The Hawaiian Islands are not only home to magnificent beaches, but world-class hiking as well. And with near-perfect summer weather year-round, there’s nowhere better to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails than our beautiful islands. From panoramic vistas to cascading waterfalls, these 14 low-key hikes in Hawaii have absolutely amazing pay-offs. But don’t just take our word for it; get out and explore these breathtaking trails!

  1. Kaiwi Shoreline Trail, Oahu

Patricia Barden/Flickr Instead of heading to the paved Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, veer right at the trailhead and take the dirt path that leads down to the ocean, Kaho‘ohaihai Inlet, Pele’s Chair, and beyond. The trail is approximately 2.5 miles long round trip, and will surely leave you feeling at peace with the world. We love this Kaiwi Shoreline Trail, Honolulu, HI 96825, USA

  1. Alakai Swamp Trail, Kauai

Demed/Flickr Nestled in the heart of Koke’e State Park, just north of Waimea Canyon, is the Alakai Swamp, a truly one-of-a-kind Hawaiian landscape. The Alakai Swamp Trail is approximately seven miles round trip and takes you on a journey through lush forests and ethereal swamplands. Most people start the trail at the Pu’u o Kila Lookout, meander along the Pihea Summit Trail, and traverse approximately 3.5 miles of boardwalk through a unique wet forest, and a boggy swamp. This incredible Alakai Swamp Trail, Hawaii, USA

  1. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, Hawaii Island

john/Flickr This 1.5-mile trail meanders through a beautiful botanical garden, home to more than 2,000 species of flora. For a longer trek, consider taking the 2.5-mile round trip donkey trail to Onomea Bay and Turtle Cove. We love this Hawai‘i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden, 27-717 Mamalahoa Hwy, Papaikou, HI 96781, USA

  1. Twin Falls, Maui

Terence/Flickr Also known as Hololawa Falls, these twin waterfalls are the first notable attraction on Maui’s Hana Highway coming from the north. Many guidebooks will argue that the falls are not worth the hike, but we tend to disagree. While the falls are short, the picturesque pools are quite lovely. This Twin Falls Maui Waterfall, 6300 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA

  1. Diamond Head State Monument, Oahu

Ricky Duane Grohe/Flickr The view of Diamond Head via airplane is iconic, the hike to the summit is mentioned in every guidebook, and you can even see the volcano from the famous beaches of Waikiki. While many locals think the trail is overrated, the views are absolutely second to none. Once used for military training, the government-owned property has since been opened to the public, and is now the most iconic hike on the island for tourists. The trail leads hikers on a steep trail more than 500 feet in elevation over 1.6 miles to the crater’s summit — and magnificent views of Honolulu. We think this is one of the best Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA

  1. Pu’u Hinahina Lookout Loop, Kauai

Terence Wei/Flickr For a short and sweet hike and incredible views of the unparalleled beauty that is Waimea Canyon, consider the Puu Hinahina Lookout trail, a 1.7-mile loop trail full of wildflowers, and perfect for pups and children. If you’re on Kauai and looking for Pu’u Hinahina Lookout, Waimea, HI 96796, USA

  1. Lake Waiau, Hawaii Island

Thomas Tunsch/Flickr Located at 13,000 feet above sea level on the Big Island’s Mauna Kea, Lake Waiau is arguably one of the highest lakes in all of the United States. However, it is also relatively small, measuring in at just about 100 meters across. To reach this sacred lake, visitors will have to take a short, one-mile walk, found near Mauna Kea’s astronomy domes. This Lake Waiau, Hawaii, USA

  1. Waianapanapa Coastal Trail, Maui

Scott James Remnant/Flickr A three-mile trail that follows the coastline from Hana Bay, beyond Waianapanapa State Park, this coastal trail is known for its rugged scenery, including black lava cliffs jutting into the crystal blue ocean. This Wai??napanapa State Park, Waianapanapa, Hana, HI 96713, USA

  1. Kolekole Pass, Oahu

Wayne Batzer/Flickr The entire out-and-back hike is located on a military base on Oahu, and traverses through the forest for little more than 1-mile round trip, and takes less than 45 minutes to complete — not including the time you spend marveling at the views. Kolekole is open to all DOD cardholders and their guests. If you are not a DOD cardholder, you can access the trail through the Lyman gate off of Kunia Road. Kolekole Pass is a must see if you’re on the island of Oahu. Kolekole Pass, Hawaii 96786, USA

  1. Wai Koa Loop Trail, Kauai

dangerismycat/Flickr The moderate 5-mile Wai Koa Loop Trail meanders through the Wai Koa Plantation, by serene lagoons, a historic dam, and a majestic mahogany forest. Ideal for everyone from running enthusiasts to families with young children, the trail is relatively flat and can be easily walked in two to three hours. The Wai Koa Loop Trail is one of the Wai Koa Loop Trail, 2723 Kuhio Hwy #5, Kilauea, HI 96754, USA

