Top 5 Easy and Beautiful Hikes in Hawaii

Living in Hawaii means being surrounded by breathtaking nature, and hiking is one of my favorite ways to enjoy it. You don’t have to be an expert hiker to explore some of the most beautiful trails on the island. Many hikes are short, easy, and lead to amazing views, waterfalls, or peaceful forest paths. In this post, I’ll share 5 of my favorite hikes in Hawaii—perfect for a quick adventure in paradise!

1. Judd Trail

Difficulty: Easy Time: About 1 hour Highlights: Shaded trail, stream crossings, small waterfall Why I love it: It’s a peaceful loop surrounded by tall trees and greenery. The trail stays cool because it’s mostly shaded, so it’s perfect even on a sunny day. Great for beginners!

2. Pink Pillbox (Pu’u O Hulu Trail)

Difficulty: Moderate Time: About 45 minutes to the top Highlights: Stunning west side views, especially at sunset Why I love it: The view from the top is amazing, especially when the sky turns pink and orange. It’s a bit steep, but totally worth the effort. Don’t forget sunscreen and water!

3. Manoa Falls

Difficulty: Easy Time: 1 to 1.5 hours Highlights: Lush rainforest, beautiful waterfall at the end Why I love it: Walking through this tropical jungle feels like a movie scene. The waterfall at the end is gorgeous, but be careful—it can get muddy, especially after rain.

4. Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

Difficulty: Easy Time: About 1 hour Highlights: Paved trail, ocean views, chance to see whales in winter Why I love it: This trail is great for a sunny morning walk. It’s all uphill, but the path is smooth and easy to follow. The ocean view is unforgettable, and in winter, you might even see whales!

5. Lanikai Pillbox Hike (Kaiwa Ridge Trail)

Difficulty: Moderate Time: 30–40 minutes to the top Highlights: Panoramic views of Lanikai Beach and the Mokulua Islands Why I love it: It’s short but steep. Once you reach the pillboxes, the view is absolutely stunning—especially at sunrise. One of the best spots for photos!

Hiking Tips

Go early in the morning to avoid the heat and the crowds Always bring water Wear sunscreen, a hat, and use insect repellent Wear comfortable shoes with good grip (sneakers or hiking shoes)

Final Thoughts

Hiking is such a beautiful way to experience Hawaii’s nature. These trails are perfect for beginners and casual hikers, and they all offer something special—whether it’s a peaceful forest, a scenic coastline, or a jaw-dropping sunset view.

Have you tried any of these hikes? Or do you have your own favorite trail in Hawaii? I’d love to hear from you—leave a comment below!