The Ultimate Guide to Hiking in Hawaii: From Waterfalls to Volcanoes

Apr 28

So you want to hike in Hawaii?

Good. Because out here, hiking isn’t just a pastime - it’s a full-on experience. Think: jungle trails, lava fields, ridgelines that make your stomach drop (in a good way), and waterfalls that’ll ruin every other waterfall you’ve ever seen.

Whether you’re a sunrise-chaser, waterfall-swimmer, or volcano-lover, we’ve got you covered. Here’s your no-BS, boots-on-the-ground guide to hiking across Hawaii’s islands - starting with our home bases on Maui and the Big Island.

🌺 Hiking on Maui: Lush Valleys, Ridgelines & Waterfalls

Maui’s got the perfect combo of laid-back jungle hikes and scenic ridge treks. You’re not just hiking, you’re walking through ancient Hawaiian landscapes, feeling the mana, and earning that post-hike poke bowl.

Top Maui Hikes to Hit While Staying at Howzit Hostels Wailuku:

1. Waiheʻe Ridge Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance from hostel: 20 min
Maui’s most underrated hike. Climb through native forest and ridge switchbacks until you’re rewarded with sweeping coastal and valley views. Go early to catch the clouds rolling through like magic.

2. Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakalā Crater)

Difficulty: Hard
Distance from hostel: 1 hr 15 min
Ever wanted to hike on Mars? Welcome to the Sliding Sands Trail, where you descend into Haleakalā Crater and wander through red cinder landscapes. Bring layers - it’s cold up there, even if you just left the beach.

3. Twin Falls

Difficulty: Easy
Distance from hostel: 45 min
Waterfalls. Swimming holes. Lush jungle vibes. Great for a quick half-day trip or a mellow intro to hiking in Hawaii.

Bonus Tip: Stay with us in Wailuku and you’re centrally located - easy access to both East Maui and the Upcountry trails. Plus, we’ve got free daily activities and a built-in crew of hiking buddies. 🤙

🌋 Hiking on the Big Island: Volcanoes, Lava Tubes & Black Sand Beaches

If Maui is all about lush, green views, the Big Island is about lava flows, steam vents, and trails that make you feel like you’re walking through Earth’s origin story.

Top Big Island Hikes Near Howzit Hostels Hilo:

1. Kīlauea Iki Trail (Volcanoes National Park)

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance from hostel: 45 min
Hike across a hardened lava lake inside an actual volcanic crater. You’ll pass through rainforest, descend into the pit, and walk across a surface that was literal lava in the 1950s.

2. Pu‘u Loa Petroglyph Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Distance from hostel: 1 hr 15 min
A short, surreal trail across old lava fields that ends at a massive collection of ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs. Historical and eerie in the best way.

3. Pololū Valley Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance from hostel: 2 hrs (worth the drive)
A lush, steep trail that drops you into a jaw-dropping valley and black sand beach. It’s one of those hikes that looks straight-up fake in photos - until you go.

Bonus Tip: Staying in Hilo puts you super close to Volcanoes National Park, without paying resort prices. Plus, our hostel fam loves spontaneous sunrise missions and late-night crater-watching parties.

🌈 Other Hikes Worth Island-Hopping For

We’re biased toward Maui and Big Island (duh), but if you’re exploring more of the islands, add these to your bucket list:

Kalalau Trail (Kauaʻi): One of the most epic and dangerous hikes in Hawaii - permit required.
Diamond Head (Oʻahu): Short, sweet, and touristy - but the view? Worth it.
Manoa Falls (Oʻahu): Close to Honolulu, with full jungle-movie vibes.
Alaka‘i Swamp Trail (Kauaʻi): The highest swamp in the world. Yes, that’s a thing.

🌺 Hiking Tips for First-Time Hawaii Travelers

Wear proper shoes. Flip-flops are for the beach, not the trail.
Pack water + reef-safe sunscreen. Stay hydrated and keep the ecosystem happy.
Start early. Less heat, fewer crowds, better vibes.
Respect the land. Stay on trails, don’t touch cultural sites, and always leave no trace.
Check weather + trail closures. Especially during rainy season (Nov–March).
Going solo? Awesome. Our hostels are full of fellow adventurers looking to team up or share rides.

Ready to Lace Up?

If hiking’s your love language, Hawaii is your happy place - and Howzit Hostels is your home base. Whether you’re waking up early to chase clouds on Waiheʻe Ridge or walking across lava rock under the stars, we’ll hook you up with trail tips, good company, and a comfy bed when you’re done.