Lanikai Pillbox Trail Reviews

This is a must before you hit the Lanikai beach . It was my most favorite hike in Oahu.
I didn’t see any kids or older people on this hike but I wouldn’t call it difficult , the views were simply amazing!

Easily one of the best and relatively easier hikes on Oahu. Views are spectacular once you reach the pillboxes. Gate to entry is locked says for repairs. People just hopped the fence. Be careful as the rock can be slippery when wet so wear appropriate foot wear.

This hike is not for the faint of heart. It's a rugged ridge trail with no guard rails, much of it very steep and with loose rocks and dirt. For experienced mountain hikers, this may not be a challenge, but for this 68 year old with a deathly fear of heights, I wasn't sure I was going to make it. The trail is very narrow and there are a lot of tourists and locals on it, some with big dogs. Have good hiking shoes/boots and try to go when the trail is dry or you'll be slipping in mud. Once you're at the pillboxes, though, the view is spectacular! You can climb on top of them if you so desire (I did not). It's a shame that the boxes have been tagged with graffiti, can't we have something standing without graffiti? There is NO SHADE so try to go when the weather is cooler in the morning or late afternoon/early evening, but be sure to go when it's daylight. Also, there is no parking as the trailhead is located on a private road. Walk or bike to it if you can. The hike isn't long but it's very steep. My Fitbit said about 4500 steps up and back, but 38 floors.

We went on 6/3/17. We did the first 2 pill boxes. It was harder than we thought, and hot as we started at 10 am. Taking stops and photos, it took us a little over an hour. Bring plenty of water. You do get great photos.

Breathtaking view on top of the first pillbox. Hike can be steep so wear tennis shoes. If you take your time, it will take you between 30-45 minutes to reach the top. It's easy to lose track of time enjoying this view.

High scenery to effort ratio - lol.

Not a particularly fit couple, spent 30-45 minutes getting to the second pillbox. Over-watching the beautiful Lanikai, Kailua beaches and a great view of the Mokulua twin islands. Can be tough in the first 5 minutes but it gets a lot easier. Go early (sunrise) and put on tons of sunblock. And bring a bottle of electrolyte water. Can get crowded with tourists.

We're big hikers, whether it's in urban, tropical or wilderness settings. Everyone told us to check out Pillboxes, so we did. We're never fans of hiking in a wash, and the steep climb combined with the wash footing and private nature of the trail made it very unenjoyable to us. Honestly, there are a million beautiful hikes and climbs in Oahu; I wish we'd spent our hour somewhere else.

View is great once you get up there. Trail is very rough, basically gully run outs. Not for inexperienced hikers. However it is closed now for renovation work and maybe the trail will be improved.

Absolutely beautiful views. Wear good shoes. Barely survived in flip flops as this was impromptu. It’s a challenging hike, you have to use ropes and other means to get up certain spots and there is little to no shade, so the direct sun will absolutely get you even with sunscreen. The wind is strong as well, but it’s welcome in the heat.

The Lanikai Pillboxes hike was just gorgeous. There were areas where it could be tough for some folks but overall it was a doable terrain. Definitely bring water.

This was by far my favorite hike on the island! It isn't necessarily far by distance; however, the elevation gain is tremendous and the trail precipitous. Boy is it worth it at the top though! The view of the windward side of the island is tough to beat from the Lanikai Pillbox.

My husband and daughter made it to the top but I chickened out. I read a review that said easy peasy. Yeah, NO! This is a steep hike and a narrow path so if you are not fond of heights, like me, maybe go to Manoa Falls instead. That being said, my husband and daughter loved this hike! They made it all the way to the second pillbox and said the views were incredible!

The view at the top is absolutely worth the 25 minute hike. The beginning is the steepest part and the hike is not easy. You don't have to be the fittest person, but it also isn't a walk in the park. There is plenty of spots where you can stop and take a break if needed. The view is breathtaking. We got there about 5:45am and it was already packed.

We attempted to hike this trail and were told that it has been closed for months for construction. May open in a few weeks but it’s a $1000 fine if you get caught. Too bad.

To catch the sunrise, one has to wake up really early and hike up a trail which can be sometimes slippery with nothing to hold on to. I’m quite surprised there weren’t much safety measures in place for such a popular spot.
You come up for the view, and back down again. Nothing special, especially if you have equally stunning sunrises in your hometown, (I’m from the Philippines 😊) but worth going to at least once. 👍🏼

staying in nearby kailua with fam over the xmas holidays. we came along here one morning. no place to park, dropped off. the start of the trail is opposite the "mid pacific country club" golf course, easy to find. this hike is also known as the "kaiwa ridge trail". the 2 pillboxes are old WW 2 bunkers, the first 1 reached in about 30 minutes, the second one 10 minutes further on. limited as in 7 parking spots, and some notes say that is no longer available. no restroom, no water source. we were 2 x 40+ adults, a 10 and an 8 yr. old and me, 67. all reasonably fit. i found this a challenging hike due to the steepness, especially coming down. my son had to offer support most of the way, unless i could grab a branch or grasses. of course the 2 kids scampered up and down without a bat of an eyelash. possibly my cautious age...the views are stupendous of the mokulua islands, and the kailua and lanikia beaches. the top is 600' above these wonderful views. we caught the sunrise which was a bonus. it took us a full 90 minute round trip, stopping for a few pics along the way. i was only a few minutes behind the youngsters arrival at the bottom. i didn't know about the 30 minute trail that continues along the top ridge from the top pillbox, which will deposit you at a different spot, will do that next time! not too many people. i do find the blaring music from some of the hikers a bit much, each to their own i guess....lots of loose gravel and slippery rock faces along the way. not very well maintained. i read that with such constant usage (1300 hikers/day) erosion is now a problem. there is evidence of ropes along the beginning but they have ripped and torn and pulled away. very happy i did this, fun to share with the family. hoping to take my husband the next time as his knee gave out playing family football earlier in the week on the beach...we had enough steam left in us that we walked the mile + home. a very satisfying hike, although my thigh muscles were sore for a few days after!

Our early morning hike to watch the sunrise was priceless. We had none of the harsh sun beating on our backs and faces as we climbed up the dramatic trail towards the pillboxes which helped in making this workout less intense. It doesn't take long to get up there, give or take 45 minutes round trip if you don't plan to linger. It's a popular hike so the pillboxes are never without people taking photos or just soaking up the views. There are two of those graffiti covered bunkers so you can move on to the next one for Instagram opportunities if the first one is crowded.

Parking can be an issue as it is only along the residential streets of Lanikai. That said, be prepared to walk a little towards the entrance of the trail. For parents of small children, I don't recommend you take them as there are parts that are steep and parts that are narrow. I've seen some families stuck at these spots trying to figure out what to do with their little ones in tow.

As your reward for the hike, you'll get to enjoy scenic views of the beautiful beaches of Kailua, Lanikai, and Bellows with a backdrop of the mountains on the other side. It's breathtaking up there!

Not the hardest hike we've done but was rewarded with awesome views of Lanikai beach, Kailua beach and Waimanalo. It's a short hike about 20-30mins. Make sure you wear shoes with grips cuz it can get slippery. Steep trails in some areas and steep drop offs. I saw people with flip flops on and was struggling going up. We only went up to the second bunker which is approximately 100 yards from the first bunker. It can get very crowded since the bunker is not very big. Parking is limited on the street. A must do for sure.

Rewarding but tough hike best done when it’s cool out. Sunrise and sunset are great times to do these glorious hike! The views from the top are spectacular!

My son (who lives in Honolulu), my husband, and myself ventured out on the hike to see the pillboxes. My son has hiked this a few times & sent us pictures. I was determined to tackle the hike, and glad I did. :)

We started the hike around 5:30 in the morning. We wanted to see the sunrise as well as beat the heat.

The trail is dirt, rocky, and steep. Some places are pretty tricky - but the views at the top make it worth it. I personally felt going down was more challenging than going up. I saw some people going down on their bottom, by choice. I am proud to say at my age (in my 50s), I took each step carefully and stayed upright! :)

Start early in the day, wear comfortable shoes and clothes, take a couple bottles of water, and remember to take pictures. Plan on roughly a 30 minute or so hike up and the same going back down.

Enjoy!

Go in the early morning, as hike is super hot. We went at 4pm and I was sweating up a storm. Awesome views!!

Wear shoes with some traction. Trail gets steep in places, but there are also alternative pathways that are less challenging. I'd recommend hiking pass the second pillbox.

It's so nice to go up this hike. I went with my friends from Japan and they have 5years old daughter. I was a bit worry about her but she was the one ended up lead us to the top...lol...It was stunning view from top of the pillbox(the first one) and 2nd one was even more so amazingly beautiful! we started a kind of late after around 3pm but the views and sky color were so breathtaking.

We hiked to the pillboxes with an infant on my back, it took just about 25 mins. Go at sunrise for some of the best views of the ocean and mooks! Will be back again 5/5🌶

This is an easy climb for people that climb. For non climbers like us it is a very tough climb. There is no set track, there are sections where you use a rope to pull yourself up, there are loose rocks, there are lots of people on the so called track and it is all worth it when you reach a view spot.
You climb 165m, if it has rained the track would be truly hazardous. There is only street parking and non in the street the walk starts because off the private golf course.
There are plenty of rest spots, oh sorry photo opportunities on the track.
The round walk takes about an hour thirty. The views at the top and on the way up are spectacular.
If you’ve climbed Diamond Head this is a lot harder.
Take water, wear enclosed shoes with good grip and don’t just walk off the street like we did and do this climb, be prepared.
Do the walk, hike, climb whatever you call it, it is worth every step and every ache the next day.

I used to make this hike several times a year. It is not a government maintained trail and portions can be in poor condition. There are no public bathrooms, freshwater, or any services in Lanikai. That said, the pillbox sunrise is amazing. If you choose sunrise, bring a flashlight for everyone in you party. I have had to help many people who have fallen or got off trail due to poor planning, lighting, and sense. Good shoes for difficult terrain are a must. Plenty of broken sandals line the trail. You cross private property and unencumbered State land, so show respect and don't us the area as an open toilet. DO NOT park illegally as the police cite vehicles daily and neighbors are not happy when they cannot get out of their driveways. It always made me wonder why people are not willing to park legally and walk five minutes when they are going to take a 15-20 minute hike.

This trail was closed last August when we first planned to go. It reopened the week after we left so we were determined to go up this years trip. We’ve been on various levels of hiking terrain so this was one moderate to us. Some areas had scrambling so prepare to get dirty! I wore crop exercise pants instead of shorts, so didn’t mind sitting on some downhill parts. And have your hands free for reaching for stability in these areas as well. The ropes were helpful for our little one to be able to keep up as well. Views along the hike are amazing so be sure to take breaks and soak it in. As with all island hikes, the earlier start the better. But we went mid morning and while there are tradewinds in the open spots, it it very hot. We all had plenty of water fruit, bug spray and proper shoes so that made it all fine.

We did the Pillbox hike again the last time we were over and wanted to do it again! The View was Great and the hike wasn't real bad!! What a beautiful area. We took the extended trail and that was also nice ! So if you get out that way stop and take the hike ,you wont regret it !!

Stunning hike! First part was steep and muddy but after 5 minutes you a rewarded with a beautiful view you can enjoy the whole time. Somewhat steep and rocky areas with some scrambling required. Most people wearing causal sneakers but you would feel more confident in real hiking shoes. About an hour with time for taking pictures. A must do- can’t imagine there is a better choice if you only have time for one hike!

This was a great hike for my daughter and myself, very easy to get to the top and when you get there, there are beautiful views all around. This hike is very worth the stop. Parking could be a hassle but if you don't mind walking to the trailhead it is pretty easy.

Yes there are many tourists on the way up and at the pill Box itself, but that is like everywhere you go on Oahu.

