Friendship Gardens Trail

.5 miles 196ft elevation Loop Trail Easy

The Friendship Gardens Trail is a short, peaceful hike located in Kaneohe, Oahu, offering lush jungle scenery, scenic lookouts, and views of Kaneohe Bay and Chinaman’s Hat (Mokoli‘i Island). It's a great option for those looking for a quick, family-friendly hike away from the crowds. The trailhead is located in a residential area in Kaneohe, with limited street parking nearby. The first part of the trail is shaded, passing through a lush tropical forest.

Mid-Hike: The trail gently ascends, with some uneven terrain and exposed tree roots. Look out for labeled native plants along the way, making it a nice educational experience. After about 10-15 minutes, you’ll reach a clearing with a bench and a beautiful view of Kaneohe Bay. On a clear day, you can see Chinaman’s Hat (Mokoli‘i Island), Coconut Island, and the Ko’olau Mountains. A small pavilion (friendship garden) is located off a short side path, perfect for a quiet rest stop. The trail loops back down to the starting point, making it an easy 30-40 minute walk.

Tips for Hiking

Best Time: Morning or Late Afternoon.
Morning: Cooler, more shade, fewer people.
Midday: Can be warm, but much of the trail is shaded.
Late Afternoon: Beautiful lighting, but avoid going too close to sunset as the area gets dark quickly.
Wear sturdy shoes: Some slippery and uneven sections.
Bring mosquito repellent: The area is shaded and humid, making it a mosquito hotspot.
Pack water: There are no water stations nearby.
Keep noise levels low: This is a residential area, so be respectful.
Great for kids & beginners: Short, shaded, and scenic!

Thoughts from my Hike

Nice hike through the forest with some good views. I think it was a little longer then a half a mile. It's located high above Kaneohe Bay on ten beautiful acres of trees, flowers, birds and solitude.