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    Palolo Valley

    4.3 (12 reviews)

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    Ed L.

    Palolo Valley is a residential area on the island of Oahu in urban Honolulu. It's zip code is 96816 and one of the more beautiful parts of town, especially deeper into the valley. What usually scares people away is the reputation Palolo has. Don't blame them at all. Palolo had been the focus of crime in the 1990's and 2000's, as the neighborhood had been subjected to random crime stuff that had plagued the area for a good while. Within the last 10 years, I've noticed there is a steep drop off in those statistics and Palolo seems to be in a better place since then. The main thoroughfare through Palolo valley is through 10th Avenue and Palolo Avenue. Both of them are essentially the same street, but they change names in the middle near La'i Road. The further you get back into the valley is where the scenic parts of the valley come into play. There is good hiking trails up at Ka'u Crater, where I've been in the past, but do so at your own risk, even though there are no trespassing signage along the beginning trail head. 90% of Palolo Valley is private residential and there is public housing here on Ahe Street. During the day and early evening hours is perfectly safe, but be warned when you're out and about after 10pm. Sometimes, stuff happens when you out that late. The last two or so years, I've discovered Palolo Valley as a good training grounds for marathon training. Up 10th avenue and out on Palolo avenue by the McDonald's. Around 5.5 miles, I think. That's usually the way I go, unless you like to on the side streets. Many of the streets are steep and it's kind of cool how people can live and drive up steep embankments when they commute from home to work and everywhere else. At the very back of Palolo Valley is as rugged as some rural sides of the island. A lot of trees and vegetation that makes you think you are in some rural town, but that's how it is. In the back of Palolo Valley is very pristine and very quiet. I guess that's how many residents like it over there. The quietness of the area helps residents live life to the fullest. It is really nice to have that peace instead of just having that reputation of being a place where random crime happens - like Kalihi and Waianae. Palolo elementary school and Jarret Middle school calls home in Palolo valley, as well as Palolo Chinese home too. There's a Korean temple near the back of the valley too. Ka'u crater is great for hikes and trails, although best bet is to just be mindful of where you are and try not to step into anything. Plenty of parking here as you have residential streets to park in. If you are like me, bus route 9S circles the valley and it's nice to see. For whatever business or pleasure you do in Palolo Valley, best bet is to enjoy the scenery and you're lucky to live Hawaii. There's a few businesses that operate in the area, most notably is the Palolo McDonald's, on Waialae Avenue, a couple of wash/dry shops, a few convenient shops, a couple of restaurants, and of course, a couple of gas stations. All of which are either on Palolo avenue or 10th Avenue. Whether or not you live here, visiting, or have friends or relatives here, it's always nice to visit here and see the island once in a while. Feel free to step into the valley and you may be pleasantly surprised. Just don't come late at night and you should be fine. My countless experiences here running through Palolo valley have been quite peaceful and tranquil. It was very quiet in the back of the valley and I could see why people love to live there. You can even hear birds chirping early in the morning while you run up 10th avenue. If you are ever on the upper side of palolo valley and looking out to diamond head, you can even probably see the sunrise or sunset there. 4.0 stars. Support local! B

    Parking area and trail entrance behind the mailboxes.
    Vincent C.

    The reviews were pretty spot on. Me and the wifey hiked this one a couple days ago. The hike itself is not to difficult, but wouldn't recommend for anyone with kids under 10yrs old. We wore our flip flops and had no problem. But you really have to watch your step. Hiking shoes would have been better, but this was a spur of the moment excursion. Finding the entrance to the trail was difficult and we would have never found it if we hadn't asked a friendly local. TIP: The address will take you right to the location where you need to park. The road does continue but there are signs posted "no trespassing" and "beware of dog". The entrance to the trail is just to the right of the four or five mail box stand. Poke your head through the bushes and you'll find it. I will post pictures of the trail entrance and parking area. As far as the trail goes it's pretty easy to navigate. Just follow the ribbons. The trail does a few switch backs over the stream just keep following the ribbons. They will lead you in the right direction. TIP: Bring ribbon of your choice to help navigate the route back. There were a couple times the trail got a little confusing because of all the switch backs, and your really not paying attention to what was behind you. Using the Nike Run App the first Waterfall was 1.66 miles. The wifey had enough so we didn't carry on to the other two Waterfalls. I would definitely recommend this hike if your up for it. Just go on a dry day. Tip: Take lots of bug spray, some water, snacks and loads of pictures. Enjoy!!!

