Top 5 Best Sunrise Spots on Oahu
Sunrise at Hanauma Bay Rim Trail:
The Hanauma Bay Rim Trail is one of the greatest places to watch sunrise. You can casually stroll up the paved road to some good views, or take the dirt trail all the way to the ocean to see the large waves and large rock cliffs, right as the sun is starting to come up. It’s only 10 or 15 minutes to good spots for viewing the sunrise and the hike can be as difficult as you want it to be, or as easy as you want. Either way, you’ll get great views.
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Sunrise at Makapu’u Tidepools:
The Makapu’u Tide Pools, a small hidden gem located on the eastern shore of Oahu, is one of the best places to watch sunrise on Oahu and quite simply, it’s magical. The sun’s colors reflect off the calm tide pool waters, while large ocean waves crash onto the jagged coastal shore creating a light ocean mist that rains on down from above. I’ve never experienced a better sunrise.
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Sunrise at Lanikai Beach
Sometimes viewing the sunrise from water level is the best – and sunrise from Lanikai Beach is one of those places. Go for an early morning swim as the waves gently rush over you. You’ll then see the sun as it rises over one of the Mokulua Islands. It’s definitely a sight to see.
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Sunrise at Lanikai Pillboxes Hike
A short 15-20 minute hike up the Lanikai Hills will lead you to two separate WWII concrete bunkers. From here, you can see the famous Mokulua Islands and the beautiful turquoise waters of Lanikai and Kailua. On the clearest of days, you’ll be able to see all the way to Molokai and Maui on the right hand side as you are looking out towards the water. Doing this hike at sunrise has spectacular views. Read the full post about Lanikai Pillboxes at Sunrise.
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Sunrise at Koko Head Stairs:
A tough, grueling 1048 step hike, rising 1,200 ft. above sea level, leads to the top of the mountain and an amazing sunrise. You’ll have a 360 degree views of much of the island as the clouds change colors and the skies turn lighter. Tourist and locals do this hike all the time for good reason, which means you’ll be sharing in what is a daily ritual for most. Read the full blog post about Kokohead Stairs.
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