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    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike

    4.3 (38 reviews)

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    Through the hiking trail
    Yosmar J.

    This hike was a very adventurous and interesting hike. There isn't really a hike path but people have added color straps to the trees where it allows you to stay on track. I went during the raining season in March but it was well worth it . It may be a slippery hike so I strongly reccomend appropriate shoes to not slip.

    First stop
    Dain S.

    Had amazing experience, hiking along this beautiful Manoa cliff. Surrounded by nature, it's so green, definitely coming back when I'm back on the island. Wow alot of avocado trees, but be careful! Of the cliffs trust me you don't want to fall down that 300-500'ft drop. I would suggest going in the early morning, because it's not an easy walk over.

    Small waterfall at the beginning of the trail
    David S.

    Great hike very close to Waikiki. It can be very challenging at times but once your finished it's well worth it.

    Stream

    Otherworldly. It's indescribable really how beautiful this experience was and the photos don't capture the widespread of it all. It's very easy to follow through and not very difficult in my opinion. It's about 1.6 miles total and the waterfall is at the end of it all. Perfect motivator. I 100% recommended going here it is not far from Waikiki.

    04/25/2015
    Ariana K.

    This was a fun and easy hike. Took us about 2 hours to finish it. I recommend to wear bug spray, because there were some mosquitoes here and there. You can wear sunscreen, but most of the trail was covered. So I personally didn't use sunscreen. Now finding this trail might be confusing, only because there are so many different trails along Tanatalus. To get to this particular trail, just drive up Round Top Drive. The trail is right before the house at 4059. Parking is located on the left and the trail will be on the right. Parking - http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#8UOoJpJufmMhEUsi49LeBA Trail - http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#vt0CuX8DhuG06ZybvEYnmQ As you continue on the trail, you will eventually see a bench http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu?select=BETWEjBkIFpSZqF6vw64SA#hYpYTWyd6mjcMCpblJ0Cwg This is great place for pictures and to take a short break ;D Continue on the trail and you will see tons of beautiful bamboo trees and eventually hit a gate http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#pbkh2QgLmoUl3TR0sSKd-Q go through the gate (and please close it behind you) and then you will continue one until you reach the second gate http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#qy_eb8wLj1UIXEVrIHsokA If you continue on straight you will notice that the Manoa Cliff Trail has now connected with the Pu'u Ohia Trail http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#aYauYy0-B4KFS15xZ5031A As you continue to follow the new trail, you will reach this shed that connects to a paved road http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#mKoPWztqbnl22eLIzZWCyQ follow the paved road http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#J-FrGfQ0LOq4UFRY-nFdNA until you reach a three way fork, then go to the far left choice http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#1dhqXX6F6CfLq6mHj1-d-A The left side is clearly marked with the Pu'u Ohia Trail sign, http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#w0MdkSKuIHdVF05YDnJdNg Follow the bamboo path http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#Xah8nt1MNW5Ufbp7prLZUg continue on the trail until you finally reach the road again! http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu#uVUZuZlxsw-vv8sOY8exOA Please be careful as you are walking back to your cars. Most drivers aren't expecting to see people on the road. And with all the twist and turns they might not see you until last minute. For any hikers, I highly recommend using this website (http://www.explorationhawaii.com/hikes/). My friends and I are always referring to this website to either decide on a new hike or as guidance as we are hiking.

    Vina A.

    What a nice easy going hike with views, lovely birds and plants. A bit muddy even on a dry day but not slippery. Needed to get out and move around a little and glad I did! took my slow going self about 25 minutes to the bench, after which I just turned around. In that time, there's a great variety of moss and vines and trees, etc. there's a number of steps but nothing too difficult. Just beautiful. Took roundtop rd a ways pass tantalus lookout.

    Telephone Road
    Dathan C.

