The best walks and hikes around Hawaiian Ocean View
4.9
(11)
53
hikers
10
hikes
Hikes around Hawaiian Ocean View explore a landscape shaped by volcanic activity on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. The region is characterized by lava fields, native forests, and trails within nature reserves and national parks. Many routes offer expansive coastal views and pass through unique geological features like cinder cones and pit craters.
Best hiking trails around Hawaiian Ocean View
- The most popular hiking route is Manukā Nature Trail loop — Manukā Natural Area Reserve, Hawaiʻi Island, a 2.1 mile (3.4 km) trail that takes about 1 hour to complete. This easy loop passes through the Manukā Natural Area Reserve.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Forested Pit Crater — Kahuku Unit — Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, a moderate 4.7 mile (7.6 km) path. The trail navigates through the forested landscape of the Kahuku Unit in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Pu‘u o Lokuana Cinder Cone Trail Loop — Kahuku Unit — Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, a 2.7 mile (4.4 km) trail leading through a volcanic landscape, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Hawaiian Ocean View is defined by volcanic terrain, cinder cones, and trails through native forest. The network of routes provides options for different fitness levels, from easy loops to more moderate hikes.
- The routes in Hawaiian Ocean View are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from 10 reviews. More than 50 hikers have used komoot to explore Hawaiian Ocean View's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.7
(3)
16
hikers
3.41km
01:00
100m
100m
Hike the easy 2.1-mile Manukā Nature Trail loop through a cool Hawaiian forest, exploring lava flows and a pit crater.
5.0
(3)
12
hikers
7.56km
02:27
340m
340m
Hike the moderate 4.7-mile Pit Crater Trail in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to discover a unique forested pit crater and native rainfores
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5.0
(2)
6
hikers
4.41km
01:12
70m
70m
Hike the easy 2.7-mile Pu'u o Lokuana Trail in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park for panoramic views and historical sites.
2
hikers
11.5km
03:23
330m
330m
Hike the 7.1-mile Kona Trail Loop in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, traversing lava flows, pasturelands, and native forests.
11.6km
03:24
340m
340m
Hike the Glover Trail Loop in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, a moderate 7.2-mile route with pit craters and coastal views.
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Tips from the Community
There is a nice picnic table with an amazing view of the surrounding forest reserve. This area was acquired by purchasing a large portion of a cattle farm. The area is still being developed, but most of the trails and view here are ready to go!
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The R.O.D. gate is currently the northernmost parking area in the Kahuku Unit. Here visitors must disinfect their boots to avoid spreading Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (a disease that affects the native ʻŌhiʻa trees) within the park. All routes to the Kona Trail and Glover Trails start here with a 1.2 mile walk up the R.O.D. road. The ridgeline Pali o Ka‘eo Trail (which provides views of the coast, and Pit Crater Trail to the Forested Pit Crater are also accessible to the east of the gate.
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Manukā Nature Trail is located in the Manukā Natural Area Reserve and leads through a beautiful forest of Hawaiian plants and animals. Besides that, you will pass multiple remains of the old arboretum that was located here and is completely overgrown today. The trail doesn't include a lot of inclines, but the rugged path makes it a little more difficult, so it can be rated a moderate hike.
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Reaching Kamakapa‘a peak is a relatively easy run thanks to the flat terrain. At the summit, take in sweeping views encompassing the expansive breadth of lower Kaʻū, an exceptional panorama as your reward for the moderate ascent.
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This spur trail leads towards the Lava Flow of 1926 and deposits runners at the base of an old Ōhiʻa tree. Ōhiʻa trees are native to Hawai'i and form an important part of Hawai'ian history and culture. Its famous flowers come in shades of white, yellow, and red. The Ōhiʻa tree is a keystone species in Hawai'ian rainforests, and has evolved remarkable adaptations to thrive in harsh volcanic conditions amongst sulfuric gasses. Recently Ōhiʻa trees have been in danger from fungal diseases termed Rapid Ōhiʻa Death (R.O.D.). This is why visitors are asked to disinfect their boots before entering the northern region of the Kahuku Unit.
