Puʻu Maʻeliʻeli Trail (Kāneʻohe Pillbox)
Kāne'ohe to Windward / Toward North Shore
Puʻu Maʻeliʻeli is a forested ridge hike located along Kahekili Highway on Oʻahu's Windward
Coast. The trail steadily climbs through shaded woodland before reaching a WWII military
observation bunker ("pillbox") perched high above Kāneʻohe Bay.
Unlike many ridge hikes, this trail offers an excellent balance of accessibility and scenery. It is
less crowded than Lanikai Pillbox, has significantly more shade, and rewards hikers with one of
the island's finest views of the Windward coastline. HawaiiGuide
- Hazards / conditions:
- Continuous uphill climb; Mud after rain; Exposed roots; Short steep sections near the top
- Safety notes:
- Best season: Year-round
- Best arrival time:
- 7:00–9:00 AM
Local tips
- •This is one of the least crowded pillbox hikes on Oʻahu while still offering world-class
- •Visit shortly after sunrise for calm water and the clearest view of the Kāneʻohe Sandbar.
- •Wear shoes with good traction—the final climb can be muddy after rain.
- •Unlike Lanikai Pillbox, much of the hike is shaded, making it a great option later in the
- •Bring binoculars to spot boats, reef patterns, and marine life in Kāneʻohe Bay.
Pairs well with: Adela's Country Eatery, Haleiwa Joe's Kāneʻohe, Fresh Catch Kāneʻohe, Bean About Town, Starbucks Kāneʻohe, Valley of the Temples Memorial Park, Byodo-In Temple, Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden, Kāneʻohe Sandbar, Heʻeia State Park
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