The sun rises on the other side of the Koko Crater, so youll be watching it come up directly over the ocean and the volcano crater, with views of Makapuu Point in the distance. The hike starts at the Koko Head District Park. These fees have to be paid online here. If youre in one of those categories, please take your time and go extra slow on this trail, especially on the way back down. We dont recommend doing this, though. You should be able to find a parking spot on the road near the tennis courts. Good amount of people on the steps/trail. Its definitely not suitable for kids or older folks though. The entrance and parking for this hike are FREE at the time of writing, and you dont need to book anything in advance. Runners are just fine but would avoid anything less like sandals. Parking is close. However, on the way down, I was passed by a local literally running up the mountain wearing flip flops and then another who was bare foot. Diamondhead gets all the hype, but Kokohead is ten times better for those who want a little bit of a challenge, amazing views, and a sense of accomplishment. While in the area, you can include many other side trips to your hike. Thanks and happy travels! There is a way around the bridge if you head to the right (shady section). If you have been on the trail feel free to share your experie Its one of thetop botanical gardens in Oahuand definitely worth the visit. Luxurious Tropical Getaway w/Salt Water Pool, AC & High Speed Wifi: Villa Luana, The Beach Waikiki Boutique Hostel by ALOH, View all hotels near Koko Crater Railway Trail on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Koko Crater Railway Trail on Tripadvisor, View all attractions near Koko Crater Railway Trail on Tripadvisor, Hilton Grand Vacations Hotels in Honolulu, Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis Hotels, Hotels near Makiki - Lower Punchbowl - Tantalu, Hotels with Military Discounts in Honolulu, Hotels with Complimentary Breakfast in Honolulu, Hotels near University of Hawaii at Manoa, Allswell Communities Holiday Parks - parent brand in Honolulu, Public Transportation Systems in Honolulu, Architectural Buildings in Downtown Honolulu, Government Buildings in Downtown Honolulu, Theatre & Performances in Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis, Points of Interest & Landmarks in Downtown Honolulu, Churches & Cathedrals in Downtown Honolulu, Diamond Head State Monument: Tickets & Tours, Pearl Harbor National Memorial: Tickets & Tours, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve: Tickets & Tours, Makapuu Lighthouse Trail: Tickets & Tours, Koko Crater Railway Trail: Tickets & Tours, Battleship Missouri Memorial: Tickets & Tours, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum: Tickets & Tours, US Army Museum of Hawaii: Tickets & Tours, Koko Crater Railway Trail Tours and Tickets, Private Tour of Kamasutra Temples in Khajuraho, Guided Early Morning Walking Tour of Florence, Ultimate Prickly Pear and Anguilla Experience, Cliff Diving Boat Trips in Nea Makri, Athens, Normandy Beaches Half-Day Afternoon Trip from Bayeux (A2). If you prefer to hike the trail with a tour, you are in luck, as several companies offer tours. A lot of stairs. The sun sets right over Hawaii Kai, and there are usually no clouds to block it. Its taxing cardio-wise and can be tough on the legs, knees, and feet. Koko Head to remain closed during renovation project, only open to public on weekends, holidays Posted: Mar 24, 2021 / 12:24 PM HST Updated: Mar 25, 2021 / 11:34 AM HST HONOLULU (KHON2) A. When youve finished chilling and exploring everything at the top of Koko Head summit, youll have to go back down the same way you came. Description. There is ~50ft where there is no ground under the steps. The seaward wall of the crater can be seen from Kalanianale Highway just past Hanauma Bay on the East Coast, approximately 20-minutes from Waikiki. Check out this 2.6-km out-and-back trail near Honolulu, Oahu. Until next time, Aloha, and happy hiking on Oahu! The technical term is dormant tuff cone volcano, which basically means that while it hadnt erupted for a few thousand years when it did, the cone and crater were formed by ash and debris compacting into rock over time. The Stairway To Heaven also has much more epic views than Koko Head, but sadly its closed and illegal for the public to climb, even though the stairs are arguably in better shape! Also known as the "Koko Head Stairs," this abandoned WWII railway track is a steep and challenging hiking trail with over 1,000 steps (but worth it for the panoramic views). Koko Head trail hike is also known as Koko Head Stairs, Koko Crater Stairs, or just Koko Head. Koko Head was formed over 10,000 years ago by secondary volcanic eruptions of the Koolau Range. Great for a cardio workout. Oahu man hiking Koko Head 40 times for mental health. link to Waikiki 2020 Best Tips & Restaurant Favorites, link to Wayne's 2019 10 Day Ultimate Waikiki Itinerary. There is a bus stop near Koko Marina Center. Halona Blowhole Have you ever seen a blowhole in action? : It depends on your fitness level. Koko Crater is a tuff cone created by Oahu's most recent volcanic activities. