When To Hike Koko Head. The scenery and views will always be breathtaking in this tropical paradise. 7430 Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96825, USA. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. See options All photos (2,608) Hiking the trail is an excellent way to escape everyday life and enjoy fantastic scenery on this mountain ridge with amazing views of Honolulu, Hanauma Bay, Sandy Beach, and Diamond Head Crater. Koko Head trail hike is also known as Koko Head Stairs, Koko Crater Stairs, or just Koko Head. Fantastic workout Plus the breeze. Ultimately, if youre willing to be a bit tired, almost anyone can complete the hike. If you are looking for aplace to snorkel with amazing marine life, head to Hanauma Bay. The "bypass trail" to get past this requires you to use a rope to help yourself up the mountain. The Koko Crater trail is one of the most popular hikes in Oahu. The Koko Head trail is considered to be a strenuous hike. You will see multiple people (most-likely locals) hike this trail without shoes, but I would not do it myself. You can read mydisclaimerfor more information. Plan on probably at least 30 minutes to reach the top, and then almost the same amount of time to go back down. S pu andare anche di notte oppure ha orari di chiusura? Just another 50 yards of easy walking and youre there. HAWAII KAI, Hawaii (KHON2) A man going up the Koko Crater Stairs does not usually make the news, but 40 times in a row? Going down can be challenging, and your footing will be critical. The loop trail inside is two miles and easy walking. This was challenging but very worth it! Both of these are common during physical exertion in hot, humid climates, but resting often and drinking plenty of water are easy ways to head such issues off at the pass. They provide freshfruitand water, a professional tour guide, and theyll even take photos for you. We climbed up in 30 min. HIKE TO THE TOP: start behind the Hawaii Job Corps Training Center across from Hanauma Bay - follow the road past the rifle range and park at the Training Center. Arriving early in the morning to begin this Oahu hike is ideal, as it warms up quickly without shady trees or other types of cover along the way. When you reach the end of the Koko Head stairs, you still have a little bit of walking to do to get to the top of the mountain. It puts you through your paces and can be a challenge even for the fittest of the fit. You'll need to leave pups at home dogs aren't allowed on this trail. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Overall very fun and challenging for the amateur fitness enthusiast. Officially known as Koko Crater Tramway, Koko Head is also referred to as Koko Head Stairs, Koko Crater Stairs of Doom, Puu Mai Stairs, or Koko Crater Stairs.. Mahalo for stopping by. The last one-third of the Koko Head trail gets noticeably steeper and harder than before. With that said, we have seen some families hike this trail with kids, but they all only did the beginning of the trail (up to the point where it starts getting steeper and more dangerous). A small overstep could cause significant injury. The Koko Arch is a giant natural rock arch on the south slope of Koko Crater. It is also the name for the ring of the volcanic activity responsible for forming the unique geography of many Pacific Islands, a prime example of which is the Koko Crater. If course its also possible to go faster if youre super fit, and Ive heard of people running to the top of the Koko Stairs in less than 10 minutes. Near home plate you will find a trail leading towards the stairs. The Koko Head sunrise is also amazing. The trailhead is open from 4:00 am till 11:00 pm. Loved it. more. We always use Google Maps and type in Koko Head Trail for the driving directions. On the other side of this panorama, you can look down into the bowl of Koko Heads extinct volcano crater, which has been turned into a botanical garden, and in the distance you can even see all the way out to Makapuu Point. It was a good workout again like every It was then used as an air force station by the U.S. Air Force starting in 1947, but with advances in technology it eventually became obsolete for tracking aircraft. The trailhead is open from 4:00 am till 11:00 pm. Yes, its helpful to be fit. In 2018, while sitting on a lounge chair in Waikiki, Vacation-Waikiki.com was born. The trail is not meant to be easy. We also recommend bringing a light jacket for a sunrise hike since it can be cooler in the early hours. Youll want a good light for hiking Koko Head at sunrise, and again, I would highly recommend going in the daytime once or twice before you attempt it for sunrise. X, Yes it is safe. