Kaʻena Point Trail, located at the northwestern tip of Oʻahu, offers a scenic and rewarding journey through coastal landscapes. The trail leads to the Kaʻena Point Natural Area Reserve, a protected area that is home to native plants and seabird colonies, including the rare Laysan albatross. The hike offers stunning views of the Waianae Range, the Pacific Ocean, and the rugged coastline.
The trail spans approximately 2.5 miles one way from either trailhead and can typically be completed in 1 to 3 hours, depending on your pace. The terrain is mostly flat, with some rocky sections, making it an easy to moderate hike suitable for most visitors. Along the way, you may spot native seabirds and, during the winter months, Hawaiian monk seals lounging on the shoreline.
To access the trail, you can choose from two main entry points. From the Mokuleʻia side (North Shore), drive along Farrington Highway to the end of the road at the Kaʻena Point State Park Mokuleʻia Section. Alternatively, from the Keawaʻula side (Waianae), head to the end of the road near the Kaʻena Point State Park Keawaʻula Section. Both trailheads have limited parking, so it’s best to arrive early.
Be sure to bring ample water, sunscreen, and a hat, as there are no restrooms along the trail. Wear sturdy footwear, as parts of the trail are rocky. While no permits are required for hiking, off-road driving to the trailheads does require a permit. The area is typically sunny and can get quite hot, with strong winds at times, so be prepared for varying weather conditions.
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Kaʻena Point Trail, located at the northwestern tip of Oʻahu, offers a scenic and rewarding journey through coastal landscapes. The trail leads to the Kaʻena Point Natural Area Reserve, a protected area that is home to native plants and seabird colonies, including the rare Laysan albatross. The hike offers stunning views of the Waianae Range, the Pacific Ocean, and the rugged coastline.
The trail spans approximately 2.5 miles one way from either trailhead and can typically be completed in 1 to 3 hours, depending on your pace. The terrain is mostly flat, with some rocky sections, making it an easy to moderate hike suitable for most visitors. Along the way, you may spot native seabirds and, during the winter months, Hawaiian monk seals lounging on the shoreline.
To access the trail, you can choose from two main entry points. From the Mokuleʻia side (North Shore), drive along Farrington Highway to the end of the road at the Kaʻena Point State Park Mokuleʻia Section. Alternatively, from the Keawaʻula side (Waianae), head to the end of the road near the Kaʻena Point State Park Keawaʻula Section. Both trailheads have limited parking, so it’s best to arrive early.
Be sure to bring ample water, sunscreen, and a hat, as there are no restrooms along the trail. Wear sturdy footwear, as parts of the trail are rocky. While no permits are required for hiking, off-road driving to the trailheads does require a permit. The area is typically sunny and can get quite hot, with strong winds at times, so be prepared for varying weather conditions.
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