1.6 miles) with some switch backs, stair climbing, and a dark narrow 225 ft tunnel to navigate through. So bring a flashlight or use your cell phone torch for some light. They also have some lookout sections and benches along the way to rest before continuing on with the hike. Diamond Head State Monument Experience: Even though I sprained my ankle while hiking back down the crater, I had a fun time hiking diamond. The view is worth all the steep switchbacks, rocky terrain, stair climbs, 225ft tight dark tunnel, sweat, and tears.

If you love a good hike and even better views, then Diamond Head State park is for you!…read more This amazing state park is just a couple of minutes from Waikiki and it is a must for locals and visitors alike. I have so many lessons learned from my time visiting so here are my main tips: - Make a reservation! We decided to wing it and go on a random weekday around 4pm in July and it was HOT. There's not a lot of shade during your hike and barely any wind, so it can be really hard on the body. I definitely recommend getting a morning reservation so you can enjoy the hike. - If you are driving, you can park before the tunnel and the parking is much cheaper. I believe is probably a 5min walk to cross the tunnel, plus it can be a little cool experience before your hike. - Bring water!!! I saw so many people with no water that just ended up giving up halfway through the hike. Make sure to stay hydrated. - If you are brining kids, I think this hike is for kids 5+. If you have babies or smaller kids that are still learning to walk. This is not the place for them. It can be very dangerous for babies and toddlers. Last but not least, don't forget to enjoy the view and take a lot of pictures once you are at the top!

Can't think of a better way to spend a FULL DAY of hiking with our new friend/hiking guide…read more.. Spencer! My husband & I were in town visiting family near Pearl Harbor during the Thanksgiving holiday. I have visited HI in recent past and from first hand experience new that it's hard to get around the area if you don't know where you are going and the traffic is bad. After spending some time researching, I found Oahu Hike. I wanted to spend 1 full day hiking around the island, so I submitted a request. Spencer messaged me back promptly and I immediately became so excited! Spencer picked us up on time in front of our hotel and we all became besties. He was super chill, easily to get along with very knowledgeable about the area. We did some awesome, breathtaking hikes. Visited waterfalls. Sat down and visited in the wilderness. Took in the scenery and really all bonded. It really was such a wonderful experience. It was the best and 100% recommend this hike to anyone of all skill levels. It was so great to just jump in the car and go on an adventure! You have choices of food options for the day as well. Spencer, if your reading this... thank you for making our trip unforgettable! Rock on!!!

Aiden was amazing, he made our first hike our best hike. He was patient but still pushed me and my…read more15-year-old to the limit. I recommend anyone visiting Hawaii to contact Oahu Hike before booking with anyone else, you won't regret it. I finally feel like I seen Hawaii for the first time. 5 stars isn't enough, Thanks Aiden for making our trip one to remember.

Love this ridge trail for a good workout with amazing views from the summit and as you climb up to…read moreit. As ridge trails go it less narrow and a good one to start with in the Hawai'i Kai area. A good part of the trail zig zags up the mountain until you reach the picnic table. At this point we take a break, have a snack drink more water in preparation for the more difficult climb. Soon you reach the series of steps on the ridge that climb on and on up the mountain into the clouds at times. After the never ending steps you reach the summit. If cloudy wait and the clouds open up to stunning views of other side of island. This hike is well worth the journey. Make sure to have plenty of water and snacks. We use poles, they are really useful in coming back down to help save your knees. There is only street parking so be prepared to walk up road to trailhead. If raining better to go a different day.

This trail was very challenging, but the view worth every minute walking…read more It took us about 4 hours to go up and down because we were taking a lot of time. Really close to the top it became slippery, but besides that the walk is great. Parking can be an issue because there are not official parking, but going there early ensure you a spot.

Spitting Caves is definitely a hidden gem off the beaten path--literally…read more This spot is located all the way in Portlock, at the end of Lumahai St, in Hawaii Kai. It's a residential area with only street parking, which can be limited, especially during sunset as that's the most popular time. You can't see the entrance when cars are parked in front, but look for a yellow sign that says "119 A". The pathway is between houses, and it does look dark, steep, and uninviting. Well, that's the right place! Be prepared for a small "hike" for a few minutes. Be careful as some parts are rocky, slightly steep, and slippery from moist, dead leaves. You may be unsure as you go along, but don't worry, it's there, and it's worth it. When you arrive, you'll find a wide open rock cliff with plenty of space to chill or explore. It's also the perfect place to catch the sunset and look for the green flash! The actual "Spitting Cave" is to your left. It's interesting! But don't want to ever get trapped in there. I'm quite disappointed I've never been here, or made a better effort to figure out how to get here earlier as this is an amazing, calming, tranquil, and relaxing place. You can feel the cool, ocean breeze, hear the sound of waves crashing against the rock cliff, and enjoy the amazing, picturesque scenery. Overall, Spitting Caves is a nice place to visit, to enjoy the scenery, and to "get away" and relax. It can be a little out of the way, and the path getting there can be difficult, but it's worth it.