    After the third waterfall
    Nikki K.

    Great hike into Palolo valley with three waterfalls, a great view of the valley, some mud, and rope climbing. Difficulty: I'd say this hike is medium-hard difficulty. Hiking up to the top of the third waterfall and back took about 3hrs (6miles). There are areas that require some balance since you had to walk across thick pipes and use ropes or hands to climb. Trail path: The trail is fairly well defined with ribbons and ropes to guide you, but it definitely helps to go with someone who has hiked it before since there are alternative routes to go back after the third waterfall. The trail is well shaded but can get muddy when it rains. Each waterfall is about 15-20min apart. There is also an option to hike to the top of the mountain head that adds an extra hour. Though the view is supposed to be beautiful, that part of the trail can get particularly windy and muddy, which can get a little dangerous when it's raining and when the trail narrows. View: the three waterfalls are gorgeous picture taking spots as well as the view after the third waterfall. Parking: the road to the trail head is very narrow and parking is limited near the trail head. However, there is plenty of street parking down the road.

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    Review Highlights - Palolo Valley

    The first waterfall is quick & makes you think of LOST as you're getting closer to it.

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    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    4.8
    (173 reviews)
    3.4 km

    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.

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

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    Mānoa Falls Trail

    Mānoa Falls Trail

    4.4
    (1.3k reviews)
    4.6 km

    This is a great little hike that is not difficult at all. The trail seems mostly maintained for the…read moremost part. It was raining when we went, so it got super muddy, but that is to be expected and was totally fine. My only real disappointment was that you cannot actually get into the water to swim anywhere along the trail or at the falls. Also, be aware that they charge for parking, though they do offer a military discount if that applies to you. Overall, it is a nice, accessible walk through nature, just do not bring your swimsuit expecting to dive in.

    Manoa Falls Trails was recommended from someone as a short and relaxing hike. Although it was quite…read moreshort (our group finished within an hour), it wasn't very relaxing. It felt more intense. As it is surrounded by breath taking views and lots of trees. And once you reached the end, there is a waterfall -- lovely view, you can see it but you cannot touch the water or swim there. It's a lovely hike and experience; I did sort of enjoy it but please keep in mind and know that it is quite muddy and there is a lot of incline, uphills. The pavement is mostly rocky and muddy throughout. As it is a short distance, our group finished within an hour. I also a saw three people fall down. I wished that there were signs to warn people of the muddy and rocky areas or the inclines coming for safety. I would recommend this trail but to dress comfortably and to stay hydrated. There is a small parking lot available, the parking fee is $7. It was an experience for one time but I most likely wouldn't go again.

    Photos
    Spectacular!
    Spectacular!
    Water fall behind me and my boo 3
    Water fall behind me and my boo 3
    Lonely self

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    Lonely self
    Lulumahu Falls

    Lulumahu Falls

    4.5
    (360 reviews)
    6.2 km

    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.

    Photos
    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

    Diamond Head State Monument

    4.5
    (2.2k reviews)
    4.2 km

    We're back to hike up the trail to Diamond Head after 10 years. Our grandchildren, ages 8, 6, and 4…read moreare hiking it for their first time. We visit Oahu every year but we're usually relaxing at the beach and not really doing touristy things. Ayyy...But the son and DIL were interested in visiting DH, so I made a reservation. First time going online to make a reservation. Back in the day you just got there early, parked, and walked up. LOL Made a reservation online for 7 people and it was $45 which included parking. Little did I know we would end up not renting a car, so we Ubered from our hotel. If I would have known three days ahead of time, I could have received a refund. But alas, I did not. Oh well. The kiddos all hiked up to the top with the adults and did a great job. One of the kiddos was a little cranky having to avoid people and pull over next to the rocks to let people pass, but she survived and quit complaining once we offered a shaved iced once we were back at the trail head. #highlyrecommend

    No reservation needed for local residents. I visited Diamond Head State Monument on a Sunday…read moremorning and the parking lot was packed. I drove up to the guard shack, showed my ID and was able to park in the open lot. I recommend carpooling as parking is limited. I hadn't hiked Diamond Head in 10 years, so I forgot how strenuous it can be. I wore comfortable athletic sneakers, a large sun hat and brought a 24 oz water bottle with me. There's little to no shade for most of the hike. Certain parts of the hike are steep and uneven. Definitely take your time and don't feel rushed. There's enough room for people to go around you, if needed. I saw some elementary kids zip past me, so even younger kids can do it. There is a steep stairwell and a dark tunnel that leads to the top. Once I got to the lookout, it was so crowded. It was hard to take photos and gather with my friends. I felt so claustrophobic. After that, I climbed back down. When I got to the end of the hike, I went to the gift shop kiosk. There's a bunch of Sanrio exclusive merch that I picked up for my friends. I thought that was the best reward for my hike.

