The North Shore of Oahu is known for its epic barreling waves and is the world’s surfing capital, especially at the Banazi Pipeline. If you want to view the gorgeous Pacific blue waves from above, the Ehukai Pillbox Hike is a short hike to gain elevation and a beautiful view of the Banazi pipeline and Ehukai Beach Park below. Dubbed “The Sunset Pillbox,” this is a great spot to catch the sun setting over the ocean. This trail is a favorite of locals and visitors alike to Oahu.
Ehukai Pillbox Hike: The Basics
Hike Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Mileage: Approximately 2.1 miles round trip
Elevation gain: Approximately 720 feet
The Ehukai Pillbox hike is relatively short and can be completed in under an hour if you’re fast. I recommend giving yourself plenty of time to enjoy the trail and planning to spend 60 to 90 minutes there. Hiker Beware: The trail is dirt and can be extremely muddy after rain. A small section of the trail requires climbing with a rope.
How to Get to Ehukai Pillbox Trailhead
The Ehukai Pillbox trailhead is located right next to Sunset Elementary School. Ehuaki Pillbox, situated on the North Shore of Oahu, is approximately an hour from Waikiki, depending on traffic. The address of the trailhead is: 59-178 Ke Nui Rd, Haleiwa, HI 96712.
From Waikiki, you want to head west on the H-1 Freeway by car and then take the H-2 Freeway towards Mililani. From the H-2, you’ll take exit 8 to HI-99 and then HI-83, the Kamehameha Highway. Look for signs for Ehukai Beach Parking. Park at the beach parking lot. You’ll then have to cross the street to the school to start the trail. If you’re standing in the school’s parking lot and the school is on your right, the trailhead is on the right in the treeline.
What is a Pillbox & Where Can I See More on Oahu?
Pillboxes, remnants from military occupation during World War II, are present all over the coastline of Oahu. They were used as bunkers for lookouts and protection. These concrete block structures are found primarily on the cliffs overlooking the ocean in Oahu. Many beautiful trails will take you to the pillboxes. Popular pillboxes on Oahu include the Lanikai Pillbox and the Pink Pillbox. To learn more:
Ehukai Pillbox: What to Pack
Since this is a shorter hike, you don’t need a lot of gear. This trail also has a decent amount of tree cover and shade. While the sun won’t be beating down on you for this whole trail, I still recommend wearing sun protection, including sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
While the trail is generally easy to navigate, it will be muddy if there has been recent rain, so be prepared to get dirty and wear shoes with good tread.
- Hiking shoes with good tread
- Athletic clothes
- Water
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
Final Thoughts
Ehukai is an easy trail leading to jaw-dropping ocean views and sunset. It’s not overexposed to the sun, making it a great trail to do any time of the day. This is my favorite pillbox hike on Oahu, and I hope you enjoy it as well!
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