The best running trails in Honolulu County

Lace up your shoes for the Lei of Parks Trail, a moderate 3.7-mile (6.0 km) jogging route that offers a refreshing escape through Honolulu's urban green spaces. You'll gain a gentle 95 feet (29 metres) in elevation, making it a comfortable 37-minute run. As you jog, the route gracefully winds alongside the Ala Moana Canal, connecting several distinct parks. Keep an eye out for the Lookout - Magic Island Lagoon, which provides expansive views during your workout. The pathways are generally separated and safe, ensuring a pleasant and uninterrupted experience.

The Lei of Parks Trail is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a comfortable mix of dedicated bike lanes and well-maintained park pathways. This makes the route suitable for joggers of all ages and abilities. Parking is typically available within the connected parks, offering convenient access points for you to begin your jog. Consider starting your run early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

This route stands out for its ability to seamlessly blend natural park environments with vibrant city views, offering diverse scenery throughout your jog. It provides a unique opportunity to explore Honolulu's commitment to urban green spaces, linking various recreational areas into one cohesive path. The trail's design allows you to experience both the tranquility of the parks and the dynamic backdrop of the city.

Embark on a refreshing jogging experience along the Ala Wai Park Trail, a moderate 3.9 miles (6.3 km) route that offers a pleasant escape from the city. As you follow the path, you will gain a gentle 69 feet (21 metres) in elevation, a journey that typically takes around 39 minutes to complete. You will enjoy picturesque waterside views, often seeing paddlers in their outrigger canoes, with lush coconut and plumeria trees lining parts of your way. In the distance, the majestic Hawaiian mountains provide a stunning backdrop, creating a serene atmosphere for your run.

This trail features a mostly paved surface, alternating between asphalt and cement sidewalk, making it accessible and suitable for various fitness levels. Its convenient location just north of Waikiki Beach positions it as a popular spot for local runners and a great option if you are looking for jogging routes in Ala Wai, Honolulu. You can easily connect to Ala Wai Park, which includes a running track, or extend your run to the nearby Kapiolani Park for a longer workout.

The Ala Wai Park Trail follows the scenic Ala Wai Canal path, offering a unique urban oasis where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Hawaii. The canal itself is an important waterway, and the surrounding park area serves as a vital green space for the community. This route provides a distinct perspective of Honolulu, blending the city's vibrant energy with tranquil waterside views and distant mountain vistas, making it a notable choice for an active outing.

Embark on the Diamond Head loop from Waikiki for a challenging jogging experience that blends urban scenery with natural beauty. This difficult route spans 9.8 miles (15.8 km) and includes a significant elevation gain of 746 feet (227 metres). You can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 45 minutes, enjoying impressive perspectives of the Diamond Head crater as you circle its base.

If you plan to include the Diamond Head Summit Trail, remember that non-Hawaii residents need advance reservations for both park entry and parking. To avoid crowds, consider starting your jog early, ideally when the gates open at 6:00 a.m. Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed within Diamond Head State Monument.

This route offers a unique opportunity to see Honolulu and Oʻahu's South Shore from a different vantage point. The journey culminates at the Diamond Head (Lēʻahi) Summit Viewpoint, where you are rewarded with sweeping vistas of the surrounding area. It's a rewarding workout for advanced runners looking for a diverse and scenic path.

The Aiea Loop Trail offers a moderate jogging experience through lush, emerald scenery. You will find yourself under a vibrant canopy of trees, including fragrant lemon eucalyptus and native koa, creating a refreshing atmosphere. This 4.5 miles (7.2 km) route involves a gain of 805 feet (245 metres) in elevation, typically taking about 53 minutes to complete. As you jog, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Koolau Range, the H-3 Highway, and Halawa Valley. About halfway through, a scenic overlook provides excellent photo opportunities of Pearl Harbor and Oahu's southern coastline, making it a rewarding stop.

Planning your visit to the Aiea Loop Trail is straightforward, as the trailhead is conveniently located within Keaīwa Heiau State Recreation Area. You will find free parking and restrooms available at the start of the route. The main gate opens daily at 7:00 AM and closes promptly at 6:45 PM. To ensure you have ample time to complete the 53-minute jog and exit before closing, it is advisable to begin your activity no later than 4:00 PM. This timing allows for a relaxed pace and enjoyment of the surroundings without rushing.

This popular Oahu trail is situated within the Keaīwa Heiau State Recreation Area, offering more than just a workout. The varied terrain keeps the jogging engaging, and the opportunity to spot native bird species adds to the natural appeal. The trail's location provides a unique perspective on the island's landscape, blending natural beauty with glimpses of significant landmarks. It is a well-regarded option for those seeking a moderate physical challenge combined with scenic rewards.

Enjoy a refreshing jogging experience along the O‘ahu coastline with the South Lanikai via Kailua Beach loop. This moderate route covers 3.9 miles (6.3 km) and includes a gentle elevation gain of 115 feet (35 metres), making it a perfect quick workout that takes about 39 minutes to complete. As you jog, you will pass through charming beachy residential areas and enjoy stunning ocean vistas, with the iconic twin Mokulua Islands often visible offshore from Lanikai Beach.