This hike is definitely NOT A BEGINNERS HIKE! But if you are able to push through and make it to the top, the spectacular views make it all worthwhile. We went on a Sunday morning and started the hike around 8am. The sign for the trail is on some sort of construction sign that is placed on the ground. To our surprise we found the trail to be quite empty, there were a lot of people leaving but not so many people going up. At one point, there was no one at the 1st Pill Box but my boyfriend and I. First off, the first 10 – 15 min of the hike is the hardest. It is a steep incline on dry dirt, making it really easy to slip and fall since there were hardly any large rocks that you could use as support to push yourself up. I ended up relying on branches and roots for help. But pay attention to what you use as support because they may not be firmly planted into the ground. Once you pass this dirt incline, you’re about half of the way up and the rest of the hike is somewhat easier. From there you still have to hike a few dirt trails but not nearly at the same incline as the beginning. As well, you have to pass a few rocky areas but if I could choose between the dry dirt and solid rocks, the rocks are a lot more trustworthy imo. Also don’t wear anything or bring anything that you do not want to get dirty because there were plenty of times I found myself down on my hands for extra support to climb up the rock walls. After a short 25min, we reached the first Pill Box. Initially, I was worried that because of my height and lack of upper body strength I wouldn’t be able to lift myself onto the Pill Box. However, there is a little rock mountain for visitors to use that is beside the box which should make it a little easier to get on. Unfortunately for me, this still was not high enough, but thankfully I had my boyfriend that so generously offered his knee as a boost to help me up. The views from the box were absolutely spectacular. Yes at one point there were quite a few people but after a few minutes they all started heading towards the second pill box which you could see off in the distance. Though I found the hike up a bit challenging, going down was a different story. Like the other reviews have mentioned, going down is a lot harder. Don’t be afraid to get your bum dirty from sitting on the rocks if it means you get a better footing on your way down. As for the steep dirt incline, I found this part to be a lot easier going down than up. Once again I used the branches and the tree trunks – I kind of felt like Tarzan moving from one trunk to the other. My boyfriend and I did the Diamond Head Hike, the Waimea Valley Trail, and the Manoa Falls Trail and out of all of them, this was definitely my favourite- probably because it was the shortest for us to complete. Don’t get me wrong, Diamond Head was beautiful as well, but it was definitely a longer hike (it seemed to drag on at some points because everything kind of looks the same until you reach the top). So in terms of value I would say the Pill Box hike is a must do if you are physically able to, plus it is free! Lastly, make sure to bring bottles of water and proper shoes.
Tip: If you plan on going to Lanikai beach after the hike, park closer to the beach rather than the trail! We ended up parking right at Lanikai park which was a 7 min walk to the hike but a 3-4min walk to the beach. PRIME PARKING! This made it easier for us because we didn’t have to walk so far from our car to the beach with all our beach gear. Also since it was still really early, there were quite a few empty parking spots. But do read the signs before you park, like the “Do not park on the same side as the bike lane” sign because there are patrol cars giving out tickets. We saw at least 8 cars that had tickets on our way up to the hike.

I recommend to make this trek without any doubt. It’s not too hard but you should be careful with the weather and not make when the sun is hard.

Pillbox is a fairly quick hike with very rewarding views. The climb is rocky and steep but all moderately fit people can handle it, I saw families going up with small children. A member of my party chose to stay behind due to bad knees so people with mobility issues may want to think twice before undertaking this hike.

Amazing views when you reach the top! Definitely worth it and only takes about 30 minutes each way. The second pillbox is only a few mins from the first. It was dry when we went, the loose gravel and dirt makes you slip a bit on the way down. Wear good shoes. Take water, there's none along the way.

We parked down the road near the beach, a few mins walk to the start of track, plenty of free street parking around, just not right by the start of the track. We did it on a Sunday around 10.30am.

Went half way to pillbox and still a fab view of the mokes. I'm not a hiker but moderately athletic and could have made it all the way up.

We loved the pillbox hike. It was pretty easy. Some state slopes so you have to be careful. There is not good parking so you may have to park somewhere downtown and walk to the trail head. The views are great. The pillboxes are really cool but the pink pillbox is actually on the other side of the island if that’s what you’re looking for. It probably takes about 30 minutes or less to get to the topBut we took longer to stop and enjoy the views. You will definitely get out of breath if you go when it is very hot so I would say this for sunrise or sunset. Sunrise is better as sunset on the other side of the island.

Although a bit steep and slippery at points, but if you have some mountain goat type skills, its an easy hike. It is well worth the views and photos from the top!

Got an urge to get up extremely early, hike up a hill, and catch the sunrise? Then you cannot miss going to the Pillboxes Hike in Kailua. This is an exposed hike that is fairly easy to navigate. Be careful near the top as the path gets a little treacherous and narrow. Bring plenty of sunscreen since there is no shade until you get to the bottom. If you want a good spot to catch the sunrise, though, then this is IT! The sunrise on this side of the island is unbeatable. Seeing the sun come over the Mokulua Islands is something that you will not forget.

We just parked at the beach down the street about a 10 min walk. The hike isn’t bad just a lot of loose rocks so be careful. Several views stopped along the way. Don’t know how people climb at sunrise not being able to see anything

Definitely recommend doing this if you're up to it. You don't have to be super fit to make it to the first set of pillboxes but you definitely have to be at least a little agile and be careful with your footing. There were a few places where you had to use hands and feet - make sure you wear appropriate footwear! I did see a few people in flip flops which I wouldn't recommend.

I pushed for my husband and I to do this hike, and I wish we had only gone halfway. It is not only steep the whole way but there are loose rocks, roots, etc. We both run, and I do short-course triathlons so we are not slackers. About halfway up there is a flat clearing that offers great views. The views from the first pillbox were only slightly better. I feel like coming back down was worse because of the loose rocks. My husband slipped, twisted to keep his balance and wrenched his back. We were a hot, sweaty, dirty mess when we were done. I guess I thought this was going to be a little hike and didn't come prepared with a fresh shirt. Overall great views, but don't think it was worth going all the way to the top.

Hiked up here around 9:30-10am with my partner. Only a little bit steep and rocky but not hard, took us about half an hour with a few breaks to take photos. It is pretty busy which slowed us down a bit too, but the view and satisfaction is totally worth it. Definitely have a swim after!

After climbing the mile trail to the "lookout area" i cautiously peered out over the lookout barrier to the rocks and surf below. It must have been over a thousand feet. My girlfriends son said, "Let's go up to that last pillbox at the top!" Being scared of heights, I foolishly agreed and followed him. After almost reaching the top, the path veered to the right along the cliff edge maybe ten feet away. Not too bad except the path was covered with loose stones causing me to slide outward. I grabbed onto a rock for support, it was loose. I finished my climb up on "Hands and Knees, scared to death!" I made my own path down in the center. They're all still laughing!

This was our 3rd and last hike we did in Oahu - we aren't hikers but an OK doing couple in mid 30s - this was the toughest of the 3; it's not the length or the incline that is the difficult part, it's the fact that you always end up going on top of roots, rocks, edges of the two and so on while going up - super easy to slip or fall or worse twist your ankle... take it easy and approach with due seriousness and you will be rewarded with something absolutely amazing - this was our fav one, the color contract of the green vs blue + the bunkers... super fun!

Take some food with you (don't need to mention water....) as a lot of people ended up having their lunch on the top of the pillboxes after they reached them - looked like a genius idea!

TIP: we didn't park at the "entrance" of the hike, but instead we parked about 15m super easy (and actually partially scenic) Kailua Beach Park - free parking, so you don't need to worry that you parked in someone's driveway etc. - afterwards we took a dip into ocean and it was a perfect way to conclude and celebrate our hike! :)

I was very surprised at the difficulty of this hike based on reviews I had read that rated it as easy to medium difficulty. The incline is steep and the ground is loose and rocky in places so coming down can be challenging. I saw several people slip on their way down. Be sure to bring water(no shade), wear appropriate footwear and if you have hiking poles, it might be worth bringing them. Expect to be have a great sweaty workout and see gorgeous views. The pillboxes themselves can be crowded so be aware that you might have to wait or join a large crowd if you actually want up on the top.

You are climbing up, so there will be a spectacular view once you get going. Pretty easy to find because of the popularity. It is a pretty quick climb, so perfect for a little bit of nature if you can't devote the whole day. We hiked during a dry spell, so it was slippery from loose dirt and stones. Not sure I would attempt if muddy? Okay for kids if cautious.

This was such a fun hike! It was very very slippery! It had rained a little bit and made the trail incredibly slippery!! I am not in shape lol this wasn’t an easy hike! My teenagers did great and we all made it to the top and the view was amazing!! Wear good shoes! I wouldn’t take small kids.

The views like stated are amazing . I am not the most physically fit person and I’m a smoker so by the time I got to the top I had to sit on the ground and think about death for a few minutes. Like stated before don’t do this in flip flops and I would reccomdmd a backpack because you’ll want your hands free. It rained the day before and was a bit slippery just to add peril to my already exhaustive bout of expierancing nature. There are a few ropes to grab on to but watch your step the whole time and take your time. I’d have preferred to roll into a little fat hedgehog ball and roll down the hill but apparently that’s not physically possible . After getting my unfit body mass down I was passed by people in their late 60s just breezing by. So good good got them , ego bruising for me . I could see teens and kids living this and of course people who are active!

As hikes go, this one gives you a terrific view after a relatively short hike. The downside is there is extremely limited parking, and in the past several years this hike has become a victim of it's own popularity. It is way too crowded. It's best to wear real shoes, the first part of the trail is pretty steep for wearing only slippers.

The majority of the hikes on Oahu offer spectacular views, with a range of difficulties. This is probably the prototype for amazing views with a minimal effort requirement. The hike can be done in under half an hour, and all three of my children under age 10 were able to complete it without difficulty (and without being carried!) parking can be a challenge, especially with the popularity of nearby Lanikai beach.

The hike was a workout, especially to get up the first climb, but was well worth it for the beautiful views. When You walked on the ridge, you could see both to your left and to your right and we had to stop often so we would not miss the views. It was impossible to look at the scenery and walk because it was pretty important to watch your step. There were a few tricky places to climb and walk, but we are both in our mid 60s and we are glad we did this hike. The trail was dry and we would not recommend doing it if the trail is muddy or even just wet.

Great hike of moderate intensity. Some steep hills and rocks to climb, but plenty of families on the trail.

This actually might have been our favorite hike on Oahu! Great views without having to walk very far! We found parking in a nearby neighborhood and then walked on up to the trailhead. It is all uphill at first and we got quite warm, but the breeze and the view of Lanikai Beach, which we knew we were going to after the hike, kept us motivated! Views were great, and loved watching the long grasses blow in the wind.

Just be careful on the way down - the loose dirt and grass on the trail were pretty slippery towards the bottom. I saw a lot of people slip and fall, so maybe wear shoes with decent traction. But there were trees to hold onto for those of us who weren't quite so prepared. I had a huge blister on the back of my heel so I actually wore flip flops for this hike, but I wouldn't necessarily recommend that.

The hike is a bit treacherous to be honest. There are some steep parts and you don't want to go after a rain. There are drop offs so going with the kids (1,4,6) made me quite nervous. But the views!!! Wow!! You can see so much! It's amazing!! I did read in the paper that they are going to close the trail for two months this spring for improvements. The pillbox is literally resting on a re bar that is as skinny as a straw.

This is not an easy hike. It might have been when the trail was in good order, but there are enough washouts, loose rocks, and gravelly areas now that this is no longer true. I slipped once and scuffed the heel of my hand, despite going slowly and paying attention.

This is a hot, unshaded hike, so some people go at sunrise. This does not sit well with the residents who border the trail and are woken up early by the slamming of car doors and loud chatter. If you decide that you must go, be respectful of the residents. Don't go up there at sunrise and slam car doors and laugh loudly. Remember, people are trying to sleep.

Also, if you decide you have to do this hike, wear proper footwear. Along the trail you'll see discarded broken flip-flops -- obviously they don't withstand the hike. Don't go barefoot. Believe it or not, we saw some people who were, maybe because their flip-flops blew out on the way up.

Our concierge recommended this hike and we loved it! It is very steep in the beginning so be prepared. It can be very busy so get there early and there is no parking so you have to park and walk to entrance. I would wear hiking boots. It started to rain and got very slippery so use caution there are some steep vertigo points. Great views from the pillboxes at the top.May be too much with young kids but great for teens or older

So excited to do this hike. Halfway up we caught a beautiful rainbow but it also started to rain. This is a very dirt hike and we did not want to be caught at the top in the rain so we decided to head back down. It started pouring a few minutes before we got to the car so glad we started heading down. Next time we will get to the top.

Relatively short hike, however it is pretty straight up. Wear athletic shoes. The views at the top were absolutely amazing. If you made it to the first pillbox, the second one is a much much easier path to get to, so make sure you go to the second one too. Parking can be a little difficult because it is right by a golf course and residential houses, no parking lot just have to park along the streets.

My family, my husband and my young adult son, attempted to do this hike on a Wednesday in late June. As lucky as we were to get parking there near the trail head we didn’t get very far for a variety of reasons. The trail is as many people said rather steep and narrow and you really do have to watch where you step. We only made it to the first lookout, not even to a pillbox because we do not feel confident in going further. My son wanted to continue but we discouraged him! But as others have commented there are people hiking this in sandals and as we exited we saw a young woman head into the trail with her dog. We’re not the most experienced hikers but we didn’t think it would be as challenging as it was!

Make sure you wear tennis shoes (and not flip flops like us duds) as there are parts that get really steep! Lovely views.

