The Absolute Top 10 Best Hikes in Hawaii in 2025

Hawaii’s stunning landscapes offer some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the entire world, featuring volcanoes, waterfalls, coastal cliffs, and lush rainforests! Just amazing to see!

Combine your Hawaii hike with a surprise US road trip, or call us to arrange an amazing mystery vacation for you and your family to enjoy together in 2025.

Before you set out on your Hawaiian hike, make sure to check when is the best time to visit Hawaii. And now, without further ado, here are 10 of the best hikes across the Hawaiian Islands:

1. Kalalau Trail (Kauai)

• Location: Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park
• Distance: 35.4 km (22 miles) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 1,890 meters (6,200 feet)
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Trailhead: Ke’e Beach

One of the most spectacular and challenging hikes in the world, this rugged coastal trail traverses towering sea cliffs, lush valleys, and secluded beaches. The full trail requires a permit, but a popular 6.4 km (4-mile) round-trip option leads to Hanakāpī‘ai Beach. Best time to hike: May-September (dry season).

2. Kīlauea Iki Trail (Big Island)

• Location: Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
• Distance: 6.4 km (4 miles) loop
• Elevation Gain: 120 meters (400 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trailhead: Kīlauea Iki Overlook

Hike through a volcanic crater, where you’ll see hardened lava flows, steaming vents, and the remnants of the 1959 eruption. The trail descends through a lush rainforest before crossing the crater floor. Best time to hike: Year-round.

3. Lanikai Pillbox Trail (Oahu)

• Location: Kailua, Windward Oahu
• Distance: 2.9 km (1.8 miles) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 180 meters (600 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trailhead: Ka‘elepulu Drive

A short but steep climb to WWII-era pillboxes (bunkers) rewards hikers with panoramic views of Lanikai Beach, Mokulua Islands, and turquoise waters. Best time to hike: Sunrise for incredible views.

4. Pipiwai Trail (Maui)

• Location: Haleakalā National Park (Kīpahulu District)
• Distance: 6.4 km (4 miles) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 240 meters (800 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trailhead: Near ‘Ohe‘o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools)

One of Maui’s most iconic waterfall hikes, this trail leads through a magical bamboo forest to Waimoku Falls, a 120-meter (400-foot) waterfall. The path also passes Banyan trees and Makahiku Falls. Best time to hike: Morning, before crowds arrive.

5. Diamond Head Summit Trail (Oahu)

• Location: Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu
• Distance: 2.9 km (1.8 miles) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 170 meters (560 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trailhead: Diamond Head parking lot

A must-do hike in Honolulu, this historic crater trail climbs to a breathtaking panoramic view of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. Includes steep switchbacks, staircases, and a tunnel. Best time to hike: Early morning to avoid heat and crowds.

6. Maunawili Falls Trail (Oahu)

• Location: Windward Oahu
• Distance: 4.8 km (3 miles) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 245 meters (800 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trailhead: Maunawili neighborhood

This lush rainforest trail leads to a secluded waterfall with a swimming hole, surrounded by mossy cliffs and tropical plants. Can be muddy, so wear proper footwear. Best time to hike: After light rain (but not heavy storms).

7. Sliding Sands Trail (Maui)

• Location: Haleakalā National Park
• Distance: 17.7 km (11 miles) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 762 meters (2,500 feet)
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Trailhead: Haleakalā Visitor Center

A surreal, Mars-like trek into Haleakalā’s volcanic crater, featuring red cinder cones, lava fields, and panoramic views. Due to high elevation (3,055 meters / 10,023 feet), it can be cold and windy. Best time to hike: Sunrise for incredible views.

8. Pu‘u Pehe (Sweetheart Rock) Trail (Lanai)

• Location: South Lanai
• Distance: 1.6 km (1 mile) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 30 meters (100 feet)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trailhead: Hulopo‘e Beach

A short coastal hike leading to the legendary Pu‘u Pehe (Sweetheart Rock), a natural sea stack rising 24 meters (80 feet) above the ocean. Offers breathtaking sunset views. Best time to hike: Sunset for spectacular colors.

9. Pololū Valley Trail (Big Island)

• Location: North Kohala
• Distance: 1.6 km (1 mile) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 120 meters (400 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trailhead: Pololū Valley Lookout

A steep but rewarding trail descending into a remote valley with a black sand beach, surrounded by lush cliffs and ironwood trees. Strong currents—no swimming recommended. Best time to hike: Morning for cooler temperatures.

10. Waihe‘e Ridge Trail (Maui)

• Location: West Maui Mountains
• Distance: 7.2 km (4.5 miles) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 472 meters (1,550 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
• Trailhead: Maluhia Road parking lot

A ridge-top hike offering sweeping views of the ocean, waterfalls, and deep valleys. The first part of the trail is steep, but the lush, misty forests and lookout points make it one of the best ridge hikes in Hawaii. Best time to hike: Morning for clear views.

The TLDR on Hiking in Hawaii

Hawaii’s hikes offer a mix of volcanoes, coastal cliffs, lush valleys, and waterfalls, making it a paradise for adventure seekers. Whether you're trekking into a volcanic crater or hiking along pristine coastlines, be sure to check weather conditions, carry plenty of water, and respect Hawaiian trail regulations before you go!

Bonus: 5 Important FAQ’ss for Hiking in Hawaii

1. What should I bring for a hike in Hawaii?

Essentials include:

• Plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person)
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses (Hawaiian sun is strong!)
• Bug repellent (mosquitoes are common in rainforests)
• Proper hiking shoes (many trails can be muddy and slippery)
• Rain jacket or poncho (weather can change quickly)
• Snacks and electrolytes (especially for long hikes)
• Phone or GPS (some areas have no signal—download offline maps)

2. What are the best months to hike in Hawaii?

Hiking is great year-round, but the best conditions are typically during the dry season (April to October). The rainy season (November to March) can make some trails muddy, slippery, or even dangerous due to flash flooding.

3. Are there any dangerous animals or hazards on Hawaii’s trails?

Hawaii has no snakes or large predators, but you should watch out for:

• Centipedes (painful sting—avoid touching them)
• Falling rocks on cliffside trails
• Strong ocean currents (avoid swimming at remote beaches)
• Flash floods (avoid hiking near streams/rivers after heavy rain)
• Steep, narrow trails (some hikes have sheer drop-offs)

4. Do I need a permit for hiking in Hawaii?

Some hikes require permits or reservations, including:

• Kalalau Trail (Kauai) – Requires a permit for overnight camping
• Diamond Head (Oahu) – Reservation required for entry and parking
• Haleakalā Summit & Sliding Sands Trail (Maui) – Requires sunrise reservations for entry before 7 AM
• Some private land hikes (e.g., Haiku Stairs is illegal to hike)

5. How can I hike responsibly and protect Hawaii’s natural environment?

• Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion
• Pack out all trash (leave no trace!)
• Avoid touching or removing plants, rocks, or wildlife
• Respect cultural sites (some trails pass through sacred Hawaiian land)
• Check weather conditions before hiking (avoid flash floods & extreme heat)