Location: Lanikai Pillbox Hike & Lanikai Beach, Oahu
Oahu is filled with beautiful hiking trails however many of them qualify in the ‘difficult’ category – a little above my skill / comfort level. I had read that the Lanikai Pillbox hike was one of the easier hikes that rewarded intrepid trekkers with stunning vistas. I was sold.
A 1.5 hour bus ride later and i had arrived. Lanikai is a swankier part of the island, as evidenced by the golf course directly across from the trail entrance.
I had also heard that the very start of the trail was the hardest part: a steep climb over rocks and tree roots. It’s ok, I got this.
Note the handy little ropes to help you with the incline.
Within the first 15 minutes of the hike, you’re rewarded with stunning views of the water.
The trail didn’t get easier however, the entire length is basically an upwards scramble over rocks and loose gravel.
Those that know me well know that I’m not great over uneven surfaces (I know, I know, an odd thing in my profession) and have an almost paralyzing fear of twisting my ankle while hiking downhill. I decided to bail on the hike before getting to the very top, as a safety measure of course. I couldn’t afford an injury at this point! Ok, maybe the fact that I was really hot and hungry contributed as well…. Regardless, the views all along the way were simply stunning. The photos don’t even do it justice.
Before heading back into town, I stopped at Lanikai Beach. Honestly, I have never seen water that gorgeous before. After the beautiful Swiss waters, I didn’t think I would ever see a more stunning shade of turquoise. Well, I was wrong, here it was.
Is this not one of the most beautiful beaches you’ve ever seen?
Of course, I took the opportunity while at the beach to Skype with my parents; what good is it to visit these wondrous places if you can’t ‘rub it in’ a little? 🙂
Check out the videos below to get a glimpse of the scenery!