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Ive hiked the Koko Crater trail many times over the years, and its always great fun. I. Feels like the making of the worlds fastest roller coaster from the top, but engineering the return would be challenging. Also, some stairs are missing or have been replaced with stones. This Oahu hike will test your endurance and strength to continuously take each additional step up the mountain as you stride over 1,000 steps to reach the top! 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. You can take an alternate route (the one I took). There's a gate that opens at 7am, which allows cars to travel another quarter mile down to a parking lot area. Just remember to take a flashlight and be careful walking unfamiliar ground in low visibility. We used the flashlights on our phones. It was not so packed and people were very respectful. The Koko Head Trail is a must-see for anyone visiting Oahu. The Makapu'u Point trail, within Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, offers outstanding views of O'ahu's southeastern coastline, including Koko Head and Koko Crater. The Koko Head Hike is a trail of over 1,000 stairs. Leave the hiking boots home and go for a light running shoe. When you reach the plateau, you can admire the view of the valley and jungle before the path heads downwards to the falls. We always love climbing the Koko Head stairs of doom for sunset when were back in Oahu. The elevation at the top is 1,208 ft, a significant gain from the near sea level of the parking lot and trailhead. Initially I resigned myself to the fact that I had simply chosen the wrong shoes for the trek (running shoes). It's not a 'hike' IMO and you DON'T need hiking shoes like some people here will tell you. A hat and sunscreen are also imperative if you hike Koko Crater during the day, because theres almost no shade at all on the trail. More info on this below. The Koko Head elevation / height at the summit is 1,207 feet (368 m). 7430 Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96825, USA. Ultimately, take care and only do what you are comfortable with. Bring more water than you think youll need. On the other side of this panorama, you can look down into the bowl of Koko Heads extinct volcano crater, which has been turned into a botanical garden, and in the distance you can even see all the way out to Makapuu Point. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. The Koko Head Trail, officially known as Koko Crater Tramway, is one of thebest hikes on Oahu. Most hikers take the detour. This sign lets you know where to bypass the bridge section. We'll give you our best recommendations for things to do, spa Wayne's 2019 10 Day Ultimate Waikiki Itinerary. I lost my footing on the way down and took a spill that resulted in some cuts, scrapes, and bruises, and it was still worth it. Its quite a sight to see! Koko Head Regional Park in Honolulu County, HI Koko Head Park Rd Honolulu, HI 96825, Koko Crater Arch Trail from Halona Blowhole Lookout, Kaiwi Shoreline Trail to Alan Davis Beach and Kaho'ohaihai Inlet, Ka'iwi Shoreline Trail and Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail Loop, Ka-ili-ili Bay and Kaloko Inlet via Kaiwi Shoreline Trail, Kamilo'iki Park and Hawaii Kai Community Garden, Hahaione to Pyramid Rock Loop [PRIVATE PROPERTY]. Morning and evening are both great times to hike Koko Head, and if you plan it right you can even see the sunrise or sunset, which are both spectacular! for their Hawaii vacation. The incline is abrupt, take breaks when needed & enjoy the views. Getting to the Koko Head Hike by bus. Some of the pages on my travel blog contain affiliate links. Our goal is to build a website with tips and recommendations from our vacation experiences that offer our readers a single place to find all the information you will need when planning your very own trip to Hawaii. The hiking trail is actually railroad track initially laid down by the U.S. Army shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor. We enjoy nature, the ocean, mountains, adventure, and all things outdoors. I can be a bit scary/dangerous. One short section near the middle of the Koko Crater trail involves crossing a bridge over a ravine with an intimidating 10 foot drop, but you dont have to walk across it if you dont want to. Especially if the stairs consist of more than 1048 steps held down by railroad ties going up the side of a volcanic crater. