Aiea Loop Trail in Aiea, HI Hiking Guide

The Aiea Loop Trail is located in Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area in Honolulu County, Hawaii. The Aiea Loop is a beautiful hike and excellent for sightseeing as it offers views of O’ahu’s southern coast. Following the ridge of the Halawa Valley, the trail also features lemon eucalyptus and Norfolk Island pine trees and many other native plant and tree species.

The Hawaiian Islands offer a spectacular contrast between coastal, sandy beaches that roll up to rocky mountain peaks. The Aiea Loop trail is an excellent example of this gorgeous contrast. Fortunately, the trail offers these beautiful views with a relatively easy path.

Toward the middle of the loop, look for the Honey Creeper viewing area for breathtaking views of the entire valley, including miles of forested land and open skies. The trail is an excellent place to watch for birds and other wildlife.

The average temperatures in Hawaii range from about 78 degrees to 85 degrees between winter and summer, making this an ideal location for outdoor activities and the perfect destination any time of year.

Difficulty

The Aiea Loop Trail is relatively easy, with gradual, low-elevation climbs and only minor challenges like exposed roots and rocky terrain. The trail is family-friendly, though small children should be watched closely, especially on inclined portions.

Trail Length

The trail is about 4.8 miles long.

Elevation

Gradual elevation gain of about 900 ft.

Aiea Loop Trail Hike Time

The Aiea Loop Trail takes about 2.5-3 hours to complete.

Aiea Loop Trail Open Hours

The trail is open from 7:00 AM to about 6:45 PM year-round.

Fees

This trail is free and open to the public.

Route Type

The trail is a loop.

Trail Begins

The Aiea trail begins inside the Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area. You will find the trailhead at a parking lot and a visitor’s area with picnic tables and bathrooms for easy access and public use. Camping is allowed at the trailhead, but open fires are not permitted.

What To Bring

We recommend that you bring sturdy walking shoes and plenty of drinking water. A hat and sunscreen may be helpful on sunny days, though the trail is mostly shaded by trees. Additionally, we suggest a light walking stick to help make those slight inclines easier to navigate.

Best Season

The trail is open year-round, but optimal hiking is suggested in late spring or early fall.

Parking

Parking is free and provided onsite at the trailhead.

Bikes

Mountain biking was recently banned on this trail. No biking is allowed.

Pets

Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be on a leash at all times.

Aiea Loop Trail Reviews

This trail receives excellent reviews for its gorgeous views as well as its consistently shaded route and gradual incline. A few reviews state that while this is an overall easy trial, it may be difficult with young children.

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