For your convenience, it is best to begin this loop at Kailua Beach Park. This park offers ample parking, which can be limited in the nearby Lanikai residential area. Additionally, Kailua Beach Park provides useful amenities such as restrooms and showers, which are not available directly at Lanikai Beach, ensuring a more comfortable start and finish to your run.

This route offers a unique opportunity to jog between two of O‘ahu's most celebrated coastal gems. You will experience the powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters of Lanikai Beach, alongside the equally beautiful Kailua Beach, known for its long stretch of fine white sand and gentle waves. It is a popular choice for those looking to combine a pleasant jog with some of the island's most picturesque scenery.

Start your jogging adventure on the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail, a moderate route that spans 2.7 miles (4.4 km) with an elevation gain of 476 feet (145 metres). You can expect to complete this paved journey in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect quick workout. As you move along, continuous panoramic ocean views unfold, showcasing Oʻahu's southeastern coastline and the distinct profiles of Koko Head and Koko Crater. The historic red-roofed Makapuʻu Lighthouse stands as a prominent landmark against the deep blue sea, guiding your way. This trail offers a refreshing experience with expansive vistas at every turn.

When planning your visit to the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail, remember that the route is entirely paved and well-maintained, but it offers very little shade. This means you should prepare for significant sun exposure, especially during warmer months when the paved surface can radiate heat. Always bring plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout your jogging session. Parking is generally available right at the trailhead, making access straightforward for most visitors.

Beyond the scenic views, the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail offers a unique opportunity to observe wildlife. The offshore islets visible from the trail serve as vital sanctuaries for various species. During the winter months, typically from November to May, keep a keen eye on the ocean; you might spot migrating humpback whales making their journey through these waters. This blend of natural beauty and potential wildlife sightings makes the trail a standout experience on Oʻahu.

Embark on a moderate jogging route along the Ka'ena Point Trail North Shore, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean as you wind through coastal dunes and dramatic lava shorelines. This 5.6-mile (9.0 km) journey involves 135 feet (41 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete. The rugged peaks of the Wai'anae Range provide a stunning backdrop, leading you to the ecological haven at Ka'ena Point Natural Area Reserve.

When planning your visit, be aware that the entire trail is exposed to the sun, making it hot and windy; always bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. Closed-toe shoes are highly recommended to navigate the rocky and uneven ground found in certain sections of the path. The North Shore access point is generally considered the easier and flatter starting option for this coastal adventure.

This trail culminates at the westernmost tip of Oʻahu, a protected area where you might encounter unique wildlife. The Ka'ena Point Natural Area Reserve is home to various seabirds, including the Laysan albatross, and it is also a known habitat for Hawaiian monk seals. This makes the route not just a scenic jog, but also an opportunity to experience a significant natural reserve.

Prepare for a challenging jogging experience on the Kalāwahine Trail to Manoa Cliff Trail loop, a difficult 6.9-mile (11.1 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 31 minutes to complete. You will gain 1674 feet (510 metres) as you navigate through dense tropical rainforest. The trail winds beneath a canopy of native trees like mamake and koa, offering a true immersion in nature. Expect a mix of terrain, from the generally flatter Kalāwahine Trail to the Manoa Cliff Trail's moderately steep dirt paths, which are often covered in roots and can be narrow. A unique feature you'll encounter are the 'bamboo hallways' on the Manoa Cliff Trail, where dense bamboo stalks form enchanting tunnels.

Before you head out, be aware that the terrain on this loop can be quite technical, with roots, narrow sections, and potential mud, particularly on the Manoa Cliff Trail. While some parts might allow for a steady jog, maintaining a consistent running pace throughout the entire loop demands good physical condition and careful footing. Parking is generally available at Round Top Forest Reserve, but it is always a good idea to arrive early, especially if you plan to visit on a weekend, to ensure you find a spot.

This route is ideal for experienced joggers seeking a rigorous workout amidst lush scenery. As you move through the valleys, you will be treated to stunning views of Manoa, Pauoa, and Nu'uanu, with occasional glimpses of Honolulu and Waikiki in the distance. The combination of significant elevation changes and the immersive rainforest environment makes this loop a standout option for those looking to challenge themselves in nature.

Embark on a moderate jogging experience with the Schofield Barracks loop, a 5.7 miles (9.2 km) route designed for a steady pace. You'll navigate a largely paved surface, gaining 171 feet (52 metres) in elevation over an estimated 56 minutes. The trail offers a unique blend of scenery, with views of the majestic Waianae Mountain range accompanying you as you run.

Before you plan your visit to the Schofield Barracks loop, it is crucial to verify the specific access requirements. If you are not a Department of Defense cardholder, you will likely need to obtain a visitor pass to enter the military installation. Confirming these entry procedures in advance will help ensure a smooth and uninterrupted jogging experience on the base.

This route provides a distinctive opportunity to jog through an area rich in history, passing by the historic Schofield Barracks and Wheeler Army Airfield. The presence of these sites adds a unique historical context to your workout, setting it apart from typical trails. It's a chance to combine your fitness routine with a glimpse into a significant part of the island's past.