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The 250 foot high walls of the Forested Pit Crater have protected the flora and fauna within from ecological changes caused by ranching in Kahuku. The crater is a time capsule of the natural landscape, and harbors many unique endangered species.
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This spur trail leads towards the Lava Flow of 1926 and deposits hikers at the base of an old Ōhiʻa tree. Ōhiʻa trees are native to Hawai'i and form an important part of Hawai'ian history and culture. Its famous flowers come in shades of white, yellow, and red. The Ōhiʻa tree is a keystone species in Hawai'ian rainforests, and has evolved remarkable adaptations to thrive in harsh volcanic conditions amongst sulfuric gasses. Recently Ōhiʻa trees have been in danger from fungal diseases termed Rapid Ōhiʻa Death (R.O.D.). This is why visitors are asked to disinfect their boots before entering the northern region of the Kahuku Unit.
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The R.O.D. gate is currently the northernmost parking area in the Kahuku Unit. Here visitors must disinfect their boots to avoid spreading Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (a disease that affects the native ʻŌhiʻa trees) within the park. All routes to the Kona Trail and Glover Trails start here with a 1.2 mile walk up the R.O.D. road. The ridgeline Pali o Ka‘eo Trail (which provides views of the coast, and Pit Crater Trail to the Forested Pit Crater are also accessible to the east of the gate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Hawaiian Ocean View?
Yes, there are several easy options suitable for families. A great choice is the Pu‘u o Lokuana Cinder Cone Trail Loop in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. It's a relatively short walk that offers a fantastic introduction to the region's volcanic landscape.
What is the hiking terrain like around Hawaiian Ocean View?
The hiking is defined by its unique volcanic landscape. Expect to encounter trails that cross ancient lava fields, pass by cinder cones, and wind through native forests. Many routes offer expansive, panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, which gives the area its name.
Can I find circular or loop hikes in the area?
Absolutely. Many trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. For a longer, more challenging loop, consider the Kona Trail Loop, which provides an immersive experience in the Kahuku Unit of the national park.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?
Regulations for dogs can vary significantly, especially within national parks and nature reserves. In the Kahuku Unit of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, pets are generally not permitted on the trails to protect the native ecosystem. Always check the specific rules for any trail before you go.
What should I pack for a hike in Hawaiian Ocean View?
Sturdy hiking shoes are essential for navigating the uneven, rocky lava terrain. Bring plenty of water, as many trails are exposed with little shade. Sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, is crucial. It's also wise to pack a light rain jacket, as weather can change quickly.
Where can I hike to see volcanic craters?
The Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is the best place for this. The Forested Pit Crater trail is a moderate hike that leads you through a lush landscape to a large, collapsed volcanic crater, offering a dramatic glimpse into the island's geological history.
How many hiking trails are available near Hawaiian Ocean View?
There are about 10 curated hiking routes available, split evenly between easy and moderate difficulty. These trails explore the area's diverse environments, from the Manukā Natural Area Reserve to the expansive Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this region?
The trails around Hawaiian Ocean View are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the unique experience of walking across volcanic landscapes and the stunning coastal views. The trails within the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park are particularly noted for being well-maintained and offering a sense of solitude.
Tell me about the Manukā Nature Trail.
The Manukā Nature Trail loop is a short, easy walk through the Manukā Natural Area Reserve. While it offers a look into a native forest ecosystem, be aware that some hikers have found the trail to be overgrown in sections and the facilities to be basic.
Are there any very long or challenging hikes available?
Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous day out, the Glover Trail Loop is a great option. This moderate hike covers over 11 kilometers and involves significant elevation gain, rewarding fit hikers with a deep exploration of the volcanic park's backcountry.
Is it possible to hike to the coast from Hawaiian Ocean View?
While the area is named for its ocean views, direct coastal access via hiking trails is challenging. The coastline is rugged and remote. Reaching unique spots like Papakōlea Green Sand Beach typically requires a combination of driving on rough roads and a subsequent hike through arid terrain.
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