Honolulu isn’t just about lounging on beautiful beaches or gazing at iconic landmarks like Diamond Head. It’s also a fantastic place for hiking and trekking tours that reveal the island’s lush landscapes, waterfalls, volcanic craters, and scenic coastlines. Whether you’re after a quick stroll, a challenging climb, or a private adventure, Honolulu offers options that suit every level of experience. Among the top picks, the Hike Trail to Waterfall & Nature Walk stands out for its balance of accessible trails, stunning views, and small-group intimacy. Meanwhile, for those who want a full-day escape, the Private Bucket List Adventure Day promises a personalized exploration of some of Oahu’s most scenic spots.
For travelers with a bit of fitness and a love of natural beauty, these tours showcase the diversity of hiking experiences on Oahu. From spotting sea turtles at quiet beaches to conquering the steep steps of Koko Head, there’s a trail for every motivation level. Read on to find the perfect fit for your Hawai’i adventure.
1. Hike Trail to Waterfall & Nature Walk
Rated 4.5/5 with 279 reviews, this half-day tour combines a visit to the iconic Manoa Falls with panoramic views from Tantalus Lookout. For just $119, you’ll enjoy small-group attention with hotel pickup in Waikiki. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a manageable hike that still offers plenty of scenery and cultural insights. The hike to Manoa Falls covers lush, rainforested terrain, with the waterfall itself standing at 150 feet—Oahu’s tallest accessible cascade. The guide shares stories about the area’s history, including its connection to movies like Jurassic Park. Afterward, the group visits Puu Ualakaa State Park for sweeping views over Honolulu, Diamond Head, and Pearl Harbor. Guests praise the enthusiasm and knowledge of their guides, noting how the scenery and viewpoints make this a memorable, relaxed outing.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a manageable hike with cultural flavor and scenic vistas, all in a friendly small-group setting.
2. Private Bucket List Adventure Day- Hikes, Beaches, Waterfalls
This private tour costs $225 per person but offers unparalleled customization. Rated a perfect 5.0 based on 40 reviews, it’s designed for those wanting to skip the crowds and see Oahu’s most stunning natural spots. You might visit a waterfall like Lulumahu or Kapena, with options for cliff jumping depending on your thrill level. The tour also includes a visit to a more secluded beach, Sherwood Beach, which is favored by locals. The guide adapts the day’s itinerary based on your fitness and interests, making it ideal for adventurers craving variety. Past guests appreciate the flexibility, describing the experience as “personalized,” with guides who “know the island inside and out.”
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a tailored, full-day outdoor adventure with the comfort of private guidance.
3. Manoa Waterfall Hike From Waikiki With Healthy Lunch Included
Rated 4.5/5 with 152 reviews, this guided hike takes you through the lush Manoa Valley to its famous waterfall. For $107.10, it includes a healthy, organic lunch and hotel pickup, making it a convenient choice for a half-day exploration. The trail is easy enough for most hikers, yet packed with visual interest—moss-covered trees, tropical flora, and the chance to hear stories about the area’s use in movies and TV shows like Lost. Guides like Jason and Tomomi share insights about Hawaiian geography and botany, enriching the experience. The waterfall, featured in “Jurassic Park,” is a highlight, and guests love the relaxed pace and informative commentary.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those wanting a gentle hike with cultural and film history, plus a nourishing meal afterward.
4. Oahu: Hidden Hawaii Waterfall Hike and Beach Tour
Rated 4.9/5 from 36 reviews, this 4-hour journey combines a jungle hike to a secluded waterfall with a visit to a pristine beach. It’s perfect if you want to see places few travelers visit. The hidden waterfall is a spectacular sight, often overlooked by larger tours. After the hike, the tour finishes at one of Oahu’s most beautiful beaches, offering time for swimming, relaxing, or snapping photos. The guide shares local tips to maximize your experience and avoid crowds, making this an efficient, nature-focused option.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want to see the island’s lesser-known waterfalls and beaches in a short, intimate trip.
