O'ahu Mini Exploration: Ka Iwi Shoreline


It was a double hike weekend. Well, sort of. Saturday we pretty much rock climbed (see Oahu Exploration: Kealia Hike post). Sundays are for yoga, so we decided to take it easy and go for more of a stroll instead of an uphill, tear my knee ligaments hike. The perfect solution to this hiking dilemma: Ka Iwi Shoreline Trail. 



Most folks may know this area as:
1. The trail below Makapu'u Lighthouse
2. Pele's Chair
3. Alan Davis Beach

I knew it as none of those, because despite living on O'ahu off and on for twenty years, I have never ever been here---even though I've hiked the Lighthouse trail directly above a bazillion times. 


This was the perfect hike to follow up the previous days Northshore trek up the side of a mountain. This trail leads to the beach (perk number one) and is pretty flat (perk number two). This trail is so easy..."how easy was it?", that you can do it in rubbah slippahs and a bathing suit. No hiking boots or hiking stick required! Needless to say, this is the hike for beginners, kids, and those who could use some help on their fitness level. Me. 😜



We packed our beach gear in backpacks, parked in the Lighthouse parking lot, and made a fifteen minute walk down to the shoreline. It is here that you can see hang gliders, the back side of Koko Head Crater, and since it was an exceptionally clear day, we glimpsed Lana'i, Moloka'i, and Maui offshore. And now I'm adding "really good camera" to my list of things needed for hiking excursions. 



I'm sure we will return to this trail and beach often in the future. It is secluded enough that you feel like you are at your own private beach. There are rocks to explore and jump off of into the water. There are fish to admire. And the water is perfect for lazy day relaxing in your favorite oversized floatie. 



Our beach neighbors had the right idea by bringing a wagon full of their favorite toys and beach snacks. We weren't sure about how long we would be staying so we packed light...




...which gave us an excuse to stop at Banan for "The Amazon" as or post yoga, post mini hike, post beach treat! 
(http://bananbowls.com)


The real reason we love hiking. ⬆️

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