Pu'u' Maelieli Trail

2.3 miles 600ft elevation Out & Back Trail Moderate

The Puʻu Maʻeliʻeli Trail is a moderate ridge hike on Oahu’s windward side, offering stunning views of Kaneohe Bay, Mokoliʻi (Chinaman’s Hat), and the Koʻolau Mountains. This less crowded pillbox hike is a great alternative to Lanikai Pillbox, with a shorter, shaded ascent leading to historic World War II-era bunkers. The trailhead is located across from the Temple Valley Shopping Center on Kahekili Highway (Route 83). The first section is steep and can be muddy, with some rope-assisted sections for extra support. Unlike Lanikai Pillbox or Koko Crater, this trail has shade for most of the climb. Mid-Hike: After the initial steep section, the trail levels out slightly, offering beautiful glimpses of Kaneohe Bay through the trees. Expect some exposed root sections and minor scrambling. At the summit, you’ll find an old World War II bunker (pillbox) overlooking Kaneohe Bay, Coconut Island, and the Koʻolau Mountains. This is a fantastic spot for photos, especially during sunrise or late afternoon. If you’re up for it, you can explore inside the pillbox, but be careful as it is graffiti-covered and slightly eroded. Descent & Return: The descent is quick but slippery in muddy conditions, use the ropes and take your time. The entire hike takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours round trip, depending on conditions and stops.

Tips for Hiking

Best Time: Morning or Late Afternoon.
Early Morning: Cooler temps, fewer people.
Midday: Hot, but the trail is mostly shaded.
Late Afternoon: Golden-hour lighting, but ensure you return before dark. Avoid hiking after heavy rain: The trail can become extremely muddy and dangerous on the descent.
Parking: No official parking lot, park in the Temple Valley Shopping Center. Carefully walk along Kahekili Highway to the left leaving the parking lot to reach the trailhead. Look for the small trail entrance in the trees, it’s unmarked but easy to spot.
Wear proper hiking shoes: Steep and muddy in sections.
Use the ropes for support: Some parts are slippery.
Pack bug spray: Mosquitos are common in shaded sections.
Bring water: Short hike, but still humid.
Take time at the top: The views are spectacular and peaceful.

Thoughts from my Hike

This hike is also called "Kaneohe Pillbox". It is a long steady incline all the way, but not too tough, and easy to follow, on the windward side of Oahu. The trail was a little muddy and slippery in places. The hike begins in the trees right off the highway, with views of Kaneohe Bay along the way and ends at a pillbox with a gorgeous 180 degree view of the bay. You also get a good view of the Marine base on the other side.