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East Honolulu is the residential district on the southeastern tip of Oahu, Hawaii, stretching from Aina Haina and Niu Valley through Hawaii Kai to the rugged Ka Iwi coast, about 10 miles east of Waikiki. Counted as a census area of about 50,000 people, it is largely made up of suburban neighborhoods built around the marinas and lagoons of Hawaii Kai from the 1960s, framed by green ridges and volcanic craters.
The landscape here is dramatic. Koko Crater and Koko Head rise above Hawaii Kai, and a steep stairway of old railway ties climbs Koko Crater to sweeping views. Inside the crater is a botanical garden of dryland plants, and nearby lies Hanauma Bay, the famous snorkeling bay protected as a nature preserve.
Along the coast road, the Lanai Lookout, Halona Blowhole and the little Halona Cove offer some of Oahu's most photographed views, while Sandy Beach is known for powerful shorebreak. Hikers climb the Kuliouou Ridge Trail, and Koko Marina Center offers waterfront dining and boat tours on Maunalua Bay.
A steep climb up the side of Koko Crater on about 1,000 steps made from the ties of an old military tramway, rising more than 1,000 feet to a summit with views over Hanauma Bay, Hawaii Kai and the coast. It is a tough workout with no shade. Go at sunrise or late afternoon, bring plenty of water, and take care on the bridge section.
A popular forest and ridge hike in Kuliouou Valley that switchbacks through ironwood and pine trees, then climbs steps along a ridgeline to a summit on the Koolau crest with views of Windward Oahu. It is about five miles round trip. Trails can be muddy after rain, so wear good shoes and start early.
A city botanical garden inside the bowl of Koko Crater, specializing in dryland plants such as cacti, succulents, baobabs, plumeria and native Hawaiian species. A two-mile loop trail circles the crater floor. It is free, uncrowded and hot, so go early in the morning and bring water and sun protection.
The broad bay off Hawaii Kai and Portlock, sheltered by a reef, where paddlers, kayakers, snorkelers and boaters spend their days. Sea turtles are frequently seen. Several local outfitters rent gear and lead tours from the marina, and the bay's beach parks are pleasant for a calm swim at high tide.
A roadside lookout on the Ka Iwi coast where waves push through a lava tube and shoot spray high into the air, best seen when the surf is up. In winter, humpback whales are often visible offshore. The parking lot is small and busy, so stop early, and stay behind the railings, as the rocks are dangerous.
A roadside lookout on layered lava cliffs east of Hanauma Bay, with views across the channel to the islands of Lanai and Molokai on clear days. Waves crash dramatically against the rocks below. It is a quick stop on a coastal drive; stay well back from the edge, as rogue waves can sweep the lower ledges.
A tiny sandy cove beside the Halona Blowhole, famous as the location of the beach scene in the 1953 film From Here to Eternity. It is reached by a short scramble down rocks from the lookout parking. Swimming is only safe on very calm days, as currents can be strong; many visitors just enjoy the view.
A wide beach park on the Ka Iwi coast famous for powerful shorebreak waves that draw expert bodyboarders and bodysurfers. It is spectacular to watch but dangerous for inexperienced swimmers, with many injuries each year. Lifeguards are on duty; heed warning flags, and enjoy the lawn for picnics and kite flying.
A waterfront shopping and dining center on the Hawaii Kai marina, with restaurants, cafes, shave ice, shops and operators offering jet ski rides, parasailing and boat tours on Maunalua Bay. Dining with views of the boats is especially pleasant at sunset. Parking is free in the center's lots.
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