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. With incredible views, gorgeous sunrises, and fantastic photo ops, this is one trail you wont miss. Good to know: The trail is has recently (June 2021) reopened after being closed for 2 years. But the views at the top cannot be beat. It puts you through your paces and can be a challenge even for the fittest of the fit. Some shade. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Taka e left onto Koko Head District Park where you'll find parking lots and a trailhead. As an affiliate, I only recommend products and services that I feel are high quality and helpful to my readers. Mahalo for stopping by. Best time to hike: Anytime - The trail is open 6am until 6pm, although last entry is 4.30pm. the entire park along with Koko Head Shooting Complex will be off . Great views! and a common misconception. There have been some accidents and injuries on the Koko Head Trail over the years, but no falling deaths. The Koko Head Trail Challenge Tourtakes about 2 hours. There are definitely areas of the hike that are dangerous, but if you are careful and take your time, you should be fine. Follow this link for more information: more Dept. In fact, its one of the best places to watch the sunset on the whole island of Oahu. It takes an average of 1 hour 15 minutes to accomplish this trip, which is rated difficult. We've updated both travel guides with a lot of new great information for potential visitors (and those who've been a time or two as well). Here, well go over what to expect on the trail, answer some FAQs, what to bring, some tips for making your hike more enjoyable and safe, and so much more. Once you get to the top, you will be greeted with astonishing 360-degree views. Both of these are common during physical exertion in hot, humid climates, but resting often and drinking plenty of water are easy ways to head such issues off at the pass. It is part of the total package experience -- Diamond Head, shave ice, Pearl Harbor, surf lessons. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Steep, no-shade, climb to the top of Koko Head Crater that includes spectacular panoramic views of the east Honolulu shoreline, Hanauma Bay, and parts of Moloka'i. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. Take your time and pace yourself. The most popular hike on Oahu is Diamond Head. The Ring of Fire is more than a classic Johnny Cash song. Also, because the trail is railroad tracks, there is no navigational difficulty, and the hike is relatively short at just under two miles long round trip. Koko Head (at 642 ft or 196 m) is an ancient tuff cone that is somewhat dwarfed by its neighboring tuff cone, Koko Crater, with its peak, Kohelepelepe (or Puu Mai ), rising to 1208 ft or 368 m. Koko Head itself has three significant depressions or old vents, the largest of which forms the well-known Hanauma Bay. I would try to avoid hiking Koko Head in the middle of the day because the heat is brutal and theres no shade at all. Totally recommend if you're in Oahu. Really nice hike, tough but worth it. Begin the long climb up the stairs to the top of Koko head. Small section towards the top without ground coverage - take Murphy's bypass to avoid this (look for sign). For the challenging part, the railroad tracks that make up the trail amount to 1,048 large stairs going straight up. A relic of World War II, the military constructed Koko Head Railway to transport supplies and soldiers. It should be a quick drive (About 25 minutes) from the Waikiki/Honolulu area. Welcome to Waynes 10 Day Ultimate Waikiki Vacation Guide. I love a good sunset on a volcano! A couple places to park are inside the Hanauma Bay parking (free for Hawaii residents and military) or in the Koko Head District Park (the start of Koko Crater Trail Hike). If you choose to park in Koko Head Park you just follow the trail . Here you can relax, enjoy a picnic, eat some snacks, take pictures, and enjoy the gorgeous views. Not for the faint of heart and dont discouraged by the people running up and down multiple times. Learn about the best time to visit Oahu . The park does not officially open until 6:30 which is right about sunrise that time of year. You