What’s The Best Hawaiian Island for Hiking?

Hiking in Hawaii is an affordable activity for those who want to get a feel for the island’s landscape. It’s a great way to get active, see new places, and see some of the most beautiful places in Hawaii.

OAHU

Best Hawaiian Island for interesting day hikes

Best Hikes in Oahu

Pu’u Pia Trail - It’s a 2-mile trail with wide dirt paths that are easy enough for young children.

Manoa Falls Trail - The 1.6-mile out-and-back hike is considered moderate because of the incline that makes up most of the trail.

Koko Head Crater Trail - The climb is a challenge for the fittest hiker, but you can’t beat the view of Hanauma Bay from the top!

MAUI

Best Hawaiian Island for hiking and waterfalls

Best Hikes in Maui

I’ao Valley State Park Lookout Trail- the easy 1-mile loop hike up a paved path winds through a tropical botanic garden.

Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls - It’s 3.8 miles out and back, along boardwalks and rock paths through a bamboo forest.

Sliding Sands Trail - You’ll feel like you’ve stepped on Mars with harsh, red terrain and fascinating views of Haleakala Volcano.

BIG ISLAND 

Best Hawaiian Island for snorkeling and hiking

Best Big Island Hikes

Kaumana Caves Trail - Climb down a metal staircase and explore the 200-year-old underground cave.

Kīlauea Iki Trail - Follow the moderate trail is a 3-mile loop through a rainforest down into a steaming volcanic crater for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Mauna Kea Summit Trail - Hawaii’s highest point at over 13,000 feet, you can see the only place in Hawaii that gets snow!

KAUAI

Best Hawaiian Island for avid hikers and scenic views

Best Hikes in Kauai

Ho’oip’i Falls Trail - Choose the easiest route for you with rainforests and waterfalls along the way.

Waimea Canyon Trail - The Canyon Trail is another adaptable trail with off-shoots to the shorter Cliff Trail with just as stunning canyon views.

Hanakapiai Falls Trail - For well-versed hikers, Hanakapiai Falls Trail on the Na Pali Coast is a rewarding experience with rainforest views, rippling cliff faces, and isolated beaches.

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