Koko Crater Stairs (Summit) — Attraction in Honolulu

Koko Head is a rewarding hike for those who take up the steep challenge. One of the steeper hikes I have attempted, but definitely doable for most people. Endure and go slow if needed. The hike takes anything from 30 minutes to 1 hour plus, depending on climber’s fitness. Open to public without a need for permit.

The trail’s starting point is at the Koko Head Car Park. It can be reached via rental car, Uber or public bus + 20 minutes walk. Google Map can tell you what buses to take. Best time to climb is in the morning as there is no shade under the blazing sun. Remember to bring water.

The first half of the hike is a good warm up, with some thrills thrown in - raised rail tracks with a 10 feet drop. Alternative side path is available to avoid the elevated tracks.

The second part of the hike goes steep very fast. Don’t give up. Put one step forward after another. It’s steep but not scary. Stop and catch your breathe if you need to. Look back and admire the views from different heights. They are magnificent. Make friends with fellow hikers along the way, and take photos for each other.

What awaits at the top of the hill is a breathtaking 360 degrees view that takes in Waikiki Beach and the opposite side of the island including the volcano crater.

For a better view, climb on top on the abandoned...

Time: Took about 45 mins up with a couple of breaks on the way up and 40 on the way down with breaks.

Summary: Hard hike, it goes from okay to pretty steep midway. Take bridge bypass if scared of heights MOST PEOPLE WILL NOT HAVE MASKS ON. There are bags of rocks on the trail, do not think it's sand. It's full of rocks. Watch for beehive under the bridge

Notes: Bring a full bottle of water, sunscreen, and take breaks to get acclimated to the altitude or you will be light-headed. I would hike up to markers with planks of wood piled on the side and take breaks. Definitely take a break before the steep incline around the 20s and again at 35+. Markers end around 40s, that's also where the tracks end. On the right is the path to the summit, it's a bit of a scramble up to the top. If you're not good with heights, do not take the bridge in the middle, there is nothing between the planks of wood. There is a bridge bypass on the right that's got a bit of scrambling. I got halfway through the bridge and a bunch of bees were congregating under and around one plank. I completely missed the crater but got lots of views of the island. Coming down is okay, however, watch where you're going, many people slip. Went in just flipflops, works if...

If you're looking for a serious physical challenge with a breathtaking reward at the top, then Koko Head stairs hike is for you! I went without any prior research, thinking it was a regular hike, but quickly realised this is no walk in the park. The steep incline of the railway-style sleeper steps makes it tough right from the start. My husband and I decided to make it a challenge and pushed ourselves to complete it quickly—I managed to finish in 20 minutes and he did it in 12 minutes… though I overheard the record is currently an impressive 8 minutes!

For most people, I’d say plan for about 45 minutes to an hour to reach the summit. It’s definitely best to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon around sunset when the temperature is much cooler and the views are absolutely out of this world—totally worth the effort!

Make sure to wear proper footwear and dress comfortably, as you’ll warm up fast. Light athletic breathable attire is a good idea, and don't forget sunglasses and sunscreen if you're hiking on a bright day. Bring 1-1.5 L of water per person and a little snack for the top, you’ll need it! Parking is only walking distance away and there are toilet facilities and a drinking fountain handy.

Overall, an intense but...