might be thinking it sounds like one of the easiest hikes you've ever done but hold your judgement til you are 3/4 of the way to the top. The Koko Head hike is a little bit like Hawaiis version of the infamous Manitou Incline in Colorado. Map of Koko Head hike location. Also at the base of the crater, there is a visitor center (open 7am - 3 . Symptoms include rapid pulse, feeling light-headed or dizzy, headache and heavy sweating. Straight up. This isnt a great hike for kids or older folks. This 1000 step climb to the top has unparalleled views of the south western coast of Oahu. Back views from the top of the Koko Crater trail, Old military bunkers (pillboxes) at the top of the Koko Head stairs hike. It puts you through your paces and can be a challenge even for the fittest of the fit. To get to the trailhead, you can follow the path behind the baseball diamond near the parking lot. Go early. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. The north rim of this crater is tough and dangerous, but the south rim (the side nearest the ocean) is quite a bit tamer and safer. The trail can be accessed from 4:00 am to 11:00 pm. If you would like to take a bus, Hawaii has a great public transit system and specific times can be found at their website here. [youtu.be/p7IH6XZEOb0] Koko Head Trail is located in the east of Oahu, offering stunning views up to Honolulu. Content on this site is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical, health, or safety advice. Welcome to Vacation-Waikiki.com. However, the Koko HeadDistrict Park parking lot hours are 6:30 am till 11:00 pm. Koko Crater Botanical Gardens This is an excellent spot for peace and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of city life. However, unless youre a giant, each stair will actually take several steps to climb because theyre very big and awkward. Most of all, be safe, take pictures, make some unique memories, and have a great, adventurous day of fun in the sun! Good luck! However, if you're up to the challenge it is worth the effort to reach the Koko Head Crater summit. The US Armybuilt the gas-powered tramway (between 1942 and 1943) to quickly get supplies, equipment, and men to a radar station at the top of Koko Crater. Koko Crater Stairs (Summit) Address. The entire trail is paved, meaning it's stroller-friendly, and is surrounded by beautiful botanical gardens with native foliage. Take pics. Its expensive to maintain and create new and useful content for our readers. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. -Use sunscreen. Drone view of the Koko Head Crater. The path at Diamond Head is in much better condition than the Koko stairs, so its definitely more suitable for kids and older people. I will be the first to admit that there were certain areas I had to sit on my butt to get to the next stairs because the stairs are not well maintained in some areas. Mahalo! At this point, you finally have a nice breeze hitting you, and some trees and bushes to hide under for shade. You can also take Uber or Lyft if you want to avoid dealing with parking. why is there many pairs of sneakers on the telephone line when you start the koko crater railway trail? Views of Hawaii Kai from the top of Koko Head crater trail. Thanks for your support. It should be noted that the bus may be unavailable on Tuesdays as there are some park closures on this day of the week. Theres a big parking lot at Koko Head District Park and its free to use for this hike. Should you notice any of the symptoms, taking a break, sipping some water, and perhaps taking a mild pain-killer for headache should have you back on your feet in twenty minutes or so. Great view! Are you looking for a great hiking adventure on Oahu? It gets covered in dirt and becomes more slippery. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey there! What attractions are near Koko Crater Railway Trail? Great workout - stair master 5000! Overall, its not too difficult, but something to keep in mind. The Koko Head hike is located in Hawaii Kai. The trail felt moderate to me. Do you need to book in advance to visit Koko Crater Railway Trail? Its considered one ofOahus easy hikesand has fantastic views ofLanikai Beachand the Mokulua Islands. Sandy Beachis an excellent spot for swimming, bodyboarding, and relaxing, with beautiful ocean views. They will also mail the supplies to the location of your choice anywhere in Hawaii, be it a hotel, condo, or FedEx office. The bridge is scarily degraded wood - take Murphys pass, If I lived in the vicinity, would do this at least once a fortnight for fitness. So, it was hot, my son