lanikai pillbox hike cost
Lanikai trailhead at Bluestone from the Pali (Rt 61): Come to end of the Pali where it intersects Kalaheo Ave. Hike is ranked It’s on the east coast of Oahu yielding a breathtaking sunrise view over the ocean. another great Oahu hike that is a 30 minute climb Bundle your Oahu attractions: visit Pearl Harbor, see the It’s a super short hike with stunning views – a rare and unbeatable combination. The entrance to the Lanikai side of the trail is very worn, and ropes are needed to get up the first part because of severe erosion due to the onslaught of hikers in recent years. trails. 43. “Michael loves Natalie” and “Keoni was here” are spray painted on the roof of the second pillbox. Oahuâs windward side. This Oahu beach has pristine powder sand and tranquil breathtaking. report. Pillbox Hike, also popularly known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, The Lanikai Pillbox hike (aka Kaiwi Ridge trail) is a bit of a unicorn. initial part of the ridge, with lots of Location: 265 Kaelepulu Dr. Kailua, HI 96734. from the Mid-Pacific Country Club. I've been wanting to do the Lanikai pillbox hike for a while and having… To top it off, it’s a kid-friendly hike. Next to the sign, you will need to step through some brush and Itâs a long steep climb Some handy sites for information: surrounding residential neighborhoods. proper gear and aid including the following: On your way to Lanikai, you will pass through the charming This stops at the second pillbox and then goes back. From pillbox 1 to pillbox 2 is only a few minutes and the views are similar, but its worth the walk. Lanikai Pillbox Hike Source: MH Anderson Photography / shutterstock Lanikai Pillbox Hike. The hike starts behind the baseball field in Koko Head Park. We’ve done this hike with babies in carriers, with toddlers, with a pack of preschoolers, and at night with headlamps. There should year long and call it home! restroom is located The trail leads you to three pillboxes. other fun adventures around the island, consider getting an Go Oahu RELATED ARTICLE: HIKING WITH KIDS - BEST TIPS FROM AN OUTDOOR MOM. It's short, relatively easy (a couple fun scrambles), and the views are simply spectacular. And it can be a perfect day to head to the Kailua area of Oahu, where Lanikai is located. Oahu weather forecast: Click here If you go make sure you can carry your kid all the way up. Start your day off in the morning, do the pillbox hike (or the full ridge trail if you’re ambitious! Lanikai Pillbox Lanikai was once an agricultural area with fields of watermelon, but later the area became secluded weekend vacation homesteads for the wealthy to escape from Honolulu. After you get past the hard part, the rest is just a gradual incline with a well-beaten trail that even had steps in the dirt from so much use! Experience the beauty of the Mokulua Islands, and the Windward Turn right at this light, and continue past Kalapawai market on Kawailoa Road, over the canal, past Buzz’s Steakhouse to stop sign at Alala Road. There are some ropes to help you get up the really steep … Maybe as a sign of victory...or to get a memorable selfie. This Oahu hiking trail along with most other hikes on the island have re-opened. Go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/268CJ7M The second right is Ka’elepulu Drive, where the trailhead … Be sure to pause and take photos from behind you as well. Park About Lanikai Pillbox Hike. share. Stop at the 2nd pillbox = .77 miles is one of the most picturesque and pleasant Oahu hiking Stay on trails and obey posted signs. Getting to Lanikai Pillbox Hike by bus. This intermediate hike rises just above Follow the dirt trail and look for the pink ribbons up the hillside. spend a little 138 were here. - Last Christmas (Official Video) 1 / 20 1 Wham! save. 7 parking spots the loose rocks and gravel that you could slip on. the hike at, Looking for another hike similar to Lanikai? This is probably the hike that everyone wants to do when they come to Hawaii. Depending on your timing, there are a few different ways you may get to the start of the Lanikai Pillbox Hike. recommend heading over to Boots The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is another hike to do when you’re looking to get away from Waikiki for a day. Other accesses are subject to landowner approval, and if used without authorization, you will be trespassing and possibly putting yourself at risk. For the Lanikai Pillbox Hike, what this means is consider heading out for the full Kaiwa Ridge Trail. by the entrance gate to the Mid-Pacific Country Club. There are actually 2 ways to hike this trail. downtown area of, Also consider hydrating yourself after overlooking the North Shore coastline. There are many fun shops and We did the hike in the dark before sunrise (with head lamps) and it was still somewhat busy. I’ve done it probably a dozen times myself over the years. The “pillbox trail” should only be accessed by either of two public easements over private property. 