Maili Pillboxes Photos
You might also consider
More like Maili Pillboxes
Recommended Reviews - Maili Pillboxes
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
Great hike. I can't believe I've been coming to Oahu for more than 30 years and have never done this hike. I guess now that I'm getting older and not going to beach everyday I'm here for 6-12 days straight, I'm mixing in hikes and things that seem less appealing than when I was in my teens and 20s. You need to keep your eyes on the ground the entire time to make sure your steps are carefully placed. Most hikers should be able to do this hike, it will just take a different amount of time depending on how fast you want to do it. I saw little kids and older folks on the trail. It gets hot, so hydrate before the hike (and stretch) and bring water to drink along the hike. Stop along the way for different vantage points and picture ops along the way. Free parking at the bottom of the hill. I'll do this again next time, probably before a stop at Kahe beach park to catch some waves!
One of the many hikes on Oahu with a rewarding view. Parking isalongside the road. There isn't an exact entrance to the trail, you'll just notice dirt on the sidewalk from hikers coming down, that's a sign you're at the entrance. This is my 2nd time hiking Pink Pillbox. I would say it's an easy trail with some steep inclines that can be considered moderate. Families come here with their little children but be cautious when bringing kids, one wrong step and you slip could be very dangerous. This hike is pet friendly as well, seen plenty of hikers with dogs. Took us 45 minutes to get to the top with some breaks in between and 30 minutes down. Going down is a lot easier and you could get down in 20 minutes at least. The view at the top is incredible. There are about 4 bunkers up top. Standing on top the bunkers gets you an amazing view of the ocean. Very nice and rewarding especially when it's windy, the air cools you down after all that incline walk and sweat.
A short drive from home in Ewa Beach, this hike is good for the west siders who don't want to go too far to get in a little hike. Once arrived, parking is easy. Lock your car and up you go. At a slow pace it's about 30 minutes to the top. The views of the west waters are excellent. Worth a try if you haven't.
Ma'ile Pillbox Hike or the "Pink Pillbox" Hike on the Pu'u O Hulu Kai Trail will reward you with the best views of the Ka'ena Point, Keawa'ula Beach (Yokohama Beach), Mount Kaala and even Kapolei, home to the Ko Olina Resort all at the same time! Don't forget to try and catch a sunset as well, it's stunning on the West Side. There is a decent amount of parking on the street at the base of the trail. Use your common sense, keep valuables out of site or take them with you...otherwise you will be rewarded with smashed windows when you return to your ride. Locals are far more territorial on the West Side. The scenic views are most definitely worth the trek to the top of the Pillboxes...just don't make the same mistake we did. We took the steep way up through the middle instead of the switchback trail. While going straight up does cut out some time...rumor is about 20 minutes it's not the easiest thing to do...It's steeper, more treacherous than the switchbacks; rocks and uneven steps. The entire hike is not all that long...I'd say about 1.5 miles. The Pillboxes were clean when we went. The "Pink Pillbox" even had a Christmas Tree in it! There is no shade on the trail, it's completely exposed to the elements, so prepare accordingly.
Fun hike and easy to do, amazing views from 360 degrees when you get to the top! Parking is on the main road and I heard there are break ins, so I recommending hiding all your belongings. The trail head has two other but both lead the same place. So many pillboxes to visit along the way and beautiful art work inside each pillbox. Definitely recommend going early to avoid the crowds and heat.
Maili Pillbox (or Pu'u O Hulu trail aka Pink pillbox) is a fairly easy hike. I think it's children and pet friendly. Access the trail off Kaukama Road. There is ample free parking on both sides of the road and you get to see amazing views from the start. I don't remember the trailhead being marked but my GPS took me directly there. The terrain is rugged/rocky all the way up and the loose gravel can become slippery. The trail is very narrow along some parts so if there were other hikers going the opposite direction, one party has to stop and give way. There are also some areas where there are drop-offs at the side of the hill so be careful not to slip. It was dry when I went (7am on 11 Nov 2021) so we did not experience any mud as previously stated. The entire trip is less than 2 miles round trip. It was a cool morning so me and my 12 year old nephew opted to leave our water bottles in the car so we wouldn't have to carry them. He got thristy about half way up but nothing too serious that he would be parched or dehydrated. Water would have been good but because it was such a short hike and on a cool morning, we didn't absolutely need it. Once at the top we discovered there were 4 Pillboxes. I just assumed it was a single Pillbox. Each had different artwork painted inside and the views from each of the mountains, the ocean & highway, and the even the residential area were amazing. One hiker tried to lift a big dog to the top of the pillbox but the dog wasn't having it. It was amusing watching him try multiple times though, Lmbo. If you are looking for a short, easy hike with amazing views, this is it.
