The Story of This Abandoned Place in Kailua, Hawaii Is Truly Fascinating

One of the best things about living in Hawaii is the ability to get out and explore our state's stunning nature no matter the time of year. If you're looking for a truly epic hike on Oahu, check out the Ka'iwa Ridge trail near the quaint town of Kailua. Not only does this trek provide hikers with jaw-dropping views of the ocean, but it also leads to the Lanikai Pillboxes, abandoned structures with a fascinating history.

Besides the pillboxes, Kailua is known for its breathtaking beach, cushioned in stunning white sand. The waves here are usually too calm for surfing, which makes this shore ideal for a serene outing with a book, a picnic, and some friends. The weekly farmers' market is also renowned for its selection of high-quality local produce, adding yet another reason to spend a weekend in this idyllic ocean-front town.

Grab something to eat at the market and head into the rugged mountainside. Though the hike along Ka'iwa Ridge is only a mile long, you'll climb 600 feet in elevation. Bring the right shoes and plenty of water, and make as many stops as you need along the way. I always find "I'm just absorbing the view" to be a fantastic excuse for catching my breath. Trust me, even if you're only climbing to reach the pillboxes, you'll be glad you snatched a moment to appreciate the breathtaking vista.

The Lanikai Pillboxes are examples of the many fortifications quickly built across Hawaii during World War II. Outposts like these were used as observation stations, allowing US military members to surveil the surrounding waters. Given the requirements for unobstructed views, they were often constructed in areas that just so happened to be tremendously beautiful, making them excellent endpoints for today's hikes. While some pillboxes housed guns, the Lanikai Pillboxes contained instruments used to determine offshore boat positions.

After World War II, the pillboxes remained abandoned for a long time. Though they were often visited by Kailua locals, they remained under the radar as a tourist destination. That changed in the 1990s when word leaked that a private landowner had proposed demolishing them to build a luxury home. The outcry was swift and instrumental in raising the public profile of these unique buildings. Hawaii's governor issued an order to protect the historical site, and hikers began pouring in to visit the now-famous Lanikai Pillboxes.

If you're interested in exploring abandoned buildings that double as the climax of an exceptional hike, I strongly recommend you visit Oahu's Lanikai Pillboxes. Though the mesmerizing views should be incentive enough, nearby Kailua is brimming with charm. Whether you're a local or just visiting, it's worth adding this unique attraction to your bucket list.