    There are two ways to do this loop hike which consists of the Manoa Cliff trail and the upper Pu'u Ohia trail. You can start at the Manoa Cliff trail and hike up Tantalus connecting with the Pu'u Ohia trail and then walking down Tantalus/Round Top Drive, or start at Pu'u Ohia trail and walk up Tantalus/Round Top drive. Or alternatively take two cars and leave one at both parking lots and when you're done drop drive everyone back to the other car and not have to walk the road at all. Just sayin'. Personally, I'd rather start with Pu'u Ohia as descending down the Manoa Cliff trail has some spectacular views looking out from the valley that you'd miss always looking forward as you ascend the Manoa Cliff trail. Also, I'd rather hike up Tantalus/Round Top drive on pavement than through mud. Bring bug spray, shoes you don't care about and hiking sticks. Did I mention bug spray already? Bring more. This trail gets muddy in certain places. My friends and I went in June, but it was breezy and the altitude keeps it relatively cool. The Pu'u Ohia trail parking lot is on the left side of the road right after the bend right after Kalaiaopua place. The trail is across the street and labeled with a sign. Pu'u Ohia is split into two parts, with Telephone Road connecting the two parts. Most of Pu'u Ohia is bamboo forest with a few good viewpoints concentrated in the areas prior to the dense bamboo forest. Shade is abundant but sunscreen is still advised. Stay to the left whenever you see a fork in the trail. Pu'u Ohia's first section exits on to Telephone Road. Go north, down Telephone Road for about a quarter mile until you encounter barbed wire enclosed structures with what looks like giant drums attached on a tower. If you don't have a hiking stick by now, desperately find suitable bamboo here. You will need it. The trail continues on the far-left side of the structures with a clearly marked sign. Lucky for you, it's almost all downhill from here, unlucky for you, it's a partial mud fest. At the end of your descent down the Pu'u Ohia trail, a fork in the trail appears. The left side takes you to Pauoa Flats trail. The right starts the Manoa Cliffs trail. Take the right and go through the metal gate closing it behind you. Here's where the views become amazing so take a few minutes to enjoy the view. You can even see Kailua in some spots. Eventually as you descend the Manoa Cliffs trail, you'll hit a fork. Stay to the right taking the path next to the sign that warns about cliffs, falling and dying (so dramatic State of Hawaii!). A few minutes later, you'll hit another metal gate. Go through and close it behind you. At this point, you're about half a mile from the viewpoint bench. It's a literal bench that overlooks Manoa Valley. On Google maps it's the sharpest point about half way through the hike with GPS coordinates 21°19'57.0"N 157°48'35.9"W. The rest of the hike is a simple descent down the mountain through various types of forest until you hit the Manoa Cliffs trail parking lot. There are anti-mud/anti-seed shoe brushes at the bottom to clean your shoes before and after the hike. If you didn't leave a second car here, enjoy a 0.8 mile hike back to your car, but hey at least it's on pavement. Just watch out for cars as there isn't much of a sidewalk. Side notes: You may notice a stone obelisk peeking out from the top of a hill. That's on a nearby residence that borders the trail. This trail comes within 60 meters of several residences on Tantalus so try to keep the noise down. At the end of the first Pu'u Ohia section, if you head south on Telephone Road, you'll come across a number of structures. There's a side trail (probably not legal) that's partially hidden behind them. That leads to a very short, but well maintained trail which overlooks the Manoa valley, but it's too overgrown to have any decent view of southern Oahu. There are no amenities aside from parking. This is a relatively easy hike, aside from the mud with good views and nice bamboo forests.

    Jana H.

    Beautiful easy hike through a rain forest. We hiked it with our small kids and after about 20 minutes of hiking we were rewarded with gorgeous views. The cliffs are a bit steep and one has to watch out especially when hiking with small children. The trail is quite muddy which is normal for this part of O'ahu and this time of the year. Plenty of parking at the trail head.

    Views from the top
    Yuko A.

