ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail
Hiking area · Pupukea ·

ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail

Hiking area · Pupukea ·

Steep hike to WWII bunkers with graffiti and summit views

great views
bring water
muddy and slippery
hiking shoes recommended
ropes to hold
ocean view
short hike
dog friendly
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null
ʻEhukai Pillbox Trail by null

Information

MX72+Q7, Haleiwa, HI 96712 Get directions

Information

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MX72+Q7, Haleiwa, HI 96712 Get directions

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Jan 29, 2026

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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.