17+ Best Oahu Sunrise Hikes & Oahu Sunrise Locations: 2024 ✅✅

Ready to explore the top sunrise hikes in Oahu, Hawaii? You’re in for a treat!

Oahu, a gorgeous Hawaiian island, is famous for its breathtaking scenery—lush green mountains, clear waters, and unforgettable sunsets.

But hold on! Don’t underestimate Oahu’s sunrise magic. Imagine the sun slowly rising, turning the sky into a masterpiece of gold, orange, and pink hues.

Now, we get it—waking up early on vacation isn’t everyone’s idea of fun. Yet, thanks to time differences and jet lag, most mainland visitors find themselves up early anyway. So, why not seize the moment, grab a coffee, and get a head start to avoid the crowds?

In this guide, we’ll unveil the ultimate sunrise hikes in Oahu, taking you through each trail and highlighting the breathtaking views you won’t want to miss.

Not an early bird or not a fan of hiking? No worries! We’ve got you covered with info on easily accessible viewpoints that require little to no hiking but offer fantastic sunrise panoramas. Get ready to witness the magic of Oahu’s dawn! 

Sunrise on Oahu

Ready for an adventure to uncover the finest sunrise hikes in Oahu, Hawaii? Well, you’re in for a treat!

Oahu, a stunning Hawaiian island, is renowned for its captivating landscapes, vibrant green mountains, and crystal clear waters.

While Oahu’s sunsets are legendary, let’s not overlook the equally breathtaking sunrises! Imagine the sun gracefully ascending above the horizon, painting the sky with hues of gold, orange, and pink.

Now, waking up early on vacation might not sound like a blast, but thanks to time differences and jet lag, most visitors from the continental United States will find themselves up early anyway.

So, why not seize the opportunity, grab a cup of coffee, kickstart your day, and beat the crowds?

In this piece, we’ll unveil the top sunrise hikes in Oahu, guiding you through each trail and vividly describing the scenic views you’ll encounter along the way.

Not an early riser or not keen on hiking? No worries! We’ve got you covered with details on beautiful viewpoints that are easily accessible, requiring little to no hiking. These spots are definitely worth a visit to witness some vibrant and colorful sunrises.

What time is sunrise on Oahu?

During the summer, the sunrise on Oahu graces the sky between 5:45 am to 6:15 am. In the winter, you can catch the enchanting sunrise between 6:45 am to 7:15 am. 

What time should you be ready to watch the sunrise on Oahu?

For the perfect experience, aim to be at your chosen sunrise spot in Oahu at least 30 minutes before the magical moment. Around 20 minutes before sunrise, keep an eye out for the eastern horizon transforming into a mesmerizing golden orange if the conditions are just right.

During the civil twilight (when the sun is less than 6 degrees below the horizon), you might be treated to stunning hues of beautiful blue colors. 

The 4 Best Sunrise Hikes in Oahu, Hawaii: MustDo Hikes

Discover the top 4 sunrise hikes in Oahu:

1. Lanikai Pillbox Hike (Kaiwa Ridge Trail)

2. Diamond Head Summit Hike

3. Makapuu Lighthouse Hike (Kaiwi Scenic Shoreline Trail)

4. Koko Head Hike (Koko Crater Tramway)

These initial four hikes are iconic must do’s in Oahu. They boast breathtaking views and are ideal for sunrise enthusiasts.

Keep in mind that these popular hikes tend to get very crowded during the day, making parking a real challenge. However, if you aim to catch the sunrise, plan to start your hike approximately an hour before the sun begins its magical ascent.

Map of the 13 Best Sunrise Hikes in Oahu

Explore the map below to pinpoint the exact locations of the 13 best sunrise hikes in Oahu, complete with trail details. Additionally, it highlights the four best spots where you can enjoy a stunning sunrise without hiking.

1. Lanikai Pillbox Hike Trail (aka Kaiwa Ridge Trail)

Embark on the Lanikai Pillbox trail hike, a premier Oahu sunrise experience. The trail leads you up a ridge, offering panoramic views of the stunning Lanikai Beach and the Mokulua Islands as the sun paints the sky in hues of gold and pink.

