Have you heard of the Koko Head Trail already? It’s one of the must-do hikes on Oahu that everyone should do. Although it is a bit challenging, that is what will make it one to remember. And the beautiful views of the south shore of the island as well. Plan your Koko Head Trip with us so that it includes everything. A fun workout, a sweet reward, and a relaxing oceanside getaway afterwards.
Koko Head Trail
The Koko Crater Railway Trail, which is also known as the Koko Head Stairs, is located on the southeast side of Oahu. It’s a 30-minute drive from the center of Honolulu, and a $3 bus ride for an hour and a half. The hike consists of 1,048 steps and is 1.6 miles long from the parking lot to the very top, with an elevation gain of over 1,200 feet.
You will sweat during the hike, so it’s best to dress in light sportswear, remember good athletic shoes, and bring a water bottle. Even if you don’t feel like carrying it at first, you’ll be glad you did during the hike.
Plan your Koko Head hike at a time when it’s not so crowded, and you’ll have all the views to yourself. Resolve to wake up early and come here for a morning workout instead of the hotel gym. Or, alternatively, come here to enjoy the sunset views. Our tip, though, is to come here when the weather isn’t so nice. You’ll see even fewer people (mostly locals) and the blazing sun won’t make your journey difficult. Plus, you’ll see the peaks of the surrounding mountains in a beautiful haze.
Koko Head Guided Crater Hike
Rather have a professional guide with you? No problem! Book a professional guide for your Koko Head Hike. Your guide will pick you up for you Koko Head adventure, get you to the top of Koko Head Crater and back to your Hotel. This is the perfect experience for everybody that wants to have a guided Koko Head Crater Tour.
Leonard’s Bakery malasadas as a reward
After a challenging journey, both up and down, you deserve a sweet reward. Luckily, just a 19-minute walk from the Koko Head Trailhead Parking Lot, you’ll find your favorite red and pink truck. It belongs to the popular Leonard’s Bakery and you’ll find their famous malasadas still hot there & with coffee. These are small fried doughnuts, made from flat rounds of yeast dough and coated with sugar, cinnamon or salt. This treat originally comes from Portugal, but come here during your trip to Koko Head to see for yourself that Oahu can make them too.
After your Koko Head trip enjoy sunset at China Walls
If you plan your trip to Koko Head for the afternoon, you’ll still have some time before the evening arrives. The hike up to the crater itself takes around 30 minutes, so you can easily catch one more trip in the area. And that’s to China Walls. China Walls is one of the best places on Oahu to watch the sunset. This rocky shoreline was formed by volcanic activity and offers spectacular views of the landscape as well as great cliff jumping conditions for adrenaline junkies. You’ll find them a 9-minute drive from the Koko Head Trailhead Parking Lot.