    Sometimes I wish all of the trails in Hawaii were legal and maintained because of the wide trails, the well marked signs/maps, and because its just so much easier to navigate But then again, I've heard that hikes that aren't legal gives you a rush you definitely wont get on these legal hikes. :) Anyway, after reading Lora's review these seemed to be a perfect morning hike that would be easy to follow, work up a little sweat, and detox from a heavily alcohol induced weekend. My friend and I started hiking around 10:30 and finished around 2. Lora H. wasn't lying when she said this hike was longggg. I started freaking out near the end since I had a Doctor's appointment and I was afraid I wasn't going to make it. We actually ran for the end of it so we could make it in time to grab lunch and make it in time for my appointment. #foodtrumpseverything I followed Lora's direction to a tee and I advise you to do the same. We also grabbed a map at the entrance and that helped to see how many miles each trail was and where we were in reference to the entrance. Although not much of a scenic trail except at the top (where you can see the Waianae Coast, Diamond Head, and Honolulu) http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu?select=RrZBXDRLR2eqAjsk51fkJw#wnS2aTCnGT2_qU4j5ACLMQ the birds, flowers, bamboo forests, and plants were fun to explore as we trekked through the mud and what felt like never ending trails. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/makiki-manoa-cliffs-hike-honolulu?select=RrZBXDRLR2eqAjsk51fkJw#HyBivoCquu0ymNgu0uSoBQ All in all would I do it again? Probably not. Just cause it was so long and the views were okay. Not to say I wouldn't recommend this to anyone but if you are looking for a breathtaking view don't have high expectations. But if you are looking for a hike to clear your head, get away from town, discover yourself this is definitely a must. YELP 365: 221/365

    Like the woods
    Lika T.

    This hike was really Challenging because we couldn't find out way to the top and it took us about an hour to get to where the 3 path splits! So we took the path back down the Nature center cuz it was raining and muddy so we just left. But the view and the hike up was fun and felt really great to be out doors with the nature!

    Leidys M.

    Such such SUCH an amazing place!! The first hike is the main one, which leads to the big waterfall. The water is nice: refreshing, not too cold (especially after the hike) and a fabulous view. About 10-20 feet before the falls is a different trail; AIHUALAMA. It's quite long and with a lot of different obstacles but such a good and challenging trail! Once you finish it you get to the PAUOA FLATS trail which is much shorter but an easier trail. At the end (of the right side) you get rewarded by a beautiful view and a bench where you can sit for a little bit and rest. Overall, this would be my main hike in Hawaii. I kept being recommended to go to Diamondhead but honestly, it doesn't compare. The views are better, the air is fresher, the hike is less crowded... I would definitely say this is the #1 spot to explore in Hawaii. $5 dollar parking which is a deal!!

    Beautiful bamboo forest
    Rachel C.

    This is a great trail for an easy (but somewhat long) weekend hike. I wouldn't recommend this hike alone unless you are used to steep drop offs and windy roads (to get up to the trail). If you decide to tackle this trail, do yourself a favor and read Ariana M.'s review. She gives detailed directions that are truly SPOT ON. I took a screen shot of her review before heading out, and I was happy I did. As Ariana M. points out, the start of this trail is right before the house at 4059. I'll skip details on how to get through the trail since my fellow Yelper really covered it all, and give you a few quick notes instead. 1. Safe hike for baby wearers. I wore my 7 mo in the front and had no problem other than being tired toward the end. 2. Bring lots of water and bug spray. No need for sunblock in my opinion because this is a shaded trail. We did get a few bites each, so bug spray is a must. 3. Beautiful bamboo forests in this trail, very much worth bringing your camera or phone for pictures! 4. There are a few "scary" parts on this trail. This was my ninth hike so I am by no means a seasoned hiker, but I did not like the steep drop offs one bit! It's totally doable, even for people who fear heights... but just bring company. Happy hiking!

    Bamboo forest
    Aubry A.

    The Pu'u Ohia trail connects to the Manoa Cliffs trail. It takes about less than 15 minutes to get up to the bamboo forest. The trail entrance is before Telephone Road and you'll see a small parking lot across of the trailhead. We just went to see the bamboo forest up there and it was unbelievable! Has a really nice breeze coming through and don't forget to bring bug repellent! We forgot to bring, so we had to hurry out before the mosquitoes attack us! It's a bit muddy there, but it's manageable. Just be careful, and don't slip!

    Bamboo forest

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    The tantalus trails are a must for anyone hiking on O'ahu.

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    Ask the Community - Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike

    Review Highlights - Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike

    In our case there was a recent landslide and there was a warning sign not continue on the Manoa Cliff Trail.

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    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    4.8(172 reviews)
    0.3 mi

    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.

    There is a lookout in this park that provides a panoramic view of Honolulu and Waikiki. The view is…read moregorgeous. Also a perfect place to watch sunset. One thing to note is that it does get really windy here. There are two parking lots available near this lookout. The one right next to the lookout is very small. It only holds about a dozen cars. The safer bet is to park at the slightly further parking lot with only a five minute walk to the Vista point.

