Peace, Love, and Aloha

Did you celebrate National Trails Day on Saturday!? I did by checking a brand new hike off my list! The Ehukai Pillbox has now taken second place behind Crouching Lion on my favorite hikes on Oahu. Located on the North Shore of Oahu this hike will not disappoint you in a good workout, good views, or good vibes. 

To start, you will want to park in one of two places: either the Sunset Elementary School Parking Lot or the Banzai Pipeline Beach Parking lot. I was so turned around where this trail was I made us park at Sunset Beach and walk...oops! So to avoid the extra mile like us, park at Pipeline or the school! The trail head is in the Sunset Elementary School Parking lot on the left hand side when facing the mountains. 

The trail starts off super flat and on a well marked path. It will take you through various trees and you will feel the humidity kick in as you get deeper in the forest. I made us where tennis shoes because I was unsure of the trail conditions but after completing this hike it can easily be done in slippers!

Once you break from the condensed forest, you will meet the hill! This climb is veryyy steep so please go slow and take lots of breaks if needed. I am fairly in shape and I was huffing and puffing my way up! But not to be discouraged - small kids were still making it up here! So truly I think this trail is for any age, as long as you're motivated! 

To help with the climb there is various ropes and steps along the trail. The steps are here to help us but also help the trail fight erosion! So PLEASE use the steps, even when it is tempting to go around them. In the long run, using the steps will help our trail be usable for years to come. The ropes are extremely secure so please use them - I think it helped! 

After the major incline you will be rewarded with the halfway point. The picnic table isn't as much of a table anymore as it is a landmark. Please be respectful while on our trails! 

After the halfway point you will make it to the first pillbox - now you see why this trail is full of good vibes! There is a ton of posititivy on this pillbox and it really just made the mood so good. Everyone was happy to make it to the top and see the increadable views. 

You can freely wonder around or in the Pillboxes. It is super neat to admire all the art and graffiti but please do not add any more to it! Enjoying the view from on top of the pillbox and inside is highly recommended. 

To get to the second pillbox you will have to hike down on the right hand side. It may seem silly to go down but trust me it is the right way! You will be rewarded with some of the best views of north shore I have ever seen. 

Be careful getting on and off the Pillbox as there is a small gap. There was someone leaving as we got there and he was so kind to take our photo! I was geeking out at these views. 

What is your favorite Oahu hike?

pin gallery

how to get here

warning

Please bring plenty of water and small snacks on this hike. The steep incline is very steep and maybe considered strenuous activity if not properly prepared. Make sure to always bring your trash out and any other trash you see on the trail. Go slow and hold on to the ropes provided for extra help. Please stay on the trail.