As a local living on Oahu with my 1.5-year-old, I’ve spent plenty of time exploring the island’s trails with him in tow. Hiking is one of my favorite ways to soak in Oahu’s incredible scenery, and I’ve discovered plenty of family-friendly hikes on Oahu that are perfect for little adventurers.
From waterfall treks to coastal strolls, this guide shares the best hikes for toddlers and babies that I’ve personally tested with my son—whether he’s in a hiking backpack or stretching his legs on toddler-friendly terrain. With options for different skill levels and varying landscapes, there’s a family-friendly hike here for every family, no matter what kind of adventure you’re seeking! If you’re ready to hit the trails and explore Oahu’s natural wonders with your little ones, this list has you covered!
Best Family-Friendly Hikes on Oahu: Quick Reference Contents List
- What to Pack for Family-Friendly Hiking on Oahu
- Family-Friendly Hikes – Easy Rating:
- Family-Friendly Hikes – Easy to Moderate Rating:
- Family-Friendly Hikes – Challenging Rating:
- Family-Friendly Hikes – Honorable Mention:
What to Pack for Family-Friendly Hiking on Oahu:
Before diving into my list of the best family-friendly hikes on Oahu, here’s a quick guide to the essentials I recommend packing when hiking with babies and toddlers. As a mom living on Oahu with a 1.5-year-old, I’ve personally tested each of these items on my baby hikes around the island, so I can vouch for their practicality and effectiveness:
- Child Carrier Hiking Backpack: A solid child carrier backpack is essential for any adventure with little ones. With proper ergonomic support, it lets you comfortably carry your baby for hours without straining your back. Plus, they’re cozy for your little one too! If your pack doesn’t come with a canopy attachment, make sure to grab one—shade is key on sunny hikes.
- Sun Protection: Sun protection is non-negotiable on Oahu’s hikes. Sun hats, sunscreen, and sun shirts with hoods will keep both you and your toddler safe from the Hawaiian sun. Our baby used to hate keeping hats on his head, so we swore by the sun shirts with UPF50+ and stay-in-place hoods for the best protection—and less hat-throwing!
- Waterproof Hiking Boots or Sandals: Oahu’s trails can get muddy and slippery, so make sure you and your little one have shoes with good grip. Waterproof shoes or sandals, like my favorite Chacos, are a must, not just for rain, but for crossing streams and splashy puddles along the way.
- Change of Clothes or Swimsuit: One of the best rewards after a hike is a refreshing dip in a waterfall or the ocean! Always pack extra clothes or a swimsuit so you’re ready for a splash once you finish a hike. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
- Rain Jacket: Oahu is a rainforest, which means rain showers can pop up unexpectedly. A lightweight rain jacket, or especially a compact, packable one like this, for both you and your toddler, will keep you dry and comfortable so you can keep hiking, even when the clouds roll in.
The Best Family-Friendly Hikes on Oahu – Easy Rating:
Ka’ena Point
Kaʻena Point, located at the westernmost tip of Oahu, offers a unique and peaceful hiking experience. While the trail is slightly longer than most other hikes on this list, spanning about 2.5 miles each way, it’s entirely flat, making it more of a leisurely coastal walk than a strenuous hike.
Its remote location also adds to its charm, as it’s far less crowded than many other Oahu trails, offering a serene escape and an opportunity to explore the beautiful, often deserted beaches along the way.
The journey to Kaʻena Point is breathtaking, with panoramic ocean views and the rugged, untouched beauty of Oahu’s western coastline accompanying you at every step.
At the end of the trail lies a wildlife sanctuary, a haven for nesting albatrosses during the winter and spring and a popular resting spot for Hawaiian monk seals. During whale season, this spot also provides an excellent vantage point for spotting humpback whales.
Once you reach the rocky beach at the point, it’s a perfect place to relax, enjoy a picnic, and soak in the tranquil surroundings. Just be sure to come prepared: with little to no shade along the trail, sun protection and plenty of water are essential for a comfortable and enjoyable adventure.
Makapu’u Lighthouse
If you’re looking for a trail that combines family-friendly hiking on Oahu with incredible views, the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail is a top choice. This 2.5-mile roundtrip hike is entirely paved, making it an excellent stroller-friendly option for families who prefer wheels over carriers.
The gradual incline offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean almost immediately, and the payoff at the top is spectacular.
Between December and April, this trail also becomes a prime spot for whale watching, so if you are visiting during this time and looking for a kid-friendly hike on Oahu, this trail is a must-do. (Btw, read my Best Places to go Whale Watching on Oahu article for more details on whale watching during this hike.)
Also,for those feeling adventurous, there are additional unpaved trails branching off from the same parking lot that take you down toward the ocean instead of up to the lighthouse. These trails lead to fascinating tidepools and arid coastal landscapes, offering even more opportunities to explore Oahu’s unique coastal scenery.
Pro Tip: This hike is also without shade and completely exposed to the sun, so UPF clothing, sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are essential for both you and your little one on this hike!
Manoa Falls Trail
Manoa Falls is a quick, family-friendly hike on Oahu located just minutes from downtown Honolulu, offering an easy adventure into Oahu’s lush rainforest. The trail is less than two miles roundtrip and mostly flat, with a slight incline near the end as you approach the waterfall. Its gentle terrain makes it an excellent choice for families with young kids.
As you stroll through the vibrant rainforest, you’ll be immersed in a world of towering trees, vibrant tropical plants, and the calming sounds of birds and trickling streams.
At the trail’s end, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the beautiful Manoa Falls cascading down a rocky cliffside. While swimming is not permitted here, the journey is more about soaking in the tropical atmosphere and enjoying the island’s native flora and fauna.
