Conquering the Lanakai Pillbox Hike on Oahu

Conquering the Lanakai Pillbox Hike on Oahu

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike on the island of Oahu is popularly known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail. The intermediate hike is one of the most picturesque and pleasant hikes on Oahu. Lanikai Pillbox Hike is ranked intermediate because of the steady steep grade of the uphill climb right from the beginning.

The hike takes approximately one hour round trip if you hustle through it. The family and I took our time and enjoyed the views from different areas of the mountain. It took us an hour and a half because of our many stops for breaks and photo ops!

During the hike, we experienced breathtaking views of Lanikai Beach and surrounding neighborhoods on Oahu’s windward side. We were also rewarded with views of the Mokulua Islands. In the far distance, we also viewed Kaneohe Bay, Chinaman’s Hat, Waimanalo Bay, and the Makapu’u Lighthouse.

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The initial 10-yard vertical climb through thick brush seemed a little intimidating at first, but the trail opened up to glorious ocean views for miles on end.

Once we made it to the first pillbox, views from all around left us mesmerized.

The second pillbox is just a ten-minute walk from the first. I highly recommend spending the morning or the evening conquering this hike. Both pillboxes offer beautiful views and you’ll feel great about yourself once you’re done.

Be sure to pack water and sunscreen and make sure your camera is ready for photos! Another tip, make sure you wear good shoes for support and your phone is fully charged in case your camera stops working. The views are definitely those you’ll want to take home with you!

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Shannon Lazovski is known to be Michigan’s first professional fashion blogger with two decades of professional blogging and influencer experience representing and creating content for brands in the fashion, beauty, and luxury travel sectors. Shannon is also the Founder and Senior Fashion & Beauty Editor of Detroit Fashion News and the Owner & Senior Editor of the parenting blog Detroit Mommies. Shannon is also known for her local philanthropic efforts and enjoys serving the community via her nonprofit organization, Glamorous Moms Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization focusing on helping women, children, and families in need. In 2019, Shannon launched her professional-grade lipstick line, Glameselle Beauty, a vegan, cruelty-free lip brand that offers lip products named after Michigan women who inspire. Shannon has been seen on Fox 2 Detroit, WXYZ-TV Channel 7, CBS Detroit, TV20 Detroit, WDIV Local 4 Detroit, IGTV, and seen in Styleline Magazine, Metro Parent Magazine, Dedicated Magazine, Downtown Magazine, Greater Rochester Living and numerous local blogs and online publications.