As you trek, you’ll encounter two historic military pillboxes—World War II concrete bunkers turned observational posts—adding a touch of history to your journey and providing spectacular vantage points.

The trail begins in the upscale Lanikai neighborhood, starting from Ka’elepulu Drive, just across from the MidPacific Country Club. Since there’s no designated parking lot, you’ll need to find street parking in the nearby residential area.

Quick Facts | sunrise hikes

•  Distance: 1.5 miles round trip (out and back)
•  Difficulty: Medium
•  Elevation gain: 625 feet
•  Petfriendly: Yes, dogs must be leashed
•  Family Friendly: Yes, but not recommended for young children or the older people

The Hike | sunrise hikes

Embark on the Lanikai Pillbox trail hike, starting with a challenging ascent up a dirt path featuring loose rocks and gravel. The initial 10 yards prove to be the steepest and most demanding part of the hike, contributing to its medium difficulty rating.

Once past the steep climb, the trail transforms, offering breathtaking views of Lanikai Beach and the Mokulua Islands. On clear days, you’ll be treated to vistas of Kailua Beach, Waimanalo Beach, Kaneohe Bay, Chinaman’s Hat, and Makapu’u Lighthouse in the distance.

Around 20 to 30 minutes into the hike along the ridge, you’ll encounter the first pillbox, adorned with graffiti. Here, soak in panoramic ocean views and capture some memorable photos. For those seeking more, continue for another 10 minutes to reach the second pillbox. While many hikers turn back at this point, the truly adventurous press on.

Witness the sun rising behind the Mokulua Islands, creating a spectacular sight that makes your early morning hike truly worthwhile. Begin the hike about an hour before sunrise, ensuring you reach the first pillbox just in time to see the sky light up with vibrant colors.

The prime spots to witness the sunrise are from either of the pillboxes or any vantage point along the east facing ridge.

Read Also: Kaneohe Sandbar

2. Diamond Head Summit Hike Trail (aka Le’ahi Summit Trail)

Embark on the iconic Diamond Head Summit Trail on Oahu’s south shore, leading you to the top of Diamond Head, a dormant volcano that took shape over half a million years ago.

From the summit, relish breathtaking views of Waikiki, Honolulu, and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Making your way through the Diamond Head Trail stands out as one of the best activities to experience in Oahu!

The trail kicks off from the parking lot nestled inside the crater, accessible via Diamond Head Road between Makapu’u Avenue and 18th Avenue. For nonHawaiian residents, there’s an entrance fee (currently $10 per car) to access the Diamond Head State Monument Park, with gates opening at 6:00 am. Don’t forget, reservations are a must.

Quick Facts

• Details for the Diamond Head Summit Trail:
•  Distance: 1.9 miles round trip, out and back
•  Difficulty: Easy
•  Elevation gain: 515 feet
•  Petfriendly: No pets allowed
•  Family Friendly: Yes

The Hike

Embark on the Diamond Head sunrise hike, commencing with a paved path that gently ascends along the crater wall. Keep an eye out for native plants and birds like the koa haole, ilima, and the red vented bulbul.

Around 0.6 miles into the hike, you’ll encounter a long, narrow, and well lit tunnel, spanning about 225 feet. This leads you to a concrete staircase with 99 steps.

From the top of the stairs, relish panoramic views of the south shore of Oahu and capture some stunning photos. To reach the highest point of the summit, follow a brief trail to another set of stairs with 76 steps.

At the summit, witness the sun rising behind the Koolau Mountains over Waikiki and Honolulu, creating a spectacular, colorful spectacle. The prime sunrise viewpoints are from either of the bunkers or any spot along the summit facing east.

3. Makapuu Lighthouse Hike Trail (aka Kaiwi Scenic Shoreline Trail)

Embark on the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail, situated on Oahu’s southeastern coast, renowned as one of the island’s most sought after sunrise hikes. This trail leads you to the historic redroofed Makapu‘u Lighthouse and an observation deck, treating you to breathtaking views of the ocean, the windward coast, and offshore islets serving as wildlife sanctuaries.