The hike is pretty tough, although pretty short. The slope at the beginning is steep, and the drops throughout are huge! Beautiful views. We witnessed a helicopter recuse once we finished and were relaxing on Lanikai Beach. Take your time, be careful and most should be able to make the trek. My favorite hike during our trip. Parking is on the street in the neighborhood. Just adhere to the posted signs.

Views are excellent! The initial part is a little steep and a bit slippery after rains, but there's handholds to assist. A few places where a little scrambling might be necessary if you're unsure of yourself, that said folks of all ages, abilities, shapes and sizes made it to the top and back. Good number of dogs as well. Wear running or trail shoes, although flip flops were seen on many - I wouldn't recommend it. Plenty of places to perch and reflect along the way, even though it can get crowded. Park in the nearby streets and be mindful that local folks live there,so quietly make your way for sunrise visits.

Breathtaking 360 degree views from the top. Worth the effort required to reach the top. Was semi challenging hike for me as this hike is a steady and steep upward climb. It was fairly easy for my hubby, but he did feel the burn from this hike as well. Went at my own pace, took short breaks when necessary to catch my breath and hydrate. Rested and recovered at the top while soaking in the sunrise and panoramic views. Worth the effort!

This was by far our favorite experience/hike in Oahu. It’s fairly easy but expect to get on on your hands to climb during parts of the hike.

People even brought their dogs and the views are insane. The first pillbox has the best views but be sure to check out the second too. Such a fun experience!

The pillboxes have become a very popular attraction for those of all hiking capabilities. So much so, that on some dates the climb can involve more effort to avoid tourists moving slowly or playing music from their bluetooth speakers, or partially drunk. Only one of those is acceptable, by the way.

The hike itself is wonderful but challenging. Plan a couple hours to allow the climb up, plenty of time to rest at the top, and a leisurely trip back down. I found the descent more challenging since I don't usually have to control such long descents on other hikes. The knee muscles really get a workout.

The view from the top is brilliant - the coast stretches out below you and the water and islands are beautiful. Again, be respectful of others. I saw people totally unprepared in dress or decorum to do this climb and there are early mornings where drunk groups climb noisily to the top to see sunrise over the ocean. There are residents all around the start of the climb, so talk quietly, pick up your trash and make sure everyone gets to the top and down safely.

Best to be in shorts and a shirt that allows you to breathe. Shoes should have some good tread for traction, the way can be very slippery if there's been rain or if totally dry - the dirt becomes fine dust and allows sliding. Hiking shoes or sandals like those from Merrell or Keen are best. Smooth soled tennis shoes and especially flip-flops are asking for trouble.

Not for the faint of heart. Must be a good climber no path to follow. lots of loose rocks very dangerous if not careful.

This hike was an intermediate hike and advanced if you go to the second pillboxes. If you have a fear of height then I suggest only going to the first pillbox. Great views of Lanikai and the valley.

Harder than I thought! Not because of like breathing hard but the terrain was very hard. Rocks, dirt, had to use ropes and trees to help us up. Loved it but don’t be deceived it’s pretty challenging.

Stay on the ridge side with rocks! You will get better views and it's also easier! Yes it may be steeper in sections but you don't have to worry about sliding! If someone says the easier side is to the right going up or left going down don't listen to them! Go on the left going up or right going down the closest side to the ocean... it may seem tougher but it is safer! Also it is a little more challenging than reviews may say for families or first timers but the views are worth it!

We've done this hike 3 times in our 2 visits to Hawaii & will do it again every time we go back! My husband and I are in our 50's and our kids are 19 & 23 - we all enjoyed it! It's not too wimpy for the boys and it's not too strenuous for us old folks. Parts are fairly steep and I did have to actually climb a little bit because I'm short! The sunrise from the top is SO worth it. It's a little tricky to find the first time because there isn't an actual parking lot or official starting gate like there is at Diamond Head. You have to just park on the main street and walk up another street to get to the beginning of the trail. We saw people of all ages (we were probably on the higher end), people carrying babies (wouldn't want to do that), and people with dogs. I am VERY afraid of heights but managed to handle this one just fine!

This hike is short and perfect for a morning hike . There are some rocks that are occasionally steep so wear strong soles shoes and you’ll be fine .you can turn back when you want but it’s so worth it to go to spots where you can look out over Lanikai . So beautiful

We did the long route. Terrific viewpoints along the way. Have to make sure you watch your step, many places along the way are more like bouldering than hiking. Recent rains made someplace damp but it wasn't slippery at all. Just have to be careful with your footwork. Terrific workout, we finished up with a dip in the Pacific at lanikai Beach. Be sure to take extra water and protect yourself against the sun. You won't be disappointed with the sites along the way.

This is not the easiest hike. While I saw folks doing it in dresses and flip flops, I would recommend appropriate attire and hiking shoes at much of it is steep, rocky and not much room for error with large drops and narrow paths. My wife did it and she is 54 and average condition but she struggled in areas and got tired. We did get to both pilllboxes and the 2nd one is the easiest to climb up on (and down into) for some great photos. I loved the views and like the fact that the hike took some effort (not just a trail in the woods). We parked down the road a bit and walked up...spots may be hard to find with folks going to the beach.

This hike has the most beautiful 360 degree views. I have done this hike 3 times now and it never gets old. It is dangerous when it is dry, so definitely do NOT attempt when it is raining or wet. We took our children this last time and it was stressful as there are many places to fall. The entrance to the hike has ropes, which is nice but there are lots of spots that are steep and and treacherous. That being said, there were lots of children on the hike, so as long as you are used to hiking with kids, then have at it! There were plenty of people hiking along with you, but even so, it is unbelievably beautiful at the top and well worth it.

This hike is a must do in Oahu! My husband and I are novice hikers and found this hike challenging but definitely worth it. It took us about 40 minutes to climb to the first pillbox and an additional 5 to get to the second easier to scale pillbox. Going back down was harder for me as I am pretty scared of heights. I would say it took us another 40-50 to get down as I was practically scooting on my butt down the trail out of fear. Even if you are like me and scared of heights the views and the challenge are 100% worth it. You can park for free at the state park beach which is like half a mile away and walk through the residential area to get to the hike. The hike entrance is across the street from a golf course and clearly marked with a sign. Go early either for sunrise or right after so it’s not too hot and less crowded and bring lots of water.

This is a beautiful hike with breathtaking views of the ocean! It took us a little bit to figure out where the trail started and to find a place to park. Additionally, we made the hike after a pretty good rain storm. The first 300-400 feet of the hike were very difficult because of the muddy conditions, but then it got much better. Don't let the first stretch of the trail discourage you from continuing! The views are definitely worth it!

I went with my 2 teenage sons and my husband. I made it to the first pillbox--the hike was very steep and rocky. I felt like I was rock climbing the entire time x for the few ridges that were fairly flat. I did not want to go on the second pillbox, knowing I would already be on my butt on the way down. My husband went on to the second pillbox and beyond (he came back to make sure I made it down); my sons finished the whole hike. This was my least favorite hike--I wish I had worn rock-climbing gloves and had spikes on my shoes. This was my kids' favorite hike. The views are spectacular.

Relatively short hike, the first bit is the hardest. We’re quite fit so it took us only 15 mins to the 2nd pill box. We had read online you could continue along the ridge line and drop down thru residential houses. I would NOT recommend this, we ended up bush bashing most of the way and it was quite strenuous and if you’re not of above average fitness level you would seriously struggle.

A great view along the trail and an even better panorama at the top, with a wonderfully cooling breeze. Steep, but not technically difficult, and it will take approximately 1 hour round trip at a moderate pace. Do NOT bring your dogs, as there is no shade or water and they will overheat. Parking is along the street at the bottom of the hill.

We got up at 4:00am to get from NE area of Hauula to the trailhead with plenary of time to hike to the top by sunrise. The first little bit of the trail makes you think it’s going to be quite difficult, but it gets better. We had a dry day so trail wasn’t slippery which could be quite hard. We loved this hike. Views were amazing. I would do this again for sure.

Short but a bit difficult for those who don't hike. Be prepared to "scramble" up this trail. It's very sunny and crazy windy! We hiked to 2 pillboxes, each special in their own way. The views were amazing. Please be careful on the way down. A couple of notes: We tried to get there using buses, but that was a mistake. Call and Uber. They will know where the trailhead is located. Also, after you hike, walk down to Lanikai Beach and jump in!

Wonderful views, gets very busy and very Hot (don't do it in the middle of the day) Make sure you head down to Lanikai Beach for a swim after.

While this hike is short the incline can be a little steep for those with no hiking experience. The view is absolutely worth it though!

There is no parking lot, you'll have to park along the side of the road and walk.

Another hike on my list of to do and we got there a little later than I wanted. It is very difficult to find parking in Lanikai so we went back to park by Kailua beach and walked to the trail head.

The views are spectacular like Koko Head but much easier. JUST HAVE TO BE CAUTIOUS ON THE WAY DOWN, IT IS SLIPPERY. THERE ARE SOME ROPES TO HELP!
So glad I took some coconut water in my backpack cooler as once we were at top, it hit the spot and we were revitalized.

Can be very muddy and slippery, but take your time and take plenty of time to take in the view because it is well worth it!

Crowded hike up to pill box; don't do it on a weekend. Steep sections would be very slippery and muddy if it has rained within two days before you do the hike.

Went for sunrise hike which meant starting in the dark. After a lot of rain, the trails were hard to follow in the dark, so bring strong light and good grip shoes. Hike is moderate, but doing it in the dark was well worth it. Wow was it worth it!

This was my first hike im Oahu with my 18 year old daughter. Its very doable even for the unexperienced hiker with gorgeous views of the island and sea.

Please be respectful of neighbors and pack out your trash!! This is a heavily used neighborhood hike. Please do not park in the neighborhood but rather walk from Kailua Beach Park. The trail can be dusty and slippery as well as pretty vertical particularly at the beginning.........BUT it's not dangerous and after short hot effort has refreshing trade wind breezes and beautiful panorama views of the Mokolua Islands from the World War Two pillboxes

We hiked up at 6:30 am for sunrise. It’s steep, especially at the beginning, but basically anyone can do it. Takes about 20 minutes. My husband had to push me up in a few places, and I was totally out of breath at the summit. But the views at the top are amazing!!! It’s also very windy at the top.

My daughter and I got up early and hiked to the top of the Pillbox trail in Lanikai. The hike is more of a climb and not too difficult. You need to wear decent shoes/ sneakers that prevent you from slipping. The reward is a wonderful view of Oahu.

The view from the top was wonderful based on Facetime call from my kids who actually climbed to the top. I was wearing polo shirts, white shirt pants with beach sandals as I rather had a coffee while my kids were climbing. If you try to climb, I would recommend you wear what’s good for hiking instead of beach walking clothes.

You will need to park near the public beach access because the entrance is located on a private drive where cars are not permitted.

Moderate hike. Rain will make the trail muddy and slick. Use the ropes in the beginning to help with footing.

Short hike - to the first "pillbox" and a few more minutes to the second.
Unfortunately, all the so-called influencers stand around stupidly and make faces, so that "normal" people unfortunately hardly have a chance to take a decent picture. It's worth it. The view is great. We did it right after the Koko Crater Trailway. Parking in the residential area is possible, but you should be there in the morning, as many people want to go swimming on Lanikai Beach and the parking spaces are quickly taken.

Went here with a group of 7 with varying levels of hiking experience including "never hikes". The start of the hike is intimidating as it is the steepest part with no clear easy path up. There are some trees with ropes but sure footing and momentum should get you up this first hill. After that it is a steady climb up with a few sections that require hands on rocks to help you get up. The reward is some of the best views on the island. It took our mixed group about 2 hours up and back. It is definitely worth it!

Tips: Go early in the morning to get parking on the nearby streets and to beat the sun (there is almost no shade on this trail!). The second pillbox provides the best views and the third is far out of the way so if you don't have the energy or time skip it.

Great hike to get a quick workout in! Go early as it gets hot later in the day. It’s fairly easy, the beginning can be difficult if you do not hike often But there are ropes for you to hold on to. Do bring hiking or Nike etc shoes here. I’ve seen people do it in flip flops and it’s NOT the smartest idea. If you’re in Oahu during the summer do not take your dogs up this hike, I’ve seen & heard of dogs getting heat exhaustion due to the heat that gets trapped in some areas. And remember ALWAYS bring water with you.

Amazing views. Take a lunch and a bottle of wine from Kalapawai Market . Hard to find a place to park. uber

Climbing to the Pillboxes is a moderate hike. In July 2018 the pillboxes are closed to repair some long needed construction. The hike is worth the effort when the path is open but please respect the owners property around the area.

A nice moderate hike that should be done before noon because it does get hot, hiking sneakers are a good choice and bring some water with you. Take all the pictures you want because the scenery can't be beat so enjoy and take your time.

