For those who like a hiking challenge, a Koko Head hike will reward hard work with a spectacular view. It is a challenge well worth undertaking while visiting Oahu, Hawaii’s most populous island. Keep in mind that it may not be for the faint of heart. Onne must be in fair physical condition for a Koko head hike.
A brief history
One of the most popular landmarks on Oahu’s South shore, Koko Head is an old tuff cone. A tuff cone is formed when a combination of magma and water erupts leaving behind steep sides and a crater floor above ground level. Koko head measures 642 feet in height which is about half the size of it’s sister tuff cone, Koko crater. From far away, the hiking trail that leads to this old tuff cone can be seen
Main attraction
For a Koko Head hike, start out early in the day to beat the island’s afternoon heat. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and take a hat, sun block, water, towel and sunglasses. Carry a camera to capture the beauty along the trail and the panoramic views from the top.
Koko Head is located off of the Kalanianole Highway near Hanauma Bay. To get there from Waikiki take Highway 1 East. Koko Crater is about a 20 minute drive from Waikiki. Park and get ready for an extreme 1.5 mile round trip hiking adventure.
The 1,048 stairs that lead to the look out point are actually old railroad ties. They were built more than 60 years ago to transport military supplies along with WWII soldiers to the lookouts at the top. With very steep stairs, there is one bridge-like section where the railroad tracks are actually above the ground. There is an easier alternative trail to the right.
There will be hikers of different levels passing by going both up and down the steep old railway trail. Some locals make this hike a regular activity. Most would advise the novice to begin the ascent to the lookouts at the top slowly. Do not make the mistake of sprinting up the first 500 steps and then burning out. It is best to take about 10-12 steps and then stop for a short break. Use the breaks to capture photos of the lush landscape along the way. Done successfully, this challenging hike will offer panoramic views of Hawaii Kai, Hanauma Bay, and Sandy Beach. The ultimate view at the top is an awesome sight of the island surrounded by the beautiful blue Pacific.
When to go
When it comes to tackling the Koko head trail, we found an early morning hike to be more enjoyable. With an early start you’ll experience less foot traffic, plus it’s easier to avoid the heat from the sun . As far as what season to go, the hike is most enjoyable around the winter, November through March, which results in lower average temperatures.
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Featured Image from Kristen Sturdivant/Unsplash
