Lanikai Pillbox Trail

Lanikai Pillbox Hike (Ka'iwa Ridge Trail), Oahu

The Pillbox Hike in Lanikai (view panorama) , also known as the Ka'iwa Ridge Trail, is a fun thing to do before or after visiting Lanikai Beach. The trailhead is easily accessible by car or if you come here with the bus (Route #70). It's a short hike to the top (about 20-30 minutes) and the views are amazing.


The trail overlooks the upscale neighborhood of Lanikai and its amazing white-sand beach, as well as Kailua and Waimanalo Beach (view panorama) . The two islands on the horizon are the Mokulua Islands, a popular kayaking destination.

Along the way are two military bunkers (pillboxes) that people use as lookout points. There isn't much shade on this hike and the trail can be slippery, especially if it has recently rained. It also has a few areas that are narrow (about 4 feet wide) and with a steep drop-off, so be cautious in these areas.

Lanikai Pillbox Trail Overview

  • One-hour roundtrip hike with great views of Lanikai Beach and Kailua
  • Steep trail, narrow in some areas with steep drop-off
  • Trail leads to two pillboxes (bunkers)
  • Popular hike, can get crowded especially on weekends and holidays
  • Street parking along Kaelepulu Drive
  • Not much shade - bring water and sunscreen
  • No facilities, no restrooms here

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Reviews and Comments:
 
Amazing hike!! My dog and I do Airbnb tours here for the people who are a nervous to do it alone and it’s been amazing. Every day we love it more and more
Allie, Tue Jan 14, 2020
 
The fun is taken out for a trip here since ther are very few parking spaces available within half a mile!! Not for youngsters and out of shape folks!
Dangerous after a rainfall
Tom Dwyer, Mon Sep 14, 2015
 
Love the views.
Bob, Thu Sep 11, 2014
 
Awesome views! Not the easiest hike, but saw many kids (around 4 or 5 years old) walking up the trail. Just take your time and watch your footing. Down side is parking is hard to find.
Jesse, Thu Sep 11, 2014
 
Trail has eroded badly by rain runoff!! Dangerous for most except hardiest of hikers!! Parking is limited!
Tom Dwyer, Sun Jan 05, 2014