Amazing hike. It doesn't take too long but it is a challenge. There is a bit of rock climbing and scrambling in some areas. Very fun! Would not recommend doing this in the rain, it would make the rocks and hills slippery. There is a sign at the beginning warning of the risks. Not recommended if you have accessibility issues.
There are 2 pillboxes you can climb to and enjoy the view from.
Well travelled hike. You will see a lot of other hikers especially on nice days.
Bring lots of water. There isn't any shaded areas so you get a lot of sun beating down on you.
Wear proper footwear with decent treads.

Gorgeous views on both sides - the mountain and valley behind you and the blue ocean and small islands in front of you.

Park at the nearby kailua beach for free and walk 20 mins to the trailhead. (Also great for after the hike to jump in the water for a swim!)

Did this hike the other day. I would describe it as a medium hike in terms of difficulty. I’m 53 and my daughter is 14 we both did it quite easily. It’s a bit steep at the start and exposed to some high drops on the way up.
If you found the hike hard it would soon disappear with the views rewarded at the first pill box. The second one is a couple of minutes away and after seeing that view I think you’d struggle to find a nicer one anywhere on the island.

I was determined to do at least one hike on our trip. It was super hot and humid the day we picked to go but the views made it so worth the hike. We ran out of water shortly after our decent down the hill so next time I would bring more water. There are 2 pillboxes on the hike both with great views. There's no parking right by the trailhead so you have to find parking then hike up the hill to the trailhead.

This was quite the experience. We went on Saturday and finding parking a challenge, as a nearby beach too. Best to go on weekday maybe. No restrooms either. It is pretty difficult and a bit slick at times. I am 60 and husband 62 and he was pretty dizzy by the time he got up there. You need to be in decent shape to do this, but rewarding for sure. Spectacular views. Pillboxes interesting, but the challenge and view worth the climb. My legs are sore today. Bring a water bottle, no shade. If raining do not go...would be dangerous and slick as all dirt.

My daughter and I did this awesome little hike. Lovely views of Lanakai. Don’t miss it. Afterwards pop to one of the many beach access points and enjoy a swim. We found street parking easily but we were there quite early. Take water. Mahalo.

Parking was difficult, the beach park lots fill up early and there is no parking at the trail head. Street parking was our only option. The trail is a little slippery even when dry. The views from the pill boxes were awesome!

I thought the hike was relatively easy. (It doesn't take longer than 30 minutes to get to the top) While steep in spots, it's definitely worth the climb for the view!

Hiked to the top of the Pill Boxes. The hike is tricky in a few places but well worth it. Took us an hour to get to the top. We hiked with our kids who are aged 11 and 15 and they didn't have any problems. I think it will be tricky on a wet day. View of the ocean and the beach is amazing from the top.

Nice hike to overlook Lanikai Beach and Kailua. Parking is difficult finding along the street, but people are coming and going all the time. Sun screen and water is recommended as trail is open to sun and wind. Rained night before so beginning of trail was a bit muddy and slippery but gets better farther up. Enjoy the views.

The pillbox trail is located in a nice neighborhood in Lanikai.

The hike was Short but steep.

Some people brought their babies and young children on this hike but I would not recommend it not only because of the steep incline but because of the pebbles and sand you can easily slip on.

We held onto the branches of various trees on the way up and down. We noticed that most people took their time coming down and also held on to the trees or whatever they could.

The view is definitely worth it though.

You can go for a swim at Lanikai beach after you hike which is walking distance from the trail. Also nice because you wouldn't have to move your car.

Great hike for an early morning sunrise view. The trail is a bit steep, but worth the effort. Make sure you get there early to snag a parking spot and to catch the sunrise. Expect a group of people up there watching the sunrise. Great photo opportunities too.

The hike is closed for repairs from June 21, for 2 months.
The view is absolutely gorgeous.
It's an easy hike (short, but goes up), but be careful as it is close to the cliff.
Choose a sunny day as the colors will be even more amazing!
If you have a Bluetooth radio, please turn it off, so everybody can enjoy the place in their own way.

Rainy day, so muddy for sure. Think slip and slide, but with mud! Starts out steep but there are ropes and some branches for support. When you get tricky terrain you'll have more traction. I spent 1 1/2 hours but took my time and stopped a lot for pictures.
I'm a grandma, so if I can do it, you can too.
The view is spectacular. Would do it on a drier day, but they are closing trail for repairs soon, so had to do it in the rain.
If you choose a rainy day, be prepared to get dirty!

It’s a short hike (35m) up the hill so you will get good workout. Take good hiking shoes. When you get to the first Pilar box, continue to the next (10m), different view and so beautiful.

I don’t recommend to go after rain because it is muddy and can be dangerous.

My husband and I did this hike on a recent trip to Oahu. We were so excited to do this purportedly easy hike and then reap the gorgeous view at the end. In full disclosure, we are not the most active people and are not experienced hikers. However, I thought that it was a bit more challenging than was reported in other reviews I had read. There were some very slippery areas & lots of places where both hands and feet were needed to climb. There are ropes in the beginning that are very helpful. Good footwear, ample water, and sunscreen are highly recommended for a successful experience. We had planned to do the hike early in the morning and watch the sunrise. Unfortunately due to some road closures this was not possible so we first did the Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail and finally made our way to Lanikai around 10:30 am. There were many people at that time, however, we luckily did not find parking too difficult as there was roadside parking on a perpendicular street to the hike and someone was leaving when we were trying to park. There was security personnel close to the entrance who advised us on where to park too. After doing this hike in full daylight, I would not recommend doing it before sunrise unless you are really experienced.
Overall, this hike was fun and more challenging than I had assumed, but that is part of what made its completion more of an accomplishment!

This is a moderate hike that is worth a little bit of sweat. Excellent views!! Totally worth it, does not disappoint! I recommend this hike to everyone!

This is a place I have visited a few times on my trips . The views of the beach,ocean and the islands is just amazing

This was a fun, short hike with spectacular views at the end. If the weather has been wet at all, you'll be dealing with some muddy banks at the start, but there are some strategically placed ropes to help. I was glad to have on hiking boots to help traverse the muddy, slippery areas. The pillboxes and views are worth the effort!

We started the trail just as daylight was peaking which helped to be able to see where we were going. It’s best to wear shoes with traction; it’s more difficult to descend than ascend. Some of our group stopped at one of the level lookout points but others made it all the top to the top. They said the last portion is almost vertical and is difficult. Views are spectacular all around. Worth the effort and the ascent!

It's a medium scale hike and well worth the effort. Definitely a must try if you're the adventurous type and make a visit to Kailua Beach while the weather is good. When you reach the top the view is fantastic, overlooking Lanikai Bay and the entire Kailua area.
It's especially great if you want to watch the sunrise...or even the sunset.

It's a perfect place (although pretty crowded) to watch the fireworks during the 4th of July celebration (except for this year) or New Year as well. But the City and County will be closing the trail for 2 months beginning June 21, 2018 for structural renovation and repair work so you'd better hurry if you want to experience it now.

Nice hike with amazing views from the top. I would definitely recommend tennis shoes although I did see people in sandals. I found the hike a bit of a challenge but I'm a 64 yr old smoker so if I can make it pretty much anyone can! My fit son could have jogged up it!

This hike is not for the average person. My husband fell on the way down at the wash out area and broke his leg. The views are great and the pillbox are neat to see, but please be safe and do not attempt this if you are not in good shape.

Very beautiful hike! It’s deceptively difficult and not rated as such because it’s so short. But the beginning is pretty steep, and there’s some moderate rock scrambling towards the top. Passable in sneakers/no hiking boots, however when we hiked to the second pillbox we found the hike went on for several miles more, which we wished we’d known prior and would have worn hiking boots and brought more water. Get there early, as it got crowded around 9am!

An easy hike that the whole family should be able to enjoy 😉, Not that scenic on the way up but great 👍 views when you arrive. Best of all when you come down you can jump in the ocean on one of the most beautiful beaches you have ever seen. You might see a movie star on that beach!

I wore white shorts and a cute top, because I'd read it was an easy hike. You can do this too, but I don't recommend it. The trail is dirt and rock, quite steep, requiring you to use your hands in places (especially coming down). The views are exquisite from every single spot on the trail. The initial steep climb opens out to panoramic views and it gets better every single minute you continue. The pillboxes are a great stop for pictures and enjoying the scenery. Don't miss this hike.
Would not recommend with small children (did see a approx 9 year old and he was struggling).

We parked at the beach and walked to the trail head which is about half a mile walk. We also went while it was raining, which I don’t recommend unless you have the proper shoes and ready to get dirty.

The hardest part of the hike for us was the trailhead entrance because it was wet and muddy. When you flyer up to the trail there is still a lot of mud but there are also rocks.

The muddy pants and shoes were worth it as the views were amazing. Also being able to see the pillboxes up close is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Spent six hours on a plane. Got situated in hotel and took off on this hike. It's not a very difficult hike but all the other folks on the trail were in their 20s and 30s. The trail starts off with some forsaken ropes and is slightly intimidating. The marking are okay but not great and there are multiple paths to take. You should definitely wear good footwear as the path is uneven and rocky throughout. There's ample flat spots and with rare exception the climb is steady versus steep. The views are peaceful and I did the hike around 4:30 - 7:00 pm and unlike many of the other Oahu hikes, everyone seems very content to linger. Also not many people compared to other close by hiking paths to Waikiki area.

The hike up to the pillbox was invigorating and enjoyable. The views from the pillbox were spectacular. Be sure and get there early to see the lovely sunrise.

Gets your heart rate up but it's not a very long hike. Perfect for a morning before the beach, get there early though and make sure to read all the parking signs, we saw a lot of cars getting slapped with tickets.

Awesome hike! It is about 0.5 miles up but a very step and rocky route up. Make sure you wear good shoes! We did this at sunrise and it was beautiful views. We were even lucky enough to see a double rainbow while we were up there. Be careful with parking there is a lot of no parking/towing signs since it’s in a neighborhood, we parked easily in the morning about 2 blocks away and walked up the hill to get to the trailhead.

We took this hike on a last minute recommendation. We took a large group (12 in all including a 6yo and 2 8yo) and it took all of us about 30 min to the first pillbox and 45 to the second. The hike up was not bad at all, steep and slippery at some points but the views from the top made it all worth it. We went on a clear day and we took "poster worthy" photos for about 20 minutes with backgrounds that were only found in screen savers. Just be aware that at the top you won't be alone because EVERYONE wants to capture the amazing views from the top!
If I were to offer any advise it would be to NOT use the Yelp app to find your way back down. We did and we took a 90 minute detour into the neighborhood that overlooks the golf course. All 12 of us snuck into an opened gate and tried to walk back through the PRIVATE NEIGHBORHOOD to our cars so that we could get to the beach and RELAX. On our way we were spotted and security stopped us and told us that we were trespassing and we had to turn around and go ALL THE WAY BACK AROUND from wheee we came. If it weren't for the little girls with us we would have had to do that but they were nice enough to "look the other way" and we made it to the beach...
Long story short, DO NOT USE THE YELP APP. Bring a good camera also and a towel to relax on the scenic beach after!

HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS HIKE!!!

This hike isn't the easiest hike. When you first start, you'll need to use the ropes to help you get up. Be prepared to get a little dirty by using your hands to climb up the sections with dirt. It can get a little dusty. Parts of the hike were steep but manageable. Just climbing for 5-10 min, you'll get to a place where you can take a nice group picture.

Keep Climbing!!

You'll hit the first pillbox where many people head onto the roof of the pillbox.

Keep climbing!

You'll then hit the second pillbox where the views are amazing!! You can get onto the roof of the pillbox and take a nice picture.

Take water if you are planning on going later in the day. It does get hot, but there are some places that get a really nice sea breeze.

You can keep on going on the hike, but we stopped.

Coming down, was just as a challenge as some areas are slippery with the dirt.

Lived in view of them for 30+ years, kids went up almost weekly, Son almost got married there - great experience, right in our backyard!

BUT NOW - over-run, vandalized, trashed, graffiti-ed, urinated/defecated on - no longer a thrill, Now just a hazard to clumsy "visitors' & a nuisance to trespassed-upon neighbors.

Visits should be seriously discouraged, not promoted on social media!

We found the trail - but there is absolutely no where to park your car. All no parking private property and tow Zone signs, so unless you are lucky enough to be staying nearby on Lanakai its a no go.

A friend who does this hike regularly swore this would be as easy hike. It probably would have been for most folks. We are a little out of shape but I would say this was not an easy hike. We needed breaks. It was hot (take water!). And there were parts where we had to really climb over rocks on steep inclines. Each of us fell at least once. We saw other hikers who were young and older than us so clearly many can manage this.

The view was really amazing. Gorgeous!

