Great
Updated May 16, 4:44 PM HST
Looking strong today
Rain is possible — pack a backup plan. UV is high — sunscreen and shade recommended.
Short but steep ridge hike with loose dirt + rope-assist sections. Two pillboxes with iconic Lanikai + Mokulua views. Not for younger kids.
NWS forecast for this exact lat/lon — forecasts can change, re-check before you go.
Typical mid-day driving — add buffer for weekday rush hour.
265 Kaʻelepulu Dr, Kailua, HI 96734
Iconic shot, real hike. The first pillbox is ~0.5 mi up but the trail is loose dirt + a short rope section. Manageable for kids 8+ who are sure-footed. Younger or stroller kids should skip this and go to Makapuʻu Lighthouse instead. Parking is a residential-neighborhood headache — go early or be prepared to circle.
Many parents bail at the first pillbox (~0.5 mi up); the second is another 0.5 mi past with sketchier exposed sections. The view at #1 is already incredible — call it done there with kids. Bring sturdy shoes, NOT slippers.
Loose dirt + steep grades + rope-assist near the top = real fall risk. No water on trail. Heat exposure on the upper ridge. Recent rain makes the trail dangerously slippery — skip on wet days.
STREET PARKING ONLY in a residential neighborhood. Be respectful — don't block driveways. Lot at Mid-Pacific Country Club is private, NOT for trail use. Fills by 7 AM on weekends.
None at trailhead. Closest are at Kailua Beach Park (a 5-min drive).
Lower trail has some tree cover; upper ridge is fully exposed. The pillboxes themselves provide shade for snack breaks.
Sunrise hikes are the iconic move — 5:30–6:30 AM gets you the colors + avoids the heat. Sunset works in clear weather but you're descending in fading light.
Accessibility: Trail is loose dirt with rope-assist sections — not accessible for mobility-limited hikers.
Calm shallow reef water with the iconic Mokulua islets view — beautiful but no facilities and strict parking restrictions.
The Windward family standard — wide white sand, mostly shallow bay water, trade-wind cooling, full park facilities.