Exploring Mauna Lahilahi on the Waianae side is a nice little climb up the world’s smallest mountain. I wouldn’t by any stretch, call this a hike. Glenn and I met Chris on Lahilahi Street and went over the rock wall. Sign says the park is open from 5am to 10pm, but the gates were still locked at 7:00am. Hawaiian time.
Which trail shall we take up?
There appeared to be several trails that leads up to the top, some from the ocean and mountain sides. We took the most obvious trail going up on the mountain side.
Nice little climb
We made short work of the rocky hill. It’s not very challenging at all, although there are some spots you can climb, otherwise just contour around the rock formations.
Top of Mauna Lahilahi
We arrived at the 230′ summit roughly 10 minutes after we had started from the bottom.
Looking towards Kaena Point
A nice view looking towards Kaena Point and the semi-private beach below us. We saw a guy doing his early morning stand up paddle boarding and a dolphin excursion boat skipping along the deep blue waters, country living at it’s finest.
Sun breaking over the mountains
Catching the sunrise breaking over the Waianae mountain range.
Deep blue Pacific Ocean
Looking at the end of Mauna Lahilahi or “thin mountain” extend and drop into the Pacific Ocean, this view offers a closer and different perspective than most other climbs and hikes that we have done.
{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }
This place is very special to me. I was there as a child and this was my refuge. It was in the 70’s and there were only a few haole’s at the time there in Waianae and Makaha area. As a 10 year old boy I felt alone but this spot always welcomed and comforted me. My Mother remarried a local and I felt to fit in a little. His name was Lucio Badayos and he was a fisherman and taught me many things. I do love Makaha and Waianae area, I will always visit this Mountain every time I visit. We lived in Makaha Cabanas Apt 101 for many years then moved to Waianae Valley Plantation Rd. Across from the Mormon Church. Never had much but appreciated what I had and the people I knew there.
Howzit John,
I’m glad you took away good memories associated with this place. Thanks for visiting!
Mahalo!
Thanks for writing back Kenji. Are you from Waianae or Makaha area? Some day when I come back, we should meet. I usually stay for about ten days. I’m getting older but will still make it up Lahilahi.
Howzit John,
No I’m a townie, born and raised. But we can meet up as I hike all over the island. Just drop me a line! We can go up Lahilahi or whatever you want!
Mahalo!
Its been my home for 42yrs i was born in 1975. Many changes have come to this lil community. I could go on forever…but i wont..lemme just say that you did us well. Great write up and even greater captures. I also am a shutterbug. Thank you from lifetime resident…
Aloha Jon,
Thanks for the kind words. Glad you enjoyed the post.
Mahalo
We will meet up some day and I’m looking forward to meeting you.
Aloha John,
Looking forward to it. Hope you won’t be disappointed. LOL. Have a good day!
Mahalo