The island of Oahu is a hiking paradise, especially for families looking to explore the great outdoors together. From easy coastal walks to more challenging summit climbs, there are trails suited for all ages and abilities. Spending time hiking Oahu as a family is a chance to unplug from devices, learn about Hawaiian nature and culture, and bond while adventuring.
When choosing the best kid-friendly trails in Oahu, key factors include having bathroom access, availability of shade, fun sights like waterfalls, and achievable distances for little legs. It’s also important to pick routes matched to your family’s level—an extremely steep or slippery path would be difficult with unpredictable young children.
This guide covers 10 of the top-rated best hikes in Oahu for families visiting the island. They range from short nature walks under a mile to moderate 4-5 mile out-and-backs with incredible payoffs. Each offers kid-approved adventures!
Top Selection of Best Hikes:
Table of Contents
ʻAiea Loop Trail ─ Family favorite hiking trail in Oahu
Trail Distance: 7.2 km
Elevation Gain: 384 m
Terrain Rating: Moderate
Hike Time: 3 hours
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: ʻAiea, Oahu
Features: Dogs on leash | Kid friendly | Camping | Hiking | Running | Forest | Views | Wildflowers | Wildlife | Rocky | Scramble
After a short uphill section, the loop flattens out for easier hiking with kids. The forest includes patches of fragrant guava and sections of native plant restoration. A little over half a mile in you can take a short side trail to see petroglyph carvings made in stone centuries ago by Native Hawaiians.
The loop continues below the prominent Aiea Ridge and offers peeks of Pearl Harbor far below. Kids love checking out views through “monkey pod” trees and spotting wild fruits. Bathrooms are available at the trailhead.
Diamond Head Crater (Lēʻahi) Summit Trail
Trail Distance: 3.1 km
Elevation Gain: 157 m
Terrain Rating: Moderate
Hike Time: 1 h 5 min
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu
Features: Kid-friendly | Hiking | Partially paved | Views | Wildflowers | Wildlife | Muddy | Fee | No dogs
The well-defined, mostly paved trail has many switchbacks but gains elevation gradually. Handrails and stone steps also make the trail less intimidating. About halfway up the crater’s east side, you’ll walk through a 225-foot lighted tunnel built in the early 1900s.
At the top, a set of steep steps leads up to an open-air observation platform. From here, Waikiki’s famous beaches are visible to the west, while the Pacific Ocean and neighboring islands spread to the east. Since the caldera is fully exposed, visiting earlier or later in the day is recommended when it’s cooler. Bring sun protection.
Ehukai Pillboxes ─ best hike on oahu
Trail Distance: 3.7 km Loop
Elevation Gain: 225 m
Terrain Rating: Moderate
Hike Time: 1 h 26 min
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: Sunset Beach, North Shore
Features: Dogs on leash | Kid friendly | Hiking | Cave | Forest | Views | Wildflowers | Wildlife | Muddy
A well-used dirt path climbs moderate slopes behind Sunset Beach, with some tricky rock and mud sections. Switchbacks break up the ascent under ironwood and strawberry guava trees. Panoramas expand over the marine reserve and famed surf spots to the west. Listen for choruses of coqui frogs!
Two pillbox sites are reachable, with kids loving to scramble around the concrete bunkers. Safe cliff-top spots also let you watch daredevil surfers over 30 feet below. Time it for low tide when more beach is exposed. The small parking area fills up so come early, especially on weekends.
Hauʻula Loop
Trail Distance: 4.2 km Loop
Elevation Gain: 276 m
Terrain Rating: Moderate
Hike Time: 1 h 41 min
Dog Friendly: No
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: Hauʻula, North Shore
Features: Kid friendly | Hiking | Mountain biking | Dog friendly | Forest | Views | Waterfall | Wildflowers | Wildlife
You’ll traverse open pastures and grassy ridges above Hauʻula homes from the marked trailhead off Kamehameha Highway. The uphill is steady but smooth, through chirping birds and fragrant guava groves. As the loop turns north, the Pacific appears 300 feet below– an endless expanse of blue fringed by pounding surf.
The trail descends wooden steps clinging to steep slopes, with kids eager to peer over (carefully!) to sheer sea cliffs or rocky coves. Bathrooms are at the halfway picnic area. On the return, explore tidepools if safe and wave to locals casting fishing poles along the rocky shore.
Judd Trail
Trail Distance: 1.9 kmLoop
Elevation Gain: 58 m
Terrain Rating: Difficult
Hike Time: 58 m
Recommended Seasons: Spring through fall
Trailhead Location: Nuʻuanu Valley, Honolulu
Features: Dogs on leash | Kid friendly | Hiking | Walking | Forest | River | Views | Waterfall | Wildlife
From the roadside parking off Nuʻuanu Pali Drive, Judd Trail immediately travels uphill via stone steps threading under tall trees and vines. The incline is no joke but pacing stops helps small kids make it. Listen for native birds like the ‛elepaio’s whistling call.