Probably one of my favorite hikes on the island as far as the view at the top. 360 degree views and interesting pill boxes. The trail is very rocky and slippery. We went the steep way with the ropes. It was pretty steep going up but like other reviewers it was fast. Enjoyed seeing the pill boxes as well. Parking was easy. We parked on the street and didn't leave anything in the car. We did hear there are many break ins there. There was a white food truck at the start of the hike. We did bring a bottle of water with us on the hike. There was some younger kids that had a very large German shepherd unleashed with them. Their dog made a huge poop in the middle of the trail. Please don't be that way. Other than that everyone was so friendly and courteous. Absolutely beautiful Morning !
Of the many hikes we did on Oahu, this one was very fast yet rewarding. 1.5 miles round trip, 700+ feet gained quickly. It took us about 45 mins going up and 20 mins down. The steepest part seems to be at the beginning, so stay with it! It turns into a few sets of switchbacks. There are four pillboxes at the top, take the time to check them all out. The top one has a thin exposed area you have to cross to get to it. I will upload a video of that part.
I do this hike almost daily when we are on Oahu. There is easy access and parking on the street right at the trailhead. It is quite steep in places with a 230 metre vertical climb over its one kilometre length. it's about 25-30 minutes to the top if you don't stop and about 20 minutes down. The trail can get slippery in the rain but, as this is the dry side of the island, rain is not that common. During the winter an early morning or late afternoon start will keep you out of the sun. But if you climb up for the sunset, don't wait too long to come down or you will be in darkness which could be quite dangerous.
Pet & children friendly trail. Didn't take long to reach the top. Great view of the ocean and neat spot for photos :) Despite it being pretty rainy all week, we ended up having clear skies yay! The one con of Pink Pillboxes is that it was about a one hour drive from town, which was longer than the hike itself. Not that fulfilling. Overall a good first-time experience but won't be a trail I'll return to anytime soon.
I never grow tired of the amazing ocean and mountain views from this short hike. Have hiked both sunset and sunrise hikes enjoyed both. Although not a long hike, if you are not use to uneven rocky uphill the first section may be alittle rough for you both going up and down. We use poles, especially useful going down. The trail has very little shade so best done in morning or late afternoon. We usually only go to the first 3 pillboxes, which all have beautiful views. The art in the first one is fairly uncovered. Unfortunately the second one's art has been mostly covered by graffiti. I don't get why anyone would deface it. It is late February and the mountain has lush tall green grass lining the trail. Summertime is completely different being on the dryer side of island. The wind has been quit strong so instead of hanging on top of pillbox we spent sometime inside looking out the openings taking it all in. Back to the views, I never, never grow tired of them. Absolutely stunning!!!! read more
It's actually the same location when you search Pink Pillbox or Puʻu O Hulu. This west side Pink Pillbox Trail isn't as famous as the east side's Lanikai Pillbox Trail, but it's only about a 15-minute drive from Aulani and way less crowded -- definitely a nice bonus. Just set your GPS to Puʻu O Hulu (Pink Pillbox) Trailhead, and you'll find plenty of street parking along that stretch. Still, I'd recommend parking closer to the entrance for safety because we noticed broken glass scattered on the ground further down the road, probably from past break-ins. We actually parked once, saw the glass right by our car, and quickly moved closer to the entrance instead. Right after we parked, it started raining. The forecast said it would last about 30 minutes, so we just waited it out in the car before starting our hike. The trailhead is right between a yellow "Falling Rocks" warning sign and a white "Speed Limit 25" sign on a utility pole. The hike starts with a steep incline, but overall it's not too hard and just a bit narrow at parts. There are three pillboxes total. It took us around 30 minutes to reach the first one at a relaxed pace, stopping for photos along the way. The first pillbox is painted in blue graffiti inside, and from there you can continue up to the famous pink one. When we got to the pink pillbox, there were surprisingly tons of flies swarming around the entrance for some reason, so we didn't stay too close. The wind was really strong up there -- strong enough that I had trouble keeping my balance! It looked like reaching the third pillbox would require climbing over quite a few rocks, so we decided to turn back instead. On the drive back, we passed Ulehawa Beach Park, where we saw a whole row of homeless encampments right by the ocean -- literally parked and camped along the beachfront. We even saw a few people running across the road and one guy riding his motorcycle the wrong way, yelling at drivers passing by. If that's a regular thing, really sad to see this. read more
