Lanikai Pillbox — Attraction in Oʻahu

I hike this trail 3-4 days per week and have been doing so for several years. It's a great morning workout but it's getting a lot of use now and the trail is suffering as a result. The round trip duration varies greatly with fitness level and length of lingering picture taking. Each round trip lap takes me a little more than 15 minutes as I don't stop for pictures or to rest. Most people take around 1 hour from the bottom to the 2nd pill box and back. Keep in mind that this is a ridge trail. At no point does the trail veer off into a valley. The most common mistake is on the way back down there is a point where one can take 1 of 3 paths (left right or center). The path to the left heads down into a valley before dying out completely. If you take this trail (which many people do) you'll be faced with turing back or scrabbling up the side of the mountain to rejoin the trail. It's a ridge trail.

Here are some suggestions to keep the trail a most enjoyable experience for all.

Parking - Rather than try to find a place at the trail head area (where there is very little parking) I park at Kailua Beach Park and walk to the trailhead.

Trash - Please plan to carry out what you carry in, including orange peels which do not degrade for as long as a year. There is no bathroom so please "go" before you hike. If you take toilet paper please also take a plastic bag to pick up after yourself. It amazes me how much trash and toilet paper I pick up each week.

Pets- Same as above, plan to hike out waste rather than leaving on the trail. Many people pick up the waste but then leave it on the trail for others (like me) to pick up. Remember to take water for your pet.

Footware - Slippers (thongs/flip flops) are not appropriate and in fact can lead to injury. Ideally wear hiking shoes.

Water - Take an appropriate water supply. Not Starbucks coffee or energy drinks. After only the first 5 minutes of uphill hiking I promise you will be sorry you brought a coffee drink.

Pictures - Falling off the edge of the trail generally happens when someone is taking a picture. Nobody that looks at your picture will know whether you were 2 inches or 2 feet from the edge so be...

If you're looking for an unforgettable hiking experience on Oahu, the Lanikai Pillbox Hike at sunrise is a must-do. This trail, also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, offers some of the most stunning views on the island, especially as the sun rises over the horizon.

Starting early in the morning might seem daunting, but trust me, the effort is well worth it. The trailhead is located near the Mid-Pacific Country Club, and while the initial climb is steep and can be slippery due to loose rocks and gravel, the views are spectacular from the very beginning. The hike is relatively short, about 1.6 miles round trip, but it packs a punch with its elevation gain and the breathtaking scenery along the way​​​​.

As you make your way up, the sky gradually transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors. The view from the pillboxes—remnants of military observation posts—overlooking Lanikai Beach and the Mokulua Islands is nothing short of magical. The sense of tranquility and awe as the island wakes up is a memory that will stay with you long after you've left​​​​.

It's important to come prepared: wear good hiking shoes, bring water, and perhaps a small flashlight or headlamp for the early morning darkness. The trail can be busy, but the camaraderie among hikers adds to the experience. Once at the top, don't forget to take a moment to soak in the views and snap some photos. The descent can be tricky, so take your time and use the ropes provided in some sections to help navigate the steeper parts​​​​.

After the hike, consider stopping by Moke's Bread and Breakfast in Kailua for a well-deserved meal. The combination of the hike and a hearty breakfast makes for a perfect start to the day​​.

Overall, the Lanikai Pillbox Hike at sunrise is a highlight of any trip to Oahu, offering a perfect blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. It's a bit challenging but accessible, making it a great option for both seasoned hikers and those just looking to enjoy one of the best views...

There by are quite a few great hikes on Oahu, and this is one of the better ones. The hike itself is relatively short and the trailhead is easy to find. Once on the trail you will find that the grade can be pretty significant if you haven't prepared. The trail is also narrow with the exception of a few areas. Water coming down the trail when it rains makes it a little more difficult to navigate, especially in the dark.

The hike is easy enough if you are on your own and there is no one in the trail in front or behind, but that is rarely the case. People in front who have to slow or stop can make it more difficult when you have to stop/start. And folks coming up behind you can be a little impatient if you're not moving at their pace.

If you're making the hike to watch the sun rise, go early enough to get to your desired spot at least 30 minutes before the sun starts lighting the sky. Bring breakfast and beverages with you - no food trucks here - and whatever creature comforts you want with you. And a headlamp for the hike so you can see the trail and keep your hands free for the climb.

There are no bathrooms or porta potties, just the trail, pillboxes, and people. You can bring your dog, but there's not a lot of room to get your dog out of the way, or for people to move out of your way so your dog can pass. If you do bring your dog, please...