We hiked all three pillboxes. The total for all three round trip was about 1.5hr. The third pillbox took quite the hike from #2
The second stop probably had the best view overall. It was very steep in some places so make sure you have good shoes and are ready for a workout. In places the trail was pretty narrow and it really felt you were out in the wild with the local trees and tall grasses around you. Would totally do again but do not go on the heat of the day as it would be killer.

Easy hike but we needed directions where trail started. There was no official marker. Found trail in Oahu Trailblazer. Too bad so much graffiti on the pillbox but view was sensational

We left Honolulu at 5am for the sunrise at 6:18. I found this hike challenging for myself and 19 year old daughter and going down is definitely harder. Luckily I found a parking spot right in front of someone’s house but a neighbour came out and wasn’t thrilled to have tourists there constantly. We brought a mini flashlight, water and a snack which helped immensely and used what’s left of the ropes at the steep beginning of the hike. Do this part slowly! We went to fast and I was breathless! We didn’t actually make it to the first pillbox because of this and also because it looked too steep to go on- still a beautiful sunrise! Well worth the trip even though it was cloudy and windy.
Remember to walk past the security guard at the golf club and the hike will be up on your left...you’ll see the sign.

This an easy scenic hike to your vacation plan on Oahu for the breathtaking scenic views of Lanikai beachand Twin island, coast line and mountains. Bring hiking shoes or snickers as this hike involves some easy scrambling. The ridge trail continues beyond two Pillboxes if you have time, enough water and curiosity to explore. Parking for the access the trail head is more challenging to find on weekends than on weekdays. However, if you do find parking, then you can also swim or snorkel on the nearby Lanikai beach, which is rated the best beach on Oahu.

I’m fairly new to actually hiking, and I must say that this hike was a little challenging. It wasn’t ‘difficult’ per say, but choosing paths and climbing up steep places made me feel accomplished. I was nervous that we wouldn’t be able to find the hike, or have some difficulty on the trail. It was easy to find (my airbnb host actually pointed me in the right direction) and there were gobs of folks on the trail! I saw parents carrying their babies and toddlers on the trail. I would recommend proper footwear as the trail isn’t a maintained trail. There are rocks and there is dirt and washouts. Take your time, bring water and a camera, and hike to the second pillbox as well. The views there are just as stunning.

I was looking for a hike that would not take that long (traveled with someone who had a previous injury) but still have an amazing view- and this was it! One hour hike, view was beautiful. Make sure to go on a sunny/dry day & wear appropriate sneakers/hiking shoes.

We parked on the street, and almost went the long way up the hill - a local in his house told us the shorter way was in the opposite direction. So make sure you are going up the right block. If you are on the right block you will pass by a golf course & see others exiting from that direction. There is no sign to tell you which of the local streets to go up (just seeing the golf course when you look up the street). The pillbox hike sign is at the entrance of the hike AFTER you have turned to go up the local road.

Beautiful view and amazing place. Was very hot during that hiking but was worth it. Unfortunately we lost our drone there. Which was heartbreaking. If anyone funds it I can pay a lot of money for memory card.

Best time to go is before sunrise. The view of Lanikai, Kailua, the ocean, and the Motes is quite impressive. Very popular. Lots of people. Cell reception is available at the peaks with both pillboxes, so people will talk on the phone or play music. The climb uphill can be a bit steep. Going down, some portions can be slippery.

Have gone to HI for the past 3 summers and will return this year for another visit and will take my annual hike again this summer!!!

Good easy hike with a beautiful view. This hike is not difficult and is suitable for children (even young children), families, couples, and dogs. If you can check it out at sunrise or sunset.

I agree with the existing reviews. I would add that visitors to Hawaii should not underestimate how carefully we need to adjust to the heat and humidity. Also, the hike is completely exposed to baking sun. There are no bathrooms or fountains. While it looks like public domain it apparently is private property and cheek by jowl to homes. Website lanikaipillbox.com gives the local residents' point of view and is worth reading, also for its history and safety notes. Bussing there from Ala Moana is easy, less than 60 minutes; the drivers know where to let you off.

You encounter the pillboxes right off the bat. If you hike past them beware a fork in the trail. I guessed "to the right" -- and guessed wrong. Instead of leaving the trail near the ocean and walking back to Lanikai beach on the bike path, I ended up in an inland neighborhood of fences, winding streets and a lot of suspicious dogs. Turn left! The trail does not seem to be managed, marked or maintained so, caution! I will be grateful if local hikers can confirm my impressions or correct them if they are wrong.

I would give this accessible, do-able, beautiful trail five stars but for the management issues around it.

The payoff is well worth the steady stream of walkers climbing to the top of these WW2 bunkers. Needless to say the panoramic view from the top is fabulous.

If you want to extend your hike stay on the trail past the two bunkers until it forks and head down towards the ocean. This drops you off at the beach where you can cool off with a swim. Round trip, it's about 4 miles.

Hiker alert: the clay soil trail can be slippery when wet. The first 100 meters have several hand holds to help get up the deeply eroded steps.

One of my favorite memories from our trip to Oahu! Do try and go at sunrise, the views are breathtaking. The hike is a medium difficulty, so pack your tennis/hiking shoes. There is no parking, so allow yourself enough time to find street parking. I would recommend a 6am arrival. Take advantage of the jet lag if you are coming from the Mainland, and get up to see the sunrise here! It is a must!

The hike is not long but there are challenging points due to the incline and loose pebbles at points. The views are amazing and well worth the hike. Bring water. There are no places to refill along the route as far as I saw.

This is a nice easy hike with beautiful views. We've done it before (active 66 year olds).
HOWEVER - Be aware that access is restricted and will require additional walking. We were there on 1-11-22.

There is NO on-street parking allowed through 1-31-22, within Lanakai. Signs are posted everywhere. I spoke with a police officer, who indicated that a water/sewer project was in process and should be completedby month end. The closest parking we could figure out was at Kailua Beach Park.

This is a great hike which offers gorgeous views! We would also rate it as difficult - at times we had to climb on all four, it was very narrow and steep in places. Wouldn't take small children on it. But what a view!

I am not a hiker but wanted to give the pillbox a try. Very slippery so wear proper foot attire. Once we got to the first pillbox the view was beautiful. There were a lot of hikers on this trail so be aware. The trip up was definitely easier than the trip down.

excellent short hike for all level hikers, I got knee issues myself , it gets a bit steep, so watch out if muddy weather. great view, u can park close by on street usually.

Don’t wear jandels bro.... nearly twisted my ankle as the Nz wharehouse jandels coulhandle the conditions hahaha. But despite that what an amazing view!! So worth it so make this a must when your here!

Loved this hike! Gorgeous views. Dress appropriately, take water, and do it early, then go to brunch! I believe it has just closed for repairs though.

My wife, daughter and 2-month old grandson took on this hike for Memorial Day. It was fun, but challenging in spots for my 60-ish body. Lots of rocks, clay, loose gravel and a few steep sections make it not a great choice for the faint of heart. The good news is that there is a beautiful reward at the top- exhilarating views of Lanikai and the surrounding area. Going back down was more difficult in spots for my body but easier on my lungs. The total hike took us about an hour. I recommend this hike for those folks who are sure of foot and somewhat adventurous.

It's only a short hike to the two pillboxes and the view from above is really beautiful. You can perfectly combine it with the Lanikai Beach. Can be a little slippery when it's raining but you can easily do it if you wear running shoes.

Unless you want a big challenge, go on a clear day when it hasn't rained recently. The trail is steep in spots and slippery when wet. The views are excellent and you can hike past both pillboxes and follow ridge trails for quite some distance.

Park in the neighborhood below and hike up the street to the trailhead. Visit the beach to cool off and relax after your climb.

Hard to find a parking spot but is a nice walking distance from the beach. I strongly recommend you to wear a pair of shoes that you use for hiking as you will experience a short but nice trail walking (don’t recommend you to go their if the soil is wet as it is slippery).

This was our first hike out of four in Hawaii... and it was so worth it. The entrance to the Pillbox hike is within a residential area, so parking is only available on the side streets. Please be respectful and do not make any disruptions. Park responsibly and lower your volume (voice, music).

The trail is quite rocky and it took us about 30 minutes to reach the first pillbox. The view is breathtaking! You can see the beautiful Lanikai beach, the water is so clear you can actually see the reefs. Going to the second pillbox is another 10 minutes.

Unfortunately, the concrete pillboxes have been vandalized with graffiti.

Be careful when you're heading back down. Somehow, my husband and I got off track and we ended up "losing" the path down. I fell a couple times :(

Go on a clear day. It will be hot up there but there is a nice cool breeze!

This is not your ordinary hike! Tips: go early in the morning to avoid the intense sun and heat, wear sturdy shoes with good tread, take water to drink, and most importantly - take a camera! The climb up was narrow, steep, and a little tricky at times - but totally worth it! The views from the top are breathtaking! Now, the trip back down was even more challenging: be mindful of loose and slippery dirt - we showed off our scrapes and bruises with pride! We'd definitely do it again!!

This is a wonderful and relatively easy hike - just be sure the trail is dry. My wife and I are in our 50's and we made it up to the second pillbox in about 45 minutes and we took our time. The views of Kailua and Lanakai Beaches are absolutely beautiful. We also found ourselves reflecting on those who would have kept vigilant watch from these lookouts in a bygone era of history.

I love this hike so much. For relatively little effort, you are rewarded with stunning 360 degree views quickly and then continue along a ridge for seemingly as long as you want (we kept going past all the pillboxes for quite a while, and the trail didn't seem to end). The views are some of my favorite on the island. It does tend to get crowded and hot, so go early for the most pleasant experience. Bring good sneakers or hiking boots! While it's easier than the other ridge hikes we did on the island, it's still not easy, and sandals aren't going to cut it. There are some steep sections to navigate in the beginning, so take your time.

The views are outstanding, but the trail is very crowded. Parking is difficult so hike early (it is also cooler in the morning). Don't expect a beginner level hike (at least advanced beginner), and watch out for the children. But when you arrive at the Pillbox, the views are astounding. A must do if you visit Lanikai or Kailua.

Rough hike with rewarding views - be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes for a steep climb up with rocky terrain. There are beautiful views of the ocean and landscape below when you hike along the top when you reach the pillboxes. We stopped after the first two pillboxes which are cement blocks that are open & covered in colorful graffiti. You can climb on top of the pillboxes to have the highest views. Be careful though as there are no guardrails & can get quite windy at the top. The climb down was more difficult but faster. It took us about 2 hours to do the hike round trip but did not do the entire hike - just to the second pillbox.

My husband and I recently hiked the Lanikai Pillbox trail. Many tourists stop at the first pillbox, but the rest of the trail affords beautiful views of the Eastern side of the island. Parking is where you can find it by the side of the road. Be careful not to park on the bike path or block a resident's driveway.

Come prepared with comfortable hiking clothes and well before sunset. I made the mistake of coming here wearing a dress, what was I thinking? It is incredibly steep - there are ropes to the side to help you get up and down. If you feel it's too much for you, you can stop near the beginning at a look-out point and still get a great view. I didn't go all the way up because the sun set and it becomes very dangerous when you can't see what you're doing.

This hike is steep but short. I have a bad knee and was able to do this one in 25 mins. The top is an awesome view and totally worth the trek up! Any skill level can complete this hike and plenty of places to take a quick break going up or coming down.

This hike is overrated. It's more difficult than anticipated. Parking is a nightmare. You have to walk up a narrow private street with no sidewalk to get to the trail head. The best bet is to park at Kailua Beach Park and hike into Lanikai. It's a hot, dusty trail except when it rains, then it's muddy and more dangerous. There are several private residences at the beginning of the trail and hikers need to be more respectful and keep the noise down.

It is really worth walking up a good hour before sunrise, the reward is a magnificent panoramic view over the bay towards Waimanola Beach. In dry weather, it can easily be managed even by rather unsportsmen.

The entrance to the hike is fairly easy to get to and we passed some locals that were very nice and actually told us how to get there. We parked on the side of the street and walked along the road to the entrance that will be labeled "The Pillbox" on a construction type sign and is infront of a sign that says "269 271 275 Kaelepulu Dr" The hike was a little steep and wouldn't say it's the easiest hike. Once you get to the top, the views are just amazing and the wind feels incredible. You see miles and miles of beautiful light blue ocean water.

This was a pretty simple uphill hike. There are two pillboxes with great views overlooking the twin islands. The pillboxes are covered in Graffiti which makes for some great photos. There are some steep points you have to get through but it is not too challenging. There's a good breeze once you reach the top.

This is a hike for people who are quite fit. Be prepared for climbing up moderate to steep rocky trails. The view at the top is gorgeous - a panorama of Kailua Beach and town.