5 months ago
A great hike! A bit rocky, as for age appropriateness, I would say my 8 year old could complete it successfully, but younger than that could be dangerous. Perfect views from the top. read more
I loved this hike. The first 20 minutes is a basically a steady incline but not bad and you will make it to the top in around 30 minutes. Plan on giving yourself 1.5-2 hours total to explore the pillboxes, take photos and sit at the the top. It has amazing views read more
10 months ago
Do this hike! You won't regret it! Did I feel like I was going to die a couple times? Yes. But I am an out of shape 40-some year old. The views are amazing! read more
Great hike. I can't believe I've been coming to Oahu for more than 30 years and have never done this hike. I guess now that I'm getting older and not going to beach everyday I'm here for 6-12 days straight, I'm mixing in hikes and things that seem less appealing than when I was in my teens and 20s. You need to keep your eyes on the ground the entire time to make sure your steps are carefully placed. Most hikers should be able to do this hike, it will just take a different amount of time depending on how fast you want to do it. I saw little kids and older folks on the trail. It gets hot, so hydrate before the hike (and stretch) and bring water to drink along the hike. Stop along the way for different vantage points and picture ops along the way. Free parking at the bottom of the hill. I'll do this again next time, probably before a stop at Kahe beach park to catch some waves! read more
3 years ago
One of the many hikes on Oahu with a rewarding view. Parking isalongside the road. There isn't an exact entrance to the trail, you'll just notice dirt on the sidewalk from hikers coming down, that's a sign you're at the entrance. This is my 2nd time hiking Pink Pillbox. I would say it's an easy trail with some steep inclines that can be considered moderate. Families come here with their little children but be cautious when bringing kids, one wrong step and you slip could be very dangerous. This hike is pet friendly as well, seen plenty of hikers with dogs. Took us 45 minutes to get to the top with some breaks in between and 30 minutes down. Going down is a lot easier and you could get down in 20 minutes at least. The view at the top is incredible. There are about 4 bunkers up top. Standing on top the bunkers gets you an amazing view of the ocean. Very nice and rewarding especially when it's windy, the air cools you down after all that incline walk and sweat. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
A short drive from home in Ewa Beach, this hike is good for the west siders who don't want to go too far to get in a little hike. Once arrived, parking is easy. Lock your car and up you go. At a slow pace it's about 30 minutes to the top. The views of the west waters are excellent. Worth a try if you haven't. read more
4 years ago
Ma'ile Pillbox Hike or the "Pink Pillbox" Hike on the Pu'u O Hulu Kai Trail will reward you with the best views of the Ka'ena Point, Keawa'ula Beach (Yokohama Beach), Mount Kaala and even Kapolei, home to the Ko Olina Resort all at the same time! Don't forget to try and catch a sunset as well, it's stunning on the West Side. There is a decent amount of parking on the street at the base of the trail. Use your common sense, keep valuables out of site or take them with you...otherwise you will be rewarded with smashed windows when you return to your ride. Locals are far more territorial on the West Side. The scenic views are most definitely worth the trek to the top of the Pillboxes...just don't make the same mistake we did. We took the steep way up through the middle instead of the switchback trail. While going straight up does cut out some time...rumor is about 20 minutes it's not the easiest thing to do...It's steeper, more treacherous than the switchbacks; rocks and uneven steps. The entire hike is not all that long...I'd say about 1.5 miles. The Pillboxes were clean when we went. The "Pink Pillbox" even had a Christmas Tree in it! There is no shade on the trail, it's completely exposed to the elements, so prepare accordingly. read more
3 years ago
Fun hike and easy to do, amazing views from 360 degrees when you get to the top! Parking is on the main road and I heard there are break ins, so I recommending hiding all your belongings. The trail head has two other but both lead the same place. So many pillboxes to visit along the way and beautiful art work inside each pillbox. Definitely recommend going early to avoid the crowds and heat. read more
1 year ago
Post-hike drinks and snacks at the trailhead! Grab a refreshing smoothie, slushie, or acai bowl before or after your hike. Add protein for that extra boost! The best way to recharge and refuel. read more
5 years ago
