Maili Pillbox
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The Maili Pillbox Hike, also known as the Pu'u o Hulu or Ma'ili Pillbox Trail, is a popular hiking trail located in Maili, on the west side of Oahu, Hawaii. Maili Pillbox Hike is a moderately challenging trail that takes you up to military pillboxes, offering panoramic views of the coastline, Maili Beach, and the surrounding area. The trailhead can be found at the end of Ala Mahiku Street in Maili. There is limited street parking available in the area, so it is advisable to arrive early or consider carpooling. The hike is approximately 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) round trip and usually takes about 1-2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the amount of time you spend enjoying the views. The trail is steep and can be rugged, with sections that involve climbing rocks and steep inclines. It is advisable to wear proper hiking shoes with good traction and bring water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera to capture the beautiful views. As you ascend the ridge, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding area. The two pillboxes along the trail provide great vantage points for photography and a place to rest and enjoy the vistas. The hike is considered moderate to difficult, and it may not be suitable for inexperienced hikers or those with mobility or balance issues. It is crucial to practice Leave No Trace principles, including carrying out any trash and respecting the natural environment. Be mindful of any posted rules or regulations in the area.
Reny LagascaReny Lagasca
40
Maili Pillbox (or Pu'u O Hulu trail aka Pink pillbox) is a fairly easy hike. Access the trail off Kaukama Road. There is ample free parking on both sides of the road and you get to see amazing views from the start. I don't remember the trailhead being marked but my GPS took me directly there. The terrain is rugged/rocky all the way up and the loose gravel can become slippery. The trail is very narrow along some parts so if there were other hikers going the opposite direction, one party has to stop and give way. There are also some areas where there are drop-offs at the side of the hill so be careful not to slip. It was dry when I went (7am on 11 Nov 2021) so we did not experience any mud as previously stated. The entire trip is less than 2 miles round trip. It was a cool morning so me and my 12 year old nephew opted to leave our water bottles in the car so we wouldn't have to carry them. He got thristy about half way up but nothing too serious that he would be parched or dehydrated. Water would have been good but because it was such a short hike and on a cool morning, we didn't absolutely need it. Once at the top we discovered there were 4 Pillboxes. I just assumed it was a single Pillbox. Each had different artwork painted inside and the views from each of the mountains, the ocean & highway, and the even the residential area were amazing. If you are looking for a short, easy hike with amazing views, this is it.
Sandhya MarciaSandhya Marcia
50
Ma'ile Pillbox Hike or the "Pink Pillbox" Hike on the Pu'u O Hulu Kai Trail will reward you with the best views of the Ka'ena Point, Keawa'ula Beach (Yokohama Beach), Mount Kaala and even Kapolei, home to the Ko Olina Resort all at the same time! Don't forget to try and catch a sunset as well, it's stunning on the West Side. There is a decent amount of parking on the street at the base of the trail. Use your common sense, keep valuables out of site or take them with you...otherwise you will be rewarded with smashed windows when you return to your ride. Locals are far more territorial on the West Side. The scenic views are most definitely worth the trek to the top of the Pillboxes...just don't make the same mistake we did. We took the steep way up through the middle instead of the switchback trail. While going straight up does cut out some time...rumor is about 20 minutes it's not the easiest thing to do...It's steeper, more treacherous than the switchbacks; rocks and uneven steps. The entire hike is not all that long...I'd say about 1.5 miles. The Pillboxes were clean when we went. The "Pink Pillbox" even had a Christmas Tree in it! There is no shade on the trail, it's completely exposed to the elements, so prepare accordingly.
Mika'ele Keni'Mika'ele Keni'
40
This may be my most favorite hike on the island. Favorite for its gorgeous views of both land and sea. We went at around 9am on Dec 16, 2021 and it was already getting warm around 1030am. It was bearable though; I actually forgot to wear sunscreen that day but I was surprised I didn’t get all burnt! I would say the hike is challenging for the steepness of some parts, you definitely get in your cardio! And you can’t describe it as a walk in the park. But this hike compared to many others is probably considered easy & short or maybe medium. Take it from me, a person that does not work out or do much strenuous activities. I usually like to wear hiking shoes and have everything I need whenever I hike but this time I wasn’t prepared at all. I was wearing a new white pair of adidas shoes & wearing all black & without my hiking backpack but despite all that, everything went well! Of course I would return to this hike again and again
Tracy FloresTracy Flores
90
Google Maps took us to a driveway. Put Kaukama road into your GPS instead and drive about 0.5 mile when you turn onto Kaukama road (from Farrington Highway). There is street parking on both sides of the street but no dedicated parking lot. The beginning of the hike is a small dirt path with some concrete on the right. You then come upon a sign nearby and you know you are are on the correct path. It took us about 30 minutes with 2 kids and the hike felt same and family friendly. The path was well maintained and the 3 pillboxes were cleaned. Beautiful sweeping views reminiscent of Lanikai Pill Box. Give this hike a try if you are looking for a short moderate hike with water views. Very little shade so wear sunscreen and closed toed shoes, bring a hat and water.
Julie ConradJulie Conrad
50
Main road to turn on is Kaukama road. Trail head is near 9th light pole. When going on the trail, just up past a concrete block with 2 metal bolts coming out there will be a cable and a fork in the trail. If you want to be challenged take the right side of the trail. It is seriously steep. Good news though, it has that same cable most of the way. Did I mention it's a near vertical ascent? I thought I was going to die. Wife and kids went the easier way, to the left side of the fork. It's easier and will take you longer, but you won't feel like you're going to die. I felt like I was climbing El Capitan.. Pick 6 is looking down after the ascent. It doesn't do the steepness justice. The views are amazing throughout. Lucky we live HI.
Justin CoryellJustin Coryell
70
Nearby Attractions Of Maili Pillbox
Puʻu O Hulu
Puʻu O Hulu (Pink Pillbox) Trailhead
Māʻili Point Beach Park
Māʻili Point Beach Park
Sea Country Clubhouse and Pool

Puʻu O Hulu
4.7
(109)Click for details

Puʻu O Hulu (Pink Pillbox) Trailhead
4.8
(113)Click for details

Māʻili Point Beach Park
4.4
(55)Click for details

Māʻili Point Beach Park
4.4
(55)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Maili Pillbox
Dan's Ma'ili Shave Ice

Dan's Ma'ili Shave Ice
4.7
(184)$
Click for details
Basic Info
Address
Waianae, HI 96792
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Reviews
Overview
4.8
(264 reviews)
Ratings & Description
outdoor
adventure
family friendly
attractions: Puʻu O Hulu, Puʻu O Hulu (Pink Pillbox) Trailhead, Māʻili Point Beach Park, Māʻili Point Beach Park, Sea Country Clubhouse and Pool, restaurants: Dan's Ma'ili Shave Ice
