Lanikai Pillbox Trail

Oahu Attraction Guide

Lanikai Pillbox Trail

Lanikai Pillbox Trail, also called Ka'iwa Ridge Trail, is a short but steep windward Oahu ridge hike with pillboxes and ocean views.

Lanikai Pillbox Hike
Lanikai Pillbox Hike

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

The Pillbox Hike in Lanikai , 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 . 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.

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Reviews and Ratings

3.3

Rated 3.3 out of 5 based on 4 rated visitor reviews, plus 1 unrated comment.

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Allie

Tue Jan 14, 2020

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

Tom Dwyer

Mon Sep 14, 2015

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

Bob

Thu Sep 11, 2014

Love the views.

Jesse

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.

Tom Dwyer

Sun Jan 05, 2014

Trail has eroded badly by rain runoff!! Dangerous for most except hardiest of hikers!! Parking is limited!

Photo gallery

Browse Lanikai Pillbox Hike photos featuring the trail to the summit, pillbox views, Mokulua Islands, Kailua Bay, Flat Island, mountain scenery and panoramic Windward Oahu views.

Location, Parking and Directions

Lanikai Pillbox Trail, also known as Ka'iwa Ridge Trail, starts near Kaelepulu Drive in Lanikai, HI 96734. The map point is kept at the current page coordinates near the trailhead area. Visitors usually arrive through Kailua and Lanikai, but parking is limited in the residential neighborhood. Follow all posted signs, avoid blocking driveways and expect to walk from legal parking farther away when nearby spaces are unavailable.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Lanikai Pillbox Trail located?

Lanikai Pillbox Trail, also called Ka'iwa Ridge Trail, starts near Kaelepulu Drive in Lanikai on Oahu's windward side.

Is Lanikai Pillbox Trail difficult?

The hike is short but steep, with loose dirt, uneven footing, exposed sections and very little shade. It can be slippery after rain.

What can you see from the trail?

Views include Lanikai Beach, Kailua Bay, the Mokulua Islands, windward Oahu neighborhoods and the Ko'olau Mountains.

Is parking easy for Lanikai Pillbox Trail?

No. Parking is limited in the residential area. Visitors should follow posted signs, avoid driveways and expect to walk from legal parking farther away.

Is Lanikai Pillbox Trail good for sunrise?

Yes. The trail is popular at sunrise, but pre-dawn hikers should bring a light, move carefully and respect the surrounding neighborhood.