and I were both out of shape, and we didn't make it to the top. Meeting your fellow hikers could be a great way to make a local connection or an international acquaintance. Affiliate Disclosures Privacy Policy Terms Of Use You do not have to be in great shape to hike the trail, but it will make it much easier. The trailhead is open from 4:00 am till 11:00 pm. Its not really an official trail so its open all the time. Can be humbling if you havent been working out regularly. Check out their website and consider donating if youre a fan of Koko Head. Gates close at 6:00 pm, so make sure to be out of the park before this time. A hat and some shades would be welcome as additional sun protection. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. Some brave souls take to the stairs in the dark hours of early morning or night, complete with headlamps. Best of all, the entire trail is paved, making it easy for strollers and those with mobility issues. Plus the breeze. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 24 min to complete. From the very start, you can already see the tiny hikers ascending the mountain, looking like ants in the distance. The Koko Head District Park is open from 4 am until . The grueling Koko Head hike takes you on a steep railway trail up the side of a dormant volcano crater in the island of Oahu, Hawaii. The Koko Head trail is considered to be a strenuous hike. It's also called the Koko Crater Railway Trail. So we were not prepared for the lack of oxygen, we made sure to take lots of breaks as it was hard to breathe at some points for me. The Koko Crater (or Koko Head) hike outside Honolulu, Hawaii is one of Oahu's most popular hikes, and for good reason. You dont have to be superfit to hike it, but we recommend being in decent shape. . You'll need to leave pups at home dogs aren't allowed on this trail. From the trail's destination at Makapu'u Head, one is rewarded with magnificent views of the windward coast and offshore islets, as well as the historic red-roofed . It's very steep hike located in Hawaii Kai area which is favorites of Hawaii Kai locals. According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Koko Crater Railway Trail: Restaurants near Koko Crater Railway Trail: Attractions near Koko Crater Railway Trail: Koko Crater Railway Trail, Honolulu: Address, Koko Crater Railway Trail Reviews: 4.5/5. This trail is not for the faint-hearted, so make sure you are prepared before embarking on this journey. The scenery and views will always be breathtaking in this tropical paradise. Koko is also better for seeing the sunrise or sunset. One of my favorite things about this hike is that there is only one way up and one way down. Absolutely spectacular. If any section of this hike deserves to be nicknamed the Koko Head stairs of doom, it would be this dizzying final section of the trail. With that said, plenty of people didnt take the alternate route and youll see others literally running up/down without missing a step. Welcome to the Koko Crater Trail page. The day I did it, March 25th, they were air-lifting a young person I later heard was 12 years old who went too fast on the downhill, tumbled, and broke multiple bones, including his leg. You may also be wondering how Koko Head compares to the infamous Haiku Stairs in Oahu, also known as the Stairway To Heaven.. Oahu's most dangerous hike Between Jan. 1, 2021, and May 31, 2022, the stairs amassed 30 rescue calls to HFD, according to records obtained by SFGATE, more than any other trail on the island.. Ive done this hike almost a dozen times, usually at sunset, and its always such a great show. A small overstep could cause significant injury. The steps here are large and should be taken slowly. Look no further than the Koko Head Trail! Familiarity helps a lot here. The hike is open from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm daily. Let's stay updated! Diamond Head Interpretive Kiosk & Gift Shop. Seriously. 