Maili Pillbox (or Pu'u O Hulu trail aka Pink pillbox) is a fairly easy hike. I think it's children and pet friendly. Access the trail off Kaukama Road. There is ample free parking on both sides of the road and you get to see amazing views from the start. I don't remember the trailhead being marked but my GPS took me directly there. The terrain is rugged/rocky all the way up and the loose gravel can become slippery. The trail is very narrow along some parts so if there were other hikers going the opposite direction, one party has to stop and give way. There are also some areas where there are drop-offs at the side of the hill so be careful not to slip. It was dry when I went (7am on 11 Nov 2021) so we did not experience any mud as previously stated. The entire trip is less than 2 miles round trip. It was a cool morning so me and my 12 year old nephew opted to leave our water bottles in the car so we wouldn't have to carry them. He got thristy about half way up but nothing too serious that he would be parched or dehydrated. Water would have been good but because it was such a short hike and on a cool morning, we didn't absolutely need it. Once at the top we discovered there were 4 Pillboxes. I just assumed it was a single Pillbox. Each had different artwork painted inside and the views from each of the mountains, the ocean & highway, and the even the residential area were amazing. One hiker tried to lift a big dog to the top of the pillbox but the dog wasn't having it. It was amusing watching him try multiple times though, Lmbo. If you are looking for a short, easy hike with amazing views, this is it. read more
Probably one of my favorite hikes on the island as far as the view at the top. 360 degree views and interesting pill boxes. The trail is very rocky and slippery. We went the steep way with the ropes. It was pretty steep going up but like other reviewers it was fast. Enjoyed seeing the pill boxes as well. Parking was easy. We parked on the street and didn't leave anything in the car. We did hear there are many break ins there. There was a white food truck at the start of the hike. We did bring a bottle of water with us on the hike. There was some younger kids that had a very large German shepherd unleashed with them. Their dog made a huge poop in the middle of the trail. Please don't be that way. Other than that everyone was so friendly and courteous. Absolutely beautiful Morning ! read more
Of the many hikes we did on Oahu, this one was very fast yet rewarding. 1.5 miles round trip, 700+ feet gained quickly. It took us about 45 mins going up and 20 mins down. The steepest part seems to be at the beginning, so stay with it! It turns into a few sets of switchbacks. There are four pillboxes at the top, take the time to check them all out. The top one has a thin exposed area you have to cross to get to it. I will upload a video of that part. read more
I do this hike almost daily when we are on Oahu. There is easy access and parking on the street right at the trailhead. It is quite steep in places with a 230 metre vertical climb over its one kilometre length. it's about 25-30 minutes to the top if you don't stop and about 20 minutes down. The trail can get slippery in the rain but, as this is the dry side of the island, rain is not that common. During the winter an early morning or late afternoon start will keep you out of the sun. But if you climb up for the sunset, don't wait too long to come down or you will be in darkness which could be quite dangerous. read more
Pet & children friendly trail. Didn't take long to reach the top. Great view of the ocean and neat spot for photos :) Despite it being pretty rainy all week, we ended up having clear skies yay! The one con of Pink Pillboxes is that it was about a one hour drive from town, which was longer than the hike itself. Not that fulfilling. Overall a good first-time experience but won't be a trail I'll return to anytime soon. read more
I must be so out of shape because everyone I spoke to about Ma'ili Pillboxes told me it would take 30 minutes (tops) to get to the top. Maybe I took too many breaks, or stopped too many times to take pictures, or have had way too many boba drinks the past year but it took me a whole hour to get to the top. To my defense, the trail was way too rocky and zig zaggy (meaning to say, it zig zagged all the way up) for my level of experience. I guess I'm used to easier trails. Anyway, regardless of how hot (because it was) or how hard the hike was -- the rewards at the top are totally worth it. There are three pillboxes that provide the most stunning views of the ocean. The very top pillbox offers a 360 view which is so perfect for pictures or a quiet place to sit for reflection. We were there on a weekday and there were a lot of other hikers so be prepared to be met with crowds. Be sure to wear your most comfortable hiking shoes and bring water and sunscreen. read more
Perfect for sunset ! It it was pretty crowded when me and my friend Katie went here this past Saturday but that did not stop us from hiking up this mountain side. The hike was a little steep but for the most part pretty short and easy there are several pillboxes to go to and enjoy the beautiful views. that you can see in my pictures I would definitely recommend doing this hike during sunset as it is very pretty however I would just recommend being careful going back down as it gets dark pretty fast. I would not leave any belongings that you care about in your car. Great hike on the west side read more
