Oʻahu Hike of the Month: Likeke Falls

A relaxing trek on the windward side.

By Lennie Omalza

Editor’s Note: We love hiking! Fortunately, O‘ahu is full of great hikes. In this web series, we bring you our favorite O‘ahu trails once a month.

Photos: Celina Y.

TRAIL NAME: Likeke Falls

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

LENGTH: 4 miles roundtrip

FEE: None

WHERE: 45-550 Kiona‘ole Road Road, Kāneʻohe

DISCLAIMER

Hiking can be dangerous, and not every trail is a good idea for every person. Keep your personal fitness and skill levels in mind, and always take proper precautions when venturing off road. Heed “no trespassing” and other warning signs.

THE EXPERIENCE

This is a wet, slightly slippery, very fun trail for the whole family―provided everyone has footwear with good traction. You’ll be stepping over and under branches, through mud and on some mossy rocks, so expect to get a bit dirty before reaching the falls―especially if there’s been some Windward rain.

Being a much less traveled hike than, say, Makapuʻu, Likeke makes for a relaxing journey―but we don’t recommend going solo. There’s always a chance of getting lost, especially if it’s your first time. It makes for a great stroll with family and friends, furry ones included. The keiki seemed to like the adventure aspect; even the really little ones―which we kept strapped to Mom or Dad.

THE PAYOFF

The flowing waterfall at the end is beautiful and peaceful―not to mention a great place to dip your toes and splash around. And, of course, photo ops abound.

MAP & DIRECTIONS

Park in the Koʻolau Golf Club parking lot, close to First Presbyterian Church. (To be considerate of services on Sundays, hikers should only park after 11:30 a.m.) Once you get to the water tank covered with graffiti, keep left.

TIPS

Where there’s water, there are mosquitos―so pack your repellent!

Don’t wear anything you’re particularly fond of―or anything white. If you happen to traverse Likeke Falls on an exceptionally muddy day, you might end up tossing your whole outfit afterward.

Bring slippers to change into post-hike, as well as plastic bags in which to store your muddy shoes.

If your dogs are coming with you, bring something to protect your car seats from their muddy paws.

Click here for more Oʻahu hikes.