Hikes on the North Shore Oahu: A Simple Hike with Epic Ocean Views

A Short Hike with Big Views

The Ehukai Pillbox Trail is a picturesque and fairly easy trail got hikes on the North Shore Oahu. Living in Kailua (windward Oahu), we don’t make it to the beautiful north shore nearly enough. However, over the summer months, when the surf is quiet we make an effort to go as much as possible. On this particular visit the kids wanted to go to a beach on the north shore and we wanted to go hiking, so we compromised with a short hike up the Ehukai Pillbox trail (about 2 miles round trip) followed by a dip in the ocean. The perfect combination!

Hikes on the North Shore Oahu – On the Trail

This family-friendly trail takes you on a scenic journey through lush tropical vegetation and offers stunning panoramic views of the expansive Pacific Ocean. It was rainbow weather as we started our trek. Intermittent bright sun followed by brief squalls created a soggy trail. We slipped and sloshed our way up the path stopping to climb banyan trees and snack on strawberry guava. There was a bit of whining over muddy hands, but everyone was happy when we finally emerged into the cool, dry trail beneath the ironwoods. The kids happily skipped along proclaiming, “I love this hike!”

The highlight of the trail is the World War II-era pillbox bunkers, which were once used for military defense but now serve as vantage points for hikers to enjoy breathtaking vistas. As you ascend the trail, you’ll encounter several of these historic pillboxes, each providing a unique perspective of the coastline. One, decorated with a colorful peace sign, I recognized from Instagram. A loose line had formed as people waited their turn to capture the perfect Instagram photo. In turn, hikers jumped and flexed for photos on the pillbox with the vast Pacific Ocean in the background. We moved on to explore an empty, heavily graffitied pillbox that the kids happily explored before heading back down to the beach below.

Click the play button below to watch the video of hiking in Oahu North Shore –

Preparing to Hike the Ehukai Pillbox Trail

Getting There

The trailhead for the Ehukai Pillbox hike is located on the North Shore of Oahu, about an hour’s drive from Waikiki, near world famous Banzai Pipeline. Park at Sunset Beach Neighborhood Park where you will find bathrooms and a small playground. The trailhead begins at the back of the parking lot across from the basketball courts.

Packing List for Hiking in Oahu North Shore

The hike is family-friendly and suitable for hikers of various skill levels, but it does involve some uphill sections and uneven terrain. It’s recommended to wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and be prepared for a rewarding outdoor adventure with spectacular ocean views along the way. The trail is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, making it a must-visit attraction on the North Shore of Oahu.

• Shoes. Light hiking shoes or trail running shoes with big lugs are good for most Hawaii hikes.
• Sunscreen. Most Hawaii hikes are exposed along part or all of the trail. This one is mostly covered but sunscreen will help on bright days
• Water + Snacks. Always bring more water than you think you will need and snacks, well, they make hiking more fun.
• Alltrails.com. An excellent hiking resource with great trail descriptions.
• Geochaching. This worldwide scavenger hunt. Keep reluctant kids moving with some geocaching fun.

Looking for Adventure Beyond the Hikes on the North Shore Oahu?

Alternatives for Hiking in Oahu North Shore

• For nature lovers, I recommend the coastal trail to Kaena Point during the winter months when you can watch whales and albatross.
• If you love hiking but aren’t up for the mud you can try the very easy, stroller-friendly hike through Waimea Valley Botanical Garden.

What to Eat Near the Ehukai Pillbox Trail

• Ted’s Bakery is famous for its chocolate haupia cream pie, but also makes a solid local style breakfast or lunch spot.
• Banzai sushi is a stylish spot for sushi & Japanese fare. I know not everyone loves sushi, but my kids always ask to stop here. It has traditional floor seating & outdoor patio. Downside – it doesn’t open until 4pm.
• Wicked HI cafe is a little out of the way, but my family loves this spot so much! They serve fresh, oven baked pizza (goat cheese, honey, arugula is amazing!) and must-try local slushies. The combo is so good after a beach day. Bonus, they’re next door to Paala kai bakery so you can take home so famous snow puffies for later.
• Island Vintage Coffee in North Shore offers a very tasty, high-quality, Hawaii-grown coffee for aficionados in need of a fix.

Best beaches near the trailhead

Looking for a refreshing swim after a muddy hike up the Ehukai pillbox trail? Just across the street, beautiful Ehukai Beach and neighboring Sunset Beach are worth a visit. However, massive winter swells can make these dangerous options. If the surf is up try one of these alternatives.

1. Shark’s Cove. You can usually find a quiet to space to cool off in this protected cove.
2. The calmer waters of Haleʻiwa Beach are preferred for swimmers and beginning surfers. Bonus, grab some food at one of the food trucks in Haleiwa town and enjoy a waterfront picnic.
3. Kuilima Cove at Turtle Bay is partially protected with more gentle surf. Bonus, it’s a great spot for sunsets and the hotel has tasty food and cocktails.

3 More Ideas for post-hike fun

1. Haleiwa Town: Haleiwa oozes of a relaxed plantation era vibe. Ice creams, art, and surf shops line up its coastal roads for a slow-day charm.
2. Pu’u o Mahuka Heiau: Experience tranquility, history, and panoramic bay views at the largest heiau on Oahu.
3. Family photos! Let me plan a fun morning for your family so you can have a great time and take home beautiful memories. You can see examples of photo sessions on the north shore here, here, and here.

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