Name: Lanikai Pillboxes
Item: Lanikai Pillboxes
Rating: 4.5
Author: TravelHawaii

Overview

The hike up Ka’iwa Ridge, more commonly known as the Lanikai Pillboxes trail, arguably provides the most value for effort exerted. Only a half-mile in length, this steady climb offers one of the most beautiful sunrise vantage points on the island. The trail ascends quickly from its start on Kaelepulu Drive, and soon hikers will find themselves along its dry, narrow ridge.

Apart from the slightly steep beginning section, the hike is rather mild for the average trail-goer. Follow the path up a few switchbacks and arrive at the first bunker, a leftover remnant of WWII. Feel free to stay here and explore, but we recommend continuing along to the second bunker, which tends to be slightly less crowded. In fact, many times we have had the second bunker all to ourselves, at least for a short while to watch the sunrise.

From either of the pillboxes, the 360 degree vista is absolutely breathtaking. Looking out over Lanikai Beach, take in the awesome views of the Mokulua Islands, sitting like twins just offshore. With the amazing scenery, this hike has become one of our favorite ways to start another awesome day in Hawai’i.

Getting There

By car: Follow the map below to Kaelepulu Drive in Kailua. Street parking is available about halfway up the hill across from the Mid Pacific Country Club. Walk up the private driveway (#269) on the opposite side of the street. The dirt trailhead is located on the right side of the road next to the fence.

By bus: From town, take Route 57 Kailua-Waimanalo to the Castle Medical Center bus stop on Kalanianaole Hwy. Transfer onto Route 70 Lanikai to the Alala Rd + Kaneapu Place bus stop. Continue down Mokulua Drive, then turn veer right onto Aalapapa Drive (0.2 miles). Turn right onto Kaelepulu Drive and follow the directions above to trailhead.

Trail Information

Location: Kailua, HI
Length: 0.8 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate*
Duration: 1 hour
Elevation Gain: 500 ft

Trail Type: Out and Back
Entrance Fee: N/A
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Restrooms: No
Season: Year-round

* This is a very short trail, but has a steep section at the beginning.

Tagged as: All Year Round, Dogs Allowed, No Entrance Fee, No Restroom

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Rachel
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Short and easy hike, though the beginning part is quite steep and can be slippery with loose dirt. Amazing view of Lanikai beach which has beautiful bright blue water. This hike is pretty popular so it can get crowded at times but its worth it. Its also close enough to the beach that you can go there after to cool off!
8 years ago
Andrea
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Easy hike to do and stunning view. A little steep but nothing to worry too much about. With any hike don’t go during the hottest part of the day. My friend got a bit dehydrated and had asthma so she didn’t feel to great but I was fine.
Also as fun as it sounds, do not go in the bunker as there is almost no way to get out. Not the smartest move on my part. I went in and didn’t think about how to get out and almost got stuck in there.
8 years ago

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