Local Expert
Brenda Yun
I'm a surfer girl and freelance writer who can't seem to get enough out of life abroad. Despite my frequent travels, my life in Hawaii (namely, my six-year old pug Iris) keeps me grounded. Here…
I'm a surfer girl and freelance writer who can't seem to get enough out of life abroad. Despite my frequent travels, my life in Hawaii (namely, my six-year old pug Iris) keeps me grounded. Here in Honolulu, buildings pop up like tourists wearing tacky aloha shirts, shops come and go like the trade winds (but ABC stores never close), traffic is part of keeping Hawaiian time--there's no wonder the speed limit is 50, but the feeling of stepping off the plane and walking in the open air to the baggage claim is unmistakable.
I heart Hawaii. I heart spam musubi and plate lunch. I heart crowded line ups at Diamond Head and Straight Outs. I heart Bruddah Iz. I heart the feeling of shedding skin as I drive through pineapple fields in to Haleiwa. The pot of gold is found in the Rainbow State. Hop on over to the "Rock" and see.
More
Hiking Guide: Kuliou'ou Ridge Trail
A real local favorite of mine that is quickly becoming a visitor must-do is the hike to Kuliou’ou Ridge. The trek starts at sea level from the back of Kuliou’ou Valley. Follow switchbacks leading up the mountainside until you notice the vegetation change from tropical trees to pine and finally to steep red dirt cliffside. The end of the trail has one of the most rewarding vistas on the island, as you are able to see both the south side of Oahu and the east side from Hanauma Bay and Rabbit Island to Kailua and the Mokulua islands.
There is a picnic table a little more than halfway up the trail, which makes for a really pleasant snack stop before continuing to the top of the ridge. Be sure to bring lots of water, as this hike is a bit strenuous compared to other hikes on the island.
This hike takes four hours round trip — three if you’re fast. From town, drive along the Kalanianaole Highway, taking a left on Kuliou’ou Road. Drive all the way into the valley. Park at the end of Kala’au Road. The trail begins from the cul de sac.