265 Kaelepulu Drive, Kailua, HI 96734 Note: Parking is pretty hard to find, especially during peak hours so you might have to park along the street, or even closer to the beach and walk up! you are This is a special 2 hour adventure that you must plan a head and sign up before & The satisfying plate lunch. The initial 10-yard (approx) Lanikai Beach, rewarding Turn left on Alala, and follow road into Lanikai, where it turns into A’alapapa Drive via Mokulua Drive. Merge onto the Pali Hwy (Hwy 61) and follow it to the Lanikai Pillbox Hike is, however, a must-do, not only for those searching for remarkable outdoor adventures but also for early birds who want to indulge in a mesmerizing sunrise. up the Lanikai Lanikai Pillbox Hike - Sunrise Hike on Oahu (Hawaii) Toplista. 1.5 km Round trip. There is a bit of a scramble in the beginning and some spots … Know your fitness and skill level before embarking in any hike. becomes Aalapapa St. From Kuhio St in Waikiki, take the number 20 Oahu bus to the vertical climb through thick brush might seem a little Things to do near Lanikai Pillbox Hike While I’m not the biggest fan of climbing hills in humidity, I will literally drag my body anywhere for a good view.. and the Lanikai Pillbox Hike delivered. 107. HIKING OAHU’S LANIKAI PILLBOX HIKE. It will take you about 40 area, transfer to the number 70 shuttle bus. breathtaking! Map: Click here. share. There is one originating in Enchanted Lakes at Kamahele Street, which is lesser known and one originating on the Lanikai side of the Bluestone property. Once at the pillbox you will have beautiful views of the North Shore coastline and Banzai Pipeline. mahi4004/Tripadvisor . You're better off finding street parking … After walking up the closed road for about a quarter mile, you start climbing the stairs almost immediately. Hikers are rewarded with mesmerizing views the entire way up to the pillboxes. But don’t underestimate it. and walk up the side street on the left hand side and look for the Although this Oahu hiking trail is rated moderate because of its initial steep climb, you often find kids and families along the ridge top, enjoying the adventure and views! Beach Park offers more pristine beaches, aqua blue waters, and the definition of the word paradise! also be a small sign further up this âstreetâ indicating the Pillbox Lanikai Pillbox Hike is located on the Kaiwa Ridge on the Hawaiian Island of Oahu. Aloha Tower headed towards Kailua. will be fine once you get started and the trail opens up to the restaurants you can duck into. If you branch off from the main trail you will probably end up on private property. The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is a moderate 1 hour to 90 minute hike (roundtrip), depending how far you decide to go. proper gear and aid including the following: Hiking Gear Picks including Compact Hiking Poles, Mosquito Repellent, and GPS Mapping Tracker. with the Kaâelepupu Drive will be the 2nd street once you enter the Lanikai residential area. to a ridge above the Banzai Pipeline. Let your bus driver know that you would like to be dropped off at the The pillbox trail has become one of the most popular hikes in Hawaii, and it’s easy to see why! The Kaiwa Ridge Trail, also known as Lanikai Pillbox Hike, is an intermediate hike that will take you to some of the most stunning views on Oahu’s windward side. hiking shoes and take It will take you about, The starting point of the Lanikai Pillbox Hike is located on a This may add 15-20 minutes or so of walking. This is a great vantage point on days … where you will need to walk up to the hiking entrance. report. with views of the Lanikai Pillbox (1.8 miles) Description: Also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, the Pillbox hike gets its name from the leftover army bunkers that sit atop the hillside. 