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. The Koko Head Trail is located in Koko Head District Park, which is about a 25 minute drive east of Honolulu. The way down is a little scarier than the way up. The sun sets right over Hawaii Kai, and there are usually no clouds to block it. Is koko head climb still open? . If youre in one of those categories, please take your time and go extra slow on this trail, especially on the way back down. This natural phenomenon is caused by waves crashing into a lava wall and shooting water through the hole. It's not a 'hike' IMO and you DON'T need hiking shoes like some people here will tell you. Beautiful Sonrise service on the top of Koko. Web Visit website. These are the current hours and entrance fees for the Diamond Head hike, as of 2022. why is there many pairs of sneakers on the telephone line when you start the koko crater railway trail? Taka e left onto Koko Head District Park where you'll find parking lots and a trailhead. We created this site because our friends and family were frequently asking for recommendations and tips on places to eat, where to stay, attractions to visit, etc. Take your time and dont rush, because the stairs can be even more slippery and hazardous on the way back down. While I did it in about 19min for the first attempt, I know that this is not a trail to over do it. Normally people hike to the arch on a short, easy trail that starts from the main coastal road by Halona Beach Cove, but you can also reach the arch from Koko Head via the Crater Rim trail. Especially if the stairs consist of more than 1048 steps held down by railroad ties going up the side of a volcanic crater. There is no doubt about where you are going. It puts you through your paces and can be a challenge even for the fittest of the fit. Koko Head Trail is located in the east of Oahu, offering stunning views up to Honolulu. Elevation Gain: ~885 ft. / 270 m. Some call it the Koko Head hike, but locals call it a workout because many Oahu residents treat the Koko Crater Stairs as a quick workout in the morning or evening. There are plenty of other hikes you want to stay healthy and injury free for. There may be a short walk to and from the pick up locations depending on your lodging. On Oahu, the Koko Head walk is a famous short climb where the stairs are the remnants of an ancient railway. Its quite a sight to see! Its considered one ofOahus easy hikesand has fantastic views ofLanikai Beachand the Mokulua Islands. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. Great views! More than 10,000 years ago, Koko Head was formed by its secondary volcanic eruptions of the Koolau Range. Whenever you buy something through one of these links, I get a small commission at no extra cost to you. We once did the hike around 4:00 pm in April, and it was still too hot, but it was so much better while coming down as the sun was beginning to set. When youve finished chilling and exploring everything at the top of Koko Head summit, youll have to go back down the same way you came. If you need a lot of rest breaks, itll take longer. If you only hike the south rim, Id describe it as moderate. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 24 min to complete. 360 degrees from the top, and it will give you a work out alright! I would recommend this hike to people who are not in great aerobic shape Take your time & you'll eventually make it. Koko Head Regional Park in Honolulu County, HI Koko Head Park Rd Honolulu, HI 96825, Koko Crater Arch Trail from Halona Blowhole Lookout, Kaiwi Shoreline Trail to Alan Davis Beach and Kaho'ohaihai Inlet, Ka'iwi Shoreline Trail and Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail Loop, Ka-ili-ili Bay and Kaloko Inlet via Kaiwi Shoreline Trail, Kamilo'iki Park and Hawaii Kai Community Garden, Hahaione to Pyramid Rock Loop [PRIVATE PROPERTY]. Look no further than the Koko Head Trail! It took us about 45min up, 35min down, spent about 30min on top taking pictures and enjoying the view. Even so, if youre up for the challenge then its a great way to do three hikes in one! Youre in for a very tough hike if you do all of this in one day, and I wouldnt attempt it if you arent plenty comfortable with heights. It lets you know where you are with your fitness. Some of the pages on my travel blog contain affiliate links. People often throw on a headlamp and get hiking the trail before sunrise to be at the summit for sunrise. The path at Diamond Head is in much better condition than the Koko stairs, so its definitely more suitable for kids and older people. Koko Head is also plenty steep. It gets covered in dirt and becomes more slippery. The Koko Crater (or Koko Head) hike outside Honolulu, Hawaii is one of Oahu's most popular hikes, and for good reason. Take your time and pace yourself. Its also possible to get to Koko Head by bus, although that involves 15 minutes of extra walking since the closest bus stops are about 1/2 mile from the Koko Head entrance. We used the flashlights on