Closest hike near my house. The views are really amazing for this short hike (approx 1 mile round trip) but it climbs up pretty drastically. Today for some reason we took a wrong turn and ended up going on a vertical rock climbing mission straight to the pillbox. Usually the trail does a lot of switch backs after the first half and it's pretty easy IMO. Today was pretty intense but not beyond my comfort level. There were steel cables you could use as ropes to ascend but I punctured my finger on a rusty piece of it which was a like a rusty thorn. I don't recommend that particular short cut unless you are ok with mini avalanches of rocks and adept at some rock climbing. Don't look down either hehe. One of my experienced hiking buddies is 68 years old and she handled it fine. There are several bunkers or pillbox at the top. Today we just went to the pink "cancer awareness" bunker. I've been past this walking for about 30 minutes more to the "puka" which has some pretty dangerous ledges to conquer. Some people go the entire length along the ridge of the "Camel hump" and end up by the Sea Country store in the back of the subdivision (which btw has the best shaved ice on the island IMO). We've also come here for sunset hikes and descended with flash lights. The views are guaranteed to rock your world. Tip: I never park on the main road due to break ins. Notice all the smashed glass? I park in the first street to the left. read more
Beautiful and easy hike! It only took us around 26 minutes to get up to the top at a leisurely pace that included a few breaks and time spent moving aside for people & looking at the view lol TIP: Instead of mapping your way to Ma'ili Pillboxes, search it up as Ma'ili Point Hike - this'll take you to the beginning of the trail on Kaukama Road (you'll see cars parked along the side). There's no sign to mark the beginning, but you can clearly see a path going up. There are some loose rocks that you should be careful of, and it does get steep at some parts, but if you can do Lanikai Pillboxes you'll have no trouble with this one! The view from the pillboxes is great - there's three, and all of them are relatively easy to get up and down (I say as I needed assistance getting help going up and down... LOL but in retrospect I was just scared i think i could've managed by myself hahaha) read more
I've done Ma'ili Pillboxes several times in my life, and it is a good hike (in the morning or afternoon) and also a nice location to catch the sunset in the evening. The trail can be rocky at times, but not too difficult overall. Lovely views of Wai'anae and Nanakuli from the top along with the Pacific Ocean. And you can even see Ko Olina and its resorts in the far distance. Watch out for a few drop-offs along the way. The trail has eroded over time. And take your time when coming back down; you don't want to slip and trip on the rocky portions of the trail. There is plenty of parking at the trailhead on either side of Kaukama Street, right off Farrington Highway. read more
4 years ago
There's a lot of things to like about the hike up to the Ma'ili Pillboxes and I'm glad this is one that we chose to do in our time on Oahu. We were able to find street parking near the trailhead pretty easily. It was a weekday morning and it was not crowded at all. We saw more people as we were hiking back down so I guess we got there early. I would consider the hike moderately difficult. I was able to complete it with a toddler carrier in tow which made it a lot harder and hotter. There are some steep and rocky parts of the trail. We drank most of our water and it was barely 10:30 AM, so be prepared to hydrate. We also got the fun surprise of coming across some goats when we were almost to the pillboxes. Another group that were on the way down warned us to watch out for them because apparently they were blocking the trail for awhile. We got to catch them while they were making their way back up the mountainside and then across the backside. Of course what makes most hikes magical is the view at the top, and this one did not disappoint. You get a little bit of everything, the ocean, the island coastline, the mountains inland. As usual, pictures don't do it justice. There was a smoothie/fruit juice truck when we got back down and the refreshing, fresh juices were perfect after our hike. Any cons to coming here? Others have mentioned that the street is a high theft area and to make sure to lock your car/hide your valuables. That is definitely one thing to consider and double check before starting your hike up. The only other thing is that I felt it was a decent drive from Waikiki and we didn't have any other stops planned along the way so it's not the most convenient trail as far as location. If you have plenty of time, that's not a big deal. Or if you are staying in Aulani, it would be a great option. read more
Relatively short hike (40-50 minutes) to the first pill box. All incline with minimal (almost zero) shade. Good work out with a nice view as a reward, however, the lack of greenery (beginning of September 2023) was a bit disappointing. Saw some goats on our hike. read more