5. Oahu Hidden Waterfall Hike: A Tropical Paradise Adventure
Rated 5.0/5 from 24 reviews, this private hike takes you through lush Ko’olau mountains to a 35-foot (10-meter) waterfall. It costs about $92.31 per person and suits those who value personalized attention. The trail is moderate, with expert guides who teach about native plants and geology while ensuring safety. Many guests celebrate the “easy, yet rewarding” hike with guides who share stories of Hawaiian culture. The exclusive nature of this tour makes it ideal for couples, families, or small groups who want a quieter experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a private, educational trek through Hawaii’s rainforest with a scenic waterfall finale.
6. Half-Day Hiking Tour to Diamond Head and Makapuu Lighthouse
Rated 5.0/5 from 24 reviews, this combination tour offers the chance to explore two iconic landmarks in just half a day. For $70.99, you’ll hike 1.5 miles at Diamond Head and visit Makapuu Lighthouse, enjoying breathtaking coastal views. The tour provides shuttle transportation, so no fuss over parking. The Diamond Head trail ascends 560 feet, offering a taste of volcanic history, while the Makapuu hike is easier but equally scenic, with opportunities to spot whales in winter. Guests love the efficient logistics and the variety packed into a short trip.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers short on time who want to tick off two major Oahu sights in a single morning or afternoon.
7. Hike to Connect with Nature and a Power of a Huge Waterfall
Rated 5.0/5 with 18 reviews, this semi-private tour is limited to 8 people. At around $105, it offers a two-hour hike to a stunning waterfall through bamboo forests and jungle. The guide focuses on sharing the natural beauty and Hawaiian flora and fauna, making it particularly good for families or groups wanting an intimate experience. Guests describe it as a “wonderful, memorable” trip, emphasizing the personalized attention and small-group vibe. The trail is muddy and river-crossing may be involved, adding an element of adventure.
Bottom line: Great for those who prefer smaller groups and want a more personal connection to Oahu’s rainforest.
8. Oahu: Valley of Waimea Falls Swim & Hike with Lunch & Dole
Rated 4.8/5 from 29 reviews, this full-day trip combines hiking to Waimea Waterfall with swimming, plus visits to Greenworld Coffee Farm and Dole Plantation. For $134, it’s perfect for families or active travelers who love cultural stops along with outdoor fun. The hike is guided, and the waterfall swim is a major highlight. Guests appreciate the inclusion of lunch and snacks, making the day well-rounded — not just a walk in the woods but a full immersion into Oahu’s scenic and cultural life.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a mix of outdoor activity and cultural exploration with good amenities.
9. Nature Hike to Waterfall
Rated 5.0/5 from 15 reviews, this small-group tour offers a customized experience with up to 10 participants. For $198, it includes a drive up Old Pali Road and a hike to Likeke Falls, along with panoramic views of Windward Oahu. Guests rave about the personalized experience and the guide’s knowledge about plants and local history. The trail is relatively easy but rewarding, with opportunities to see sea turtles and monk seals near the beaches afterward.
Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting tailored attention and a chance to explore multiple natural spots.
10. Diamond Head Hiking Tour with Ticket and Reservation Inclusion
Rated 4.5/5 from 48 reviews, this early morning tour is perfect for beating the crowds. For only $50, it includes a guided 1.5-mile hike up Diamond Head. Starting at sunrise in November to March offers a special opportunity to see Honolulu wake up. The guide provides bottled water and flashlights for the climb, which is moderate but requires some effort. Many guests say this is the best way to experience the crater with minimal fuss.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly option for early risers eager to enjoy one of Oahu’s most iconic hikes.
11. Oahu Volcanic Rainforest Hiking Adventure
Rated 4.5/5 from 46 reviews, this 3.5-hour trek takes you through a highland rainforest with sweeping views of parallel mountain ranges. The $0 tour offers a chance to explore native flora and geology, guided by a local who shares detailed stories about the islands’ formation. Guests value the light snacks, bottled water, and hotel pickup, making it a hassle-free escape into the wild.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a moderate rainforest hike with informative commentary and scenic vistas.