    Photos
    Top of the crater
    Top of the crater
    Super Mommy and Son Son
    Super Mommy and Son Son
    Happy Hikers!

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    Happy Hikers!
    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike

    4.3
    (38 reviews)
    3.9 km

    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

    Photos
    Son son and mommy
    Son son and mommy
    Mommy and son son
    Mommy and son son
    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike

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    Lanikai Pillbox Hike

    Lanikai Pillbox Hike

    4.6
    (993 reviews)
    12.7 km

    I hadn't done the Lanikai Pillbox Hike in quite a few years. Parking in Lanikai has changed quite a…read morebit and so you can't really park anywhere in the neighborhoods anymore. For this reason, my husband dropped off my son and I, and we went up by ourselves. I would say that if you have a rambunctious 7 year old, like I do, be prepared that they will run around like crazy and you might need help wrangling them as I did with mine. I think he was giving other hikers heart attacks because he was close to the edge and there's nowhere but down in most spots since you're going up and down. The view is always spectacular, but it can get quite windy up there. Be prepared to get your shoes dirty if it's rained. The path does kind of deviate, but follow the most treaded path and keep going up and you should see other people along the way. A beautiful hike that probably takes less than an hour if you take your time enjoying the view and taking pictures. Just remember to respect the parking rules!

    Lanikai Pillbox Trail is a hiking trail near Lanikai Beach in Kailua offering views of the ocean,…read morecoastline, and nearby islands. You can park in the residential neighborhood and walk a short way to the trailhead. Pillboxes are small fortified concrete structures used in warfare and the ones here are from World War II. The hike was only 1.6 miles round trip but some points were a little narrow, steep, and slippery. The beginning was the toughest with a rocky incline. It was only about 15 minutes to the first pillbox already with good views but if you walk another 5 minutes you'll reach the second pillbox. The views of the ocean were beautiful and you can see the coastline far and wide. You can continue going past the pillboxes but most people get to the stop and go back down. Going down was a little slippery so watch your step, be careful, and ensure you're staying on the trail going down. This was a short and slightly strenuous hike but fulfilling.

    Photos
    Lanikai Pillbox Hike
    Lanikai Pillbox Hike
    Lanikai Pillbox Hike

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    Koko Crater Trail

    Koko Crater Trail

    4.6
    (918 reviews)
    10.6 km

    If you know, you know. Koko Head is an absolute beast, and let's be real....this trail is not for…read moreeveryone. Looking up from the bottom doesn't seem that bad, but once you start climbing those railroad ties, reality hits quick. It's a straight-up vertical leg burner. My biggest advice is that slow and steady wins the race. This isn't a sprint. Don't worry about the people flying past you; just find your rhythm and take breaks. Most importantly: be careful and hydrate. There is zero shade out there and the sun will absolutely cook you. Bring way more water than you think you need and wear good shoes. Once you finally crawl to the top, the views of Hanauma Bay are insane and worth every agonizing step. Just take your time coming down because your legs will feel like Jell-O. Even if you have to climb slowly, just be careful...Don't worry about anyone else except you.

    1000+ Stairs is not for the weak or faint…read more So fun!! Stretch, take water, follow the guidelines of how people are on thw path up and back. Stay to the sides and let people who run up or down have the right of way. Take your time. There are plenty of spots to stepnoff to the side and rest when needed. People will check in with you, root you on, ensure you are ok, encourage you! Good vibes only!

    Photos
    Gorgeous view from the top
    Gorgeous view from the top
    Sept 2025 - Top view of the city
    Sept 2025 - Top view of the city
    Sept 2025 - Are you ready?  That's how high you will go...all the way up that mountain :)

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    Sept 2025 - Are you ready? That's how high you will go...all the way up that mountain :)

    Palolo Valley - hiking - Updated July 2026

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