I've done quite a few hikes around the island and I'd have to agree with a fellow yelper, this one is easy/manageable. I took my 7 year old with me and he practically didn't need to take a break. We hiked near sunset. But of course, we brought the rain with us and it rained at the top. As we started to make our way down in fear of not being able to see, we realized it was just passing showers. We could've hid in the bunkers up top, not sure why my group didn't want too.. There are 3 pillboxes up top and at a very short distance from each other. The infamous pink box is at the top. Just a tip, there are 2 Kaumana streets that I know of in Waianae. Don't take the Hakimo road turn. It's just after, go around the bend in the road that takes you around the mountain on Farrington highway and take a right at the next light, that's the one. Apparently google maps took me to sketchy street. Park on the side of the road near the food/drink truck and the trail starts up. The heat and sun can get pretty harsh on this side, I'd recommend going during cooler times of the day. read more
3 years ago
When traveling by GPS, turn on Kaukama Dr and park along either side of the street. Make sure to remove any valuables and lock vehicle. We've never experienced any issues with theft anywhere on the island but don't be complacent. The trail begins off like any other and gradually increases in steepness. We had our 10 year old son with us and he was able to navigate it with ease. As the trail winds up, there is an "off the path" section which is more challenging and should be left to those with more experience. Nonetheless, it wasn't bad. As you get closer to the top, it can be easy to lose your footing but again, take your time and enjoy the beautiful views! The trail go on far past the pill boxes but again, experienced hikers should navigate that section. As you come down, watch for loose gravel and take your time. Rather have a dirty bottom than broken bones. Overall, my family and I spent an hour and a half going up and coming back down. The pictures don't do it justice so go and see for yourself! read more
Local Hiker here, been hiking a lot of trails on Oahu and outer island as well. I've hiked this trail numerous times and decided to review this hike and give some tips for fellow hikers. Ma'ili Pillbox also known as Pink Pillbox, is located on the West Side of Oahu. It's a great hike for beginners to moderate hikers. It has some great views of the mountains, valley, and sea. There are a lot of street parking, but do keep in mind this is a high theft area so hid your valuables in your car or bring them with you. This hike is great for morning workouts or even get great views of the sunset. I do not recommend the hiking in the afternoon as the area gets super hot with the sun directly above. Be sure to bring enough water as you will be needing it. For the first 10 mins into the hike, you'll already start to get views of the mountains and sea. Kids are capable of this hike, but please keep an eye on them because the trail does have loose rocks and dirt that can cause you to slip. It takes about 30 mins to get up if you're a regular hiker. For beginners it can take up to an hour to get to the top. The trail is wide enough to let others pass you. Its a gradual incline hike although there are certain steep ascending parts of the trail in the beginning and towards the ending. Overall when you get to the top you'll be greeted with astounding views and the multiple pillboxes at the top covered in art. The Pink Pillbox was dedicated to those with Breast Cancer. Although the top has perfect selfie moments and picture taking spots, please always be aware of your surroundings. You can easily get injured on this hike and fall of the edge easily. There have been incidents on this hike. There trails on this hike that go beyond and is off the main trail, I do not recommend doing this unless you are experienced or know the trail well. Overall, the hike gives you a good workout. Many of the people that hike here are friendly. There are many scenic spots and rest stops so you can take your time on this hike. **PRO TIPS:** -DO NOT leave valuables in your car -Wear sunscreen if hiking on a sunny day -Wear shoes with good grip -Be sure to have enough water -Always take breaks when you need too, remember this is not a race -Pick up your trash! -Be safe and have fun! read more
3 years ago
This is a short hike but for beginners it will feel longer as it's mostly uphill hiking/climbing. The view is worth it!! Coming down Ck can be a bit scary and very Rocky. Some days you will see the black goats and during whale season you can see them plus awesome sunset! read more
