Ka‘Ena Point Natural Area Reserve

"Very beautiful state park. Flat and easy hike on north shore side from parking lot out to the point but the brutal sun is a factor even in winter. There is only one small shady spot along the way. Bring tons of water and sunscreen. If you visit during the winter there is a very good chance to see Albatross birds, monk seals, humpback whales, and huge waves. One of my favorite hikes on the island."

"Spectacular views while hiking at Ka'Ena Point. As others have said, it is relatively flat. It is very sun-exposed, so bring adequate water, sunscreen, and a hat. Also go earlier in the day, so you can beat the heat. Bathroom situation is non-existent both on the hike and at the trailhead on the North Shore side, so keep that in mind when planning your hike. At the pillbox, walk downhill to the rocky coastline. You might be able to see some monk seals. Be on the lookout for albatrosses and native plants."

"The hike to get there is pretty easy with no elevation change. We started early in the morning before the park opened. Even though the gates say the park opens at 7am it wasn't open when we started at 7:30am, so we parked on the shoulder and made sure our car was well behind the white line. Saw some seabirds nesting. They are huge! Walking back we were pretty exposed to the sun and it made it a lot more difficult, but it was still easy. Just bring water and sun screen. We hiked all the way to monk seal beach and the round trip was 8 miles total. Well worth the hike."

"Great hike from both North Shore and Leeward sides of the island. It’s pretty flat for the most part with some sandy spots. The views are pretty spectacular with the occasional bird and even whales. When you stand on the pillbox, you’ll see both sides of the island and it makes for great photos and videos. Remember, this is a nature preserve though, so please be respectful of the trails, please clean up after yourself, and if you happen to see trash, be kind and pick it up. Let’s preserve this gem. If you hike here midday, it can get very hot so be prepared for that."

"Ka’Ena Point is 2.7 miles from the end of the road on Yokahoma Bay beach. The trail is mostly flat. Easy hike. There are a few spots where the trail has been washed out so you need to walk on a narrow trail on the edge of the hill to get by but it’s not a huge problem. Lots of interesting things to see alone the way- blow holes, natural bridges, and wild flowers. Saw nesting Albatross but did not see any seals while we were there. Also saw whales breaching. When you get to the point, the trail turns from hard pack to very soft sand. Remember to take lots of water & snacks there is nothing available on the point. Highly recommend hike."