Great (challenging enough) hike with the best reward at the top. I did two hikes on two separate days to pillbox 1 and pillbox 2. Pillbox 1 was harder at first , but gets easier and you can see good views of the beach much sooner than PB2 route. I think PB2 was harder because going up seemed endless and the reward took much longer. But both were fun hikes and I didn’t want to leave the view. I did PB1 right before sunrise, and it had a lot of people already. Did PB2 afternoon and there was hardly anyone there. PB2 has more greenery/shade so that helped. Had to do some rock climbing and got down on fours at times which made it even more fun. Also did both hikes as a solo female hiker, and both trails felt safe. PB2 felt less safe only because it had less people and more greenery making it feel creepy at times being alone.

This is a short (about 20-30 min each way) but strenuous hike. It's a bit of a scramble at certain parts of the trail, as it does get steep. Don't chance it if conditions are muddy after a rain shower, so pick a day with a nice and clear forecast. Also not very family friendly, so you might want to leave the kids & elderly at home. The payoff is spectacular panoramic views. There's some street parking in the area. Look for signs that'll tell you which side you can or can't park on. Don't slam car doors, and don't honk the horn. Be respectful of the neighborhood. I came before sunrise, and was able to find a handful of spots available. Would recommend doing this before sunrise.

This is a great easy/moderate hike. It’s good for older kids too. I did it with my 8 year old and, while we definitely took our time getting to the top, it was not too hard for either of us. The views are incredible and if you make it to pillbox #1 take the extra few minutes to go to pillbox #2. The views will not disappoint! Do be careful going down though. In places where it is dusty or there is loose gravel it can get quite slippery going down. Make sure to wear good shoes too … this is not a flip-flop hike.

It's not a long hike, but the terrain can be difficult. I don't suggest kids or older people do this hike. Suggest doing it early with lots of water. Take your time and watch your step as it can be easy to fall. Beautiful views of Lanakai beach. So worth the hike.

Catching this gorgeous sunrise early morning is a must. Got so many amazing photos of the sun glimmering on the vast sea. You can position the sun between the two islands so it looks even better. Worth the long hike.

Great views but this is NOT an easy-going hike from the back entrance. Did not try the front entrance. Had to use our hands in many spots and slipped a few times. Bring hiking shoes and a pole if you have one.

Beautiful, expansive views. Well worth the hike. I wouldn't recommend for small kids as the gradient is pretty steep. Saw other parents carrying their kids. The views world class.

Great medium difficulty hike, maybe too challenging for elderly and children, offers great view of Lanikai and Kailua beaches. Takes about 45-50 min round trip. Good hiking shoes recommended