I wish I could give a full description of this place as it seems magical, but we encountered a…read morebeehive going down the treacherous path and turned around for safety. Two things from other reviews that are very much true: this is on a residential area, almost to the cul-de-sac at the end and it is a narrow alley between two houses, so it can be easy to miss. The second thing is it is indeed steep, treacherous, and tricky to navigate if wet (although it is a short hike, so you don't need to be a professional either). So be careful when going down, hold onto the fence, railing, rocks as needed, and enjoy!

Did this amazing hike again starting at a different location with an alteration due to a closure of…read moreone section of the trail. I love the combination of this trails because the variety of beautiful views, landscapes, type of surfaces. Dense lush rainforest to dryer areas with a variety of foliage. Started at the Makiki Arboretum trail, taking the loop to the right on the Maunalaha Trail. This section will get the blood flowing as you climb upward over a very rooted trail. Once you arrive at an area with metal benches there is an intersection of multiple trails. Take Makiki Valley Trail to the Right. After a short hike take the Moleka Trail to the Left. The Moleka trail becomes the Manoa Cliff trail which you stay on for a number of miles. If you struggle with narrow trails with drop offs this section may not be for you. There are beautiful views of Manoa Valley from the trail. Some sections of this trail can be muddy. In the past Hike once you go through the gate the Manoa Cliff trail takes a sharp turn to Left at Intersection of other trails. In our case there was a recent landslide and there was a warning sign not continue on the Manoa Cliff Trail. No problem we took Pauoa Flats Trail until we reached Kalawahine Trail and took a Left on it. Take this trail until you reach a paved road, take a right down the road until you see the next trailhead, Nahuina Trail which zig zags its way down. When you come to Makiki Valley trail go left. When you reach Kanealole take it to your right. This trail will take you back to trail you started on. Since there are so many different trails to do this loop I suggest using Alltrails download. We clocked over 10 miles. I'd rate it as intermediate. Bring plenty of water, I carry crampons in case there are muddy slippery areas. Would not do if heavy rain or strong winds expected.

Afternoon hike at Manoa Cliff, Kalawahine, and Makiki Valley Loop…read more Great trail, awesome views. Best if you can download the map as you loose service in several areas of the trail. My trail map also showed I hiked 7.3 miles and my husband stated 6.4, but either way it is long. Just be ready for a good long hike. We started in the rain so yes mud was around, and yes places were pretty slippery. But all in all not too bad to get around. Just wear good hiking shoes. Conditions: bugs, muddy, easy parking, great views, dog friendly, well maintained, wild flowers

A short & steep 1.5 mile round-trip hike along a rocky ridge...no shade along the way. Absolutely…read morestunning views up top that are totally worth your efforts! Bring water, good shoes & sunscreen!

A short, steep, intense hike. We wanted to catch the sunrise so got here early around 5 am and it…read morewas super dark, so the first portion of the hike was already a bit of a challenge with us having to use our hands to navigate the steep muddy trail. You will get muddy / dirty especially if it's been wet or dewy so wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty. The views on the eastern side of the island and the sun rising as you're hiking is an experience worth doing! We made it to the second pillbox, sat atop it awhile to admire the views, before turning back around.

omg....this was such a challenge for me haha ; I am soooo proud of myself for successfully making…read moreit to the top without giving up!! Shout out to some locals who were motivating me to keep pushing with no stops at the end! We went during sunset as our final stop on our last full day in Oahu. I heard people recommend to do it towards the end of your trip, and I fully understood why the next day!! (I ended up being a bit sore even though I'm pretty active at the Gym. No need to describe the trail since it's exactly what you see. Steps after steps after steps. Stunning views once you reach the top! It was pretty windy too but the air felt great. If you decide to go during sunset, beware that it's going to get pretty dark! It got incredibly dark once when we made it all the way down and needed our flashlight on our phones to guide us. We also took the wrong path out back to the parking lot. Overall, this was definitely challenging, but worth the view and a super good exercise!! Def wouldn't recommend for everyone. Take as many breaks as you need, and make sure to keep water on you!

2nd time on this trail. First time was over 15 years ago and most recently 1 month ago…read more Really great hike that can be done within 1-1.5 hrs out and back. 2 areas where it's not a solid trail- holes between the wooden planks that you can fall through if you're not careful- but I found out there are bypasses that you can do off your the right when going up and on the left when you are coming down. Always people overestimating their abilities and when we were there, someone had to be taken away by an ambulance... I think just make sure to start early if you aren't in good shape and take breaks along the way. Also, bring plenty of water and electrolytes. Great views from the top!