Oahu has plenty of famous, jaw dropping hikes. While Kauai usually gets the buzz for being the hiker’s paradise, most of those epic drone shots you see plastered on social media by YouTubers and influencers are actually on Oahu.
Diamond Head is probably the most iconic hike on Oahu, and that’s partially because of how accessible it is but mostly because of the views. The entire trail is very well marked, maintained and well traveled so there’s no big “risk” factor.
This hike only took me about an hour up and back, but you really have to scramble in some places. The first part is by far the steepest. Most people stop when they reach the first pillbox, but you can keep going if you want to see them all.
This is a great easy/beginner hike with a big payoff of great views at the top. Located on the southeastern side of the island, this is a great hike to pair with snorkeling at Hanauma Bay or the Halona Blowhole or even a drive up the windward coast past Kailua and Kaneohe.
Sometimes overshadowed by Diamond Head, the hike up this extinct volcanic crater is still pretty popular, but it’s waaaaay more strenuous than Diamond Head.
The Lanikai Pillbox hike gets most of the attention, but there are actually several pillbox hikes on the island. The pillboxes are old bunkers left over from WWII and since they were all used as lookouts, they’ve all got pretty amazing views.