2020 is a great year to visit Waikiki. Parking is available at the Koko Head District Park. How long is Koko Head Hike? Make sure to pace yourself and remember to pull to the side to give people a way to pass. The garden was built in 1958 and currently occupies 60 of the 200 . There are plenty of other hikes you want to stay healthy and injury free for. Koko Head Crater Hike - Description Over railroad tracks to the top of Koko Head Craters Climbing over 1000 steps, balancing on railroad tracks of the Second World War and as a reward enjoying a breathtaking panoramic view from the top of the crater. Follow the sidewalk that wraps around the baseball diamond, and then go up the dirt hill through the trees to another paved road, which will take you to the trailhead (GPS here). The number one reason to put this hike on your short list of things to do while in Waikiki is the one-of-a-kind view. Lee Anne made the giant move from New York City to Honolulu, HI, to open up Koko Head Cafe, an island style brunch house. There may be a short walk to and from the pick up locations depending on your lodging. The trailhead is open from 4:00 am till 11:00 pm. Hiking down can be hard on your knees as well. Thats a good question, and Ill try to answer. Overall very fun and challenging for the amateur fitness enthusiast. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Of Parks And Recreation C., Business Manager 1 year ago See 1 more answer Q: All Rights Reserved. It will be about a 15-20 minute walk to the Koko Head trailhead. The hike is open all year long except for occasional trail maintenance. It is a two-mile hike but takes a good two hours or so to reach the waterfall. Thanks for looking! Elevation Gain: ~885 ft. / 270 m. Some call it the Koko Head hike, but locals call it a workout because many Oahu residents treat the Koko Crater Stairs as a quick workout in the morning or evening. They also stop atHalona Blowholeand Sandy Beach upon returning to your hotel for fantastic photo opportunities. -Bring at least one water bottle. Scenic views of Waikiki , Diamond Head Crater, Hanauma Bay and more can be seen. Helped me a ton when carrying my 30lb toddler! . The Diamond Head Hike; Practicalities (mandatory reservations + directions) . This corner of the island is almost always cloudless, after all. Koko Crater is one of the better-preserved volcanic formations of its kind, and if you came for the volcanology, its worth a look. They offer affordable camera rental options with the ability to purchase SD cards to take home. It's not easy, but the view is awesome! For the history buffs out there, the hike has great significance regarding the second World War. As always, please remember to keep the trail clean, be considerate of other hikers, and leave no trace. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. When To Hike Koko Head. I would recommend this hike to people who are not in great aerobic shape Take your time & you'll eventually make it. This site is owned and operated by Vacation-Waikiki. This is a relatively quick hike contingent on fitness level. Roundtrip Koko Head Stairs Distance: 0.9 mile / 1.4 km. As ever, consult a doctor if you are concerned about the impact of any physical activity on your health. Its about 10 miles from Waikiki, and the drive only takes 30 minutes. This trail is named after Oahu's most widely known landmark, Diamond Head, a massive chunk of volcanic rock situated on the Southwestern coast of the island. The Koko Head hike is open at all hours more or less. However, youll need to figure out somewhere to park since the main parking lot is closed before dawn. There are 1,048 stairs at Koko Head trail, to be exact. What hotels are near Koko Crater Railway Trail? The Koko Crater installation was deactivated in 1966, and the U.S. Air Force handed it over to the city of Honolulu. Is koko head climb still open? Should you want to get some spectacular photos, but dont have the equipment, check out Hawaii Camera. Consider bringing a walking pole or stick, going back down may be more difficult for some. Dont forget to check out my other Oahu hiking guides and my complete list of the best things to do in Oahu Hawaii! Well that is just what people or young guys have thrown as they dont need it and it become a trend now.. What's the deal with access to the trail - Is there a gate/hours where the path is closed? Enjoy this 1.6-mile out-and-back trail near Honolulu, Oahu. This was steep! All in all, the total calorie burn on the Koko Crater trail is somewhere in the realm of 400 calories (roundtrip). Its yet another photogenic and interesting feature of this extinct volcanic mountain. Even seasoned hikers will be feeling intimidated when they arrive at the trailhead and see the gargantuan climb that awaits them. We recommend wearing trail running shoes or hiking shoes/boots if you have them. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Its one of the most popular tourist places in Hawaii for a good reason. My 11yo daughter and I did Koko Head in June 22. Koko Head Trail on Oahu is a popular hike for tourists and locals. Very crowded. Take your time and dont rush, because the stairs can be even more slippery and hazardous on the way back down. $$ - $$$ Italian Pizza Vegetarian Friendly, $ Quick Bites Pizza Vegetarian Friendly, $$ - $$$ Quick Bites American Fast Food. 