Koko Head is located in the southeastern part of Oahu, across from Hanauma Bay, which is famous for snorkeling. Like Diamond Head, Koko Head is a crater formed by volcanic activity, and the Koko Crater Trail, which leads to its summit, is one of the most popular trails on the island.
The trail’s most distinctive feature is the steep, single-track road leading in a straight line to the summit! The trail is a remnant of the trolley tracks used during World War II to transport supplies to the watchtower, and the old railroad sleepers are still in place like stairs. There are more than 1,000 steps.
The distance is about 1.6 miles (about 2.6 km) round trip and the elevation is 1200 feet (about 368 m). It takes about 30 minutes to an hour to reach the top, depending on the individual. It is a bit strenuous, but well worth the challenge for the spectacular 360-degree view from the top.
The afternoon temperatures are higher, so this time we climbed in the morning before the sun had risen. Access from Waikiki is by car or bus. Head toward Hawaii Kai and park at the far end of Koko Head District Park if you are driving.
Walking toward the mountain from the parking lot, you will see a path leading to the entrance to the climb. There you will see a sign warning you to be careful.
Precautions include that the trail is unmaintained and dangerous (accidents have actually occurred), and urges the use of shoes, sunscreen, and hydration. There is no shade, so don’t forget a hat. Bring a shoulder bag or backpack to keep your hands free.
Standing at the foot of the mountain, looking up at the trail that stretches straight to the top, and determined, it’s time to get started!
When you hear that it is 368 meters, you may think that it is not very high, but in reality, this is quite high. At first, the slope is relatively gentle. Then the angle gradually increases. ……
The width of the tracks is so narrow that some climbers and descenders can barely pass each other, so climbers and descenders have to share the space. Take your time, rest, and go up at your own pace.
Soon after, you will come across a thrilling point where the bottom of the sleeper is hollow. If you step out of line, you may fall through the sleepers, and a sign reads “Extremely dangerous! If you lose your footing, you may fall through the sleepers. Please be careful not to take it too hard, as you can go around by following the signs for the bypass.
Looking back around here, you can see ……. The view was so magnificent that an American would involuntarily exclaim, “Wow!
Look up at ……. We still have a long way to go. I took frequent breaks, drank water, and pushed on. Some people were resting on the way up, while others were training and climbing at a rapid pace.
Step by step, step by step, we climbed, and finally the summit came into view! People coming down from the summit warmly called out to us, “Almost there! (Almost there!) from people coming down from the top, encouraging us warmly.
And here I realized that there were stairs further ahead. At that moment, an uncle who was resting said to me, “We are only at the halfway point!” He said to me, his face involuntarily drawn back, “I’m only joking! I was so relieved. I was relieved.
I decided to go further up the mountain to get my bearings. A small observatory appeared. From here, a 360-degree panoramic view spread out.
We could see Hawaii Kai, Hanauma Bay, the coastline from Diamond Head to Sandy Beach, the residential areas lining the mountain ridges that can never be seen from the ground, and the entire south coast of Oahu, including the natural beauty of the island and the lives of its people. Sunrise, sunset, and in winter, whales could be seen.
After enjoying the spectacular view at the summit, head down the mountain. The goal is “the next destination.
On the way down, there is a thrilling sleeper section again, so you will have to decide whether to take the “skeleton sleeper” on the right or the detour route on the left, and descend safely according to your own physical strength.
After a safe descent and a good job! After working hard on myself, I headed to my next destination! The Coco Marina Shopping Center is just around the corner. This is a place for residents to relax and enjoy a variety of restaurants and stores.
Plan A is to toast at Kona Brewing Company! A thirst-quenching cold draft beer in front of the marina you’ve been watching from the top of the mountain is the perfect reward.
Plan B is to recharge your body with “Jamba Juice”. They make juices and smoothies with fresh fruits and vegetables, mainly tropical fruits.
Plan C is both. After beer, you may choose the luxurious option of Jamba Juice as dessert. In any case, if you go out in the morning, it will be still past noon when you take a rest after the trail, and you will definitely have a full day.
At this time, the Coco Crater Trail is free and does not require advance reservations. There is also no parking fee for the park. This is a spectacular spot where you can go out after watching the weather. Why not try it on your next trip to Hawaii?
© Source travel watch