Hawaii is known mostly for its warm weather, beautiful beaches and delicious food. But, it’s also home to 5 active volcanoes – Kilauea, Hualalai, Loihi, Mauna Loa and Maleakala. Past volcanic eruptions have lead to the creation of some of the most interesting hikes in the world! Below are 7 not-to-be-missed hikes to take the next time you go to Hawaii.
1. Olivine Pools
Located on Maui, these tide pools are a popular attraction. The hike is short, but can be dangerous due to how slippery it gets and the rough terrain. I would not recommend taking children on this hike. For more information, I recommend reading the information on this website.
2. Kilauea Iki Trail
This moderate to challenging four-mile hike is located in Volcanoes National Park on the big island. It’s a scenic trail that takes you across a lava lake, closeby sulfur and steam vents and through a rain forest. It’s a popular trail that was voted by Hawaii Magazine as the favorite scenic hiking trail on the big island. More information can be found here.
3. Hana Lava Tube
Located on Maui, this lava tube can be explored for as long as one third of a mile. It’s also known as the Ka’eleku Cave and is much less crowded than the lava tubes found on the big island. It’s a popular family adventure destination due to how safe it is. It’s also free of bats and mosquitoes. Visittheir website for more information.
4. Diamond Head Crater
Diamond Head is probably the most well-known, popular destinations on Oahu. The trail was completed in 1911 as part of the coastal defense system. The trail is moderate to challenging with many switchbacks and steep stairs up to the crater itself. The scenic view of Honolulu and the Oahu shoreline makes all those steep stairs worth the climb! Click here for more information.
5. Halona Cove
The trail to this cove on Oahu is rocky and a bit dangerous, but the scene that greets you at the end of the hike is spectacular! On a clear day, you can even see the islands of Maui, Molokai and Lana from nearby Halona Lookout. The cove is where the famous beach scene in “From Here to Eternity” was shot. More information can be found on this website.
6. Thurston Lava Tube
Also located in Volcanoes National Park, this lava tube emerges from lush tree fern forest after a short 20 minute hike. Estimated to be 500 years old, this lava tube was discovered by Lorrin Thurston in 1913. More information can be found here.
7. Maui’s Dragon Teeth
This natural phenomenon is an epic example of what can happen when two incredible forces of nature collide! These “teeth” formations were created when the hot lava from the nearby West Maui Volcano met the ocean. The waves and ocean breezes tossed the lava into the air, creating the “teeth.” It’s a short, easy hike around the Ritz’s golf course to this natural wonder. This website has more information.
