Lanikai Pillbox 1 – Lanikai Pillbox No. 2 Viewpoint loop from Kailua
Lanikai Pillbox 1 – Lanikai Pillbox No. 2 Viewpoint loop from Kailua
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Lanikai Pillbox 1 – Lanikai Pillbox No. 2 Viewpoint loop from Kailua
01:56
6.56km
170m
Hiking
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 16, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
584 m
Alālā Point
Highlight • Viewpoint
Alāla means 'awakening' as for decades, beach houses in Lanikai were mainly used as a retreat from Honolulu. However, in the 1950s, the area began to develop into a more suburban residential area.
Tip by
642 m
Lanikai Monument
Highlight • Monument
1.33 km
Lanikai Pillbox Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
1.80 km
View from the Lanikai Pillbox Trail
Highlight • Viewpoint
1.90 km
Lanikai Pillbox 1
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
1.91 km
View of Lanikai and the Mokulua Islands
Highlight • Viewpoint
2.04 km
Lanikai Pillbox No. 2 Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
2.67 km
Highest Point on the Ridge
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
6.56 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.15 km
2.02 km
1.25 km
143 m
Surfaces
3.30 km
2.02 km
1.23 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (160 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
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Weather
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Today
Friday 3 July
28°C
23°C
26 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an easy hike with an incredibly high payoff in views, the Lanikai Pillbox 1 – Lanikai Pillbox No. 2 Viewpoint loop from Kailua delivers. This hiking route, rated easy, covers 4.1 miles (6.6 km) with 542 feet (165 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 1 hour and 56 minutes. It's a perfect choice for anyone wanting stunning panoramic vistas without committing to a full-day trek.
What to expect on Lanikai Pillbox 1 – Lanikai Pillbox No. 2 Viewpoint loop from Kailua
The trail, also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, offers a journey along a ridge with constant, breathtaking views. While the overall difficulty is easy, be prepared for an initial steep climb that can be challenging, especially with loose dirt and rocks underfoot. As you ascend, you'll be treated to expansive vistas of Lanikai Beach, its iconic turquoise waters, and the distinct Mokulua Islands. The route leads to two historic World War II concrete bunkers, or pillboxes, which serve as unique landmarks and photo opportunities, with the second pillbox offering even more space to take in the scenery. The path is mostly unshaded, so expect sun exposure throughout your hike.
Planning your visit
Parking for this popular trail is in the residential neighborhood of Kailua, so pay careful attention to signs and be respectful of residents. The trail is particularly popular for sunrise hikes, offering a spectacular start to the day as the sun illuminates the ocean and islands. Given the unshaded nature of the route, it can get hot during midday, so bring plenty of water and consider an early start.
Trail details
- Distance: 4.1 miles (6.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 542 feet (165 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 56 minutes
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