Hawaii is renowned for its incredible natural beauty and offers some of the best hiking trails in the world. With diverse landscapes across its islands, each one provides unique hiking experiences. Determining the best Hawaiian island for hiking depends on the type of trails you want to tackle. Here's an overview of the top islands for hiking in Hawaii.
Oahu
Home to the bustling capital of Honolulu, Oahu features some spectacular hikes alongside its world-famous beaches. For those looking for convenient day hikes near the city, Oahu is a great choice. Some of the top Oahu hikes include:
- Diamond Head Crater - This iconic volcanic cone provides panoramic views of Waikiki and Honolulu. The 1.6 mile roundtrip hike climbs 560 feet along a ridge trail.
- Manoa Falls Trail - Winding through lush vegetation and bamboo forests, this family-friendly 2.6 mile roundtrip hike leads to a scenic 150 foot waterfall.
- Kaena Point Trail - Traversing valleys and volcanic slopes, this moderate 5.5 mile one-way coastal hike ends at the westernmost tip of Oahu.
While Oahu offers scenic day hikes, it lacks remote wilderness trails. Hikers seeking long backcountry treks may want to consider other islands.
Maui
With its rugged landscapes, waterfalls, and rainforests, Maui is another island with fantastic hiking. Some of Maui's best hikes include:
- Pipiwai Trail - Located in Haleakala National Park, this 4 mile out-and-back trail features the 400 foot Waimoku Falls amid bamboo forests.
- Sliding Sands Trail to Halemau'u Trailhead - This 9.2 mile one-way descent within Haleakala Crater provides spectacular valley views over 2,500 feet in elevation loss. A shuttle bus returns hikers to the trailhead.
- Waihe'e Ridge Trail - Offering ocean vistas, this robust 11 mile loop climbs over 4,000 feet across the West Maui Mountains.
From scenic waterfalls to mountainous backcountry challenges, Maui appeals to hikers of all levels. While more remote than Oahu, Maui still offers convenient resort area hikes.
Kauai
Known as the "Garden Island" for its lush rainforests, Kauai is a hiker's paradise. With the Waimea Canyon rivaling the Grand Canyon, Kauai provides some of Hawaii's most diverse landscapes. Top Kauai hikes include:
- Kalalau Trail - Extending 11 miles along the breathtaking Na Pali Coast, this strenuous trail traverses five valleys ending at secluded Kalalau Beach. Backcountry camping permits are required.
- Awa'awapuhi Trail - Beginning in Koke'e State Park, this 3.25 mile hike descends 1,600 feet to overlook the Awa'awapuhi valley and waterfall.
- Kuilau Ridge Trail - Offering panoramic North Shore views, this 4 mile loop summits the 2,007 foot Ko'olau summit starting near Princeville.
From rugged coastal cliffs to volcanic crater hikes, Kauai offers the widest diversity of trails in Hawaii. Backpackers can access remote multi-day treks along the Na Pali Coast as well.
Big Island
As Hawaii's largest island, the Island of Hawaii (Big Island) features some of the most geologically diverse landscapes. Hiking trails traverse volcanic craters, deserts, rainforests, and black sand beaches. Notable Big Island hikes include:
- Mauna Loa Observatory Trail - Starting at 11,500 feet, this 18 mile roundtrip trek summits the world's largest volcano ending at the historic weather observatory.
- Pololu Valley Lookout - Descending 800 feet in elevation, this moderate 2.5 mile roundtrip hike leads to a black sand beach surrounded by cliffs.
- Akaka Falls Trail - Spanning less than 1 mile roundtrip, this short hike passes through lush flora to two scenic waterfalls plunging over 400 feet.
From volcano treks to family-friendly waterfall walks, the Big Island appeals to hardcore trekkers and casual hikers alike. The varied microclimates host trails ranging from hot desert hikes to subalpine summit treks.
Comparison of Hiking Opportunities
While each Hawaiian island offers spectacular hiking opportunities, certain islands may better match your interests and ability levels:
- Oahu - Best island for beginner hikes and day hikes near urban amenities
- Maui - Ideal for waterfall lovers and hikers seeking convenient scenic trails
- Kauai - Offers the most remote and rugged coastal hikes and backpacking opportunities
- Big Island - Best for hardcore trekkers tackling active volcanic landscapes
Consider the highlights of each island. Oahu offers short scenic trails for casual hikers. For convenient resort hikes to waterfalls, choose Maui. Kauai appeals to experienced coastal trekkers and backpackers. And the Big Island provides the most diverse volcanic terrain for advanced hikers.
Additional Factors When Choosing an Island
Beyond comparing hiking opportunities, consider these factors when selecting your ideal Hawaiian island:
- Accommodations - Oahu and Maui offer more lodging choices near trailheads. Kauai and the Big Island have fewer accommodation options.
- Weather - Hawaii's northeast facing shores (Kauai, Oahu) see more rainfall. The drier leeward southwest shores (Maui, Big Island) experience less rain.
- Travel Time - Inter-island flights from Honolulu (Oahu) to the other islands average under an hour. Factor this additional travel time from the mainland US.
- Rental Cars - A rental car provides flexibility for accessing trailheads. Rental prices tend to be cheapest on Oahu.
By weighing hiking options, amenities, weather patterns, travel times, and costs, you can determine the best Hawaiian island for your hiking vacation. Going beyond the trails themselves allows you to maximize your overall island experience.
Conclusion
With towering volcanoes, crashing waterfalls, and tropical coastlines, Hawaii offers some of the world's most breathtaking hiking. While each island has advantages, certain ones better match unique interests and ability levels. Oahu appeals to beginners seeking day hikes and city conveniences nearby. For convenient resort-based waterfall hikes, head to Maui. Kauai offers Hawaii's most remote coastal treks for experienced backpackers. And the Big Island provides the most topographical diversity for hardcore hikers. Consider each island's unique hiking opportunities, amenities, weather, and costs to determine the ideal base for your Hawaiian adventures. Wherever you choose, the islands offer boundless natural beauty on the trails.
