Kaena Point (south side)

With a rich spiritual past woven deeply into the history of Hawaiian legend, Kaena Point is a very respected and protected part of the island. It is an unbelievably beautiful stretch of land on the western tip of Oahu, inaccessible by car. The hike to the point provides breathtaking views up and down both sides of the coast.

AT A GLANCE:
HIGHLIGHTS: This 2.5-mile hike is one of the most beautiful and rural on the island. Since there is no road, it feels a world apart from the rest of the island and is a haven for wildlife. Epic views at every turn can make this into a lengthy hike, so plan accordingly and don't forget a camera!

ACTIVITIES: Hiking, photographing, bird and seal watching, whale watching in winter, swimming (only on the beach before the trail starts), fishing

LIFEGUARD: There is a lifeguard at Yokohama Bay (the beach before the start of the trailhead), but none on the trail itself

WARNINGS!: The coastline can be dangerous, as the water and currents are unpredictable. It is best to stay on the path. Also, the weather in this area is typically very hot and dry. Most of the hike is unshaded, so be sure to pack plenty of water and sunscreen. Don't leave any valuables in your car, as break-ins are common. Avoid disturbing seals, birds, and other wildlife.

AMENITIES: Restrooms and showers are located at Kaena Point State Park, before the start of the trailhead.

According to Hawaiian legend, Kaena Point is the place where souls would make the jump from the physical world to the spirit world to be reunited with their ancestors.  The trail follows an old railroad and although hot and long, the hike is not strenuous.

The landscape is varied and there are a couple blowholes about halfway to the point. If you're lucky, you may get to see some seals relaxing on the rocks.  During winter months, this is a popular Albatross nesting area.

There is a beacon at the point, next to the old, collapsed lighthouse. Once arriving at the point, most people turn and return back along the way they came. However, the path joins with the path leading down from the north side, so you can also continue all the way to the other side the "Mokuleia" side of the state park. Unless you had someone to pick you up on this end, it would be a very long hike back.

The trailhead begins at the very end of the paved road leading through the park. There is a large dirt lot for parking. It is possible to bike the trail, however the bike would have to be carried for parts of the trail.

Closest town:
Waianae

Directions:

From Honolulu, take the H1 W. Keep left to take H201 W/HI-78 W (exit 19B) toward Fort Shafter/Aiea. Merge onto H1 W toward Pearl City. H1 W will become HI-93/Farrington Hwy. Follow Farrington Hwy until it ends at Kaena Beach State Park. Parking for the hike is all the way at the end of the road.