Best North Shore Oahu Hikes You Must Try in 2025
North Shore, Oahu is one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii. It has lush mountains, long beaches, jungle trails, waterfalls, and old bunkers. If you are planning a trip to Oahu in 2025, you should not miss the amazing hikes on the North Shore.
This guide covers the 10 best North Shore Oahu hikes including easy hikes, waterfall hikes, dog-friendly trails, kid-friendly hikes, pillbox hikes, bunker hikes, and coastal trails.
Let’s explore the best hikes on Oahu’s North Shore for 2025.
Table of Contents
Here Is A List Of Best North Shore Oahu Hikes in 2025
The best North Shore Oahu hikes in 2025 offer stunning ocean views, easy waterfall trails, and family-friendly paths. Ehukai Pillbox, Laie Falls, and Kaʻena Point are top picks for beauty and scenery. Waimea Valley and its swimmable falls are great for kids, while the Stairway to Heaven remains forbidden. Overall, the North Shore is a must-visit for hikers looking for iconic Oahu landscapes.
Why Hike on the North Shore of Oahu?
North Shore hikes are special because they are a perfect mix of beaches, mountains, jungles, and ocean cliffs. You get everything in one place.
Whether you’re looking for easy hikes North Shore Oahu, dog friendly hikes North Shore Oahu, pillbox hike North Shore Oahu, or north shore Oahu waterfall hikes, this area has something for everyone.
10 Best North Shore Oahu Hikes at a Glance
- Ehukai Pillbox Hike – Best pillbox hike North Shore Oahu
- Waimea Valley & Waimea Falls – Best waterfall hike
- Ka’ena Point Trail – Best coastal trail
- Laie Falls Trail – Best long waterfall hike
- Kealia Trail – Best ridge views
- Pu’u O Mahuka Heiau Lookout Walk – Best easy walk
- Hau’ula Loop Trail – Best forest loop trail
- Kaunala Trail – Best hidden mountain trail
- Sunset Pillbox Hike – Best sunset hike
- North Shore Hike to Satellite Tracking Station – Most unique coastline walk
1. Ehukai Pillbox Hike (Best Pillbox Hike North Shore Oahu)
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2 miles
Ehukai Pillbox is the ultimate pillbox hike on the North Shore. The trail takes you through a forest and up to old WWII bunkers. From the top, you can see the entire coastline, surf breaks, and endless blue water.
It is one of the best spots for sunrise and sunset. It’s short, fun, and perfect for beginners who want a bit of adventure.
2. Waimea Valley & Waimea Falls (Top North Shore Oahu Waterfall Hike)
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.5 miles
Waimea Falls is one of the most famous waterfall hikes on Oahu. This trail is paved, very easy, and ideal for families, seniors, and kids.
You can swim in the waterfall pool, walk through botanical gardens, and enjoy Hawaiian cultural sites.
If you are looking for kid friendly hikes North Shore Oahu, this one is perfect.
3. Ka’ena Point Trail (Best Coastal Hike on the North Shore)
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Distance: 5 miles round trip
Ka’ena Point is a stunning coastal trail that leads to a wildlife refuge. While hiking, you can spot Hawaiian monk seals, seabirds, and huge waves crashing against lava cliffs.
The trail is mostly flat, making it one of the easiest long hikes on the island. It’s also great for dog friendly hikes North Shore Oahu (dogs must be on a leash).
4. Laie Falls Trail (Laie Falls North Shore Hikes Oahu)
Difficulty: Moderate–Hard
Distance: 7 miles
Laie Falls Trail is a long forest hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall hidden deep in the jungle. It has ridge views, wildflowers, and peaceful scenery.
If you want a full adventure and don’t mind a longer hike, this is one of the best waterfall hikes Oahu has to offer.
5. Kealia Trail (Best Hikes Near North Shore Oahu for Ridge Views)
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.5 miles
Kealia Trail, featured in the Best North Shore Oahu Hikes has amazing mountain and coastal views. The trail is filled with switchbacks that take you higher and higher until you reach a stunning ridge.