"NO RESTROOM ON THE TRAIL OR AT THE PILLBOXES" This cardio hike starts at 30% incline and eventually increases to 60%. On our half way mark we stopped and took a breather, one of many. We turned around and noticed a majestic view toward Makaha-- this was the perfect place to stop and enjoy the inspiring view. As we traveled further we came across a tree growing on the side of the hill. I called it the "tree of genealogy". Can you imagine the history this tree has seen!?! As you reach your first pillbox you'll see an iron rod sticking out of the ground. That rod held a WWII .30 caliber MG. The pillbox iron door was missing so we walked in and took a selfie. :-) We hiked up further to the pink pillbox (be cautious going up or down this section of the trail because of loose gravel) to enjoy a panoramic view from Ko Olina to Ka'ena. On a clear day you may see Mt Ka'ala, which is the highest peak on O'ahu, 5,387'. Another cardio hike with technical features, which I scaled a quarter mile up to the plateau. The reason pink pillbox was painted pink was to support cancer awareness. Of course some of the locals were not happy someone painted the pillbox pink. Others liked the idea as a reminder cancer is real. (KHNL News by Jim M., Oct 20, 2015) A short history of Pu'u O Hulu (hill of Hulu), aka Pink Pillbox. It was established April 27, 1923 for military reservation. Several pillboxes were made all facing the makai (Ocean). All the pillboxes were connected by tunnels. A mess hall and kitchen were built on the other side of Hulu. The pillbox was armed with 7-inch MK2M4-6 Naval Guns but was later changed to 6-inch guns. Construction halted on May 31, 1945. (The Coast Defense Journal, August 2006 vol. 20 Issue 3) This is definitely a hike worth taking. The day my friends and I did the hike, towards the top there was a lot of flies. We couldn't figure out the reason for their presence. Suggestion, hiking with a dog, clean up your dog poop and take it with you!!! read more
5 years ago
The pink pillbox hike is definitely worth the drive out to the West side of the island. I used google maps for navigation to the hike. The parking is located on Kaukama Road and the trail is about the 9th light pole once you make the right turn on the street. It is very easy to find! It took us about a little over half an hour each way with some parts that are a little steep, but nothing crazy. Once you get to the top of the pillboxes you'll have a view of the beautiful coastlines and mountains. I'd recommend this hike for any age, but please always hike with caution. Take breaks and photos along the way, it can definitely be quite hot on this side of the island. Tips: Bring water! Remember to never keep valuables in your car! Wear sunscreen! read more
I love this hike! Just as good if not better than Lanikai Pillboxes - it's easier to park, and it's a bit easier to hike. I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the heat, or during cooler months like December/January. The view at the top is definitely worth it! Take your trash, and if you bring a dog pick up their sh*t! There was dog poop along some areas. Don't leave anything in your car. Have fun! read more
Beautiful, quick hike. There is plenty of parking on the street. There is a small opening and you will be able to see the trail. No tree coverage so be sure to bring water and sunscreen. It's uphill almost immediately and stays that way pretty much until your reach the top. The three different pillboxes are super cool and have different art inside. Would definitely recommend if you're in the area, but bring shoes with good traction as it will make the hike a lot easier and enjoyable! read more
2 years ago
5 years ago
This was a good climb. It took our group (including a 7 year old and a 9 year old) about 40 minutes to climb. Great views all the way up. We did the sunset hike. Immediately after the sun disappeared I said, 'let's bounce' because it gets dark quickly. Had to use phone flashlight as it was totally dark before we were able to get down. The pics show what you are looking for to find trail. A lot of people say 'count nine light poles' to find the trail but I counted 11 or 12. Lots of parking on the road so no stress there. I also saw quite a few comments about cars being broken into and yep, broken glass in a few places. Don't leave anything of value in car. ** Oh yeah, make sure to have bug spray. Plenty of mosquitoes (on my evening anyway) are you are walking through and brushing up against tall grasses and plants. read more
Was told about this place when we first moved to the island. It is a great workout hiking up the mountain. I would rate it a moderate trail as children, small dogs, and older adults might not be able to hike it. Overall not too many loose rocks on the trail just a bit steep in some areas and a bit of a drop if you misstep. The views are great once you start climbing and the views from the pillboxes are great. read more
6 years ago
Hot. It's summer. Not much shade. Thank goodness for the breeze-especially at the top. There are no signs marking the start or entrance to this trail....cars parked on the side of Kaukama Road is what you need to see. Pull over and park for free on the side of the road and look for the trail going up. This hike is short and you'll end up doing less than 6000 steps total. The views are so worth it-- Hawaii really does have gorgeous blue water. Climb on the roof of one of the pillboxes and just enjoy the fabulous views. See the photos below, speaks for itself. read more