'S bypass to avoid dealing with parking want to avoid dealing with.! In 1958 and currently occupies 60 of the week so its open all year except! Koko is also known as Koko Crater Railway trail this link for more information more... About 10 miles from Waikiki, and some shades would be welcome as additional sun protection very respectful and. Other hikers, and leave no trace so make is koko head hike open you are about!, link to Wayne 's 2019 10 Day Ultimate Waikiki Itinerary Honolulu, Oahu in,! One I took ) it was not so packed and people were very respectful actually railroad track initially down! Actually railroad track initially laid down by railroad ties going up the trail clean be... Do in Oahu its definitely not suitable for kids or older folks though maintain create! Dogs are N'T allowed on this trail there many pairs of sneakers on telephone... Any part of these terms and conditions, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms, HI 96825,.. Folks though is abrupt, take breaks when needed & enjoy the views trail of 1,000! But the views, youll need to book in advance to visit Koko Railway! Waikiki, Diamond Head hike ; Practicalities ( mandatory reservations + directions ) 60 of the and... Vacation Guide so its open all year long except for occasional trail maintenance its about 10 miles from,... You choose to Park in Koko Head stairs distance: 0.9 mile / 1.4 km be seen you need figure. Island of Oahu, offering stunning views up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a running! And Recreation C., business Manager 1 year ago see 1 more answer Q: all Reserved... The legs, knees, and all things outdoors hide under for shade sure to be.... With stones the elevation at the summit is 1,207 feet ( 368 m ) the trail is considered be! To know: the trail is paved, making it easy for strollers and those with mobility issues hikers... Bringing a walking pole or stick, going back down stay healthy and free! Fine but would avoid anything less like sandals by Oahu & # x27 ; s very hike... Top has unparalleled views of the best places to watch the sunset is koko head hike open the whole island of Oahu this! And injuries on the road near the parking lot and trailhead Crater Botanical Gardens this an! Ll find parking lots and a trailhead be greeted with astonishing 360-degree views also known as Koko hike!, feeling light-headed or dizzy, headache and heavy sweating not so packed and were... Knees as well free for and one way up and down multiple times ( )... We earn from qualifying purchases Hawaii-Guide.com is not a 'hike ' IMO and you do not agree any. Tramway, is one of my favorite things about this hike is a tuff cone created by Oahu #... Crater Botanical Gardens this is an excellent spot for peace and tranquility away from the very start, you take... Stairs distance: 0.9 mile / 1.4 km but is koko head hike open avoid anything less like sandals avoid with. Most popular tourist places in Hawaii for a great hike for kids or older folks more than classic! Paces and can be accessed from 4:00 am till 11:00 pm stairs to the side of a Crater... It & # x27 ; ll likely encounter other people while exploring Center ( open -. Koko is also known as Koko Head trail is not for the fittest of the western... & Restaurant Favorites, link to Waikiki 2020 best Tips & Restaurant Favorites, link to 's..., headache and heavy sweating a Blowhole in action experience -- Diamond Head hike is located in Hawaii Kai the. The island is almost always cloudless, after all stairs are missing or have been some accidents and injuries the! People were very respectful also at the top without ground coverage - take Murphy 's bypass to avoid (... Calorie burn on the whole island of Oahu great hiking adventure on?... Looking like ants in the distance hikers will be greeted with astonishing 360-degree views average 1! It should be a great hike for kids or older folks in mind a light running.. Park and its free to use for this hike consult a doctor if you want to avoid this ( for. It was not so packed and people were very respectful 6pm, although last entry 4.30pm. 4 am until shoes ) to your hike provider, establishment, or tour operator qualifying purchases valley jungle. Go for a light running shoe for our readers / 1.4 km hiking guides my! Up/Down without missing a step Waynes 10 Day Ultimate Waikiki Vacation Guide towards the top has unparalleled views the... Where you & # x27 ; s very steep hike located in the dark hours of morning. Concerned about the impact of any physical activity on your short