Lanakai Pillbox Hike

1.8 miles 649ft elevation Out/Back Trail Moderate

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike, also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, is one of Oahu’s most iconic hikes, offering breathtaking views of Lanikai Beach, Kailua Bay, and the Mokulua Islands. This short but steep ridge hike is famous for its World War II-era pillboxes that now serve as amazing viewpoints for sunrise, photography, and sightseeing. The trailhead is located in the Lanikai neighborhood, near 875 Kaelepulu Drive. The hike starts immediately with a steep incline, be prepared for a quick but intense climb. Some sections have loose dirt and rocks, requiring careful footing. Mid-Hike: After about 15-20 minutes, you’ll reach the first pillbox, a graffiti-covered bunker with stunning panoramic views. From here, you can see Lanikai Beach, the Mokulua Islands, Kailua, and even Kaneohe Bay. Continue for another 5-10 minutes to reach the second pillbox, which offers an even higher vantage point. This is the best spot for photos and watching the sunrise over the ocean. Some hikers continue along the ridge, but most turn around here. Descent & Return: Descending can be tricky due to loose gravel, so take your time. The total hike takes about 1 to 1.5 hours round trip, depending on stops. While most hikers only visit the first two pillboxes, there is a third pillbox on the Lanikai Pillbox Hike (Kaiwa Ridge Trail), though it is less known and harder to reach. The third pillbox is farther along the ridge, beyond the second pillbox. Unlike the first two, which are close together, this one is more hidden because fewer hikers continue along the trail. The path is overgrown and less maintained, requiring some careful navigation. If you keep following the ridge past the second pillbox, you should reach it in another 10-15 minutes. Most hikers turn around at the second pillbox because that’s where the best views are. It’s not as well-known, so many don’t realize it exists. Should You Go to the Third Pillbox? YES, if you enjoy a bit of extra adventure past the normal turnaround point and don’t mind a slightly rougher, more overgrown trail.

Tips for Hiking

Best Time: Sunrise or Early Morning.
Sunrise: Cool temps, fewer crowds, unbeatable views.
Midday: Very hot & crowded, avoid if possible.
Late Afternoon: Nice lighting, but the neighborhood gets crowded with parked cars.
Avoid hiking after heavy rain: The trail becomes slippery with loose dirt.
Parking: No official parking lot, you must park in the Lanikai neighborhood. Street parking is limited and fills up quickly. Park legally, avoid blocking driveways or fire hydrants. Alternative: Park near Kailua Beach Park and walk into Lanikai.
Wear proper shoes: Loose dirt can make it slippery.
Bring plenty of water: No shade, full sun exposure.
Use sun protection: Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are essential.
Pack a snack: Great spot to relax at the top.
Go early: Parking fills up fast, and the trail gets crowded.

Thoughts from my Hike

This is a relatively calm hike, with nice views all the way up. You can't park near the trailhead, so I parked down at the beach and walked up to it. Less then a 10 minute walk. There are several thigh buster spots, one right in the beginning, but they are over quickly. No real shade on the way up, so I would definitely bring enough water and sunscreen if you burn easy. There are 3 pillboxes, spread apart almost evenly. There are plenty of views on the way up, and on the sunny day I was here, there was a nice cool breeze in several spots, and a really nice breeze on top of the pillboxes. You can go inside each one and check out the artwork left behind by previous hikers. I started this hike at 10am. I would probably go a little earlier if I were you, to beat the heat, if the heat gets to you easy. This seems like it would be a great early morning hike to watch the sunrise. The trail can be slippery in parts, especially going down.