Pro Tips:
- Though the trail has plenty of shade and stays relatively cool, I recommend wearing long sleeves and pants for extra protection against bugs and mosquitos, which can be common in this wet, tropical environment.
- Don’t forget your rain jacket—being in a rainforest means there’s a good chance you’ll encounter a few showers along the way!
The Best Family-Friendly Hikes on Oahu – Easy to Moderate Rating:
Lulumahu Falls
Lulumahu Falls, nestled along the Pali Highway between Honolulu and Kailua, offers a scenic two-mile roundtrip, family-friendly hike that is one of my all-time favorites on Oahu. The trail meanders through lush greenery and tropical flora, making you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. About ten minutes in, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering bamboo, creating a tranquil and almost magical atmosphere for the journey ahead.
The hike is mostly flat and easygoing but becomes a bit more challenging near the end as you approach the waterfall. Expect some uneven terrain and light rock scrambling, though it’s manageable with a little preparation. If you’re hiking with a baby, ensure they’re secure in a hiking backpack, or if you’re with older kids, be ready to assist them over the rocks.
At the trail’s end, you’re rewarded with the sight—and amazing sound—of the cascading falls. A refreshing dip in the pool beneath the waterfall is a tempting option (and a must do in my opinion), so I’d recommend packing extra clothes or wearing a bathing suit under your hiking gear so you can enjoy a refreshing dip.
Pro tips:
- Because the trail lies in the Pali Mountains, rain and mud are common. Wear sturdy hiking boots (or at least avoid your brand-new white sneakers) and don’t forget to pack rain jackets for yourself and your little ones.
- The parking area is spacious and convenient, but theft has been reported in the lot, so avoid leaving valuables in your car.
Lanikai Pillbox (Back Side)
The Lanikai Pillbox Trail is a favorite for its panoramic views of Kailua, the Mokulua Islands, and Oahu’s stunning northeast coastline.
While the front side of the trail tends to draw crowds, the back side, known as Pillbox #2 on AllTrails, offers a less crowded and safer experience for a family-friendly hike on Oahu with babies or toddlers.
This trail is 1.6 miles roundtrip, slightly longer than the front side but with gentler inclines and steadier terrain. It’s a manageable climb that leads to the same breathtaking views at the pillboxes without the slippery scrambles of the main route.
Parking is also easier to find in the nearby Enchanted Lakes neighborhood, eliminating the stress of navigating Lanikai’s narrow, crowded streets.
For the best experience, hike in the early morning or late afternoon. Not only will you avoid the midday heat, but you’ll also catch the stunning colors of sunrise or sunset.
Pro Tip: The Lanikai Pillbox Trails (both the front and back sides) offer little to no shade, so be sure to bring a canopy for your baby carrier or hiking backpack to protect your babies and toddlers from the strong Hawaii sun while hiking.
Old Pali Road to Pali Lookout
The Old Pali Road to Pali Lookout is a three-mile hike rich in history and surrounded by Oahu’s lush mountain terrain. This family-friendly trail, ending at the famous Pali Lookout, is a fantastic way to experience the island’s breathtaking landscapes.
While AllTrails rates it as “hard” under the name Ko’olau Golf Course to Pali Lookout via Old Pali Road Trail, I’d call it moderate. There are a few slightly challenging sections near the end, but they’re manageable—even with a baby in a hiking backpack. As for family-friendly hiking on Oahu, this trail strikes a perfect balance between adventure and accessibility.
The path follows a historic section of the old Pali Highway and is mostly paved, making it a great option for toddlers who want to stretch their legs and walk portions of the route. While it’s not quite stroller-friendly, it’s ideal for little ones ready for some light hiking.
As you make your way, you’ll be treated to incredible views of the towering Ko’olau Mountain Range and the sprawling windward coastline below. For parking, there’s a guarded lot for $10, or you can search for free roadside spots if you don’t mind a bit of extra effort.
The Best Family-Friendly Hikes on Oahu – Challenging Rating:
Crouching Lion
For families seeking more of a challenge, the Crouching Lion Trail offers a short but adventurous hike with spectacular rewards. At less than a mile roundtrip, it’s a quick trek, but the steep climb and varied terrain make it a workout. This trail feels like a true hike, unlike some of the gentler walks on this list, and it’s perfect for those who are physically fit, have a good hiking backpack, and are ready for a bit of adventure.
The ascent involves some scrambling and uneven terrain, so it’s best attempted when the weather has been dry as rain can make the trail slippery and trickier to navigate. The climb is absolutely worth it for the fun climb and the stunning views at the top, where Kahana Bay and the North Shore stretch out before you in all their glory.
Caution! At the trailhead, stay to the left. Taking the path to the right leads to a much steeper and more dangerous route that involves scaling rocks—something I wouldn’t recommend, especially with little ones (or even at all). Stick to the main trail for a safer and equally rewarding hike.
The Best Family-Friendly Hikes on Oahu – Honorable Mention:
Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden
While not technically a hike, the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is a must-visit for families seeking a more laid-back outdoor adventure. This stunning 400-acre garden, nestled at the base of the Koʻolau Mountains, is free to the public and offers a tranquil escape into nature.
The garden is home to an incredible variety of tropical plants from all over the world, with trails that wind through lush greenery and past peaceful ponds. It’s the perfect family-friendly spot for a leisurely walk, letting toddlers explore freely or enjoying the scenery while pushing a stroller. Families will love the picnic areas, which provide a serene setting for lunch surrounded by the sounds of nature.
For a truly magical experience, consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon, when the sunlight filters through the trees and beautifully lights up the Koʻolau Mountains. Whether you’re looking to relax or let little ones burn off energy, Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is a gem that deserves a place on your itinerary of family-friendly hikes in Oahu.
