Hike the Lanikai Pillboxes
Details
Distance
2 miles
Elevation Gain
800 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Added by Brooke Willson
Hiking to the Lanikai Pillboxes is an easy, leisurely walk that offers amazing views of Mokulua Islands and Lanikai beach. This is a dog and family friendly hike.
The Lanikai Pillbox Trail, also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, is a family-friendly hike. The beginning of the trail is steep with loose gravel, but gets more manageable as you climb the trail. The hike is ~1.25 miles one-way and is an out-and-back trail with a 500ft elevation gain. If you’re an early-riser, this is a great hike to do just before the sun rises. The pillboxes offer panoramic views as well as of the Mokulua Islands. This trail allows dogs on a leash if you’re hiking with your four-legged friend(s). After the hike, you can hang out at Lanikai Beach and rent paddleboards, kayaks, or just go for a swim. If you’re like us and are famished after hiking and have some time, head to Cinnamon’s Restaurant for a bite.
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Reviews
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Gorgeous hike!
Probably my favorite hike I did on Oahu! Woke up early and did it for sunrise; bring a headlamp/light if you do this. Insane views. Parking was a bit of a pain, go early and on a week day if you can! Lots of people, but so worth it!
5.0
Best View of the Beaches Below
Best View of the Beaches Below
5.0
Memory lane
Thanks for posting this hike. This was my “backyard” as a 10 yr old in the late 50s. Hiked here frequently with playmates or alone. We sometimes encountered Marines from the nearby base who would share their canned rations with us when taking a lunch break at the pillboxes. Love of outdoors spawned here on these humble hills.
5.0
Great spot for sunrise
Great hike with an amazing view for sunrise. Bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes, as the elevation is steep and the path can get muddy.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