Commencing from the parking lot off Kalanianaole Highway (Hwy 72) near the Hawaii Kai Golf Course, the hike offers a spectacular journey. There’s no entrance fee for the park or the trail.

If you prefer not to drive to the trailhead, you can explore a shuttle service that conveniently gets you there just in time for sunrise.

Quick Facts

• Details for the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail:
•  Distance: 2.5 miles round trip
•  Difficulty: Easy
•  Elevation gain: 505 feet
•  Petfriendly: Yes, but must be on a leash
•  Family Friendly: Yes

The Hike

Embark on the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail hike, an excellent choice for families. The journey begins with a wide and smooth paved path that gently ascends along the hillside, offering glimpses of native plants and birds like the naupaka kahakai, ilima papa, and the red crested cardinal.

Approximately 0.6 miles into the hike, you’ll reach a lookout point equipped with a telescope. This allows you to spot and identify whales migrating through the area from November to May. Keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles, and seals in the water.

For those wishing to reach the lighthouse, continue along the path for another 0.6 miles until you reach another lookout point with a fence. From here, you’ll have a view of the Makapuu Lighthouse on your right and Makapuu Beach on your left.

While the lighthouse itself is off limits to visitors, you can admire it from a distance.

As the sun rises from behind Rabbit Island (Manana Island) over Makapuu Point and Makapuu Beach, it paints the sky with vibrant colors. The best viewpoints to witness the sunrise are from either of the lookout points or anywhere along the path facing east.

4. Koko Head Hike Trail (aka Koko Crater Tramway)

Embark on the Koko Head Hike Trail, a renowned tourist destination that involves conquering over 1000 steps to reach the top of the Koko Head volcanic crater. At the summit, revel in panoramic views of Honolulu, Hanauma Bay, Sandy Beach, and Diamond Head.

This hike is a favorite among fitness enthusiasts seeking a calorie burning workout, and personally, my top choice for a sunrise hike when I crave a good workout!

The trail is situated in the Koko Crater Regional Park, starting from the parking lot off Kealahou Street, near the Hawaii Kai Golf Course. There’s no entrance fee for the park or the trail.

While the trail is accessible 24/7, the main parking lot opens at 6:30 am. If you arrive earlier, you can look for street parking.

Quick Facts

• Details for the Koko Head Hike Trail:
•  Distance: 1.6 miles round trip
•  Difficulty: Hard
•  Elevation gain: 885 feet
•  Petfriendly: Yes, but must be on a leash
•  Family Friendly: Yes, but not suitable for young children or theolder people

The Hike

Embark on the Koko Head Hike Trail, beginning with a flat and easy dirt path guiding you to the base of the railway track. Here starts the real challenge.

Climb over 1,000 steps made of wooden ties that vary in height and distance, some of which are broken or missing, creating gaps to jump over or avoid. The steps are steep and uneven, demanding caution and stamina.

About halfway up, you’ll encounter a bridge section with no ground beneath about 50 steps. While this may be intimidating, there’s an alternative dirt path on the right side to bypass this section. However, be cautious as this path is also steep and slippery.

Postbridge, the trail continues with a steep incline up the railway track until you reach the top of the Koko Head crater. Enjoy breathtaking views of the south shore of Oahu and beyond, along with a glimpse of the crater’s interior and the botanical garden below.

As the sun rises over Koko Head and Koko Beach, behind Rabbit Island (Manana Island) and Makapuu Point, you’re treated to a spectacular sunrise. The best vantage points to witness this amazing event are from anywhere along the summit facing east.

The Next 9 Best Oahu Sunrise Hikes: Enjoyable Optional Hikes

If you find yourself with extra time in Oahu after completing the four must do hikes mentioned earlier, we’ve compiled a list of lesser known hikes that offer incredible sunrise views!

5. Mau’umae Hike Trail (aka Wilhelmina Rise Trail)

Explore the lesser known Mau’umae Trail, providing a stunning sunrise experience. This beautiful ridge trail hike offers fantastic views throughout, showcasing Kaneohe Bay, Kailua Beach, Kaau Crater, Honolulu, Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean.

