Most people head to famous Hanauma Bay on Oahu's southeastern shore for its amazing snorkeling and pristine beach. The marine nature preserve is widely considered one of the best snorkeling spots in the world. Few people realize that there is also a very nice hike that traverses the ridgeline above the bay and takes hikers to the end of Pai'olu'olu Point. There is a paved path leading from the Hanauma Bay parking lot that follows the ridgeline and eventually takes you to the top of
the hill near some radio and cell towers. There are breathtaking birds eye views of the bay below and, on the opposite side of the ridge, you can see Diamond Head, Hawaii Kai and the beautiful blue waters of Maunalua Bay. During the winter months, you can see whales swim between Oahu and Molokai from the ridge. Once the pavement ends, there is dirt and loose gravel path that heads downhill to the east and out to the end of Pai'olu'olu Point. Despite being an easily accessible hike in Honolulu, it's not crowded and you will have lots of solitude while taking in the gorgeous views.