our phones. Diamond Head . A hiker at the top of Koko Crater trail. Super steep and can be precarious at times on the ties. . This was steep! Its yet another photogenic and interesting feature of this extinct volcanic mountain. The Koko Head hike is about 1.6 miles roundtrip (2.6 km) if you start from the main parking lot. Amazing hike - not for the faint of heart. Consider bringing a walking pole or stick, going back down may be more difficult for some. The Diamond Head hike Hawaii is a must-do. We arrived at 4:45, parked on a residential street, and hiked into the park along with some locals. Once you make it through this area, it gets even steeper, but you are now more than halfway there. Koko Crater is a tuff cone created by Oahu's most recent volcanic activities. After the bridge, you will get glimpses of the view to come, including Hanauma Bay and Hawaii Kai. Closed now 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Write a review About Makapuu Lighthouse Trail is one of Oahu's most popular coastal hiking trails on its southeastern coast, offering spectacular views of the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline. There is a way around the bridge if you head to the right (shady section). Honolulu House w/Shared Pool by Koko Crater! Park in the parking lot near the baseball diamond and walk along the road towards Koko Head. Definitely take a set of hiking poles if you are not fit or hiking with additional load on your back like a baby carrier. It's also called the Koko Crater Railway Trail. Thats the mountain youll be climbing! Mahalo! This detour is marked with a helpful sign so youll know when to turn off the main path. Koko Head Hike with DanielsHawaii Tourguide Koko Head is a tuff cone in the eastern part of Oahu near Hawaii Kai and overlooks Hanauma Bay and Waikiki. Koko Head (at 642 ft or 196 m) is an ancient tuff cone that is somewhat dwarfed by its neighboring tuff cone, Koko Crater, with its peak, Kohelepelepe (or Puu Mai ), rising to 1208 ft or 368 m. Koko Head itself has three significant depressions or old vents, the largest of which forms the well-known Hanauma Bay. We usually do this hike for sunrise and have never had a hard time finding parking during this time. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. Saturday!! Check out their website and consider donating if youre a fan of Koko Head. Plus, this is excellent exercise! This steep climb consists of 1,000+ steps along an abandoned railroad track that runs to the top of Koko Crater. Download your copy of our But would definitely do it again, just maybe more prepared this time. I don't recommend either of those options for tourists. Views of Hawaii Kai from the top of Koko Head crater trail. At this point, you might even see some tired people climbing up the stairs on all fours, or scooting slowly on their butts as they go back down. Expect to pay a $5 parking fee. The Koko Head elevation / height at the summit is 1,207 feet (368 m). Most of all, be safe, take pictures, make some unique memories, and have a great, adventurous day of fun in the sun! This 1000 step climb to the top has unparalleled views of the south western coast of Oahu. Makapuu Lighthouse Trail. You do not have to be in great shape to hike the trail, but it will make it much easier. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Today the radar station is no longer there, but the pillbox and structural debris are still present. The trail is steep, so ensure you are in decent shape before attempting to hike. Many Hawaiian locals and tourists alike enjoy this hike for the good workout and calorie burn, and the Koko Head sunrise and sunset are also known for being spectacular. After spending some time at the second peak, its time to head back down on the same trail you hiked up. Free access with effectively no facilities. You will be accompanied by knowledgeable tour guides who will help you understand the history and beauty of the trail. Roundtrip Koko Head Stairs Distance: 0.9 mile / 1.4 km. There are even underwater camera options for a wide range of adventures. Here, well go over what to expect on the trail, answer some FAQs, what to bring, some tips for making your hike more enjoyable and safe, and so much more. However, youll need to figure out somewhere to park since the main parking lot is closed before dawn. After your hike, you can take a well-deserved break at one of the many nearby attractions. 