Steady climb on rough goat-like trail. Slippery when wet but we went after the sun had dried up all the rain - prudent for me with a dicky knee! Kids and dogs scampered up the 30-40min climb. I had to take care with my footing. Not a good climb for physically impaired as nothing to grab onto. Suggest walking poles for the more elderly and mildly impaired who want to go to the top. Take a picnic. Make a morning of it if you can get up in time to catch the sunrise (and the whales when migrating - we weren't lucky but other hikers saw a couple).

Steep hike but the views are well worth the short amount of effort needed to get to the pillboxes. Took an hour round trip for a group of three semi-fit individuals in our late 20s.

I did this hike at sunrise and the views were beautiful, however, I’m in terrible shape and it was a rough hike. The first 10 minutes or so are probably the hardest. Luckily, someone tied some ropes to trees to help you along. A few areas of the hike are more of a climb than a hike, so wear appropriate shoes.

It’s actually a pretty short hike and a great activity if you’re fit. Young children or anyone with mobility issues should probably skip this hike. Also, be aware, there is a lot of traffic on this trail at sunrise and a few people were blasting obnoxious music and ruining the serene experience for everyone else.

This is one of those incredible sites in Hawaii that is being loved to death. The Department of Land & Natural Resources closed it in late June for two months (knowing the state, it will probably be longer) to make repairs on the two concrete observation posts and the trail. When it reopens, be considerate of the neighbors so we won't be hit with restrictions. When hiking, use sunscreen, bring water and park legally.

Really nice hike to do on a early evening. Key is to catch a full moon at the top.
The illumination is fantastic. So leave before the sun sets. Parking can be an issue.

Unfortunately I only made it to the first pillbox because my wife couldn't make it all the way up the trail which is definitely understandable. This trail is short but it is no cakewalk for the inexperienced hiker, while it was definitely fun I recommend planning ahead with adequate water supplies, snacks, sunscreen and a hat. The first part of the trail is the worst part and the rest is just up and down with breathtaking views. Wear good shoes and bring a good attitude and you'll be just fine. On a normal day it's pretty warm and the sun can be strong so just plan ahead, also plan ahead for parking as well. The location has a handful of spots up and down the street so it can be difficult to snag a spot close to the entrance.

Not an easy hike the trail was pretty rough however the view was well worth it. Suggest doing this hike early morning or late afternoon when it is cooler.

If you want to do a quick little hike with great views, consider this one. It is steep at the beginning, so wear appropriate foot wear. We wore running shoes which worked fine. We saw tourists wearing sandals and slipping and sliding. The views are spectacular! The only reason for 4 instead of 5 rating is because there are quite a number of people on these trails and a lot of erosion. They are not kept up, nor are the pillboxes. They are covered with graffiti. But this is a nice little diversion from hanging out at the beach.

The hike takes effort but the view is exceptional! Rocky path, wear sunscreen, pack snacks and water

This is a great activity, with incredible views of the whole SE side of the island, from Mokapu to Makapu'u.

If you are in good shape, this will be a challenging hike. If you are in average shape, it will challenge you. The views are worth it, but you will have to climb a lot. Ascend 500' in 1/2 mile from the Lanikai loop.

Park on the left side of the road on the Lanikai loop and walk up to the trailhead. It's marked, and you will pass a local parking enforcer.

There is some local resistance to the tourist presence. Respectful hikers who minimize noise and carry away trash will not have any problem.

This hike is fairly easy minus the beginning portion. The beginning portion is really steep and you might need to use the ropes along the way to help you get up. Best to go when it hasn't been raining. The mud is atrocious and the ridge is pretty slick as is without the rain. This is a gorgeous sun rise.

Please keep in mind that this is situated on private property. Also, you do need to park along the road but make sure you're not blocking drive ways, bike lanes, etc. Your vehicle will get towed if you park at the country club across the street. BE MINDFUL!

My 17 year old daughter and hiked the Lanikai Pillbox trail the morning after it had rained. It was VERY muddy, but a lot of fun. I rarely hike and found this to be moderately challenging. The views were beautiful!

We hiked the west trailhead to the pillboxes, but we only made it to #2. It was not a difficult hike, but it was not as easy as we were expecting. It is steep at the beginning as you hike up to the ridge and there are places where water has eroded the trail away. It was totally worth it, however, when we got to the top. The color of the water at Lanikai Beach is incredible – just and endless variety of blues. After what was probably over an hour just absorbing the view, we headed back down, which was much easier going downhill. The trail was not sketchy or slippery, just steep. The parking, however, was incredibly easy since we were only one of three groups on that side of the trail.

Worth the time to do! Amazing vistas and simple enough for anyone with closed toe shoes to summit! I don’t like dogs on trails, but they are allowed on this one.

This was a fantastic walk that pushes you enough to get a real sweat going but the incredible views from the top of the most gorgeous bay and awe inspiring mountains was the real high.

This is a very easy hiking that does not need much strength , family and kids can also do it very easily.
Very sceneric view of the pillboxes ,one of the most beautiful views from the top ,must go for one time.

So many foolish people wearing flip flops. This was one of the steepest hikes we did. Our mother opted out at the first rest point/look out. We continued up the hike. It is not paved, would be very slippery when wet. There are a number of visitors. The views are nice but people seem to come to take photos on the pill boxes which are also neat to see. Bring your camera and decent shoes! This is not a long hike but worth it. Parking is in residential streets. No parking at the base of the hike but easy to find. Enjoy the beach near by when you're done.

I did this hike on a cloudy sundaymorning. The beginning was hard, it was slippery but there were robes to pull yourself up.

I wasn't sure if I could make it, but a guy came down on his slippers and said the beginning was the hardest, which was so true!

The view was amazing, the hike wasn't hard and the people on the hike were so nice! A lot of people did the hike with their kids. Make sure you bring enough water, there is no restroom or place to get water at the beginning of the hike.

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike, also popularly known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, is one of the most picturesque and pleasant Oahu hiking trails. This intermediate hike rises above beautiful Lanikai Beach, rewarding hikers with some of the best vistas of Oahu's windward side.

This isn’t a tough hike, nor is it a long hike, but it is steep and it will get your heart rate up. It was dry when we went up but the ground would get very muddy and slippery I’d imagine if it was raining. While hiking in the rain in O’ahu is normally quite refreshing, I’d try and make sure I hiked this one when the ground was dry. Obviously gorgeous views and neat to see the pillboxes all artsy with graffiti. Do it!

This is a great hike. The only hard part is it is slippery because its dirt. I was in flip flops though 😂 just hold the fence or trees on the way you will be fine. My mom did it and she's 65 and not very healthy sooo..... Go do it!! Take your camera

Don’t be fooled by the reviews and guidebooks that say this an “easy” hike. It most definitely isn’t. Yes, it is only half a mile or so and the views are amazing. But it is straight up, not maintained, and consists of loose dirt over rocks. Don’t go unless you have strong thighs and excellent balance. Here’s a hint: we only saw fit young people on the trail; and the sign says that many people have had to be rescued on it.

Have done this hike a few times. Parking can be a challenge, as it’s street parking. The entrance is well marked, and the onset is up a dirt hill which can be tricky when wet. It opens up to an amazing view of Lani Kai and the bay, and from there you follow the exposed ridge to the pill boxes. Some steep area with poor footing, with loose first and rocks. This first part is often crowded, and then end point for many folks. You can continue on through brush and tress, partly covered, but exposed areas continue with amazing views of Kailua, Waimānalo, and the Ko’olaus. The descent to Kano Kai Drive is via a gulley and requires careful navigation, due to loose rocks. There are branches to use to hold onto.

As a novice hiker I lean towards hikes rated easy to moderate. This hike was more than moderate for me and any reference that only the beginning is difficult is incorrect. This is a rewarding hike on a cloudy, dry day. I wouldn’t want to do it on a hot sunny day as most of the trail is exposed. I also wouldn’t suggest this if it were wet as it would become slick and present a slipping hazard. The trail is fairly steep with a few places that you may need your hands as well. There are steep drop offs adjacent to the trail at many places. Use appropriate care in placing your steps. The payoff are the incredible views up and down the coast as well as the impressive ridges inland. Parking, as usual in HI is challenging as there is no parking near the trailhead and the main roadway nearby only allows parking on the left side while you dodge driveways and mailboxes. Be courteous of the residents as I’m sure they hate the hikers. Don’t block their stuff. Don’t litter.

I found the hike challenging at points for its steep gradient especially at the start. It's ok going up but you have to be extremely careful heading down lest you slip o the loose rocks. The views are amazing but it wouldn't be a repeat hike in the future,

Love this gem of a hike. It is easy to get to the beginning of the ridge for a quick amazing view. You can hike up to the 1st or 2nd Pillbox (which are busy much of the time). The hike is easy, not far at all. If it is raining, the initial section could be a challenge due to the mud. I have hiked it in the rain, mud, dark, and make it to the pillboxes quite easily. It is easy enough to even take a dog or kids. Watch out where you park, so not park illegally or you will be ticketed.

Amazing hike. Short. beautiful. Hard... I am 65 and don't hike much but pretty active. I had to go slow and be careful of my balance... its very steep and can be slippery when wet. But well worth the time. Take it slow - enjoy the view and you will still be under 2 hours. the perfect quick hike. You will have to park on the street - there is no parking. The trail is not well marked as it is in a residential neighborhood... a couple of blocks up from Lanikai Beach. Take water. wear good shoes. Probably not good for kids under 7. My son actually runs this hill for workouts...

As 8, 9, 10 year olds we climbed up to the pill box cliff and were in awe of the view of the MC Base straight down below us. Thrilling. And we never got tired of the climb, even that young... And NO graffiti either. In the 60's there was wild boar on the way up the hill in the brush. We had to be quiet because we sure couldn't outrun them. There were actuall bullet shells and empty canned foods in thos pill boxes too. Great adventures.

Quite a steep climb but the reward is spectacular views from the top. Don't go when it is raining if you are not a skilled climber but when dry it is fun and not too difficult. I wouldn't wear sandals and a walking stick helps but is not necessary

This hike rewards you with an absolutely beautiful view, and it is pretty easy to find. However, the information I read stated it was a super easy hike. I have to admit, I wasn't wearing the right shoes, but some parts are actually very steep. I saw 2 people fall on their butts going back down. Fortunately, I managed not to fall! But make sure you are prepared with the right shoes for this!

Street parking only so get there early. The hike starts steep and because of heavy foot traffic some spots are slick. The hike is relatively short, and there are two pillboxes to access. The second gives such an amazing view I try to take all my guests here.

Pretty decent hike but even better when you reach the top. Parking was a nightmare had to park 5 minutes away on the sides street. The start of the hike involve a lot of lunging and grabbing ropes heading up. BE CAREFUL OF ROLLING YOUR ANKLES as the path is a little unstable in areas. Some paths can be a little narrow with foot traffic getting a little busier during the late morning, but locals usually heading up early. Saw a few people with dogs heading up. It was a nightmare coming down as it rained so made the club down extremely difficult. Try wearing shoes with good traction and a bottle and snacks for the recharge with the great view.

We wanted to do this hike but there is no parking availble since it starts on a residential street, with no parking signs posted, we talked to a couple who was coming down from the hike, they said they parked at whole foods in Kailua and walked the extra 2 miles in, no thanks!

We hiked up to the pillboxes to watch the sunrise! It was 100% worth the hike up the view was beautiful and nothing like I’ve ever seen before.

We chose the perfect morning for this hike, with little wind and a few cloud formations in front of the sun allowing for some beautiful photos. There were people of all ages hiking to the pillboxes and it was fun looking at the gorgeous sunrise along with everyone else. The hike is most strenuous at the bottom and the very top, with a gentle slope for most of the terrain. The best part is the view from the very top of the pillbox and vacationers from many different places willing to take a photo of your group.

This is an easy hike that takes you quickly to some nice views of Oahu. Looks over Lanikaj and Kailua beaches. At some points you get a panaromic view.

This had some gorgeous views over Kailua but wow - it was a tough hike. Wear proper shoes! It is very steep and slippery. While short it is quite an elevation change and in the direct sun. Bring a hat as well.

Certainly worth the hike up the steep slopes, there are two ledges, about 1.8 miles round trip! All trails calls it moderate, alltrails.com.

Great little Scramble to incredible views of the Pacific above Lanikai beech. If you have even a minimal level of fitness or hike regularly, this is a very easy scramble. Our family took around 10 minutes to make it to the second pill box lookout. It’s a fun excursion but if you are looking for an actual hike, this is more of a short but steep scramble. Don’t listen to the other reviews that call this hike dangerous. It is only difficult or dangerous if you aren’t sure on your feet.

Two stars for crowds, eroded trail conditions; poorly built, and overgrown from all the rain. Seriously why do trail runners seem to think they need not slow down or stop on trails with lots of traffic. The views are beautiful but this hike has lost a lot of it’s charm.