As you traverse the trail, you’ll reach two cinder cones featuring grassy summits, each offering magnificent perspectives. Witness a beautiful sunrise over Kailua Beach, making this hike a hidden gem for those seeking a unique and picturesque morning adventure.

Quick Facts

Details for the Mau’umae Trail:

•  Distance: 6.8 miles round trip (outandback)
•  Difficulty: Hard
•  Elevation gain: 2,854 feet
•  Petfriendly: Yes
•  Family Friendly: No
•  Trailhead: Maunalani Circle, near Wilhelmina Rise
•  Parking: Street parking

This less crowded hike provides the perfect opportunity to relish a stunning sunrise over the Ka’au Crater and Koko Head in a serene and peaceful setting.

6. Crouching Lion Hike Trail

Embark on the Crouching Lion Hike, a short and thrilling trail on Oahu’s northeast side renowned for its stunning sunrises. Starting near the town of Kaaawa (close to Kualoa Ranch and Chinaman’s Hat), the trail leads to a rocky outcrop resembling a crouching lion—hence the name. From here, you’ll enjoy the best views of the mountains, jungle, Kahana Bay, and Chinaman’s Hat.

As the sun rises over Kahana Bay and the picturesque Kaaawa valley, the scenery is truly breathtaking.

Quick Facts

•  Distance: 0.5 miles (0.8 km) round trip
•  Difficulty: Easy to moderate
•  Elevation gain: 300 feet (90 m)
•  Petfriendly: Yes
•  Family Friendly: Yes
•  Trailhead: Off Kamehameha Highway (Hwy 83) near Swanzy Beach Park
•  Parking: Small parking lot

This hike provides a wonderful opportunity for both pet friendly and family friendly outdoor enjoyment with its accessible trail and spectacular sunrise views.

7. Hanauma Bay Ridge Hike Trail

Embark on the Hanauma Bay Ridge Trail, a short and easy hike on Oahu’s southeast side that leads you to a hilltop offering breathtaking views of the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. This crescent shaped bay, formed by a volcanic crater, is now a marine sanctuary.

This trail holds a special place in my heart as one of my favorite sunrise hikes, thanks to the stunning views from the hilltop. As the sun rises over Hanauma Bay and Koko Head, it creates a spectacular, colorful display over these iconic landmarks.

Quick Facts

•  Distance: 0.8 miles (1.3 km) round trip
•  Difficulty: Easy
•  Elevation gain: 200 feet (60 m)
•  Petfriendly: Yes
•  Family Friendly: Yes
•  Trailhead: Off Kamehameha Highway (Hwy 72) near Koko Head Regional Park
•  Parking: Small parking lot

This trail promises a delightful experience for both pet friendly outings and family friendly adventures, with its manageable trail and magnificent sunrise views.

8. Ehukai Pillbox Hike Trail (aka Banzai Pipeline Pillbox Hike)

Embark on the Ehukai Pillbox Hike, one of the premier sunrise hikes on Oahu’s north shore. The first pillbox treats you to beautiful views of the Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach. As you progress to the second pillbox, the views become even more spectacular, encompassing Kaena Point and Waimea Bay.

Quick Facts

•  Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km) round trip
•  Difficulty: Easy
•  Elevation gain: 300 feet (90 m)
•  Petfriendly: Yes
•  Family Friendly: Yes
•  Trailhead: Off Kamehameha Highway (Hwy 83) near Sunset Beach Elementary
•  Parking: Small parking lot

This hike promises an enjoyable experience for both pets and families, with its easy trail and captivating sunrise views of Oahu’s north shore.

9. Kaena Point Hike Trail

Explore the Kaena Point Trail, a distinctive hike along the coastline leading to Oahu’s westernmost point. Unlike most sunrise points on the east coast or elevated locations, this long and easy trail offers stunning views of the ocean and mountains on both sides.