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    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

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    Lulumahu Falls

    Lulumahu Falls

    4.5(360 reviews)
    3.0 mi

    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.

    Here are clear and concise directions for this hike!!…read more Main parking off Pali hwy. Entrance is easily visible. You'll enter the bamboo forest. Within the first 50 feet it will split into a Y trail, take the left path. If you go straight you'll likely end up in the bamboo section for 20-40 mins. If you do not exit the bamboo area within 10 mins, you're lost. You'll exit the bamboo area through a lifted/broken section of the fence. Walk uphill onto the paved pathway. This will open onto a wide valley. You'll pass a large bridge structure. Follow that till road till you get to the supply shed structures. Look for a small concrete stairway in the trees. Stay left mostly, and look for pink ribbons. Pass the old fenced off pool looking area. Once you hit the rock/mud path (approx 10 mins) there's a hard right turn down into the main river area. A large tree has fallen so you'll need to spot the ribbons, and climb over this tree. If you pass this fallen tree by mistake, the trail will seem oddly difficult and dense. You'll need to turn around. Walk until you see the man made rock wall with a small waterfall, and walk across this to the other side. Follow the ribbons up the path and you'll need to cross the river 3-5 more times after this. Keep looking for clear open paths. There's two ways you can continue after that point so don't worry. (One way is just more difficult) Before the waterfall there's a larger section of rocks you'll have to climb over. Main takeaways: You will have to walk across slippery rocks several times. It is muddy. It's not that difficult but can be dangerous at some parts. If you don't see a pink/orange ribbon for more than 5-10 mins at any time, you are likely lost.

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    Lulumahu Falls
    Lulumahu Falls
    Lulumahu Falls - Crossing through the stream - hopping on the rocks

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    Crossing through the stream - hopping on the rocks

    Diamond Head State Monument - Shaved Ice

    Diamond Head State Monument

    4.5(2.2k reviews)
    3.8 miDiamond Head

    Vacationed in Hawaii (4/29-4/3 2026) so of course we had to hit up the beautiful island trails!…read moreDiamond Head was on our list so we booked it in advance since you need to make reservations. We did it all through Groupon to get picked up from our hotel and dropped off as well. The trail is definitely a popular hot spot for tourists but we didn't mind the crowd. We did an early one to see the Sun rise, though by the time we got there the sun was out already. Totally okay. Water was provided by our tour guide. He gave us some history on Diamond Head and then dropped us off and gave us 2 hours to explore before getting picked up. Thank you Jonah from Fun Hawaii Group! Aaaand we were on our way! Paths were clean and clear of overgrown plants for the most part. My wife and l hike regularly so we didn't feel the hike was bad at all. Weather was perfect (it rained on us a bjt too which was unexpected but fun) and it wasn't a long hike either. There are steps involved which we enjoyed for the added cardio! When we made it to the top it was breathtaking! The views of the ocean and the mountains were beautiful! Still find myself looking at photos. It was truly magical. We were in paradise!

    Hiking Diamond Head State Monument is honestly one of my favorite things to do when I visit Oʻahu…read more It's about a 1.6 mile round trip hike and took us around 1.5-2 hours, but this can vary depending on stops and crowds. I'd say it's a moderate hike--not super long, but you definitely feel it. There's a pretty significant incline, especially toward the end with all the stairs, so it gets your heart rate up for sure. The path isn't paved, so it's a mix of rocky, uneven ground and dirt trails, and it can get a bit muddy if it's rained recently. There are also these dark tunnels you walk through, which was actually really cool and made it feel a little more adventurous (just use your phone flashlight). The best part is definitely the view at the top. You get these insane panoramic views of Waikīkī and the ocean--totally worth the climb. A couple quick tips: make reservations before you go, get there early because it gets hot fast, bring water, and wear decent shoes (especially if it's been rainy). Also expect a little waiting in tight spots like the stairs near the top. Overall, it's a fun hike and 100% worth it if you're visiting.

    Photos
    Diamond Head State Monument - Top of the crater

    Top of the crater

    Diamond Head State Monument - Super Mommy and Son Son

    Super Mommy and Son Son

    Diamond Head State Monument - Happy Hikers!

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    Happy Hikers!

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - hiking - Updated May 2026

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