67. In which case you may take a bus to Kailua. island! the hike at Lanikai Juice, Itâs a great local spot serving LOCATION: Ka'iwa Ridge Trail (or Lanikai Pillbox Trail) is about a 1.8 mile hike, roughly, if starting from the more accessed trailhead near the Mid-Pacific Country Club. intermediate because of the steady Make sure to be extra careful as it gets quit windy along the ridge and up top. Lanikai was once an agricultural area with fields of watermelon, but later the area became secluded weekend vacation homesteads for the wealthy to escape from Honolulu. The Kaʻiwa Ridge Trail, more commonly known as the Lanikai Pillbox Hike… Some hikers climb up on top of the bunker when they reach the 1st pillbox. The Ehukai Pillbox (Aka the sunset pillbox) is an easy hike up a dirt trail. Museum & Iolani Palace, sign up for a Hawaiian Luau, and You’ll need about two hours for the round trip, and although the trail is short, there’s a stiff initial climb to get up on the ridge. Just chillin w/ my bud. of the uphill climb right from the start of the trail head. small âPillbox Hikeâ sign. Among the slew of Oahu restaurants in Although the Lanikai pillboxes trail is short, it is steep in spots and can be challenging for some. waters below as you journey out. appropriate Head to the, and turn your attention engage more grip. kayakers. From here, another 10 minute walk along the ridge will take you to the second pillbox. caution climbing up and back down the Lanikai Pillbox Hike. Our trail is experiencing the same problems as many other O‘ahu hiking trails; it is being loved to death. you a whole new perspective. The Ehukai Pillbox Hike is This will likely be a solid 1-1.5 hour bus ride from Waikiki, with a transfer. Make a right turn onto Kawailao St and follow it until it You also have the option of trekking another hour farther along the Kaiwa Ridge Trail and it will take you around the coast a bit farther, and finally lead you down to the residential houses located on Aâalapapa Please hike at your own risk. Once in downtown Kailua 67. up for it! Lanikai Pillboxes, Kailua: Address, Phone Number, Lanikai Pillboxes Reviews: 4.5/5 Come However, to save yourself time, don't drive up this street. way. Head to the North turn around at this point, and travel back down the Kaiwa Ridge Trail Kailua, I would The Kaiwa Ridge trail, more commonly known as the Lanikai Pillbox trail, is a fairly popular hike located in the eastern part of the island of Oahu. This is a 20-30 minute easy uphill hike with some ocean views that are absolutely incredible. Cost: Parking - free on the side of the road. If you wake up early enough you just might be rewarded with one of the best sunrises of your life. The popular portion of the Lanikai Pillbox Hike is basically an uphill climb to the pillbox, and maybe to the second pillbox, and then head back down. amazing enough to just step onto Kailua beach, but paddling out gives in You’ll get rolling mountains, fun pillboxes to climb on, views of the bright blue ocean and Mokulua islands. (For information, see http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/recreation/home/ka%CA%BBiwa-ridge-trail-management-plan/ ), PBR is currently in the information gathering phase, and seeking input for a public survey (see link below), in order to give the Na Ala Hele program insight to develop the best possible plan of action for trail improvements. We are big fans of the Go Oahu Card, because downtown area of Kailua Town. you need to use one. Google Map yourself to Ka'elepulu Drive to get an idea of where the trailhead is. Of course that means you’ll have to share the trail with a … We highly recommend a good headlamp so you have free hands to help you navigate up the steep hills. Short and easy hike to pillbox bunkers in Lanika'i. small no name street that branches off It would be a shame to not In the distance, you The trailhead begins next to the Pupakea Elementary parking lot. intimidating at first, but the steep part is short and you Wham! at Kailua Beach Park beautiful luckiest residents on the Hiking Lanikai Pillboxes – The Trail. Lanikai tasty, healthy smoothies, and treats! Posted by 5 days ago. There are lots of bicycle shops in Kailua where you can rent a bike if you take the bus to Kailua. You can easily reach the first old military pillbox bunker in about 20 to 30 minutes. There are some quite steep parts on this trail, and they’re consistent throughout. Book your tickets online for Lanikai Pillboxes, Kailua: See 916 reviews, articles, and 1,037 photos of Lanikai Pillboxes, ranked No.3 on Tripadvisor among 18 attractions in Kailua. In only 0.4 of a mile, you will gain over 500 feet in elevation and you will be doing it in the dark. trails staff are working with planning consultant firm PBR to develop a master plan for Ka‘iwa Ridge trail. Lanikai Pillbox Hike Oahu, Hawaii . Hiking the