Quick Facts

 Distance: 6.1 miles (9.8 km) round trip from the south side; 10 miles (16 km) round trip from the north side

•  Difficulty: Easy
•  Elevation gain: 488 feet (149 m) from the south side; 656 feet (200 m) from the north side
•  Petfriendly: No
•  Family Friendly: Yes
•  Trailhead: Off Farrington Highway (Hwy 93) near Keawaula Beach (south side) or Camp Erdan (north side)
•  Parking: Small parking lots

While most sunrise spots are on the east coast or elevated areas, the Kaena Point Trail offers a unique experience with its spectacular views along the western coastline. Witness a mesmerizing sunrise from behind Kaena Point, adding to the allure of this family friendly trail. 

10. Kuliouou Hike Trail

Embark on the Kuliouou Hike located on Oahu’s southeast side, offering a medium difficulty trek through the lush forests of Kuliouou Valley, one of the most picturesque valleys in Oahu. The summit, Puu Kanehoalani, is a rocky outcrop with a flat top, providing excellent views of Hawaii Kai, Waimanalo Bay, Kailua Bay, Kaneohe Bay, Kaena Point, Waimea Bay, Diamond Head, and more.

Quick Facts

•  Distance: 4.7 miles (7.6 km) round trip
•  Difficulty: Moderate
•  Elevation gain: 1,650 feet (500 m)
•  Petfriendly: Yes
•  Family Friendly: Yes
•  Trailhead: Off Kalaau Road near Kuliouou Road
•  Parking: Small parking lot

Experience a beautiful sunrise over the Windward Coast and the Koolau Mountains, adding to the allure of this pet friendly and family friendly hike. Capture breathtaking views along the Kuliouou Ridge Trail Hike in Oahu, Hawaii. 

#11. Kahekili Ridge Hike Trail

Embark on the challenging Kahekili Ridge Hike, designed for seasoned hikers seeking rewarding views along Oahu’s east coast. This steep and rocky ridge hike offers breathtaking perspectives of Kualoa, Chinaman’s Hat, and Kahana Bay.

Quick Facts

•  Distance: 2.9 miles (4.7 km) round trip
•  Difficulty: Hard
•  Elevation gain: 1,774 feet (540 m)
•  Petfriendly: No
•  Family Friendly: No
•  Trailhead: Off Kamehameha Highway (Hwy 83) near Swanzy Beach Park
•  Parking: Small parking area

While not suitable for pets or families, this challenging hike promises an extraordinary sunrise experience over two major Oahu landmarks: Kualoa and Chinaman’s Hat. Capture the beauty of the morning atop Kahekili Ridge. 

Read Also: Best Mai Tais in Waikiki

12. Olomana Three Peaks Hike Trail, Oahu

Embark on the captivating yet perilous Olomana Three Peaks Hike, one of the most stunning trails on Oahu. With many steep sections, it’s considered dangerous, and numerous hikers opt to conclude their journey at the first or second peak. Nevertheless, the views and sunrise from the first peak are truly amazing!

Quick Facts

•  Distance: 4.6 miles (7.4 km) round trip
•  Difficulty: Hard
•  Elevation gain: 1,794 feet (547 m)
•  Petfriendly: No
•  Family Friendly: No
•  Trailhead: Off Auloa Road near Maunawili Road
•  Parking: Small parking lot

While not suitable for pets or families, the sunrise over Kailua and Kaneohe Bay from the first peak is nothing short of spectacular. Capture the beauty of the morning atop the Three Peaks  Olomana Trail. 

13. Pali Notches Hike Trail

Embark on the exhilarating yet perilous Pali Notches Hike, a short journey on Oahu’s central side and one of the most treacherous hikes on the island. Positioned near the center, this hike offers panoramic and beautiful views along the ridge, but caution is advised due to steep drop offs.

Quick Facts

•  Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km) round trip
•  Difficulty: Hard
•  Elevation gain: 472 feet (144 m)
•  Petfriendly: No
•  Family Friendly: No
•  Trailhead: Off Pali Highway (Hwy 61) near the Pali Lookout
•  Parking: Small parking area

While not suitable for pets or families, the sunrise over Honolulu and Diamond Head from the second notch is simply spectacular. Capture the breathtaking beauty of the morning on the Pali Notches Hike. 