In 1.5 miles, crest a small ridge to reveal Dr. Judd’s two-story home and guest house. When not soaked inside clouds, Honolulu and Manoa Valley fill the horizon. Have a trail snack while kids explore the empty cottage. Remember, this is private property– be respectful while visiting briefly.
Ka'ena Point Trail (from South)
Trail Distance: 9.8 km Out & back
Elevation Gain: 84 m
Terrain Rating: Easy to moderate
Hike Time: 2 h 1 min
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: Waianae, West Oahu
Features: Kid friendly | Hiking | Bird watching | Beach | Forest | Views | Wildlife | Rocky | Washed out | No shade | No dogs
At Oahu’s western tip lies stunning Kaʻena Point, a nature reserve protecting seabirds, native plants, and Hawaiian monk seals. Families can take a flat 4-mile walk on a broad dirt road to this remote landscape– just watch for bikes. Leashed dogs are also allowed.
From the ample parking area off Farrington Highway in Waianae, stroll northwest over an old runway with rugged mountains ahead. In two miles, ruins of a former military installation appear. Then sandy beaches come into view, lining Kaʻena Point to the left.
Stay on marked trails as you explore enticing tidepools where Hawaiian green sea turtles often rest. Signs also warn people away from seal moms and pups during pupping season. Loop around the point itself to see burrowing seabird nests before heading back on the out-and-back trek.
Likeke Falls Trail
Trail Distance:1.3 km Out & back
Elevation Gain: 66 m
Terrain Rating: Easy to moderate
Hike Time: 27 min
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: Kōʻolau Range above Kaneohe
Features: Dogs on leash | Kid friendly | Hiking | Running | Forest | Views | Waterfall | Wildflowers | Wildlife | Muddy
Easy waterfall access makes the Likeke Falls Trail one of the best kid-friendly hikes on Oahu’s windward side. Located in a protected forest above Kaneohe town, this gentle walk leads to a gorgeous multi-tier cascade surrounded by tropical plants.
From the marked lot off Likeke Falls Road, stroll under ripe guava and lychee trees on a wide gravel path. In one mile, glimpse sapphire Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden through the foliage. Ten minutes later, hear Likeke Falls splashing over basalt just off the trail.
Let kids stand safely behind the wire fence to feel the waterfall’s misty spray. Ferns and ginger plants sprout around mossy tiers dropping 50 feet into a rocky pool. Adventurous families can continue another 1.5 miles uphill on muddy slopes to scenic Kaʻawaloa Ridge.
Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail ─ stairway to heaven
Trail Distance: 4.0 km
Elevation Gain: 198 m
Terrain Rating: Easy
Hike Time: 1 h 23 min
Dog Friendly: Yes
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: Makapuʻu Beach Park, Southeast Oahu
Features: Dogs on leash | Wheelchair friendly | Kid friendly | Stroller friendly | Hiking | Walking | Paved | Views | Wildflowers | Wildlife | No shade | Historic site
The trail runs above Makapuu Beach then turns upslope via gentle switchbacks, with vistas expanding over the Windward shoreline. In one mile, reach the 1909 lighthouse and catwalk on the 646-foot-high point. Let kids explore the grassy lawn and look southeast– Molokai Island is faintly visible on clear days.
Well-behaved leashed dogs are allowed on this state park trail but must stay on pavement due to protected habitat. After, take an optional swim at Makapuu Beach to cool off. Insider tip: stop for shave ice at neighboring Sea Life Park!
Makiki Valley Loop Trail
Trail Distance: 5.5 km Loop
Elevation Gain: 304 m
Terrain Rating: Easy
Hike Time: 2 h 1 min
Dog Friendly: Leashed
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: Pacific Heights Park, Honolulu
Features: Dogs on leash | Kid friendly | Hiking | Walking | Bird watching | Running | Forest | Views | Wildflowers | Wildlife
Enter Makiki Forest Recreation Area from neat Pacific Heights Park off Wilder Street. Step under tall canopy trees and stroll gradually downhill via a mossy, fern-lined path. In one mile, peek through foliage to view narrow Makiki Falls plunging 100 feet over dark lava.
As the trail begins looping uphill, keep kids eyes peeled for bright orange ackee fruit hanging overhead like Chinese lanterns. Higher up, admire views over high-rises in nearby Manoa Valley. After exercising legs and curiosity, families can picnic at the playground or explore Honolulu’s Botanical Garden nearby.
