Lanikai Pillboxes (Kaiwa Ridge) Trail
Kailua, Hawaii
Details
Distance
1.76 miles
Elevation Gain
686 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Brooke Willson
Lanikai Pillboxes (Kaiwa Ridge) Trail is a relatively short, but steep trail that offers amazing views of Mokulua Islands and Lanikai Beach. This dog-friendly hike is located on Oahu near Kailua, Hawaii.
The hike
The Lanikai Pillbox Trail, also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, is a well-maintained, dog-friendly hike. The pathway is relatively accessible to hikers of varying skill levels, and it takes many people between 30 and 45 minutes to complete the walk.
The beginning of the trail is steep with loose gravel, but gets more manageable as you continue. The out-and-back hike is 1.76 miles long, and gains around 686 feet of elevation.
The views
Expect to see the beautiful turquoise water of Lanikai Beach, the Mokulua Islands, and the Koolau Mountains.
History
The trail's unique name is derived from the old military pillboxes that were once used as lookout points during World War II, adding historical significance to the hiking experience.
Best time to hike Lanikai Pillbox Trail aka Kaiwa Ridge Trail
If you’re an early-riser, this is a great hike to do just before the sun rises. The pillboxes offer panoramic views of the Mokulua Islands.
This trail does not have lights and can be very tricky after dark, so most people hike it during daylight hours. Bring a headlamp in case of an emergency that keeps you out after dark.
What to bring
-The 10 essentials for hiking
-Drinking water
-Hat, sunscreen, layers in case it gets chilly
-Raincoat
-Camera or phone to capture those incredible views
Are dogs allowed?
This trail allows leashed dogs. Make sure to bring plenty of water - they'll be thirsty too!
Post adventure
After the hike, you can hang out at Lanikai Beach and rent paddleboards, kayaks, or just go for a swim.
Head to Kono's Northshore for their famous Kalua pig nachos or sandwich and an incredible milkshake.
Directions and parking
Drive to Lanikai Beach in Kailua. You can reach teh trailhead along Kaelepulu Drive. Parking options are slim and this hike is very popular, so get there early for your best chance at a parking spot when hiking Lanikai Pillbox Trail.
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Lanikai Pillboxes (Kaiwa Ridge) Trail Reviews
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
This is an awesome sunrise hike in the Kailua area. If you search Google Maps for "Pillbox Hike," it takes you to the trailhead on The Outbound. There is no parking lot at the trailhead, so you have to park in one of the surrounding neighborhoods. Once you've parked, the trailhead is pretty well marked and is past the entrance to the Mid Pacific Country Club. The hike to the first pillbox is moderate as you gain elevation and need to make your way up an incline filled with rocks and tree roots. Once you make it to the first pillbox, the hike is much easier and very much like a leisurely stroll to the second pillbox and beyond. If you want to do this hike for sunrise, be sure to leave a little early so you can get a seat on one of the pillboxes. Otherwise, you will need to watch the sunrise from somewhere on the trail. Either way, the sunrise is amazing and you should have a great view of the Mokulua Islands and beyond. I did not do it, but the chatter on the trail seemed to indicate that you could make this hike a loop by continuing on the trail and walking along the road it drop you on to back to the trailhead.
5.0
I hiked this place alone, and as I climbed up, I took off my shirt and only went up in a sports bra, as humidity increases with the elevation. Then again, I did go in a hot August. The views are gorgeous, and you get a 360 view of the mountains and town. There were a lot of gnats when I was there, so I didn't get to stay too long, as I was overwhelmed by bugs no matter where I moved. But I would go back again on another visit. I have no input on where to park, as I took an Uber there. There are a ton of private roads there and a park across the street, so I'm not sure where one would park.
5.0
This is a great hike if you have time and are in the Kailua area. There are two trailheads you can park at. The directions for the trailhead on The Outbound put you in a little less crowded neighborhood with more parking, but the hike to the pillboxes is longer. This hike is moderate (it can be a little tough if you're bringing the whole family and/or don't have great shoes for the trail). You'll be walking on roots, rocks, and tackling a decent incline on the way up. Once you make it to the ridgeline, the hike becomes much easier. If you want a shorter hike to the pillboxes, the trailhead is at 21.38847,-157.7222644.
5.0
Great views, best for sunrise, not too crowded during the day on weekdays. Not a difficult hike but comes with amazing views of the water and Kailua
5.0
A steep but short climb, the pillboxes trail delivers amazing panoramic views at a very low cost. Always a favorite whenever I'm in Hawaii, it doesn't get old. For the beginner it may seem steep and Rocky but any experienced hiker will be up and back in no time. Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic on top of the cement structures while taking in the view. Watch for broken glass if you remove your shoes.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Paddle to Moku Nui
Lanikai Beach
Kayak to Flat (Popoia) Island
Kailua Beach Park
Kick Back at Bellows Field Beach Park
Maunawili Falls (Temporarily Closed)
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