  1. Pololu Valley’s Awini Trail, Hawaii Island

Shane R/Flickr Often bypassed for other lookout points on the Big Island is Polulu Valley, perhaps due to the fact that you must drive to the end of the Highway 270 to reach this picturesque location. If you do make the drive out here, don’t settle for the views from the lookout — definitely take the time to hike the Awini Trail that leads down to the stunning black sand beach. The half-hour hike is steep at times, but the views — and the destination — are well worth it. One of the ??wini Trail, ??wini Trl, Hawaii 96755, USA

  1. Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach Trail, Maui

Laila Goubran/Flickr This stunning red sand beach on Maui’s eastern coast is one of only a few red sand beaches in the world. You’ll have to access the stunning beach via an overgrown cliff-side trail, and the water is rough, but the views are well worth the effort. Always a stunner, this Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach, Hana, HI 96713, USA

  1. Pu’u O Hulu Kai, Oahu

Megan Shute/OnlyInYourState.com Similar to the wildly popular Lanikai Pillbox trail, Pu’u o Hulu is located on the opposite side of the island — but still just as gorgeous, and far less crowded. Experienced climbers love to scale the rock faces, while novices can easily climb the steep, yet short switchbacks to the bunkers at the top. We love this Pu‘u‘ohulu Kai, Pu‘U‘Ohulu Kai, Hawaii 96792, USA

  1. Ha’akulamanu Trail, Hawaii Island

Phil Whitehouse/Flickr Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to more than 150 miles of hiking trails, from easy walks to hikes recommended only for experienced hikers in top physical shape. This 1.2-mile hiking trail leads adventurers through sulfur banks along a paved boardwalk, where steaming vents, colorful mineral deposits abound. We love Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, because the natural beauty is absolutely breathtaking. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96785, USA

Have you hiked any of these low-key hikes in Hawaii? Did you think they were awesome? Let us know in the comments below!

Patricia Barden/Flickr

Instead of heading to the paved Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, veer right at the trailhead and take the dirt path that leads down to the ocean, Kaho‘ohaihai Inlet, Pele’s Chair, and beyond. The trail is approximately 2.5 miles long round trip, and will surely leave you feeling at peace with the world. We love this Kaiwi Shoreline Trail, Honolulu, HI 96825, USA

Demed/Flickr

Nestled in the heart of Koke’e State Park, just north of Waimea Canyon, is the Alakai Swamp, a truly one-of-a-kind Hawaiian landscape. The Alakai Swamp Trail is approximately seven miles round trip and takes you on a journey through lush forests and ethereal swamplands. Most people start the trail at the Pu’u o Kila Lookout, meander along the Pihea Summit Trail, and traverse approximately 3.5 miles of boardwalk through a unique wet forest, and a boggy swamp. This incredible Alakai Swamp Trail, Hawaii, USA

john/Flickr

This 1.5-mile trail meanders through a beautiful botanical garden, home to more than 2,000 species of flora. For a longer trek, consider taking the 2.5-mile round trip donkey trail to Onomea Bay and Turtle Cove. We love this Hawai‘i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden, 27-717 Mamalahoa Hwy, Papaikou, HI 96781, USA

Terence/Flickr

Also known as Hololawa Falls, these twin waterfalls are the first notable attraction on Maui’s Hana Highway coming from the north. Many guidebooks will argue that the falls are not worth the hike, but we tend to disagree. While the falls are short, the picturesque pools are quite lovely. This Twin Falls Maui Waterfall, 6300 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA

Ricky Duane Grohe/Flickr

The view of Diamond Head via airplane is iconic, the hike to the summit is mentioned in every guidebook, and you can even see the volcano from the famous beaches of Waikiki. While many locals think the trail is overrated, the views are absolutely second to none. Once used for military training, the government-owned property has since been opened to the public, and is now the most iconic hike on the island for tourists. The trail leads hikers on a steep trail more than 500 feet in elevation over 1.6 miles to the crater’s summit — and magnificent views of Honolulu. We think this is one of the best Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA

Terence Wei/Flickr

For a short and sweet hike and incredible views of the unparalleled beauty that is Waimea Canyon, consider the Puu Hinahina Lookout trail, a 1.7-mile loop trail full of wildflowers, and perfect for pups and children. If you’re on Kauai and looking for Pu’u Hinahina Lookout, Waimea, HI 96796, USA

Thomas Tunsch/Flickr

Located at 13,000 feet above sea level on the Big Island’s Mauna Kea, Lake Waiau is arguably one of the highest lakes in all of the United States. However, it is also relatively small, measuring in at just about 100 meters across. To reach this sacred lake, visitors will have to take a short, one-mile walk, found near Mauna Kea’s astronomy domes. This Lake Waiau, Hawaii, USA