Lanikai Pillboxes starts off with a “short” incline although it didn’t seem all that short at the time. Parking is EXTREMELY limited and most of it is a private access road. Subscribe to receive Best of Oahu updates on events, updates, and new articles. The beauty of Lanikai beach and Lanikai Bay with it’s close proximity to the offshore islands (the Mokes) has turned Lanikai … up to the Street. Shore and turn your attention Jump onto the H-1 Freeway from Waikiki and head west. Note that if you're not ready for the climb, there is a gratifying experience watching it from the beach below. for an inexpensive, fast, and This pillbox hike, the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, can be completed in an hour, depending on how many photos you take atop the two structures. Although it may look like fun, the boulders are not always stable and may give way at any time. or 1 hour plus by bus. I visited Oahu, Hawaii for the first time in May, and I was amazed at how naturally beautiful the state was. Aâalapapa Drive stop. There is not much shade l, if any, available. Bay, and Disclaimer â all Oahu hikes have different challenges and hazards that can be dangerous and may inflict injury. But you can extend this trail to hike along the entire ridge that’s called the Kaiwa Ridge. minutes by car from Waikiki, The 2 most The Lanikai Pillbox Hike really does have it all. Bus route information: Click here jacket, dry bag, and caters to beginners to more advanced Not to mention observing the crystal clear You can reach the first pillbox in 20-30 minutes, the second pillbox in another 5 – 10 minutes and … if The starting point of the Lanikai Pillbox Hike is located on a The first is what most people do and what this guide is written for: in-and-out. the best vistas of Lanikai Pillbox Hike is an easy, pleasant and beautiful trail, located in the prestigious neighborhood of Lanikai, on the east side of the island of Oahu. The Lanikai Pillbox Trail is a moderately-difficult hike that takes you up above a neighborhood to two old military bunkers. The. Though located on state land, this trail is not on the managed inventory of DLNR’s Na Ala Hele and Access Program. Most hikers But since the rope is gone now, I like to walk through hide. The second way is to go fully through the ridge trail and you exit in a different part of Kailua, called Enchanted Lake. Itâs 03/03/2021. 30min. the Kaiwa Hills. Hike. It only measures around 1.35 miles including the walk from our parking spot. of Kaâelepupu Drive --- trust meâ¦its easy to find! located on the right hand side Take a stroll if your legs are still The views are Please be respectful to the residents who live near this trailhead. The information on this site is for your reading pleasure only. Also consider hydrating yourself after 1Mi/ 1.6km(30min-1hr) Difficulty: Easy Elevation gain: 600ft/180m Parking: You can park on Aalapapa Road. The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is a moderate to a ridge above the Banzai Pipeline. Oahu just happen to lie below Coastline from a distance, on a fun guided kayak ride! Posted by 1 day ago. hide. Lanikai Pillbox Hike is very short. The views are The Ka’iwa Ridge Trail, otherwise known as the Pillbox Trail, is located on the ridge overlooking Lanikai and Enchanted Lakes, both suburbs of Kailua on the windward side of Oahu. up to two old military bunkers Difficulty. Card. When I lived in Kailua, I would hike or trail run the pillboxes 1-2 times a month, each time finding the trail just as enjoyable as the last. able to plan out all your activities, bundle them together, and receive After about 15-30 minutes (depending on your pace) you will see the pillbox! immediately climb up about 10 feet to reach the Kaiwa Ridge Trail. Keep your voices low early in the morning, and stick to the trail. fabulous ocean views to the left. LANIKAI PILLBOX HIKE. You will want to wear climbing rope on the side of the trail to help you along your also has park facilities available if you need them. This trail has become one of the most popular trails on the island because of the stunning views of Kailua Bay, Ko’olau Mountains, ease of accessibility, and length of hike. There used to be a Bishop This hike was on my MUST DO list, and I am stoked it was. 1 hour to 90 minute hike (roundtrip), depending how far you decide to go. Beach backs HOME | OAHU BLOG | ABOUT | CONTACT | SITE MAP | ADVERTISINGCOPYRIGHT © 2010-2020 BEST-OF-OAHU.COMALL RIGHTS RESERVED | NO REPRODUCTION ALLOWED | Privacy policy, , also popularly known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, The initial 10-yard (approx) However,. Beach, Lanikai Beach, and its Looking for another hike similar to Lanikai? __________________________. vertical climb through thick brush might seem a little It includes transportation, lunch, snorkel gear, life The Koko Head stairs are a famed hike in which you climb 1,048 stairs to the edge of the crater for gorgeous views over the ocean. After moving to "town" (Honolulu), I come here less frequently. Closest public beautiful beaches Your best option is to drive to Lanikai for this hike. You will see it directly across No, it’s not super easy, more of an intermediate hike. It’s also known as Kaiwa Ridge Trail. 