Summary Table of the 13 Best Sunrise Hikes in Oahu

Here’s a quick summary of the best sunrise hikes in Oahu:

Trail Name	Trailhead Location	Distance (Round Trip)	Difficulty	Elevation Gain
Lanikai Pillbox Trail	Kailua, Oahu, Hawaii	2.4 miles	Easy	500 ft
Ehukai Pillbox Trail	Haleiwa, Oahu, Hawaii	2.4 miles	Easy	500 ft
Kaena Point Trail	Waianae, Oahu, Hawaii	5.8 miles	Easy	200 ft
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail	Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii	2.8 miles	Easy	500 ft
Diamond Head Summit Trail	Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii	1.8 miles	Easy	560 ft
Hanauma Bay Ridge Trail	Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii	4.4 miles	Moderate	1,500 ft
Mau’umae Trail	Waialua, Oahu, Hawaii	3.8 miles	Moderate	1,500 ft
Crouching Lion Trail	Kaaawa, Oahu, Hawaii	2.2 miles	Moderate	1,000 ft
Kahekili Ridge Trail	Kaneohe, Oahu, Hawaii	5.3 miles	Difficult	2,402 ft
Kuliouou Trail	Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii	5.5 miles	Difficult	2,220 ft
Olomana Three Peaks Trail	Kailua, Oahu, Hawaii	4.5 miles	Difficult	1,643 ft
Koko Head Crater Trail	Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii	1.8 miles	Difficult	1,048 ft
Pali Notches Trail	Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii	5.2 miles	Difficult	2,624 ft

Important Tips for Oahu Sunrise Hikers

Here’s a checklist for what we always do before a sunrise hike in Oahu:

Before the Hike:

1. Pack essentials: Bring plenty of water and snacks since most trails lack facilities.

2. Protect yourself: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection, especially on the way back.

3. Footwear matters: Wear sturdy hiking shoes with a good grip, as trails can be slippery and uneven.

4. Illuminate the path: Carry a fully charged headlamp or flashlight for safety and visibility in the dark.

5. Dress appropriately: Bring warm layers as it can be chilly before dawn, and some trails can be very windy.

6. Stay connected: Ensure your cell phone is fully charged; use the AllTrails app for maps as cell reception may be spotty.

7. Bug repellent: Depending on the season, consider using bug repellent.

Planning and During the Hike:

1. Early start: Oahu hikes get crowded during peak season, so arrive early for parking and to avoid crowds.

2. Optimal start time: Begin roughly an hour before sunrise, around 6:45 am – 7:15 am in winter and 5:45 am – 6:30 am in summer.

3. Reservations: Check if the hike requires reservations for parking or entry, and make them in advance.

4. Respect neighborhoods: Many hikes require parking in residential areas; respect residents and avoid blocking driveways.

5. Be cautious: Watch for steep drop offs along the trail edges and be mindful of potentially dangerous elements like sharp pillbox edges.

Happy hiking, and enjoy the sunrise views in Oahu!

Best Oahu Sunrise Locations (Watch Without Hiking)

If waking up 12 hours before sunrise for a hike isn’t your thing, no worries – we’ve got you covered!

Alternative Sunrise Views:

You can still enjoy stunning sunrise views from various accessible points along the east coast and specific areas of the south shore. Since the sun rises in the east, these viewpoints offer a beautiful experience with just a short car drive. If you’re staying on the east coast of Oahu, even better!

No hiking required – just hop in your car and enjoy the sunrise!

Sandy Beach Park

Sandy Beach Park, located on Oahu’s southeast side, is renowned for its powerful waves, attracting surfers worldwide. While its currents make it one of the island’s most challenging beaches, you can safely enjoy breathtaking sunrises behind Kaena Point and Makapuu Point.

Experience the magic of dawn over Sandy Beach in Oahu.

Kualoa Beach

Kualoa Beach, a tranquil spot on Oahu’s windward side, offers serene views of Mokolii Island (Chinaman’s Hat) and the majestic Koolau Mountains. Catch beautiful sunrises illuminating Chinaman’s Hat and Makapuu Point from this peaceful beach.

Witness stunning sunrise moments at Kualoa Beach Park in Kaaawa, Oahu.

