ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail

Hiking area · Pupukea ·

ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail

Hiking area · Pupukea ·

Steep hike to WWII bunkers with graffiti and summit views

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MX72+Q7, Haleiwa, HI 96712 Get directions

@travelleisure

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Seclusion, Surf, and Shrimp on Oahu's North Shore

"I chose the Ehukai Pillbox Hike over the more crowded Lanikai trail and climbed from Sunset Elementary School up a rutted path to two World War II 'pillbox' bunkers—each decorated with pacifistic graffiti; good shoes are a must, and a rope 'banister' tied to trees helps on the steepest sections." - Gina DeCaprio Vercesi Gina DeCaprio Vercesi Gina DeCaprio Vercesi is a New York-based writer with a passion for adventure, history, and conservation. Her words and images have appeared in publications including Travel + Leisure, National Geographic Traveler, AARP The Magazine, Delta Sky, Hemispheres, and The Boston Globe. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/island-vacations/oahu-north-shore-kamehameha-highway

ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail

Aficionado M.

Google

A little slippery and muddy at the bottom, but less muddy as you hike about 1/2 way up. Well worth the hike to the top. Beautiful panoramic views at the fort at the top!!!

Brandon C.

Google

Incredible views! It’s a short trail and fairly easy, but steep shortly after entering the jungle. Ropes are there to assist. If you aren’t sure footed bring regular hiking shoes, otherwise I’ve seen plenty do it in slippers or running shoes. If you are just hitting the pillbox and coming down you probably only need a little water (1-2L), the most of the hike is in the shade. Otherwise there are some loops up there that hikers and mountain bikers use to explore the area, but the pillbox is the best view in my opinion. I like to hit this hike and walk across the street to lounge on the beach and soon after. Perfect setup to do so. Plus, there’s good local food just down the road maybe a mile. Respect the trail, don’t leave trash!

Sara T.

Google

It was a steep climb but had ropes to help and then an easy peaceful walk to the Pillbox. The abundance of roots acted as steps but also potential tripping hazards. I had to catch my breath twice and I'm in moderate shape. Definitely a good little workout with a nice view as your reward 😊

Kendrick

Google

Easy, short hike with absolutely beautiful views! The trail is well-marked and not too steep—perfect for a quick out-and-back adventure. Great for beginners or anyone looking to enjoy nature without a long trek. Ideal spot to relax, take in the scenery, and snap some photos.

Sage

Google

It’s a great hiking spot to go with your dog! It took us about 2 hours to finish because my dog needed a few rest breaks. It gets really hot, so I recommend starting around 8 a.m. if you can, and make sure to bring plenty of water!

Brandon K.

Google

A cool little hike. It was a little muddy and slippery not good for sandals but they do have ropes to hold on to for most of those parts. The nature is very nice along the trail and the view of the ocean is great. Maybe 25m hike up a little steep at parts but not very hard.

Alessandra C.

Google

Great hike. Pretty steep until the last little bit. Mostly shaded hike. If it’s rained recently it will be muddy and your shoes will be really dirty. And it will be very slippery. Would recommend going in tennis shoes, bring bug spray. We (fit 60 year old and semi fit 27 year old) got up in 25 minutes not going that fast. It was about .6 miles up. Apple Watch imagine is of the climb up. Going down takes longer. Took my mom and aunt (50-60 years old) almost an hour to come down. Parking right at the trailhead, water fountains close by.

Keven J.

Google

There's a homemade sign warning that this trail is difficult and to make sure you're prepared. Pay heed. It's definitely not a hike to do in sandals. Lots of elevation gain and unstable surfaces. The view is worth it though.

@travelleisure

28,641 Postcards · 5,542 Cities

Seclusion, Surf, and Shrimp on Oahu's North Shore

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/island-vacations/oahu-north-shore-kamehameha-highway

ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail

Aficionado M.

Google

A little slippery and muddy at the bottom, but less muddy as you hike about 1/2 way up. Well worth the hike to the top. Beautiful panoramic views at the fort at the top!!!

Brandon C.

Google

Sara T.

Google

Kendrick

Google

Sage

Google

Brandon K.

Google

Alessandra C.

Google

Keven J.

Google

ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail

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Seclusion, Surf, and Shrimp on Oahu's North Shore

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Seclusion, Surf, and Shrimp on Oahu's North Shore