Kaiwi Explorations 2024

After 40 years of grassroots effort to conserve Kaiwi Coast, the community purchased the final threatened undeveloped properties to preserve them for community benefit and enjoyment in 2017.

In 2018, the Kaiwi Coalition celebrated this historic community conservation success with an inaugural hike for our supporters. By participating in Kaiwi Explorations 2024, you’ll explore the property on a guided hike, discover the natural and cultural resources of the area, and learn about stewardship plans for the future.

We are offering hikes on Saturday November 16th and Sunday November 17th, with guided hikes every 1/2 hour starting at 6:00am and ending at 8:30am on each day. SPACE IS LIMITED. Each year we have a waitlist, so please be thoughtful about your availability when registering and only sign up if you are certain you can attend.

Two types of hikes are offered:

1. Moderate hike - This is a little more than 2 miles total and can take about 2 hours to complete. The trail is wide and runs along an old jeep road. The slope is moderate with an elevation gain of 400 feet. Native plants and cultural history will be highlighted on this path that leads to a nice viewpoint facing south, overlooking the golf course and the Wāwāmalu/Sandy Beach coastline.
2. Advanced hike - This roughly 3.5-hour hike continues past the endpoint of the ‘moderate hike’ to the Ko`ʻolau summit ridge. This rugged path leads to the cliff above Makapuʻu and Sea Life Park with dramatic views along the Windward Oahu Coastline. The total elevation gain is 700 feet. The mauka end of this trail is very rocky and uneven with a few steep sections. This hike is suitable for more adventurous and experienced hikers.

*Note - Hike groups stay together, therefore hike times may vary depending on the speed of the group as a whole.

The area is very hot and dry. You will need a long sleeve shirt, long pants, hat for sun protection, good hiking boots or outdoor shoes (no slippers), and raingear if the weather calls for it. Be prepared for the heat, which builds up after 9 AM. Pack plenty of water (at least 2 quarts) and energy snacks. For early morning hikers, please bring a headlamp or flashlight.

Registration will close on Wednesday November 13th.

Host or Publisher Trust for Public Land