Here Are The 10 Most Popular Hikes In Hawaii… And Where To Go Instead

In addition to our world-famous beaches, the Hawaiian Islands are home to countless incredible trails and hikes perfect for those of all skill levels. And while we love Oahu's Diamond Head, Maui's Pipiwai Trail, and Hawaii Island's Kilauea Iki as much as the next person, the most popular hikes in Hawaii are often far too crowded - especially on weekends and during the busy tourist seasons - to enjoy the solitude you're hoping to find by hitting the trails. If you're looking for a little more seclusion, or perhaps just an alternative to your favorite hike, here are 10 of the most popular hikes in Hawaii, and a list of which trails we recommend you visit instead.

1. Thurston Lava Tube is incredible…

...but so is Kaumana Caves.

Thurston Lava Tube is a 500-year-old lava cave within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a stunning geographic feature formed when a river of lava gradually forms walls and a ceiling, and totally worth the visit.

In comparison, Kaumana Caves is found on the Big Island near Hilo in a relatively small park without any formal supervision. It’s open 24 hours a day, and is relatively unknown. Here, you an explore approximately two miles of cave, accessed by a skylight, whereas, Thurston Lava Tube's accessible length is only 500 feet. Kaumana Caves is a clear winner!

2. The Lanikai pillboxes are crowded…

...so check out Pu’u O Hulu Kai instead.

Similar to the wildly popular Lanikai Pillbox trai, Pu’u o Hulu is located on the opposite side of the island – but still just as gorgeous, and far less crowded. Experienced climbers love to scale the rockfaces, while novices can easily climb the steep – yet short – switchbacks to the bunkers at the top. This scenic hike in Oahu is a fabulous place to spend the day.

3. Maui’s Pipiwai Trail is like a fairytale…

...but we think Twin Falls is pretty awesome.

There's little better than Maui's Pipiwai Trail, a four-mile hike that leads you on a journey through an incredible bamboo forest to two jaw-dropping waterfalls. But if you don't have time for Pipiwai - or just want to experience something new - hit up Twin Falls, a devastatingly gorgeous spot along the Hana Highway. These beautiful waterfalls are at the end of a kid-friendly hike in Maui, and well worth the stop.

4. Instead of Kauai’s Sleeping Giant…

...check out the Kuilau Trail.

Beginning on the east side of the mountain that is commonly referred to as sleeping giant, the Nounou Trail leads 1,200 feet up Nounou Mountain through a forested area, with panoramic views from the summit, which is the chest of the mythical "sleeping giant." It's gorgeous, but so is Kuilau Ridge Trail on Kauai, with sweeping vistas of Mount Wai’ale’ale and gently sloping inclines. The 3.6 mile out and back trail is moderately challenging, and perfect for an afternoon hike.

5. Hiking to the floor of Waipio Valley is stunning…

...but you might have the entire beach to yourself at Polulu Valley.

Waipio Valley is said to be one of the most gorgeous spots on the Big Island – and it definitely is, but it's often crowded. Polulu Valley Lookout, on the other side of the Pu’u O Umi Natural Area Reserve, offers some pretty stellar views as well, as well as access to a stunning black sand beach via steep hiking trail. The Polulu Valley Lookout on Hawaii is a great place to go if you want sweeping views without a lot of hiking.

6. Instead of Diamond Head…

...hike the Koko Head Stairs.

Diamond Head is overrated: crowded, noisy, and full of too many people to really enjoy the journey – or the view from the top. Though Koko Head Stairs are brutal (think more than 1,000 railway steps to the summit), the view is just as stunning, and if you get up early enough, it is one of the best spots on the island to view the sunrise. This is one of the most scenic hikes on Oahu, and well worth the strenuous trek to the top.

7. Instead of hiking through the Polipoli Spring State Reserve...

...consider hiking the Waihou Spring Loop Trail.

Located approximately 7,000 feet above sea level in Polipoli State Park is this forestis populated by redwood trees that were brought to Hawaii in the 1920s to reestablish the watershed. The popular Redwood Trail is 1.7 miles, and guides hikers through a forest of baby Redwood trees. Waihee, on the other hand, provides stellar forest views, as well as panoramic vistas of Maui and the ocean. We love this easy hike in Maui, and recommend it to anyone who is looking for a fun and easy hike.

8. The Waimea Canyon Trail is awe-inspiring…

...but so is this hike through Koke’e State Park.

The stunning andd iconic Waimea Canyon Trail is undoubtedly amazing, but so is the nearby Nualolo Trail. Located within Kauai’s Koke’e State Park is the Nualolo Trail, a largely ignored trail that offers some of the most awe-inspiring scenery on the island. This scenic hike in Kauai is hard, but well worth the effort. Be prepared to be wowed with some of the scenery you will come across along the way.

9. Kilauea Iki is iconic…

...but we adore Halema’uma’u too.

The four-mile Kilauea Iki trail – which takes hikers through lush rainforests, near active steam and sulfur vents, and across a solidified lava lake – was voted as the Big Island’s favorite scenic hiking trail by Hawaii Magazine. Basically, it's crowded, but the nearby Halema'uma'u Trail in Volcanoes National Park is less crowded, and leads you by Kilauea's most active steam vent.

10. Manoa Falls is a tourist hotspot…

...but Lulumahu Falls is more secluded.

Just miles from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu is Manoa Falls, a waterfall hike popular among tourists. For a more secluded experience, head to Lulumahu Falls on Oahu instead. You'll need a permit, as it's on private land, but it's totally worth the hassle, and the views and seclusion make it a better choice than Manoa Falls.

Which of these most popular hikes in Hawaii are your favorite? Are there any we missed? Let us know in the comments below!

Want to explore the best hiking Hawaii has to offer? Check out our ultimate Hawaii hiking bucket list. It’s a great collection of absolute gems that you must see next time you’re in Hawaii!