12. Downhill Bike and Ko’olau Waterfall Hike Tour
Rated 4.5/5 from 45 reviews, this 6-hour tour combines biking and hiking for a full outdoor experience. For $189, it features a scenic downhill bike ride over lush rainforests and a guided 2-mile hike to a waterfall. Guests praise the professional guides and the chance to see both Manoa Valley and Waikiki from different perspectives. The tour is suitable for families and active travelers but notes that the muddy trail and occasional waiting may require some patience.
Bottom line: Excellent for those who enjoy both biking and hiking, with a focus on scenic views and natural settings.
13. Hike Koko Head’s 1,048 Steps with Ms. Hawaii for Summit Views
Rated 5.0/5 from 9 reviews, this challenging hike is best for those with good cardio or hiking experience. For $95, you climb 1,048 historic steps with Ms. Hawaii herself, reaching spectacular views of Hanauma Bay, Diamond Head, and beyond. The guided VIP experience includes personalized motivation and photos. Reviewers describe it as “challenging but rewarding,” emphasizing the supportive guide and breathtaking scenery.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers craving a tough climb with a personal touch and epic vista rewards.
14. Oahu: Manoa Falls Hike and east side beach day
Rated 4.9/5 from 10 reviews, this full-day tour combines the rainforest hike to a 300-foot waterfall with a relaxing beach day on the east coast. For $150, it’s great for families or outdoor lovers who want both adventure and downtime. Guests enjoy spotting sea turtles and monk seals, plus trying local eats at a shrimp truck. The varied itinerary ensures a well-rounded experience of Oahu’s natural and coastal scenery.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a mix of hiking and beach relaxation, with cultural and wildlife encounters.
15. Full Day Oahu Bike, Hike, Sail and Snorkel Combo
Rated 4.5/5 from 32 reviews, this 8-hour adventure is a comprehensive way to experience Oahu. For $292.14, it includes guided hiking, biking, sailing, and snorkeling. Guests enjoy exploring rainforests, snorkeling coral reefs, and relaxing on a sail along the coast with views of Diamond Head. The tour caters to families and active travelers who want a full day of diverse activities.
Bottom line: For those seeking an all-in-one outdoor experience that mixes water, land, and sea.
16. Honolulu: Hawaiian Volcanic Rainforest Hike
Rated 5.0/5 from 4 reviews, this moderate 2.5-mile hike takes you along the slopes of an ancient volcano. At $90, it offers sweeping views over Honolulu, Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, and Kailua. The guide shares insights into Hawaii’s volcanic origins, making it a compelling choice for geology buffs and nature lovers alike.
Bottom line: Good for those interested in volcanic landscapes and scenic mountain vistas without a strenuous climb.
How to Choose the Best Hiking Tour for You
When selecting a hiking or trekking tour in Honolulu, consider your fitness level, time availability, and interests. For a relaxed but scenic experience, the Hike Trail to Waterfall & Nature Walk offers a manageable pace with cultural insights. If you’re after a full-day, private adventure, the Private Bucket List Adventure Day provides flexibility and personalized stops. Budget-conscious travelers might opt for the early morning Diamond Head hike (link) for a stunning view at a lower price, while thrill-seekers who want a challenge will love the Koko Head ascent with Ms. Hawaii (link).
Also, think about logistics: some tours include hotel pickup, making your day more convenient, while others focus on exclusive, private experiences. Booking early is advised, especially for tours with limited spots or popular times like sunrise hikes.
The Sum Up
Honolulu offers a rich variety of hiking and trekking options that showcase its volcanic origins, lush rainforests, waterfalls, and scenic coastlines. Whether you want a short, scenic walk like the Hike Trail to Waterfall & Nature Walk, or an epic full-day adventure like the Private Bucket List Adventure Day, there’s something for every level and interest. For families, the Waimea Falls swim and hike provides balance, while active travelers can challenge themselves with Koko Head or Diamond Head.
With so many choices, you might want to book early—especially for the most popular hikes and private tours—to ensure your preferred date. No matter what, a day spent exploring Oahu’s stunning terrain will be a highlight of your Hawaiian vacation.