Tantalus Lookout

A short drive from Honolulu, Tantalus Lookout provides a panoramic view of the city, from downtown to Waikiki, with Diamond Head crater, Pearl Harbor, and the Koolau Mountains in the backdrop. Known for frequent rainbows, Tantalus Lookout showcases vibrant sunrises behind Diamond Head.

Capture the sunrise spectacle from Tantalus Lookout near Honolulu, Oahu.

China Walls

Situated on Oahu’s southeast side, China Walls is a unique park with lava rock ledges resembling the Great Wall of China. The park offers stunning vistas of Diamond Head crater, Koko Head crater, Koolau Mountains, Honolulu skyline, and the Pacific Ocean. Arrive an hour before sunrise to witness the spectacular colors in the sky and the sun emerging behind Koko Head and Makapuu Point.

Experience the magic of sunrise at China Walls in Oahu.

Sunrise Hikes in Oahu: FAQ

Where is the best place to watch the sunrise on Oahu?

The premier location for observing the sunrise on Oahu is at the second pillbox on the Lanikai Pillbox hike. The sunrise and panoramic views from this vantage point are truly spectacular. This hike is relatively short and family friendly, making it an accessible choice for all.

Experience the breathtaking sunrise from the second pillbox on the Lanikai Pillbox hike.

What is the best place for sunrise on Oahu (without hiking)?

Sandy Beach Park is considered the optimal location for experiencing the sunrise on Oahu. The stunning views and vibrant colors during sunrise make it a captivating and memorable experience.

Discover the beauty of the sunrise at Sandy Beach Park, Oahu.

Can you hike Makapuu Lighthouse for sunrise?

Certainly! Yes, the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail is popular as a sunrise hike. It typically takes roughly 30 minutes to hike up, so it’s important to plan accordingly to catch the beautiful sunrise.

Experience the scenic sunrise at Makapuu Lighthouse Trail, Oahu.

Is it safe to hike before sunrise on Oahu?

For the most part, hiking in Oahu is safe. Since predawn hikes are in the dark, it’s advisable to have a headlamp or flashlight for the trail.

Most trails mentioned above are popular, and you will see other hikers on the trail. However, hiking in a group is always preferred!

Sunrise Hikes On Oahu, Hawai: Memories for a Lifetime

From easy, family friendly hikes like the Lanikai Pillbox Hike and Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail to more challenging adventures like the Crouching Lion Hike and Koko Head Crater Trail, there’s a sunrise hike in Oahu for everyone.

Don’t want to get up that early? You can still drive to beautiful viewpoints like Sandy Beach Park or the Tantalus Lookout and watch amazing sunrises with little or no hiking!

Book a Guided Oahu Hiking Adventure!

Excited about hiking in Oahu but haven’t hiked in Hawaii before? This guided hiking adventure is a great way to get started.

It’s customizable to your interests and abilities, and a local guide that’s familiar with the terrain will accompany you. Plus, roundtrip transport is included.

You can pick two short hikes or a longer hike, and your guide can suggest specific hikes if you don’t know which ones you want to try.

Best Oahu Tours

Have you booked these popular Oahu tours and excursions yet?

Love snorkeling? This Turtle Canyon snorkeling excursion from Waikiki lets you frolic with colorful fish and Hawaiian green sea turtles. Hands down the MOST BOOKED Oahu snorkeling tour: turtle sightings are guaranteed!

The most popular luau in Oahu, Paradise Cove Luau, has a 4.5 rating on Viator with over 3.5K reviews. The tour includes pickup from your Waikiki hotel, pre dinner games, arts, and crafts, a delicious meal, and an award winning show.

Based in Waikiki but want to see more of the island? This fullday Oahu Circle Island Tour includes Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Haleiwa, the Dole Plantation, and more!

Pay your respects at the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor! This popular Pearl Harbor tour includes boat tickets and roundtrip transport from Waikiki.

A super popular Oahu North Shore excursion, this Oahu shark cage dive allows you to observe wild sharks in the open ocean from the safety of a cage! It’s a THRILLING Oahu adventure for your bucket list.

