Lanikai Pillboxes hike (Ka’iwa Ridge) in Kailua, Hawaii

The Lanikai Pillboxes hike, also known as Ka’iwa Ridge Trail is one of the easier, and highly visited hiking trails on Oahu. It’s a very short hike (about 2 miles roundtrip), with an amazing view.

Don’t forget to go for a swim down at Lanikai Beach after you finish your hike, a perfect way to cool down.

Trail Difficulty – Easy/Moderate
Length – 1.8 miles (round trip)
Duration – 45 minutes to 1 hour
Condition – No shade, SLIPPERY & muddy when wet

*Please be aware that The Beyond Paradise will not be held responsible for any person(s) who attempts this hike, their safety, conduct, and well being.

Getting to the trail

The map below shows the pin location of the top of The Lanikai Pillboxes. From this map you can see that the hiking trail is in the middle of a residential area. You will have to park down in the neighborhood and walk towards the trail (please do not block any of the residents mailboxes or driveways, and respect any “No Parking” signs). You will see a sign that indicates where the trail begins (first picture) near the country club.

The beginning of the trail is the steepest and can possibly be the trickiest if the trail is wet/muddy. There is ropes you can use to help hoist yourself up if you need help.

Take your time on this part, both going up and back down. It’s an easy hike, but anything can happen. I myself have slipped a few times on a dry day from loose dirt.

Along the ridge of The Lanikai Pillboxes hike (Ka’iwa Ridge) there are two old WWII bunkers that were used as lookout stations. They are both open, and stable enough to take a break in or on. The views from these bunkers are simply amazing.

When you reach the first bunker and catch your breath, remember to KEEP GOING! The view gets even better when there is less people. A lot of people tend to stop at the first bunker, but the second one isn’t that much further.

The best time to do this hike is in the early morning (around sunrise) on a weekday. There is less people, and plus you get to witness one of the most beautiful sunrises on the island.

Also, do not forget to check the weather. As I said before, the trail WILL be slippery and muddy when it is wet.

While you are here on this side of the island, you might as well stop off at Lanikai Beach to jump in the water. You don’t even have to move your car, just walk towards the ocean and there are many beach access points through the residential area. Again, please be respectful of the surrounding neighborhood, there is always complaints of hikers, we wouldn’t want this hike to be closed to public… right?

What to bring to The Lanikai Pillboxes hike

Hiking boots or shoes with lots of grip
Water, it’s a short hike but the beginning can get the lungs working
Camera, you’re going to want to take a bunch of pictures of that beautiful sunrise!