Diamond Head

Awe, the classic monument of Oahu. There is a lot of history behind Diamond Head and I believe it is a must do for all travelers and even locals to experience. It is a short trail, under a mile, that is mainly switchbacks up to the top of the mountain. The trail is paved but also rocky at some points. As you near the top of the trail there is a steep staircase with a special treat including a tunnel you walk through. There is a 1 dollar charge for each person to hike this trail.  I took my grandma on this hike and I was so proud of her! She absolutely loved the views and there is a lot of history to be learned on this hike. I recommend to everyone :)

 Granny did it! Good job!

 The views from the top of the crater. The water is so pretty!

Ka'ena Point

A perfect hike to experience during the winter months is Ka'ena Point located on the far west side of the island of Oahu. It is a very easy trail with no inclines but it is a beautiful view of the coastline. You walk along an old dirt road next to the coastline and during the winter months you can see whales breaching in the distance. It is amazing! At the end of the three mile walk you come to a Reserve Park where you can see birds and seals. If you decide to continue through the park and go a few more miles you will come to the north side of the trail. An excellent workout! Some people ride bikes along this trail which I would love to do next.  I have taken my dogs a handful of times because I have seen others do the same but a man approached me once saying I would get a few hundred dollar ticket if I didn't take my dogs off the trail. I then researched this when I went home and it says dogs are only not allowed in the Reserve Park... it is still a blurred topic, but my dogs LOVE this trail. It's a gamble if you decide to go with your pets.
Also, as you approach the beach heading to the trail on the main road, you will see a huge cave on the right hand side. There is a small parking opportunity on the left. I suggest checking it out. It is very cool when you walk inside, creepy too!

Mt. Olomana

My friends were just in town and they asked me where would be fun but challenging hike. First hike that came to mind was Mt. Olomana.  The trail covers three different peaks but the first peak named Olomana is the highest peak and has great views of the windward coast from Kailua to Makapuu. On the south side of Olomana you will also see the Koolau Ridge which is always one of my favorite views.

This trail is exciting because you get to climb in some places using robes or cables to assist you. I'll be honest I have only gone to the first peak and I've been told the third is the most challenging for climbing. There are also some crazy youtube videos of people crossing the ridge to the third peak and it is for the daredevils definitely!

The trail is near the Luana Hills Country Club and there is often a security guard that gives warnings on mountain conditions and will also turn hikers away if they bring pets. Sorry, no pets allowed.

Always a fun hike!