We have a detailed guide to the top Oahu tours and excursions if you are in the midst of planning your itinerary for the island.

Renting a Car in Oahu

If you want to explore more of the island of Oahu on your vacation, you should get a rental car.

Oahu’s popular attractions are spread over the island: the windward coast, the North Shore, and Ko Olina are great places to explore beyond Waikiki (or the greater Honolulu area).

While Oahu does have public transport options that are better than the other islands, a car offers a lot more flexibility and time savings.

We always use Discover Cars to book Oahu car rentals. They search across a variety of rental car companies, both budget and brand, to offer you the best deals, AND they offer free cancellations. Plus, there are no hidden fees.If you want to explore more of the island of Oahu on your vacation, you should get a rental car.

Oahu’s popular attractions are spread over the island: the windward coast, the North Shore, and Ko Olina are great places to explore beyond Waikiki (or the greater Honolulu area).

While Oahu does have public transport options that are better than the other islands, a car offers a lot more flexibility and time savings.

We always use Discover Cars to book Oahu car rentals. They search across a variety of rental car companies, both budget and brand, to offer you the best deals, AND they offer free cancellations. Plus, there are no hidden fees.

Honolulu Airport Hotel Shuttle

If you are not planning to get a rental car at Honolulu Airport, consider booking shuttle transport in advance!

This shared shuttle can be canceled up to 24 hours from the date of service. It serves hotels in Waikiki and Honolulu and then back again to the airport the day you leave. It’s convenient and inexpensive, and saves time and hassle!

Where to Stay in Oahu

Honolulu (Waikiki) offers a large number of hotels and resorts, along with shopping and dining options. Most visitors to Oahu choose to base in Honolulu at least for a part of their stay.

While many of the large chains have a presence if you are looking to use your memberships, Honolulu also has several unique boutiques to consider.

Our faves include Halekulani for a splurge stay, the Lotus Honolulu for views of Diamond Head, and The Laylow for its awesome location.

Want more room to spread out or looking to stay elsewhere on Oahu? You will find VRBO listings all over the island!

On previous trips to Oahu, we have stayed in VRBO rentals in Waikiki as well as on the North Shore and the east coast and we’ve found the choice and quality great.

More Oahu Travel Inspiration

Planning a trip to Oahu? Check out our other indepth Oahu travel guides for help finalizing your Oahu itinerary!

Start by discovering the best things to do in Oahu. We also have a detailed guide to Oahu’s North Shore, a roundup of things to do on the east side of Oahu, and the best things to do in Ko Olina, on the west coast of the island.

Of course, you’ll want to learn about all the exciting things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital, and Waikiki, the touristic core of Oahu.

We also have a guide to the best beaches in Oahu, and a roundup of the must visit Oahu waterfalls.

Pearl Harbor

Oahu is home to so many must visit landmarks! Check out our in depth article on how to visit Pearl Harbor, and our guides on the beautiful Waimea Valley in Oahu and the spectacular ByodoIn Temple.

Want to enjoy the thrill of observing sharks in the wild? Check out our article on shark cage diving on Oahu’s North Shore!

Discover the top places to go snorkeling in west Oahu, where you will find a long coastline with lovely beaches, and tips for snorkeling Kaneohe Sandbar on the island’s east coast.

And if you love marine life, also check out our complete guide to (respectfully!) see and swim with dolphins in Oahu, and the best spots to snorkel with turtles in Oahu.

For hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, we have a roundup of the best Oahu hikes, and if you are looking to exclude the harder Oahu trails, a guide to the best easy Oahu hikes.

Find out how to do the iconic (and VERY popular) Diamond Head Hike near Waikiki for exceptional views. We also have a guide to the very popular Manoa Falls Trail in Honolulu.

More advanced hikers will want to read up on the Koko Head Hike, a long set of stairs leading to expansive views.

Learn where to go for the best sunsets in Oahu, whether you want to hike or enjoy watching a colorful Hawaiian sunset without working up a sweat.

We also have a guide to the best sunrise hikes in Oahu, one of which is the spectacular Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail in the southeastern part of the island. The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is another wonderful sunrise hike on Oahu!