From lush forests and volcanic craters to dramatic coastal cliffs, hiking across the Hawaiian Islands offers meaningful ways for clients to experience place while honoring the land beneath their feet. Each trail is an invitation to become more present while exploring the islands’ natural beauty. For an enjoyable hike, remind clients to understand personal limits, check weather conditions, and avoid hiking alone.

Kaua‘i
For scenery of valleys and tropical forest canopies, inform travelers to visit Waimea Canyon, which plummets over 3,600 feet, stretches 14 miles, and has over 40 miles of trails across Waimea Canyon and Kōke‘e State Park. From there, invite hiking fans to Kōke‘e State Park to experience trails overlooking 4,000 acres of forest and wildflowers, with sweeping views into Kalalau Valley. To learn more about the area, clients can also visit the Kōke‘e Natural History Museum for exhibits of unique flora and maps of hiking trails and nature walks.

O‘ahu
One of the most rewarding hikes is to the crest of Lē‘ahi, also known as Diamond Head State Monument. The trail passes through World War II fortifications before reaching the 763-foot summit with breathtaking views of Waikīkī and Honolulu. Reservations are required and fees apply for hiking and parking. For a paved alternative, recommend the Makapu‘u Lighthouse Trail for breathtaking coastal views or, if visiting from December through May, possible migratory humpback whale sightings. Parking is limited, so let clients to use the designated lot or alternative transportation, and follow posted signs while staying on the trail.

Maui
Located on the northeast coastline, Pīpīwai Trail leads clients to dozens of pools fed by the streams flowing down the sides of Haleakalā, creating a miraculous sight. This arduous but truly spectacular main trail ends at the beautiful Waimoku Falls, which plunges 400 feet from a lava-rock wall. Another favorite is the Halemau‘u Trail or Keonehe‘ehe‘e (Sliding Sands) Trail, winding from Haleakalā Crater to the volcanic landscapes, where clients can see native plants, like the ‘āhinahina (silversword). An entrance fee is required for both trails.

Hawai‘i Island
Recommend a visit to Kalōpā State Recreation Area, which features an easy family nature hike in a native ‘ōhi‘a forest at 2,000-foot elevation. The trail passes through an arboretum of the island’s native plants. Nearby, ‘Akaka Falls State Park requires entry and parking fees, but offers a pleasant loop trail that guides clients through lush tropical scenery and breathtaking natural sights. The first waterfall along the paved path is the stunning Kahuna Falls, cascading 100 feet from the mountains. Next, is the dramatic ‘Akaka Falls, the tallest sheer-drop waterfall in Hawai‘i, plunging 442 feet from towering cliffs.