Manoa Falls Trail
Trail Distance: 2.7 km Out & back
Elevation Gain: 188 m
Terrain Rating: Moderate to Difficult
Hike Time: 1 h 8 min
Dog Friendly: Yes
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: Mānoa Valley, Honolulu
Features: Kid friendly | Hiking | Forest | Views | Waterfall | Wildflowers | Wildlife | Fee
From the small trailhead lot at the end of Mānoa Road, enter forest dominated by towering albizia trees and dangling vines. In a half mile, stone steps begin leading uphill over exposed roots and ridgetop boulders. Cresting the headwall, an overlook peers down on the two-tiered falls.
Continue 10 minutes downhill to reach calm pool swimming holes, where kids can stand under the falls’ misty spray. Please be careful of slippery rocks. On return, consider a treat stop in Mānoa Marketplace just outside the valley entrance.
| Trail | Length (km) | Elevation Gain (m) | Difficulty | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ʻAiea Loop Trail | 7.2 | 384 | Moderate | 3 hrs | Forest, views, WWII history |
| Diamond Head Crater Trail | 2.6 | 157 | Moderate | 1.5 hrs | Iconic views, geology, WWII history |
| Ehukai Pillboxes | 3.2 | 225 | Moderate | 1.5 hrs | Bunkers, views, beach below |
| Hauʻula Loop | 4.8 | 276 | Moderate | 3 hrs | Coastal cliffs, tidepools |
| Judd Trail | 3.2 | 381 | Difficult | 3 hrs | Lush valley, waterfall, stone house |
| Ka’ena Point Trail | 6.4 | 61 | Easy–Moderate | 2 hrs | Wildlife reserve, beaches |
| Likeke Falls Trail | 6.4 | 152 | Easy–Moderate | 2 hrs | Lush forest, waterfall |
| Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail | 4 | 91 | Easy | 1.5 hrs | Iconic lighthouse, coastal views |
| Makiki Valley Loop | 4 | 122 | Easy | 1-2 hrs | Lush rainforest, waterfall |
| Manoa Falls Trail | 2.6 | 195 | Moderate–Difficult | 1.5-2 hrs | Iconic rainforest waterfall |
What To Bring When Hiking The Best Hikes In Oahu For Families?
Here are some recommended items to bring when hiking the best family-friendly trails in Oahu:
Essentials
- Sturdy shoes – sneakers or hiking shoes with good traction
- Water – pack plenty for each family member
- Snacks/lunch – trail mix, sandwiches, fruit
- Sun protection – hats, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Lightweight rain jackets or ponchos
Safety/First Aid Supplies
- Charged cell phone
- Whistle for signaling
- Small first aid kit – Band-Aids, antibiotic cream
- Emergency contact info
For the Kids
- Kid-sized backpacks
- Headlamps/flashlights
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting
- Field guides on Hawaiian birds, plants etc
- Camera for capturing memories along the trail
Comfort Extras
- Insect repellant
- Portable battery charger
- Collapsible seats for trail breaks
- Beach towels and swimsuits if hiking to a waterfall
- Trash bags for collecting litter
Packing well prepares families for an awesome and safe adventure hiking Oahu’s ridges, shores, and valley trails. Adjust items as needed depending on trail difficulty and distance. But the most important thing is to get outdoors and soak up Hawaii’s natural beauty together!
FAQs About the Best hikes in Oahu for families
What is the prettiest hike in Oahu?
The Lanikai Pillbox Hike on the windward side of Oahu is considered one of the best and prettiest hikes, with incredible views of the island. The trail starts with a steep climb but reaches the top of a ridge with sweeping views of the windward side. It’s a great view hike for hikers of all levels.
What is the most famous hiking trail in Hawaii?
The ridge hikes on Oahu like the Kuliouou Ridge Trail and the Lanikai Pillbox Hike are some of the most famous. These challenging hikes take you to the top of ridges with panoramic views of the windward side of the island. The views make these trails on Oahu a must-do for many hikes.
What is the easiest hike to a waterfall in Oahu?
The trail to Manoa Falls near Waikiki is a short, fairly easy hike ideal for beginners and families. The easy trail leads through lush forest to an incredible 150-foot waterfall. It’s one of the best family-friendly hikes on the island.
What is the most difficult hike in Oahu?
Some consider the hike to Ka’au Crater one of the most challenging trails on the beautiful island of Oahu. The steep 8-mile trail gains over 2,500 feet in elevation until hikers stand on top and see panoramic views of the west side. It takes experienced hikers with proper hiking boots at least 7 hours.
Where do the Kardashians hike?
