Puʻu Pia Trail
Central Oahu / Honolulu Mauka
Puʻu Pia Trail is a short but rewarding hike tucked into the back of Mānoa Valley. Beginning in a
quiet residential neighborhood, the trail quickly enters lush rainforest before steadily climbing to
the grassy summit of Puʻu Pia.
Unlike many Oʻahu hikes that require several hours of hiking, Puʻu Pia offers spectacular
panoramic views in less than two miles round trip, making it popular with locals, photographers,
trail runners, and visitors looking for a half-day adventure.
The trail is shaded for most of the climb and becomes muddier after rainfall, but its moderate
difficulty makes it accessible to hikers with basic fitness. AllTrails.com
Why Roamwise recommends this
Puʻu Pia Trail delivers one of the best view-to-effort ratios on Oʻahu. This short rainforest
climb rewards hikers with sweeping panoramas of Honolulu, Diamond Head, Mānoa
Valley, and the Pacific Ocean while remaining close to the city. Its moderate difficulty,
lush scenery, and peaceful summit make it an outstanding choice for sunrise hikes,
photography, and first-time visitors looking for a rewarding half-day adventure.
- Hazards / conditions:
- Continuous uphill climbing; Mud after rain; Numerous tree roots; Humidity
- Safety notes:
- Best season: Year-round
- Best arrival time:
- Sunrise – 9:00 AM
Local tips
- •Sunrise is the best time to experience the summit before clouds build over Honolulu.
- •The grassy summit is an excellent picnic spot, but there is very little shade at the top.
- •Wear shoes with good traction—roots remain slippery even after several dry days.
- •Bring bug spray if hiking after rain.
Pairs well with: Mānoa Cliff Trail, ʻAihualama Trail, Waʻahila Ridge Trail, Makiki Valley Loop Trail, ʻUalakaʻa Trail, Morning Glass Coffee + Café, Andy's Sandwiches & Smoothies, Off the Hook Poke Market, Morning Glass Coffee + Café, The Curb Kaimukī, Waikīkī Beach, Ala Moana Beach Park, Trailhead for Kolowalu and Puʻu Pia Trails, Pauoa Flats Trail, Mānoa Cliff Trailhead, Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Wayside
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