Hike Along The Coastline On One Of Hawaii's Best Little Known Trails
By Megan Shute|Published December 19, 2018
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Megan Shute
Author
With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
The Hawaiian Islands are home to approximately 750 miles of stunning coastline, and while we love the hundreds of beaches that line the shore, lately, we can’t get enough of coastal hikes. Across our beautiful islands, you will find some of the world’s best hiking trails and we truly believe that there is nowhere better than the Aloha State to lace up your hiking boots. If coastal views soothe your weary soul and hiking is your favorite type of workout, we know just the place to go.
Located on Oahu’s southeastern shore, the Hanauma Bay Marine Life Conservation District has been named the best beach in America and is perhaps the island’s most popular snorkeling destination for tourists and locals alike. But if you’re not interested in snorkeling, especially during the winter months when the waters off the coast of Hawaii is slightly chillier, Hanauma Bay is home to a ridge trail that’s just begging for a little attention.
Also known as the Koko Head Rim Trail, Hanauma Bay Ridge is one of the islands’ most jaw-dropping trails, with stunning views of Hanauma Bay, Koko Head, the surrounding coastline and mountains, and the Pacific Ocean.
Measuring in at anywhere between 1.5 and 4.2 miles, depending on where you turn around, this moderate hike is partially paved and considered to be of moderate difficulty as it is quite steep.
The steep and unofficial trail ends at this incredible rock bridge. Be warned, though, that while it might be enticing to go stand on this beautiful natural bridge, the waves are unpredictable and you might get swept out to sea. Admire the formation from afar and snap a few photographs from this vantage point if you aren't quite ready to die.
The trail is advertised on AllTrails as a loop trail, but you can actually take either path both ways if you prefer: the first path near the water is steep and short while the other path is more gentle, albeit much longer. The choice is up to you.
You won’t find any shade on the trail, so be sure to wear a hat, slather on the sunscreen, and bring plenty of water. It’s best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon so the sun isn’t high in the sky. You’ll also want solid hiking shoes.
Don’t forget your camera — because this trail meanders along the coast, you’ll find awe-inspiring panoramic views with every step you take, filling your memory card with dozens and dozens of jaw-dropping images just like this one worthy of framing.
Before we end, we must warn you that although this is a wildly popular and heavily trafficked hike, it is not open to the public. Onlyinyourstate.com is not responsible for any readers that choose to do this hike, and we do not condone illegal activities. This article is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
Have you ever hiked along the Hanauma Bay Ridge Trail? If so, share your experiences and opinions in the comments below and then head on over to join our Hawaii Nature Lovers Facebook group, where members share all sorts of amazing photographs taken in the Aloha State.