The famous Stairway to Heaven hike on the west side of Oahu is an illegal but incredibly scenic ridge hike. The 4,000 steps trail gains over 2,500 feet to reach panoramic views. This trail hike has attracted hikers like the Kardashians despite steep drops and being technically closed.
Is Waimea Falls or Manoa Falls better?
Manoa Falls is a quick, easy hike ideal for families through lush Hawaiian forests until you reach an impressive 150-foot waterfall, one of many hikes on Oahu. For those up for more challenging trails on the island, Waimea Falls involves steep climbs by a river to reach the gorgeous red-dirt plunge pool. Both have incredible views at the end.
What is the famous illegal hike in Hawaii?
The scenic Stairway to Heaven hike on the west side of Oahu starts as paved steps leading to panoramic views from mountain ridges, attracting hikers of all levels. However, despite its sweeping views, the trail hike is technically closed yet still completed illegally by experienced hikers with proper boots and preparation.
Is Manoa Falls an easy hike?
Yes, Manoa Falls Trail is considered one of the best easy hikes on Oahu, perfect for families and beginners. The paved and mostly flat 1.6-mile comfortable hiking trail leads through lush, tropical forest with scenic valley views until you reach the breathtaking 150-foot waterfall.
Is Oahu or Maui better for hiking?
Both Oahu and Maui have incredible hiking trails ranging from coastal hikes to challenging mountain ridges with panoramic views. Maui’s Haleakala trails offer more diverse terrain while Oahu has a vast network of mountain and waterfall hikes like Manoa Falls as well as famous ridge trails with sweeping views of the windward side. Each island simply offers different beautiful hiking adventures.
Conclusion
The island of Oahu offers spectacular scenery for family hiking adventures—from windswept ridges to hidden waterfalls. Choosing kid-friendly trails matched to your crew’s ages and abilities lets everyone soak up natural wonders safely. Pack sun protection, sturdy shoes, snacks and water before embarking on these top-rated routes across Oahu.
Bonding while immersed in Hawaii’s landscapes creates lifelong memories. As an added bonus, getting kids moving outdoors has great health benefits too. Whether tackling diamond Head or scouting for turtles at Kaʻena Point, there’s a best Oahu hike tailored perfectly for your family’s next tropical getaway. The aloha spirit starts on the trail!
John Smith
John has been an avid hiker for over ten years and has explored some of the most challenging trails across the USA. He has completed multiple long-distance hikes, including the Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails. John is also a certified hiking guide, leading several hiking trips for groups of all ages and skill levels.
John Smith
John has been an avid hiker for over ten years and has explored some of the most challenging trails across the USA. He has completed multiple long-distance hikes, including the Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails. John is also a certified hiking guide, leading several hiking trips for groups of all ages and skill levels.
As a parent always looking for kid-friendly adventures in nature, I loved this breakdown of Oahu’s most scenic and enjoyable trails for families. The tips on choosing easier coastal routes like Makapu’u Point vs more challenging interior options like Manoa Falls are super helpful for gauging children’s ages and hiking abilities.
It reminds families like mine how rewarding these excursions can be when taking time to prepare properly with trail maps, sun protection, snacks, and even entertaining kid carriers to help little legs along!
After reading this, I’m excited to explore Oahu’s natural wonders like Waimea Valley waterfall and get my keiki lei’d at the end by local guides – what special memories to cherish from our Hawaiian vacation! We’ll definitely be following this blog’s recommendations for an awesome outdoor experience kids will rave about for years. Mahalo for outlining such beautiful and fun trails accessible for ‘ohana of all ages. Aloha!
Thank you Julia!!
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Overall, this article has provided me with a wealth of information and has fueled my excitement for exploring the best hikes in Oahu with my family. I can’t wait to pack our hiking gear and embark on these adventures together. Kudos to Hiking Horizon for putting together such a fantastic guide
After reading this guide I am thrilled to plan an adventurous trip with my loved ones. The detailed descriptions of each trail, including the distance, terrain rating, and recommended seasons, provide valuable insights for selecting the perfect hike.
I particularly appreciate the emphasis on kid-friendly features such as bathroom access, shade, and fun sights like waterfalls. The breathtaking views, historical landmarks, and opportunities to explore nature together make these hikes truly appealing. I can’t wait to embark on these family-friendly adventures and create lasting memories in the beautiful landscapes of Oahu.
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Wow, this guide to the best hikes in Oahu for families is a treasure trove of adventure! As a nature-loving parent, I appreciate the detailed descriptions and helpful tips for each trail. From the breathtaking views of Diamond Head Crater to the enchanting Likeke Falls, this list has it all. I can’t wait to unplug, bond with my family, and create unforgettable memories on these kid-friendly hikes. Thank you, Hiking Horizon, for this invaluable resource!