If you like WWII history, then this is a can't miss! The pill boxes are surreal in such a beautiful environment. The views are amazing. You will do a bit of climbing/hiking so have a good pair of shoes and some water.

Great hike! It's just enough of a challenge to make it worth it. My 8 year old son enjoyed climbing the rocks. It rained on us which made the trail extremely slippery, but for us, the rain made it a memorable experience. "It's the journey not the destination".

For starters, it's worth the hike.

Parking is very difficult. Be cautions not to park illegally. The access point to the trail is across the street from a golf course. So, we parked a couple of blocks away.

I had read 30 minutes one way to the first pill box, and I'd say it was a bit more than that for me. I'm 51, but I'm in better shape than most my age.

As a father, I'd add this is NOT a trail to take young children on. My two kids that were with me are 14 and 16, and I actually like them, so I was a bit nervous when they were walking along the trail in some areas.

The soil and many of the rocks are loose, so slippage was a real issue. I did not time our ascent correctly, and we lost the light before I could safely navigate down the trail. I'd strongly encourage you to allow yourself at least 1 1/2 hours to hike the trail to/from the first pillbox and not to hike down in the dark unless you have adequate lighting. We came down using an iPhone and iPod lighting. Not optimal, and not safe. That said, my kids LOVED IT, probably because it was a bit dangerous.

Hiking shoes are a must.

So, a 20-30 year old is going to make a post on how great this is, but their perspective is much different than mine. SAFETY is an issue on this trail.

BUT, I'll admit, this hike provided some stunning views of Kailua, Kailua Bay, Kaneohe, and the mountains to the west.

Can approach from waterside or from enchanted lake side. The time of day is not a factor but lighting drama is best from eastern approach in the early evening...bring flashlight if staying past sunset. Rocky but not precipitous.
Climbing from beach side best earlier in the day when cooler....precipitous

The "hike" up to the Lanikai pillboxes (more like a walk) is well worth it. The path is relatively easy and straight forward and the views from Makapu'u down to Kailua are beautiful. I recommend an early rise and hike so you reach the pillboxes in time to catch the sun rising. You will not regret it.

The hike up from Kailua is not difficult, but it had rained hard the night before and it was very slippery. As it is rocky and steep in places, it can be a challenge if you are traveling with small children. Wait another day when the trails are safer. The views are beautiful and it's interesting walking in the bunkers.

The area of Lanikai is amazing. By going to the pill boxes of Lanikai you will see a view that is amazing. The color water of the ocean and seeing the islands never gets boring

This was a fantastic hike! It’s not easy but it was doable. The ropes were helpful. My husband and I both had a great time. I would highly recommend it!

Little X-Mas Day hike
As always parking can be very limited as this trail is in a community. Be respectful to the residents and do not park illegally. You will be ticketed.
The trail is fairly easy. Many young childrend and older adults toughing it out. On a day day, please wear appropriate footwear because of loose rocks. On a different note; i seen a couple of barefoot troopers and a guy in crocs making it happen. Be safe and enjoy.

IG: Wanderful.World1

This hike was a highlight for us. The view from the top could bring you to tears. We hiked in the morning and the pictures are some of our favourite from our week on Oahu. The hike isn't too long or hard and we had no trouble getting parking. If you look off to the right you can see the Makapu'u lighthouse off in the distance. You HAVE to add this to your hike list if visiting Oahu.

This was a great hike for our family of 4 (2 kids 11 & 13) very doable, in fact we saw a few pregnant mother's with toddlers on our hike. We let our kids lead the way and it was breezy when you got up to the ridge line and the views were some of the best in oahu I think. We only did the first pill box, because we had hiked quite a bit the previous two days. tip, we parked on the same road as the entrance to the hike, just down the street towards to beach (there's a public beach access at the end of that exact road) we got there about 10am and parked close to the beach access so after our hike, we got our beach chairs and packed lunches out and spent the day at the beach, it's a gorgeous beach. down the road about 15 min is a phenomenal restaurant called ono steak and shrimp shack, I had the fish tacos and they were the best i've ever had, my kids had the garlic shrimp and devoured them. also, even if you're full, don't pass on an order of malasadas for desert, seriously, the best on the island, i'd have them shipped to me if i could!!! Also, we found the best shave ice in lanikai as well, it's called "local hawaii" and they make their syrup with real fruit, it is fantastic, so much so that we drove from our location (ko oline) to get it again!

Good climb, nice hike to get your blood moving. Very good views when you get to the top.....and along the way, too.

This hike is def one of the best ok the island. Great morning views of sunrise. Also great to see at high noon for the water to be lit up. Really easy hike as welll

This is probably the easiest mountain type hike. You walk along the crest of the mountain to get to these pillboxes. The second pillbox has the best 360 view! The third pillbox is set back a bit, you get less ocean view. The mountain is quite a ways up, but it really is not a difficult hike.

Great view and really cool bunkers. It is very steep initially, but levels out. Use the rope, especially when it rains as it gets very slick!

It was mildly problematic to find parking in this residential neighborhood and the beginning of the trail is not entirely obvious (handmade sign on a fence), but that sort of added to the "off-the-beaten path" nature of this hike. I would not call it "easy" but I (a moderately-active, middle-aged woman) had no trouble with the hike wearing slip-on canvas Tom's shoes. My older, more sedentary husband hiked with me, but required a few rest stops along the way. We started around two in the afternoon, which was probably the hottest part of the day, and we're glad we had water. The views were incredible on all sides! Plenty of great photo opportunities. If you're pressed for time, the first pillbox is really as far as you need to go. Well worth the effort!

A nice moderate hike great views,get there early for parking and do it before it gets too hot. bring a water bottle.

The ridge views are beautiful as the reviews here state once you make it up. But getting back down my mom and I found quite hazardous. It's not just the first section where scrambling a bit might be required depending on which side of the hill you ascend. The local firefighters who kindly helped my mom get down after she fell and got scraped up; confirmed the obvious that this trail is not maintained and it's eroded in several spots making for several spots of loose dirt-gravel steep inclines where it's very easy for the non-sure footed to slip and fall. I shudder to think what it's like after a rain. This isn't the hike for all families as marketed on some websites.

This is NOT an easy hike. Two people had to be rescued by helicopter. There is no parking. Be prepared to park 1/2 to 3/4 mile away. And if you don't park correctly, you will get ticketed or even towed. There are no bathrooms. It is very crowed making the narrow trail dangerous. Think twice before doing this hike.

I can't believe some are saying this hike was easy, it's not! if you have bad knees don't do it.
Wear hiking boots, not sneakers like I did. It was well worth the view though and the historical factor! Amazing!

Firstly, yes the view from the top is beautiful but I’m not sure it was worth the climb.
This was not an easy hike for our group ( 2 Mums and 2 adult daughters in ok shape) and is particularly tricky on the descent due to loose stones. I slipped at one point despite wearing good shoes and landed on my bum and smashed my phone 🙁. We were all relieved to make it back onto flat ground and then had to walk another 15 minutes to get to the car.
There are easier ways to appreciate the stunning coastline.

I hiked this trail on my own, and set off around 7:30. I wanted to beat the crowds and the heat, and succeeded. I met a lovely girl at the first pillbox and we took photos of one another. The views are gorgeous, and well worth the exertion. It was a pretty tough hike, very steep in places, but it’s relatively short. Definitely bring water and wear sensible footwear. Also be mindful of loose dirt and poor grip, even though it hadn’t rained I saw several people slip and slide! One thing that bothered me was seeing people hiking with babies in slings/carriers, one of these parents actually slipped with their child strapped to their back! Luckily the child was uninjured, but this can be a challenging hike and it’s not worth putting your babies at risk! The chance of falling is pretty high I would say, and while it may only be a minor trip, if your baby is strapped to you it could be very serious. Also be mindful taking dogs with you, it’s a tough climb for them too. If you take them then go early and bring enough water for them too!

This hike starts out very steep. There are ropes, but some have broken. The day I went the dirt was loose and there were lots of little rocks making it slippery. It was picturesque, but dangerous. One person broke their ankle going down and had to wait for a rescue. He was blocking the only safe path down, so others were within a foot of the cliff going around him. According to a local, a person gets injured there every week.

This side of the island is always green and watching the sun rise up over the ocean is amazing! Highly recommend this hike! While the visit was just after some recent storms the hike wasn't too difficult, but the first part is pretty steep. I'll do it again! We hiked with our children, youngest was 5, but we had to keep a close eye on them all as there are sheer cliffs along the way to the top.

Really easy "hike" worth your time .. The views are amazing . I was able to get to the second pillbox in less then 20 minutes.

Enjoy the views 💪

The walk can be a bit of a challenge but it's definitely worth it. It's hot and has no shelter and you'll need to use your hands to help you up in some spots but the spectacular view at the top is worth the effort. Load up with water and enjoy!

Do try in the morning to catch the sunrise as it's facing east. Went there in the afternoon but the view was still spectacular.

The hike was steep at some points but there were ropes to help you along. Be careful along the ridges as there's no railing to stop you from falling off. You'd need good footing; so do wear shoes or sandals, of course.

There are some graffiti on the bunkers. Climb (at your own risk) on top of bunkers for a 360 view.

Ideal spot if you don't wanna be turned off by many tourists.

We hiked this after a more treacherous the day before. Great views in this hike. Highly recommend this when someone wants a good workout while vacationing.

I love this hike. The steepest and hardest part is the first 5 -10 min (but nothing dangerous) and the rest is easy peasy. Views are to die for! You get full panoramic view of Lanikai, the ocean and amazing mountains in under 20 minutes.
The parking can be a pain though, no designated area just a street parking.

The view at the top and various parts of the ascent are spectacular. A pity that the pillboxes are not more of the attraction that just ‘being there’ but the climb and ridge walk are pretty spectacular.

If you aren’t fit enough to do at least ten flights of stairs don’t even attempt this - it is steep and you will sweat if you do the trail at anything past a crawl. Speaking of crawling, you will do a bit of that in various parts of the climb and descent so leave the white Gucci denim any home for this one. If it’s wet, just go find something else to do or you will end up falling, sliding and generally having a bad, bad day.

Gate to entry is locked says for repairs. People just hopped the fence. It’s a great hike to do with great views from the pillboxes. It’s pretty short hike took us about 25-30 not rushing and stopping at first pillbox for pics. I have only gone to the 2d pillbox. Some spots the rocks gravel is slippery.

It was a very cool hike with a lot of amazing views, but it is not as easy as I expected. It has many very steep climbs and is longer than it looks, but worth it.

This is one of my favorite places to hike right before the sun comes up to watch the sunrise from the top of the pillboxes! You have a view of all of Lanikai from the top.
Make sure to get there early to find good parking, be mindful that you are in a residential neighborhood and be respectful of those that live there.
The hike up is steep short and sweet, but definitely a butt blaster! Nice way to start the morning with a little exercise!

I'm not a tourist but this is still one of my favorite views after a hike. It's simple and fun at the top, not to mention the killer iconic views of the Mokes. My only complaint is the crowds so we like to go super early. And don't park and block the neighbors. We like to park near Kailua Beach Park and walk into Lanikai. It's not that far.

These were pointed out to us from a distance on our tour We were told about the development of them during the tour and how they have been used.

Hike was very challenging at moments, but very makeable, even for novices like me!

Multiple trails, so you can pick up an easier route up or down. Lots of loose gravel so wear good shoes!

Took about twenty minutes from Mid PAC. A back pack with water would be nice! The view is amazing!

The hike is a bit rigorous to start but well worth it. Sunrise on this hike is outstanding. The pillboxes are fun to see, but the views of Lanikai beach and the valley are amazing. Tends to be fairly popular at peak hours, but it's worth it. The hike is short and worth the effort.

This is a good hike that is challenging, but the views are so impressive that it’s easy to continue. There isn’t a lot of shade, but there is plenty of wind and sun, many picture spots, and tons of flowers. I loved this hike.

Awesome hike! A bit challenging fir a 4 years old kids but 9 and 11 were ok. Kind of beginner hike with a couple of rocks!
Incredible view!! Bucket list!

Really fun hike. Takes about 30-45 mins to get to the top if you take a few stops. I would say this is between novice and intermediate. Some folks were walking up in sandals. Great for views of the beach and kids can go here as well

Absolutely worth waking up early to catch the prettiest sunrise eve! Not a hike for little kids. A few tough spots to climb up. Bring lots of water and allow about an hour to make it up to top. If you make it to first pillbox, getting to second pillbox is easier.

Cant complain about the views on this hike, but the number of people was a bit overwhelming. If you are not used to hiking with elevation gain, you'll definitely find this hike challenging.

Parking can be tricky here as the trail head is along a golf course in a private neighborhood.