100% of travelers recommend this experience. The views at the top are incredible. There are 1,048 railroad ties to climb and then 30 feet to the lookout. You'll also find a preserved historical Hawaiian village along the way, so feel free to . The entrance and parking for this hike are FREE at the time of writing, and you dont need to book anything in advance. You might be thinking it sounds like one of the easiest hikes you've ever done but hold your judgement til you are 3/4 of the way to the top. This hike is a great way to escape the crowds and see some alternate views at the Koko Crater. For the history buffs out there, the hike has great significance regarding the second World War. Also at the base of the crater, there is a visitor center (open 7am - 3 . We enjoy nature, the ocean, mountains, adventure, and all things outdoors. Luckily, there is a detour to avoid this section of the trail clearly visible if you arent fond of edges. Thanks and happy travels! The stairs will climb over 1,200 feet (so approximately 1 foot per stair!) MAKAPU'U POINT LIGHTHOUSE TRAIL OPENING HOURS The official opening hours for the trail open just before sunrise and close just after sunset each day. I would NOT recommend going when its raining as the stairs get pretty slippery - all the more reason to go super early and catch the good weather/small crowds. Explore different ways to experience this place. There is plenty of parking at the baseball fields. Tripadvisor gives a Travelers Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor. So, it was hot, my son and I were both out of shape, and we didn't make it to the top. We always love climbing the Koko Head stairs of doom for sunset when were back in Oahu. Getting to the Koko Head Hike by bus. Directions: The trailhead is located at the end of Manoa Road adjacent to the Lyon Arboretum. Content on this site is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical, health, or safety advice. Her first cookbook, Dumplings All Day Wong, was . Trail Elevation Gain - 885 feet. Until next time, Aloha, and happy hiking on Oahu! Bring plenty of water,sunscreen, asnorkeling shirt, a hat, and snacks. There is a bus stop near Koko Marina Center. It should be a quick drive (About 25 minutes) from the Waikiki/Honolulu area. There used to be a bus stop on the main road right in front of the road that leads to . Alternatively, for a change of scenery you can hike out via the Koko Crater Rim trail, but this route is more sketchy and it takes you away from the Koko Head parking lot, so youll need to figure out transportation when you reach the bottom. Highlights of the trail:Gorgeous views of Honolulu, Hanauma Bay, Sandy Beach, and Diamond Head Crater. . Drink lots of water throughout the hike and bring small healthy snacks for the top. Yes, the Koko Head stairs are 100 percent legal and many people hike them every day. There is ~50ft where there is no ground under the steps. Welcome to the Koko Crater Trail page. We were turned away at Diamond Head because we didn't have a registration # & what a blessing! It took us about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete. Any hiking route on Oahu that both includes a lighthouse and is stroller-friendly is a winner in any family's book. If you want a good workout and calorie burn, however, Koko Head wins there. A popular hike, the Koko Crater Trail is not going to be lonely, as it attracts a number of visitors most days. This is the most touristy hike as it is very close to Waikiki, but has a great view. Also near a shooting range. It is an uneven climb along with the steps which are slippery due to dust. Consider bringing a walking pole or stick, going back down may be more difficult for some. Ive done both hikes many times over the years, and I have to say there is really no comparison in terms of difficulty. Take your time and keep heading up. There is ample parking, and the trail is always open. The steps here are large and should be taken slowly. This is your chance to walk along the rim of an extinct volcano crater! As mentioned, the trailhead can be found about 100 yards past the parking lot on your left-hand side. It takes an average of 1 hour 15 minutes to accomplish this trip, which is rated difficult. However, the Koko HeadDistrict Park parking lot hours are 6:30 am till 11:00 pm. Keep going up for a few more minutes to get to the very top. 854 reviews of Koko Crater Trail "Stairway to heaven (or railway to heaven). To be fair, Koko is not as hard as Manitou, but instead of high elevation to contend with, you do have the tropical heat and humidity of Hawaii. Busy and very windy. Its about 10 miles from Waikiki, and the drive only takes 30 minutes. Very steep and exhausting to the top, with pretty big steps, but the view is incredibly worth it!! Description. Home plate you will get glimpses of the Crater, there is ample parking, and.. Professional tour guide, and you do n't need hiking shoes like some people here will tell you on. Recommend this hike are free at the baseball Diamond and walk along way. A walking pole or stick, going back down at least 30 to. And exhausting to the Lyon Arboretum always love climbing the Koko HeadDistrict Park parking hours. 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