As a flight attendant or travel enthusiast, you know the value of making the most out of a layover. If you happen to have a layover in Honolulu, Hawaii, then you’re in for a real treat! While there are endless things to see and do in Honolulu, one of the most popular and rewarding activities is hiking.
Why ‘The Layover Hike?’
Why hike on a layover, you might ask? Well, for starters, it’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of a place and get some exercise at the same time. Outdoor exercise and sunshine is a great way to ward off the effects of jetlag, too. Hiking clears the mind and helps your body feel good after flying. Plus, if you only have a limited amount of time, going for hikes or a run, allows you to see the best sights in a fresh way.
Island Layover Hikes
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a fun activity to do on your layover, hiking on Oahu is definitely worth considering. With numerous hiking trails to choose from, you can easily find one that fits your skill level and interests.
I enjoy hiking as a way to see the outdoor scenery of a place and get my body moving after traveling. When I lived on Oahu and was based at HNL as a commercial flight attendant, my friends and I had a great time exploring some of the popular hikes on the island (and some of the less well known; some of which have been closed since due to dangerous conditions).
When I lived in Hawaii, we had time to explore but one doesn’t need a lot of time to go on a hike when on a short layover in Honolulu. 10-24 hours is enough time to get beyond the cramped streets of Honoulu and see a bit of nature. Here are a few suggestions for hiking on your next Honolulu layover.
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Diamond Head Hike: The perfect layover adventure
What is a Hono layover hiking list if it doesn’t include a Diamond Head hike? This iconic hike is located just a short drive from the Honolulu airport, making it the perfect way to spend a few hours before your next flight.
The Diamond Head Hike is a relatively short and easy hike that can be completed in a couple of hours, making it perfect for a layover adventure. The trail is just under a mile long and has a 560-foot elevation gain, so it’s not too strenuous. The cost of entry to the state park where the hike is located is $5 per car or $1 per person for those walking in, making it an affordable option.
If you’re staying in Waikiki, the easiest way to get to the start of the hike is by taking the bus. You can catch the #23 or #24 bus from Kuhio Avenue, which will drop you off at the entrance to Diamond Head State Park. Alternatively, if you’re feeling up for a bit of a walk, you can make the approximately 30-minute journey from Waikiki to the park on foot. The walk takes you through a quiet residential area before ascending up towards the base of Diamond Head.
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Koko Head Hike: The best morning workout
The Koko Head Hike is a challenging but rewarding climb, perfect for those looking for a more strenuous adventure during their layover in Honolulu. The hike features an old railway that was used to transport military supplies up to a lookout point during World War II. The trail is a steep climb consisting of over 1,000 steps, so be sure to come prepared with sturdy shoes and plenty of water. The hike typically takes about 1-2 hours to complete, depending on your pace.
There is no cost to hike Koko Head, and it’s located just a short drive away from Honolulu. You can take a taxi or Uber to the Koko Head trailhead, which is located in the Hawaii Kai area. Once you arrive, the climb to the top takes roughly 30-45 minutes, and the views from the summit are absolutely stunning.
After completing the hike, there are plenty of places to grab a refreshing smoothie or juice in Hawaii Kai. Try out Island Brew Coffeehouse, which offers a variety of smoothies, coffee drinks, and snacks. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, Kona Brewing Company is a popular spot for beer, pizza, and salads. Overall, the Koko Head Hike is a must-do for anyone looking for a challenging and rewarding outdoor adventure during their layover in Honolulu.
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Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail: Easy Jetlag Recovery Walk
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a stunning coastal hike that offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the southeastern coast of Oahu. The hike is approximately 2 miles round trip and is suitable for all skill levels, making it perfect for a quick layover adventure. The trail is well-maintained and features a paved path, which makes it easy to navigate. Best of all, the hike is free, so you won’t have to spend any money to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Getting to the trailhead is relatively easy as well. You can take a taxi, rental car, or public transportation to get to the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trailhead, which is located on the east side of Oahu, just south of Waimanalo Beach. Once you arrive at the trailhead, there is plenty of parking available, but it can get crowded, so be sure to arrive early.