A very good hike up the hills overlooking Lanikai beach to see two WWII gun emplacements (pill boxes). Great views!

A moderate hike with fabulous sights!! Had great 360 degree views of the area once at the top. Watch your footing as dirt and sand will cause you to slide easily if you're not careful. (Not advisable on a wet day.) No bathroom facilities anywhere near the hiking area. Parking on side of Aalapapa Drive. We'll enjoy this hike every visit!

This hike is fairly steep. My wife has bad knees and the wlak down hurt her knees. There was one hike who stopped because they were scared of heights. I would do this hike agan, but my wife would not - we are in our 50s but I have done Koko crater which is way harder

We really enjoyed our hike up! And it is up! I was very glad I had put on a good pair of shoes! Not sure how those doing it in flip flops managed! Be sure to add this to your list of things to do while in Kailua!!

Our entire family, from ages 8-75 made it up to the first pillbox. Some areas are challenging, but definitely worth it for the sunrise view. Parking is tricky, because you have find street parking in the neighborhood. One option is to drop off the family right at the trailhead, which is also somewhat hidden, and then the driver parks the car. Get there early, so that you don't miss the sunrise view. Must do if you're in Oahu. Make sure you have a good pair of trail running shoes or hiking boots.

Lovely hike up to the Lanikai Pillbox! Start on the trail, just to the left as you enter the school parking lot. It's well marked. It does get a little steep and after some rain while we were at the top, it was slippery on the way down. But go! Worth the work for the gorgeous views of Pipeline Beach below. We even got a gorgeous rainbow!

This was my absolute favorite activity on our trip to O’ahu. I’m not in great shape by any means but this is a doable hike for many. Come prepared in comfortable clothes, good shoes (though I was shocked to see how many people were attempting this in flip flops!!), and bring water. It’s a short but at times steep hike, with ropes or tree stumps to help you along the way. The views are wonderful!

Incredible views of Kailua Bay and Na Mokolua off the windward coast of Oahu. The trailhead is easy to find, although it is located on a private cul de sac and there is no parking anywhere nearby. We parked on the street near the public access trail to Lanikai Beach and walked for about 10 mins. to the trailhead. The trail is steep and rocky and washed out in parts, so there is quite a bit of scrambling involved. Wear shoes with a good grip. Not suitable for young children or anyone with mobility issues. The view of the sunrise from the trail was worth getting up before 5:00 am to see. Breathtaking. You don't have to go all the way to the pillboxes to get a good view, in fact, there were lots of people there on the day we went, so I feel we got a better (less crowded) view stopping a little before the first pillbox.

There are several sections that are a bit difficult, particularly when wet, and if not in average shape, be warned this is a bit strenuous. But we had a great time doing this hike, and I highly recommend it if you have a couple hours to spend. Take your camera!

Touted as an easy 1.6 mile hike. More like 5 miles one-way and moderate boulders to hike over. Great view on top, but parked car and thought we could return, turns out we were closer to were we stayed near Kalapawai so went home and retrieved parked car by driving back to starting point.

Great hike to do to start off your vacation in Oahu!! I have some experience hiking, am active, and loved every part of this hike! Definitely recommend wearing hiking boots or something with grip - not sneakers, because there are some steeper parts. There aren't many places to hold or hoist your body up besides rocks. The views at the top are stunning and so worth it! Enjoy!

Wouldn't miss it for the world. Had to make that climb to see for my own eyes what everyone was talking about.

The hike is a bit strenuous but well worth it for the views and pictures on top of the two pillboxes. Make sure you wear shoes that don't slip as there are quite a few steep spots. Parking is along the street near the entrance. The hike is about an hour to and hour and half round trip, but pack that water and sunscreen! Be wary of climbing the pill boxes, too!

My wife had done the 'Pillbox Hike' several times, and I joined her for one. I've got bad knees, so as I climbed, I was not looking forward to the hike back down. Not as tough a hike up as it isn't too long. The view from up there is worth the hike, and a wide variety of hikers from hard-core to youngsters with flip-flops.The hike down was easier than I thought, spurred on by the young woman in front in a skirt and pink runners! If she could do it, so could I, a former ex-athlete!

I only made it halfway up, but the view was worth it. It is a steep hike and not easy by my standards. Note that I do not hike regularly and do not live in an area with mountains, though. Several others in our group made it all the way up and said it was worth their effort, to see the pillboxes and experience the view.

Fun hike. Not too strenuous and I'm not really in shape. The first section was harder to me then the last part. I wish I had brought my inhaler since I have exercise induced asthma. Very windy. Shoes with good traction is best.

the trail is not for people with limited mobility or young children (although I have seen them do it). The views are phenomenal on a clear day. Don't forget your camera!

The hike is tough so make sure you wear comfortable shoes and bring bottle water. We hike to the first point and stopped there since the second one is about another half mile. But the view from the first one is good enough.

We hiked this trail on a December Friday and the weather was sunny and windy. The trail this day was very busy and crowded in some spots especially by the pillboxes.

The trail is a mix of compact dirt and some rocky terrain. If walking is part of your daily routine, you should have no trouble doing the hike up to the pillboxes; just take your time. Even if you are a slow hiker, it should not take you more than 60 minutes to get to the first pill box. Hiking poles would be useful but I don’t recall seeing anyone with poles. You need to wear comfortable hiking/running shoes. I wouldn’t recommend wearing flip flops.

There was a mix of hikers in terms of age; lots of millennials but I don’t recall seeing many in the older age categories – 65 plus; that's not to say it cannot be done by the older generation.

We hiked to the top of the ridge about 1/4 mile past the 2nd pillbox – in total I would guess less than 3 kilometers (2 miles) round trip. Past the 2nd pillbox, the trail continues along the ridge but we did not go any farther. In total, we spent less than 2 hours for the round trip hike and to admire the views. It only took about 30 minutes to hike down.

If you have hiked the Koko Head Trail, the Pillbox trail is less difficult although longer. This hike is more difficult than the Diamond Head hike. Once you get to the top you are rewarded with great vistas of the surrounding area. I would rate the overall hiking experience as very good trending towards excellent – 4.5 out of 5.

Notes & Tips
• Parking is an issue as there is none by the trail head. We had to park our car less than 1/2 mile away by Lanikai Park. If you’re so inclined you maybe better off parking your vehicle at the Kailua Beach Park parking lot, walk the 1 plus mile to the pillbox trail head. The trail head is by the Mid-Pacific Country Club.
• There are no washroom facilities anywhere on the hike. I would recommend going to the Kailua Beach Park washrooms before the hike.
• Bring a water bottle, hat and snacks. Wear sunscreen. You should note that there is no shade anywhere on the hike up. You can get some reprieve from the sun by getting into concrete bunker but can be difficult to get into the bunker for some people.
• After your hike you might want to go for a dip at the beach.
• Check out some of the videos and photos posted on the various websites.
• From our hotel the Waikiki Banyan (by the zoo) it is about 19 miles (30 kilometers) away. See my review of the Waikiki Banyan. Scheduled bus transportation is also available.
• I did the Diamond Head and Koko Head hikes in 2014. See my reviews.
• After the hike we went to California Pizza Kitchen at Kailua Town Center for lunch. See my review.

This is a short 30 min. hike one way to both pillboxes. There are challenging spots especially in the beginning, which is steep and can be slippery with rocks. Please have good shoes. There can be lots of people, more so on the weekends. Go slow and keep a firm footing and you should be good. Great photographic opportunities!

This is such a fun hike, not too hard, not too easy. The pillboxes are the prize at the end and the view on the way to them is gorgeous!! Parking is a challenge I would recommended parking at the beach and walking to the trailhead.

This pillbox trail was one of the most memorable experiences of our vacation. The boys (7 and 10 y.o.) handled it well but they are in shape. It is a moderately difficult hike. Definitely not for young children or someone with heath problems. The path is sandy and rocky and very steep so can get slippery. I held onto my 7 y.o. the whole time and was on high alert. The views from the top make it all worth it. We went as far as the second pillbox and we were glad we did. I found the views even nicer there. Prepare to sweat! We went at 8 AM and found the sun brutal especially on the way down. We went straight to Lanikai Beach for a swim afterwards.

You don't go there for teh billboxes. You go there for the view down to the coast and the sea. There are not many places in Oahu where you can look down to the beaches and coral reefs from such a height without having to walk for hours.

I have hiked the Lanikai Pillboxes twice over the past few months. The first was middle of the day on a weekend and it was definitely busy up to the second pillbox. Hardly anyone goes further than that so the rest of the hike around the loop was peaceful. The last time was on a weekday in time for sunrise and there were only a couple dozen hikers outside of the group I went with. This is a very short hike, if you don't take into consideration the distance from where you may have to park to the trailhead. You may be able to park in the nearby neighborhoods, just make sure you don't block anyone's driveway and keep in mind the houses closest to the trailhead around the gated community are not amenable to folks parking near their places - there are signs and security guards to impose their will on the masses. If you are willing to walk a little further you will find ample legal and uncontested parking at Lanikai Beach Park about a 10 minute walk from the trailhead. Taking this route actually brings you past a couple other tourist stops so I would recommend this option. As long as there aren't too many other hikers causing congestion any reasonably fit adult can make it to the second pillbox in less than 20 minutes.The trail was in great shape both times I hiked it, no mud to speak of, and it was very easy going. I would plan on an hour to hike up, spent a little time at the top, and then hike down. If you can get up early enough sunrise can be beautiful - as long as it isn't overcast. Definitely a nice little hike if you are around the Kailua/Lanikai.

The beginning is steep, so be prepared. Used to take the kids when they were 4-7 years old, they handled it with no problem. Great views, good exercise and miss it oh so much.

We hiked this in June with our two teenage kids and thoroughly enjoyed the trip. The hike itself was moderately challenging - really just steep and rough terrain in spots. There are areas where ropes are installed to grab and help with getting up tougher spots. I would DEFINITELY not go right after a rain, as the descent was in some ways more challenging (fear of slipping, falling down) and would be more dangerous if wet. Once at the top, there are two old military bunkers that were lookouts and offer great vistas of the surrounding areas. It took us about 30 minutes to get up to the top, and was well worth the effort. It's not as high as Diamond Head, nor does it offer the same type of 360 degree views, but it was definitely worth the trip. We enjoyed the vistas from a different perspective. It's closed now for improvements, but we would most certainly do this again if we visited.

Be sure to channel your inner billy goat for sure footing along the trail. Gorgeous views with photo ops. Come early and bring a flashlight for sunrise.

We hiked first thing in the morning to catch the sunrise. What an experience! It is a challenging hike for inexperienced hikers like me. I had to take short breaks, but powered through. If it's dry and you don't have proper shoes, you could slide around so be careful.

Came here on a Saturday morning. The hike isn't hard at all. If you dont stop until the last pillbox, it'll only take you 35 mins. We got to the top in 38 mins. Great vista points to stop at along the way. Probably the best views in Oahu, along with Diamond Head. You'll have to park about a half mile away, on the street. Make sure to wear trail shoes, hiking shoes, or sneakers with good traction. Slippery at certain parts eith loose rocks & dirt. It also rained for a few minutes on our way down, so maybe bring a poncho. Come early in the morning or deal with crowds like we did.

Did hike with my 6 year son and it was great. We parked down near the water and walked to the hikes starting point. The hike it self was easy and the views were great. For the more adventurous hiker you can keep on going to see what lays beyond the pill boxes.

We went on this trail and it was beautiful when we arrived at the top of the first pillbox. However what most people do not realise is there is a second one. Once you get down from the first one you keep walking toward the right side, there is a path and you keep walking until you reached the second pillbox and it takes maybe another 15 minutes to get to it.

We had fun on this hike. Make sure to take enough water and good trainers or walking sandals because it gets very hot. Once you reach the top there is a lovely breeze and you get to see over sunset beach.

Fun trail to do with family. It's moderately difficult, but the breeze and the view at the top are outstanding. There are some rope at the beginning of the trail for some difficult part, but it's optional to use. Just stay away from stepping on gravels to avoid slipping and this trail is totally doable for the young to young at heart.

More than I thought. It took a bit over an hour to walk from one end to the other. Went at 9 and it was already hot. Not much shade. If you start from the beach side you go right up. Don't recommend in the rain or with kids.

Beautiful views!!!!!!

Sunny day in Hawaii, couldn't have been a better day. Hike had a few steep sections, not too bad. Had a great time.

This is a must do if you come to Kailua. It is not a long hike but you are richly rewarded with stunning views of the mokulua islands. Try to go ad early as you can as the sun rises upon you.

We have done this hike about 5 times over 2 visits to Hawaii and it is absolutely my favorite. The views of the blue water below are incredible. It’s a fairly easy hike if you are active but still totally worth it to make the effort. I like that it can be done in about an hour leaving plenty of time to see other sights in the same day.