Lanikai Pillbox Hike
One of the most popular and picturesque hiking trails on Oahu is the Lanikai Pillbox hike. Located just a few blocks away from Lanikai Beach, this 1.8 mile, intermediate trail leads you above the Lanikai shoreline and offers panoramic views of the windward coast. You will also be able to see the Mokes just off shore.
Note that this trail is an “intermediate” trail due to steep inclines and rocky terrain. However, pathways are not too narrow or too close to a steep drop off. Therefore, although this trail is “intermediate,” it is a family and pet friendly hike. Be sure to wear good shoes though.
Be sure to check the weather report before you go! Because this hike is on the windward side of the island, it can get very wet. You do not want to be hiking this trail the day after a big rain storm. The trail gets very muddy.
Parking and Location
Before you can hike to the pillboxes, you will need to first find parking in the area. You can park in the residential area around the beach/trailhead. This parking fills up very quickly on weekends and holidays. Pay attention to the “No Parking” signs because parking illegally could land you a ticket. Best advice is to go early before 9:00 AM and avoid weekends as much as possible.
After parking, make your way to the trailhead located at 265 Kaelepulu Dr.
The Lanikai Pillbox Hike
When you get to the trailhead, you will see signs that look like this:
This is there you begin the hike. The first 10 minutes of the hike is the steepest incline you will encounter. There is a fence on your right-hand side that you can grab on to in order to help you up.
You will continue to follow the pathway up. On the way up there are many places to stop and take photos or catch your breath.
After about 20 minutes, you will come across the first bunker. You can stop and take photos at this bunker, but be sure to keep hiking the trail because the second bunker has better views. There are a total of 3 bunkers on this trail. I have not been to the third bunker, but everyone I’ve asked says the second bunker has the best views.
After about 30 to 45 minutes, you will arrive at the second bunker! Many people gather at this bunker to take beautiful photos of the Lanikai shoreline with the Mokes in the background. Also, feel free to hop into the bunker to check out the cool graffiti inside.
After you have taken your photos, you can either continue hiking the trail, or you can turn around. Most people turn around after the second pillbox. Make sure you collect your items and pickup your trash before you leave.
Sunrise at Lanikai Pillboxes
One of the best places to watch the sunrise on Oahu is at this Lanikai Pillboxes. More often than not, the sun rises right in between the the two islands (the Mokes) offshore. The top of the pillbox also offers a calming place to sit and relax while the sun rises.
Be sure to check what time the sun rises on the day you want to go. Try to reach the trailhead about an hour before the sun rises. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the second bunker in addition to any extra time you need to set up your camera.
Be sure to also check the weather report! You may not be able to see the sunrise if there are clouds on the horizon. The trail may also not be hike-able if there was a big rainstorm the day before.
Also note that if you are the first one up the trail in the morning, you are likely to run into spider webs across the path.
Enjoy the hike and the views!