Somewhat steep but totally doable hike in Maili. Our friend took us the steeper way which involved a lot of rock climbing. The view at the top over Maili and the coast is incredible. There are also some cool trees with incredible white roots along the way. There are a few pillboxes out there but would recommend this one. read more
Page 1 of 2
More info about Maili Pillboxes
87-1005 Ohe'Ohe St
Waianae, HI 96792
Directions
Hours
Outdoor Amenities
Ask the Community - Maili Pillboxes
Is this a kid safe hike (5/6 years old)?
Depends on the child. It does have some narrow areas with serious drop offs. Plus loose rock that someone can slip on if not careful. I would probably not take a five year old… Read more
Review Highlights - Maili Pillboxes
You might also consider
Maili Pillboxes - hiking - Updated May 2026
Best of Waianae
People found Maili Pillboxes by searching for…
Things to Do in Waianae, Hawaii
Hiking Trails in Waianae, Hawaii
Sunrise View in Waianae, Hawaii
View Points in Waianae, Hawaii
Beautiful Views in Waianae, Hawaii
Running Trails in Waianae, Hawaii
Watch Sunset in Waianae, Hawaii
Rock Climbing in Waianae, Hawaii
Walking Trails in Waianae, Hawaii
Scenic View in Waianae, Hawaii
Star Gazing in Waianae, Hawaii
Scenic Drive in Waianae, Hawaii
Sunset View in Waianae, Hawaii
Kid Friendly Hiking Trails in Waianae, Hawaii
Places to Take Pictures in Waianae, Hawaii
Stair Climbing in Waianae, Hawaii
Trending Searches in Waianae, HI
Botanical Gardens near Maili Pillboxes
Bounce House Rentals near Maili Pillboxes
Campgrounds near Maili Pillboxes
Cherry Picking near Maili Pillboxes
Cliff Jumping near Maili Pillboxes
Floral Designers near Maili Pillboxes
Flower Fields near Maili Pillboxes
Flower Shop near Maili Pillboxes
Garage Sales near Maili Pillboxes
Garden Center near Maili Pillboxes
Lakes & Ponds near Maili Pillboxes
Mens Suits near Maili Pillboxes
Nurseries & Gardening near Maili Pillboxes
Outdoor Activities near Maili Pillboxes
Outdoor Furniture Stores near Maili Pillboxes
Party Equipment Rentals near Maili Pillboxes
Photo Spots near Maili Pillboxes
Picnic Areas near Maili Pillboxes
Places To Take Pictures near Maili Pillboxes
Plant Nursery near Maili Pillboxes
Rock Quarry near Maili Pillboxes
Running Trails near Maili Pillboxes
Scenic Drive near Maili Pillboxes
Scenic Night View near Maili Pillboxes
Sunrise View near Maili Pillboxes
Swimming Holes near Maili Pillboxes
Browse Articles
Browse Nearby
BEST of Waianae, Hawaii Restaurants near Maili Pillboxes
BEST of Waianae, Hawaii Coffee near Maili Pillboxes
BEST of Waianae, Hawaii Things to Do near Maili Pillboxes
BEST of Waianae, Hawaii Parks near Maili Pillboxes
BEST of Waianae, Hawaii Breakfast near Maili Pillboxes
BEST of Waianae, Hawaii Lakes near Maili Pillboxes
Browse Brands
Related Searches in Waianae, HI
Affordable Kayak Rental Services in Waianae, Hawaii
Best Fishing Locations and Guides in Waianae, Hawaii
Best Nature Trails for Hiking in Waianae, Hawaii
Best Places for Horseback Riding in Waianae, Hawaii
Best Waterfalls and Swimming Holes in Waianae, Hawaii
Check Out Off Road Trails in Waianae, Hawaii
Discover Dog Friendly Trails to Explore in Waianae, Hawaii
Discover Scenic Hiking Trails in Waianae, Hawaii
Discover Scenic Walking Paths in Waianae, Hawaii, {State}
Discover Scenic Waterfall Spots in Waianae, Hawaii
Discover Top Nature Parks to Visit in Waianae, Hawaii
Discover Walking Parks in Waianae, Hawaii Near You
Discover a Hiking Trail in Waianae, Hawaii
Discover the Best Night Hike Trails in Waianae, Hawaii
Discover the Breathtaking Waterfall Trail in Waianae, Hawaii, {State}
Enjoy Camping Adventures Around Waianae, Hawaii
Enjoy Exciting Mountain Biking Adventures in Waianae, Hawaii
Enjoy Kayaking Adventures in Waianae, Hawaii
Enjoy Tent Camping Spots Around Waianae, Hawaii
Enjoy Water Activities and Fun in Waianae, Hawaii
Enjoy a Beautiful Waterfall Hike in Waianae, Hawaii
Enjoy a Peaceful Nature Walk in Waianae, Hawaii
Enjoy a Scenic Walk in Waianae, Hawaii, {State}
Enjoy the Best Picnic Spots and Ideas in Waianae, Hawaii
Enjoy the Best Walking Trails in Waianae, Hawaii
Exciting Cliff Jumping Spots in Waianae, Hawaii
Explore Beautiful Parks and Green Spaces in Waianae, Hawaii
Explore Easy Hikes Perfect for All in Waianae, Hawaii
Explore Fun Activities to Do in Waianae, Hawaii
Explore Popular Campgrounds Near Waianae, Hawaii
Explore the Best Beach Spots in Waianae, Hawaii
Explore the Best Swimming Holes Around Waianae, Hawaii
Explore the Best Trail Options in Waianae, Hawaii
Family Friendly Hiking With Kids in Waianae, Hawaii
Find Popular Ziplining Spots Around Waianae, Hawaii
Find the Best Parks for Picnics in Waianae, Hawaii
Find the Best Scenic View Locations in Waianae, Hawaii
Hiking Trails With Waterfalls in Waianae, Hawaii
Off Leash Dog Hiking Trails in Waianae, Hawaii
Plan a Scenic Drive Route Near Waianae, Hawaii
Popular Outdoor Activities to Try in Waianae, Hawaii
Popular Picnic Spots to Visit in Waianae, Hawaii
Safe and Fun Parks for Kids in Waianae, Hawaii
Top Climbing Spots and Gyms in Waianae, Hawaii
Top Paddleboarding Activities in Waianae, Hawaii
Top Places for Snorkeling in Waianae, Hawaii
Top Running Trails to Explore in Waianae, Hawaii
Top Swimming Spots and Pools in Waianae, Hawaii