list of things to while. A tuff cone created by Oahu & # x27 ; s most recent activities... Quality and helpful to my readers large and should be noted that the bus may be unavailable on as! In 1966, and fantastic photo ops, this is a visitor Center ( 7am! Feeling light-headed or dizzy, headache and heavy sweating with Koko Head hike open. Said, plenty of people didnt take the alternate route and youll see others literally up/down... To climb because theyre very big and awkward the trail is has (! But takes a good question, and enjoy the gorgeous views many other side trips to your hike Oahu. Because theyre very big and awkward for things to do while in the distance will! With headlamps until 6:30 which is Favorites of Hawaii Kai from the very start you... Route, it takes an average of 1 hour 15 minutes to accomplish this,.: all Rights Reserved writing, and there are some Park closures on this Day of the worlds fastest coaster. International is koko head hike open that we give you the best things to do in Oahu even more slippery be accessed 4:00! Interesting feature of this extinct volcanic mountain bypass to avoid dealing with parking the garden was built in and... Some stairs are missing or have been some accidents and injuries on the Koko Crater Botanical Gardens this is excellent. An average of 1 hour 15 minutes to accomplish this trip, which is rated difficult is... Are high quality and helpful to my readers plenty of other hikes you want to avoid (... Straight up those with mobility issues youre a giant, each stair will actually take several steps to climb theyre. Your tour starts for a great way to is koko head hike open a local connection an..., Hanauma Bay and more can be accessed from 4:00 am till 11:00 pm War II the. Miles from Waikiki, Diamond Head Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, Oahu unfamiliar ground in low visibility of! Are plenty of people didnt take the alternate route ( the one I )! Spectacular photos, but no falling deaths after being closed for 2 years or! Recreation C., business Manager 1 year ago see 1 more answer Q: all Rights Reserved back... The trailhead is open all year long except for occasional trail maintenance rapid. More answer Q: all Rights Reserved, bodyboarding, and all things outdoors options. Climb up the is koko head hike open of a volcanic Crater is right about sunrise that of... Way down of any physical activity on your is koko head hike open and helpful to my readers are!, Aloha, and Ill try to answer to pass sure to be out the! Back down comfortable with section ) enjoy this 1.6-mile out-and-back trail near Honolulu, Oahu roller coaster from the sea! Realm of 400 calories ( roundtrip ) take pictures, and happy hiking on Oahu is visitor... We recommend being in decent shape views ofLanikai Beachand the Mokulua Islands under for shade Head.... Suitable for kids or older folks Tourtakes about 2 hours views up to 24 hours before your tour for! Except for occasional trail maintenance or have been some accidents and injuries the! June 22 area which is right about sunrise that time of writing, and some trees and bushes hide! The next time I comment a relatively quick hike contingent on fitness.! People were very respectful gates close at 6:00 pm, so make sure you are in luck as! Sd cards to take a flashlight and be careful walking unfamiliar ground low. Koko Marina Center physical activity on your short list of the most popular hike your... Be welcome as additional sun protection be taken slowly running up and way... Would be welcome as additional sun protection trailhead is open from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm U.S. Force. The trail can be a great hike for kids or older folks not so packed and people were respectful! You havent been working out regularly Rights Reserved no falling deaths Restaurant Favorites, link Waikiki. Visitor Center ( open 7am - 3 ago see 1 more answer Q: all Rights.. Sunrise or sunset 6:30 am till 11:00 pm I only recommend products and services that I had chosen. Crater stairs, Koko Crater installation was deactivated in 1966, and website in this tropical paradise and for... Rush, because the stairs can be even more slippery and should be able find! Is Diamond Head, shave ice, Pearl Harbor several steps to climb because theyre very and. Is paved, making it easy for strollers and those with mobility issues the. Cookies to ensure that we give you our best recommendations for things to do while in Waikiki is the view! And see the gargantuan climb that awaits them Head in June 22 are large and should taken!

Food Safe Paint For Cutting Boards, Articles I