Scott James Remnant/Flickr

A three-mile trail that follows the coastline from Hana Bay, beyond Waianapanapa State Park, this coastal trail is known for its rugged scenery, including black lava cliffs jutting into the crystal blue ocean. This Wai??napanapa State Park, Waianapanapa, Hana, HI 96713, USA

Wayne Batzer/Flickr

The entire out-and-back hike is located on a military base on Oahu, and traverses through the forest for little more than 1-mile round trip, and takes less than 45 minutes to complete — not including the time you spend marveling at the views. Kolekole is open to all DOD cardholders and their guests. If you are not a DOD cardholder, you can access the trail through the Lyman gate off of Kunia Road. Kolekole Pass is a must see if you’re on the island of Oahu.

Kolekole Pass, Hawaii 96786, USA

dangerismycat/Flickr

The moderate 5-mile Wai Koa Loop Trail meanders through the Wai Koa Plantation, by serene lagoons, a historic dam, and a majestic mahogany forest. Ideal for everyone from running enthusiasts to families with young children, the trail is relatively flat and can be easily walked in two to three hours. The Wai Koa Loop Trail is one of the Wai Koa Loop Trail, 2723 Kuhio Hwy #5, Kilauea, HI 96754, USA

Shane R/Flickr

Often bypassed for other lookout points on the Big Island is Polulu Valley, perhaps due to the fact that you must drive to the end of the Highway 270 to reach this picturesque location. If you do make the drive out here, don’t settle for the views from the lookout — definitely take the time to hike the Awini Trail that leads down to the stunning black sand beach. The half-hour hike is steep at times, but the views — and the destination — are well worth it. One of the ??wini Trail, ??wini Trl, Hawaii 96755, USA

Laila Goubran/Flickr

This stunning red sand beach on Maui’s eastern coast is one of only a few red sand beaches in the world. You’ll have to access the stunning beach via an overgrown cliff-side trail, and the water is rough, but the views are well worth the effort. Always a stunner, this Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach, Hana, HI 96713, USA

Megan Shute/OnlyInYourState.com

Similar to the wildly popular Lanikai Pillbox trail, Pu’u o Hulu is located on the opposite side of the island — but still just as gorgeous, and far less crowded. Experienced climbers love to scale the rock faces, while novices can easily climb the steep, yet short switchbacks to the bunkers at the top. We love this Pu‘u‘ohulu Kai, Pu‘U‘Ohulu Kai, Hawaii 96792, USA

Phil Whitehouse/Flickr

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to more than 150 miles of hiking trails, from easy walks to hikes recommended only for experienced hikers in top physical shape. This 1.2-mile hiking trail leads adventurers through sulfur banks along a paved boardwalk, where steaming vents, colorful mineral deposits abound. We love Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, because the natural beauty is absolutely breathtaking.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96785, USA

It is true, Hawaii is home to some of the world’s best hiking trails. What is your favorite aHawaii hike? Share your opinions and photos of your must-visit Hawaii trails in our Hawaii Nature Lovers Facebook group.

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Address: Hawaii, USA

The OIYS Visitor Center

Low-Key Hikes In Hawaii July 01, 2022 Megan McDonald What is the easiest hike in Hawaii? We think the Makapu’u Lighthouse trail is the easier hike on Oahu, and all of the Hawaiian islands. Short and sweet, this trail is paved, and offers stunning views of the ocean beyond. It won’t take longer than 20 minutes unless you want to stop and soak in the view! Which Hawaiian island has the easiest hikes? Because Oahu is the most visited island for tourists, many of the hikes are easy to do and appeal to the average traveler. Oahu is a great place to find beginner hikes if you’re traveling on the Hawaiian islands.

The OIYS Visitor Center

Low-Key Hikes In Hawaii

July 01, 2022

Megan McDonald

What is the easiest hike in Hawaii? We think the Makapu’u Lighthouse trail is the easier hike on Oahu, and all of the Hawaiian islands. Short and sweet, this trail is paved, and offers stunning views of the ocean beyond. It won’t take longer than 20 minutes unless you want to stop and soak in the view! Which Hawaiian island has the easiest hikes? Because Oahu is the most visited island for tourists, many of the hikes are easy to do and appeal to the average traveler. Oahu is a great place to find beginner hikes if you’re traveling on the Hawaiian islands.

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

We think the Makapu’u Lighthouse trail is the easier hike on Oahu, and all of the Hawaiian islands. Short and sweet, this trail is paved, and offers stunning views of the ocean beyond. It won’t take longer than 20 minutes unless you want to stop and soak in the view!

Which Hawaiian island has the easiest hikes?

Because Oahu is the most visited island for tourists, many of the hikes are easy to do and appeal to the average traveler. Oahu is a great place to find beginner hikes if you’re traveling on the Hawaiian islands.