The hike itself is relatively easy, with a gradual uphill incline on the way to the lighthouse. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the sparkling turquoise waters below, as well as a variety of native flora and fauna. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, including Koko Head Crater, the windward coast, and the island of Molokai on a clear day.
Overall, the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a must-do hike for anyone looking for a scenic coastal adventure on their layover in Honolulu. With its stunning views, easy accessibility, and no cost, it’s no wonder that this hike is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
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Manoa Falls Hike: Rainforest Escape
Manoa Falls hike is a must-do for anyone visiting Oahu who loves nature and hiking. Located just a short drive from Honolulu, this hike is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the lush, tropical rainforest. The trail is around 1.6 miles long, and while it is rated as moderate difficulty, it is suitable for most ages and fitness levels. The cost of admission is $5 per car or $1 per person if you’re walking or biking in.Getting to the trailhead is easy, and you can either drive yourself or take a bus. If you’re driving, there is a small parking lot at the start of the trail, but it can fill up quickly on busy days. So, it’s always best to arrive early. If you’re taking the bus, you can catch the #5 from Waikiki, and it will drop you off at the trailhead.
The trail itself takes you through a dense rainforest with towering trees, tropical plants, and even bamboo groves. The highlight of the hike is the stunning Manoa Falls, which cascades down a 150-foot waterfall. The mist from the falls is refreshing, and the views are simply breathtaking. Along the way, there are several smaller waterfalls and pools that you can swim in, making this hike a great option for those hot Hawaiian days.
One thing to note is that the trail can get muddy and slippery, especially after heavy rainfall, so it’s essential to wear sturdy shoes and bring a rain jacket. Also, be sure to pack some water and snacks to keep you fueled along the way. Overall, the Manoa Falls Hike is a great way to experience the beauty of Oahu’s rainforest and to cool off from the island’s tropical heat.
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Makiki Valley Loop Trail: Scenic city views
The Makiki Valley Loop Trail is a 2.5-mile loop trail located in the Makiki Valley area of Honolulu. The trail is accessible year-round and offers a moderate level of difficulty, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels. To get there, you can take a short drive from downtown Honolulu or take a bus to the Makiki Valley Trailhead.
The trail takes you through a lush rainforest, along a stream, and up a series of switchbacks, offering beautiful views of the city below. You’ll pass several small waterfalls, and the trail even crosses a bridge over a waterfall. The trail is well-maintained and marked, so you won’t have any trouble finding your way.
The Makiki Valley Loop Trail is free to access and is a great option for those looking for a quick and easy hike with stunning views. Be sure to bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes, as the trail can be slippery in wet conditions. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before heading out and to let someone know where you’ll be hiking.
More time? More hiking options
If you have more time, a rental car or want a few more ideas of hikes on Oahu and near Honolulu, here are a few more hikes you may have heard of and are great to add to your list of layover activities.
- Ka’ena Point Trail: This hike takes you to the westernmost point on Oahu, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the rugged coastline. The trail is relatively flat and easy, and it’s also a great spot for bird watching and whale watching (in season).
- Maunawili Falls Trail: This is a moderate hike that takes you through lush rainforest to a beautiful waterfall. The trail is well-shaded, making it a great choice on a hot day, and there are several swimming holes along the way where you can take a refreshing dip.
- Lanikai Pillbox Hike: Pillbox is a popular hiking trail in Oahu that offers breathtaking views of the Mokulua Islands and the ocean. The trail is relatively easy, with a gradual incline and well-maintained path, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels. The hike takes about 30-45 minutes to complete and leads to two World War II-era pillboxes (concrete bunkers) that were once used as lookout points. From the pillboxes, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Lanikai Beach, Kailua Beach, and the surrounding area. Pillbox can get quite crowded during peak season, so it’s recommended to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat. The trailhead is located in a residential area, so respect the local residents by keeping the noise level down and not parking in their driveways.
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