4 comments. Lanikai means “heavenly sea”, and this scenic trail depicted exactly that: clear blue ocean with the iconic Mokulua islands as its backdrop. As part of our quest to find the best beach in all of Hawaii, we decided to head to Lanikai Beach, and do the famous Pillbox Hike as well. I could easily camp out on this beach all The two public accesses to the pillboxes are on public easements over private properties and are not managed for public recreational use. small no name street that branches. We stop at each one, now brightly colored from graffiti, and weathered from age and heavy traffic. on Sitting above Lanikai Beach, Kaiwa Ridge Trail has a steady steep grade throughout the climb. You'll find the trailhead at 265 Kaelepulu Drive, Kailua, HI 96734. Lanikai Pillbox- A Moderate Hike for all Adventurous Spirits. Throughout the climb, hikers are rewarded Lanikai Pillbox Hike and Beach Day! It’s one of those special hikes that are both easy and also unbelievably scenic. aqua blue waters. prepared to all Oahu hikes with the The Lanikai Pillbox hike in Oahu, Hawaii is one of the best “bang for your buck” hikes I have ever done. You can easily reach the first old military pillbox bunker in about 20 Starting just behind Lanikai Beach you can embark on a short but very scenic hike along the Kaiwa Ridge, tracing the coastline for 1.8 miles. Kaâelepupu Drive is one block up the street, The Ka’iwa Ridge Trail, otherwise known as the Pillbox Trail, is located on the ridge overlooking Lanikai and Enchanted Lakes, both suburbs of Kailua on the windward side of Oahu. up to two old military bunkers can also see Kaneohe deeper discounts across the board. that is a 30 minute climb It's the closest way to paradise while you are away... We will never sell or spam your information, and we'll respect your email privacy. The hike is short and most people should be able to manage the uphill climb. DIFFICULTY: Easy/Moderate LENGTH: 1 Mile (1.6km) Round Trip ESTIMATED TIME: 1 Hour (but allot extra time to appreciate the views) RESTROOMS/FACILITIES: No. R&R time on at least one of them! There are about save. Hiking Safely in Hawaii brochure: Click here Bay, Chinamanâs Hat, Waimanalo 4 comments. intimidating at first, but the steep part is short and, is rated moderate because of its initial steep climb, you often find, Your best option is to drive to Lanikai for this hike. Home / Oahu Hiking Trails / Lanikai Pillbox Hike. Helicopter Rescues on Lanikai Pillbox Trail. Mokulua Islands, Kailua arriving at the beach. Makapuâu Lighthouse. From there you will need to walk approximately mile back to Kaâelepupu Drive, where you first started. steep grade The short but sweet trail gives you an overlook of Lanikai beach , Kailua beach , Waimanalo beach, and the Koʻolau coast. No family group hikers larger than 5 at this time. It the tall grass on the side of the hill, which seems to give me a little eastern side of the island, Turn right on Kailua St (in the town of Kailua). The hike is easy to find but not the easiest hike to do with little kids. The bus that goes more directly near the start of the trail may have less frequent timings. On your way to Lanikai, you will pass through the charming A recent survey showed 1,370 visitors in one day! overlooking the North Shore coastline. Kimoâs for good breakfast to 30 minutes. Its main interest is to offer superb views of the famous Lanikai Beach, often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world! As always, when I am traveling, I have a list of things to do that is impossibly long. eats, and L&L Barbecue or Zippyâs It may be a good photo op but why take chances? Lanikai pillbox hike at night. The beauty of Lanikai beach and Lanikai Bay with it’s close proximity to the offshore islands (the Mokes) has turned Lanikai into a place of great renown over time. hikers with some of Kailua from where they originally started.