Ka‘Iwa Ridge

Nice ridge to claim with beautiful views at the top. Recommended! It is easy enough for anyone to do.

Awesome alternative to Diamondhead and FREE!!!

Nice ridge to claim with beautiful views at the top. Recommended! It is easy enough for anyone to do.

Awesome alternative to Diamondhead and FREE!!!

Hiked the Lanikai Pillbox #2 Trail that starts from the back end on the Mauka side. It is longer and steeper than the Makai side. First takes you to #2 pillbox and #1 pillbox and if you continue on to the start of the other trail. Most hikers start at the trailhead by golf course on Makai side and only go up as far as the pillboxes. Found it to be a more interesting than the one most hikers take. Although they both shared the amazing views from the pillboxes. The beginning of hike is steep and rocky following a dry creek bed. Probably not the best route after heavier rain, can become slippery. There a variety of views of both valleys from the ridge, mountains and ocean. The trail has some scrambling, however not very difficult. Four of us that hiked it are all over 65 but seasoned hikers (well seasoned). It's best to hike this one early, not much shade. Wear proper shoes and bring plenty of water.

Did this trail again for the sunrise! Loved it. So worth it. Again, watch your steps, take your time, bring water and wear good shoes with a good grip. This trail is short but steep with rocks and slippery. The sunrise was amazing and we will do it again!!

We found this trail on the All Trails App and it's the backside of the Lanikai Pillbox hike. You park on the street across from the houses. You'll know when to pull over because there's a gated community at the end of the street that you can't go forward. Once you park, you'll see walk towards the gated community and see the stairs to the trail on the right side. There's only a couple flights of stairs then you get to the rocky path that will lead you through trees and brush. The way up is pretty shaded however once you are walking along the ridge to the pillboxes, there's no shade so bring a hat, long sleeve, and water. Once you get to the top of the first mountain, you'll go down a bit, walk across the ridge and see a dirt path that splits. If you look to the right you'll see a concrete structure - veer right and that's the 3rd pillbox. It's small but the views of the mountains are unbelievable. Go back and continue along the ridge. There's a combination of rock climbs and dirt paths. A few areas along the ridge that have pretty steep drop offs. I'd say it's a moderate intensity hike and could be done by kiddos that have some hiking experience - maybe 4+ I'd do this baby wearing but it's really a personal preference.

My son took me to this trail and told me it would be the same or maybe easier than Diamond Head. LIES!! ALL LIES!!! I should have known this was harder when I saw the caution sign about dogs. I myself was dying I fell twice and was covered in sweat. But I will say this, the view was so worth it. I would do it all over again if I had to. Bring water.