Family Travel Tracks

One of the most easily recognizable landmarks in Oahu, and Hawaii in general, Diamond Head is a dormant volcano that offers a fairly straightforward trail with great views of Waikiki and the surrounding area. If you are not kama'aina, a Hawaii resident, then you will have to make a reservation for entry and parking. You can do so at the state website here . It is one of the first trails we did with our older daughter, and, at 3 years old, she regularly completes it without any assistance from us! The beginning of the trail is paved but a constant incline The trailhead and parking area offer water fountains and bathrooms as well as a small store. The trail itself starts off fairly easy and paved with a slight incline that does increase the closer you get to the summit. Once you reach the base of the crater, the trail changes from paved to a rockier path along a series of switchbacks. Trail on the switchbacks At the end of the switchbacks you will find the first viewpoint immediately...

Over the years we have done quite a few hikes on Oahu and I am going to share one of my favorites you can do with kids. View of Makapu'u Lighthouse About a 30 minute drive from Waikiki, the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse trail is one of the few you can do with a stroller, and I have seen quite a few people do it. It is about 2 miles in length but might be longer depending on where you parked. The trail is fully paved but a constant incline from the start so make sure to bring plenty of water. There are about 25 steps at the end if you are trying to go to the top of the lookout which offers beautiful views of the coastline below. During winter, it is also a great place if you are trying to whale watch and they can often be spotted with or without binoculars.  Section of the trail The trail itself offers a few areas to stop and sit on a bench along the trail but very little coverage so please be warned in the summer it gets HOT. I highly suggest starting this hike early, which will al...