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Koko Head Crater Trail

Honolulu, Hawaii

4.4/5
based on 13 reviews

Details

Distance

1.6 miles

Elevation Gain

961 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Tyler Drake

A great workout on the south shore of the island with incredible views as a reward for your hard work.

While hiking up the Koko Head trail, don't get too intimidated, there are grandparents and young kids hiking up these tracks. Take a sip of water, muster your mental toughness, and put one foot in front of the other along the rail trail. Once you're moving, there's no way you'll turn back! When you get to the top, soak it in for a minute, and think about what you accomplished! You'll see amazing views of the Pacific Ocean over Hawaii Kai all the way down to Diamond Head. 

It's best to show up early in the morning before the crowd gets on the trail. Also, there's no shade, so it's ideal to hit this trail while it's not too hot. There is a parking lot and restroom available next to the softball diamond.

Once you're spent, if you're heading back into town, be sure to make a quick stop at Diamond Head Market & Grill and really reward yourself! There are also great spots to check out and cool off at Makapu'u (the beach just past the lighthouse) and China Walls

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Features

Fitness
Running
Hiking
Scenic

Koko Head Crater Trail Reviews

This is a steep up hill, one shoulf take their time going up. It's so close to the Honolulu it's an easy after work sunset hike! I could do this trail 1000 times. It's more like a workout with a good view at the end.

It’s a cool view at the top, but it is absolutely necessary to bring patience and to pace yourself. Bring a backpack. Bring 2 bottles of water. Arrive no later to begin your hike than 630. The hot sun will murder you on the way up or the way down if you wait too long. Take the time to sit. Catch your breathe. And allow yourself the patience to watch where your walking on the way down. Some people are epic at this one, some are grandmas but I tell you I’m in between and it was very easy to get over exhausted fast! Listen to your body and maybe bring a hat?

Take an old rail track straight up a mountain for some epic views of Diamond Head and the South shores. I don't recommend this in the middle of the day.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Snorkel at Hanauma Bay

Halona Cove

Koko Crater Arch via Halona Blowhole Lookout

Bodysurfing at Sandy Beach

Koko Head Botanical Garden

Spitting Cave