It’s one of the best hikes near North Shore Oahu for photographers and people who love wide open views.
6. Pu’u O Mahuka Heiau Lookout Walk (Best Easy Walk on the North Shore)
Difficulty: Very Easy
Distance: 0.5 miles
This is not really a long hike just a short walk but the view is incredible. You overlook Waimea Bay from high above, and you can explore Hawaii’s largest ancient heiau (temple).
It’s great for families, kids, and beginners who want a beautiful experience without effort.
7. Hau’ula Loop Trail (Best Forest Loop Trail)
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3 miles
Hau’ula Loop is a peaceful forest trail. It has tropical plants, a cool breeze, and ocean views through the trees. The path is clear, making it great for beginners or anyone wanting a relaxing walk.
It’s one of the most underrated hikes on the North Shore.
8. Kaunala Trail (Best Hidden Ridge Trail)
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 6 miles
Kaunala Trail is a true hidden gem and is featured in the Best North Shore Oahu Hikes . It’s less crowded and offers deep forest sections, ridge walks, and quiet natural scenery.
If you are a serious hiker who wants to escape the crowds, Kaunala is the perfect trail for exploring the North Shore Oahu.
9. Sunset Pillbox Hike (Best North Shore Sunset Hike)
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Distance: 1.5 miles
This trail, featured in the Best North Shore Oahu Hikes takes you to colorful pillbox bunkers overlooking the ocean. The sunset here is stunning, making it one of the best viewpoint hikes on the North Shore.
10. North Shore Hike to the Satellite Tracking Station
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3 miles
This hike offers a unique view of the coastline and leads to the famous satellite tracking station.
It’s flat, scenic, and perfect for people who want a simple but beautiful walk by the ocean.
It also fits well if you’re looking for best hikes north shore Oahu with ocean views.
Tips for Hiking in North Shore Oahu
Best Time to Hike
- Early morning
- Late afternoon
- Summer = dry and easy
- Winter = cooler but trails can be muddy
What to Bring
- Water
- Hiking shoes
- Snacks
- Camera
- Hat & sunscreen
Safety Tips
- Trails get slippery when wet
- Always stay on marked paths
- Carry water, especially on sunny days
Conclusion
North Shore Oahu is full of amazing hikes in 2025. From waterfall walks to ridge trails and sunset pillboxes, there is a hike for every traveler. These 10 best North Shore Oahu hikes will help you explore the island’s natural beauty and enjoy Hawaii like never before.
FAQs About North Shore Oahu Hikes
What is the most beautiful hike in Oahu?
Ehukai Pillbox and Laie Falls are two of the most beautiful hikes because they offer ocean views, mountains, and tropical scenery.
What is the most scenic hike in Oahu?
Ka’ena Point is the most scenic hike thanks to its dramatic ocean cliffs and wildlife.
What is the most beautiful place on Oahu?
Waimea Valley is one of the most beautiful places due to its gardens, waterfalls, and peaceful atmosphere.
Where is the Stairway to Heaven in Oahu?
It’s on the eastern side of Oahu, not on the North Shore.
What not to miss on Oahu?
Waimea Falls, Ka’ena Point, Ehukai Pillbox, Hanauma Bay, and Lanikai Beach.
Can you hike Waimea Falls in flip-flops?
Yes, because the path is paved. But shoes are still better.
Is Waimea Falls kid friendly?
Yes, it’s one of the best kid-friendly hikes on Oahu.
Is the Waimea waterfall worth it?
Yes, it’s a beautiful waterfall with an easy walk and a swimmable pool.
Why is the Stairway to Heaven hike forbidden?
It is dangerous, damaged, and on restricted property. That’s why it’s illegal.
Is North Shore, Oahu worth visiting?
Yes! It’s peaceful, beautiful, and full of things to do.
