Koko Crater Arch Trail image

Koko Crater Arch Trail

Tourist attraction Hiking area

👍👍 A good short hike thats off the beaten path so not crowded. How to get there: From the blow hole carpark head around the corner towards Waikiki and then over the barrier and track your own way up to the ridge. Once on the ridge the path is clear to see so head on up to you get to the arch. Once at... People often mention arch, hike, views, trail, short,


Address

Honolulu, HI 96825

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (43 reviews)

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Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: arch (24) hike (13) views (9) trail (8) short (7)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 ashlea w. 5 years ago on Google
    A good short hike thats off the beaten path so not crowded. How to get there: From the blow hole carpark head around the corner towards Waikiki and then over the barrier and track your own way up to the ridge. Once on the ridge the path is clear to see so head on up to you get to the arch. Once at the arch the brave can climb up the arch (good shoes with grip required) if not on the left of arch you can head up to go under the arch.. There is loose gravel on both the arch and under it so be careful but the views are worth it. A nice spot to sit is at bottom of arch to sit and reflex whilst watching the ocean and absorbing the beauty of Hawaii.
    11 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 J S. 3 years ago on Google
    I really enjoyed this hike. There are definitely nearby hikes with better views but this one is fun due to the arch. First you have to cross and walk a short distance on the road. Be careful but there’s a shoulder and I felt like I would not be run over. The initial jaunt up is like 30 seconds of a climb then it’s an easy walk up to the arch. I went under the arch first which I think is the best part!! It’s a little bit loose rocks but not terribly steep so doable! It took me about 30 minutes round trip and that included sitting there and enjoying the views a bit!! Beware there is no shade so go early! I think it’s definitely worth it for an easy quick hike.
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 James H. 2 years ago on Google
    Super quick hike for a huge payoff. You can actually see the arch from the Japanese fishing shrine. Went in the middle of the day so it was hot, but the wind keeps you cool. To go under the arch, I recommend taking the left route, to the left of the arch. Look for a small red-white-red ribbon on a branch and climb over the edge there to make your way up. Take your time and be deliberate about your steps at the steep area with loose soil.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 brandon d. 9 months ago on Google
    nice alternative to the much more crowded stairs hike on the other side of the crater, and this provides a more unique view from up top. only 4 parking spots along the opposite shoulder of the road, so i parked at the halona blowhole lookout and walked down to the trailhead. it's quite steep and slippery, so be careful. also bring plenty of water since there's no shade.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Diana luxuryretreathawaii Vacation Rental H. 5 years ago on Google
    This was indeed an amazing adventure! The arch was a little tricky to come down, actually I think we got lost and took a shortcut and went straight down.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael van D. 10 months ago on Google
    Steep trail with beautiful views!! I hiked up the railway stairs to Koko Peak then down this trail. The stairs are tough but don't take too long and the views from the top are well worth it. For a few parts of the ridge with a lot of exposure, I backtracked a bit a found a safer short detour trail to the right side of trail in each case. The most difficult part was the arch itself. Coming from above it was really challenging to find the side trail to climb under the arch rather than going over it (going over is very exposed and steep). On right side of trail there was a small bush with a piece of orange fluorescent tape tied around a branch. Find this and look for the next marker and make your way to it... A proper trail will become clear in a short time.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 CookieMonster31415 1 year ago on Google
    A short hike to the arch provides a unique experience and views of Koko and the shore (especially if it's windy!). The trailheads aren't marked but can be accessed across from the fishing monument at the start of either lava ridge. Both paths have a modest slope but the arch itself is steep so wear appropriate shoes if you wish to explore. Tie this with a visit to the blowhole and the nearby beach for a short excursion, or follow-up with Makapu'u Lighthouse for a solid half-day on the coast.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amy T. 4 years ago on Google
    Love it! Beautiful view! Shades under the arch to enjoy the view. Make sure to stay left side of arch when you go under the arch. It's way easier!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Leon L. 2 years ago on Google
    A little risky but worth the view. Not for kids or those scared of height
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jesus G. 1 year ago on Google
    Short but beautiful hike. I found this hike kinda dangerous when coming back, very difficult and dangerous, I won’t do do it again, luckily I am safe and done with this hike. Views are gorgeous and rewarding at the end.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dan W. 1 year ago on Google
    Take water, watch your step, and enjoy the views. Very technical hike to get under the arch.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Trey L. 1 year ago on Google
    Koko Crater Arch is a dry, rocky trail that is usually very sunny and windy

  • 5/5 Reny L. 9 months ago on Google
    The Koko Crater arch offers enchanting vistas of the southern shore of Oahu, Hawaii. While the path along the ridge is rugged but stable, the terrain undergoes a transition as one proceeds underneath the arch. Here, the ground becomes rocky and unstable, posing a potential risk of slipping. Therefore, it is advised to exercise extra caution in this area.

  • 5/5 5koo_14 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful short hike with amazing views. Be weary of strong winds at the top.

  • 5/5 Asheville Bruce H. 1 year ago on Google
    # g r a t e f u l (Ohana Family ) Robert at the restaurant down the street Moena Cafe told us about this private small easy hike you will not be disappointed the views are so amazing it doesn't take a lot of time and it's pretty safe easy to park across the street and walk over Aloha grateful love you guys thanks for telling us about this

  • 4/5 Nathan V. 2 years ago on Google
    Short and sweet. A little bit of scrambling, especially on the way back down. Don't attempt in flip flops/sandals/slippas.

  • 5/5 Di C. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a great hike for a Honolulu trip. The view is so beautiful


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