Ka'ena Point via West Side Trailhead

Ka‘ena Point South Trailhead
4.4
5 Reviews
Ka'ena Point via West Side Trailhead
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Details

Distance
5.08 miles
Elevation Gain
46 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back

Features

Bathrooms
Scenic
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About this place

Added by Andrea Thompson

Beginning at a beach with the softest sand on the island, and winding around the entire West side to the North Shore, this trail has everything you need to see on O'ahu.

The Ke'ana Point Trail winds along the shore of O'ahu from Waianae on the West to Mokuleia on the North. You'll have the chance to see monk seals and multiple species of protected birds.

To access this hike from Honolulu drive West on the H1 towards Waianae. Eventually the H1 will become Farrington Highway and you'll eventually reach Yokohama Beach where the road will end. There is a parking lot on the right hand side with a wash station and flush toilets. Parking is free, as is access to this trail.

I'd recommend taking a few moments to absorb the view from the beach before heading north along the trail. The trail starts off as a fairly wide dirt road, so it's pretty obvious when you're looking North. This hike has absolutely zero shade, none at all. Make sure you take ample sun protection and much more water than you anticipate needing. Keep in mind that you have to return out the same way you came (unless you leave another car stationed at the opposite end of the trail). After about 2.5 miles you will reach a gate indicating you are entering into a Nature Reserve. Make sure you read the signage closely and follow the rules before continuing through the double door entrance.

This hike is absolutely stunning. There are amazing ocean views along the entire trail and many spots to explore down to the shore. Be careful, of course, of wave breaks and tide changes but you can find some of the best snorkeling on the island along this shoreline. During the winter months keep your eyes open for whales breaching off the shore, it's a very popular whale and dolphin sighting spot as well!

I'd recommend planning a swim post hike at the beach! Looking to treat yourself after the hike and swim, head up to Haleiwa and hit up Matsumoto for shave ice.

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
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Sophia Morgan
2/20/2025
Beautiful, flat, and very exposed. Bring water and be prepared for the heat. It’s usually less crowded at the point, and you’ll often see ...
Good Views
Less Crowded
Easy To Park
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R Cherry
10/25/2022
Cool Bird Watching
The hike flat but lots of washed out trail sections and parallel trails running all around to the beach and inland a bit. I ...
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Gabi Robledo
2/9/2018
Pretty Hike If You're In The Area
This was a really nice way to see the west side of the island. The views from the trail don't really change so it's ...
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Miles Goad
10/17/2017
If You Like Birds And Long Walks On The Beach
It's a 2 mile walk, nothing about it is a hike. Flat dirt road that brings you to some save the birds sanctuary. ...
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Gabriela Aoun
5/28/2015
Take water it gets really hot and there is no shade on this trail. Look out for monk seals once you get to the point!
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