Ehukai Pillbox Hike - Grand North Shore Views

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The Ehukai Pillbox Hike on Oahu’s North Shore is a local secret.  Unlike the Lanikai Pillbox Trail on the Windward side that has become extremely popular and a bit crowded at times, I find this Oahu hiking trail still to be a hidden gem and worth discovering!

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The Ehukai Pillbox trail is better known as the Sunset Pillbox Hike, because it has some beautiful views of Ehukai Beach (better known as Banzai Pipeline) and the North Shore coastline.

Located behind the Sunset Elementary School, this Oahu hike will take you about 30 minutes to climb up to the top.  The distance to reach the top of the ridge is short, but can be a little strenuous and challenging to get up to.

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Hiking the Sunset Pillbox Trail

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It's a steep climb to reach this special bench, and I guarantee you'll need a moment to catch your breath.  So take few minutes and enjoy the view.

The views are nice from this spot, but gets better as you climb higher to the pillboxes. Reach the ridge and you’re close!

As you reach the top of the ridge, there will be pockets between the trees that open up with some beautiful views of the ocean, surf, and residents below.

The Ehukai Pillbox Trail leads both east and west direction, so make sure to turn left and head east at this juncture.

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First Pillbox

The first Sunset Pillbox is only minutes away once you reach the top flat ridge.  Take your time to enjoy the beautiful views of the North Shore coastline.

The old military bunker is accessible to walk inside and explore around.  Take a few photos and head on…

As exciting as it is to reach the 1st bunker, the real magical views await you at the 2nd pillbox.

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Second Pillbox

The Trail seems to disappear for a second as you travel on past the large bolder rocks, and start hiking down through the tall grass.  The best way to explain it is to stay adjacent to the ridge, and don’t wonder off into the mountainside.

You will even come across a private property, no trespassing, and guard dog on duty signs, that I cannot advise you to ignore.

But if you choose to push forward past the signs, the trail comes back into sight, and you should reach the 2nd Ehukai Pillbox within 5 minutes.

The views in the video capture the neighborhood below the Ehukai Pillbox Hike, part of the North Shore coast and the waves and lineup at Pipeline.

Reaching the 2nd pillbox is gratifying!  The scenery open up to some of the best unobstructed views of Ehukai Beach and the North Shore coastline.  The hillside is steep surrounding the front of the 2nd Pillbox, and is not open for exploring.

You must be very careful if you decide to leap on top of the decorated peace sign bunker.  There is a gap between the bunker and hillside.  Soak up the memorable view and enjoy!

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Experience the North Shore from above

taking in panoramic views spanning from Turtle Bay to Kaena Point, including Waimea Bay, the famous Banzai Pipeline, Haleiwa Town, and much, much more. 

Explore a once in an life time experience...

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3 Similar Oahu Hiking Trails

Here are 3 additional Oahu Hiking Trails that are similar to hike, which you might want to consider climbing after this one...

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Ehukai Pillbox Hike Tips

Sunset Hike - don’t start this Oahu hike too late, unless planning a sunset hike (which can be very beautiful).  In this case, make sure to bring a flashlight, be knowledgeable about the trail, and don’t hike along, and make sure to inform someone where you’re going.

Where proper shoes - you will want to good pair of hiking shoes for this hike to better grip the steep areas and loose gravel.

Bring water, snacks, hat, sunscreen, and a camera.

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Getting to Sunset Pillbox Trail

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Directions By Car From Waikiki

• Take the H-1 Hwy West to the H-2 Hwy North
• Follow the H-2 Hwy to the Kamehameha Hwy (hwy 99)
• Take Hwy 99 and continue into Haleiwa Town
• or by pass Haleiwa Town , and continue on Hwy 99 and merge onto Hwy 83, which will lead you to the coastline.
• As you continue on  Hwy 83, until you see a Sunset Elementary School sign (across the street from the Banzai Pipeline) on your right hand side.
• Turn into the parking lot and the trail will be on your left side.

Street Level Map to Ehukai Pillbox Hike

Directions By Oahu Bus from Waikiki

Take the 52 bus from Kuhio Ave to Haleiwa Town.  From there transfer to Oahu Bus number 88A or 60.  These Oahu Bus will take you  to the North Shore Beaches.  

Ask the bus driver once again to notify you once you have arrived at Sunset Elementary School.

Note:  Bus # 88A also travels from the Ala Moana Center to the North Shore and backdown the Windward (East) side of the island.

Aerial Map to Ehukai Pillbox Trail

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In the Area

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Ted's Bakery

Ted’s Bakery is also a great spot to grab some breakfast or a plate lunch, including BBQ  Chicken, Teri Beef & Mahi Mahi.  Could be a great way to fuel up before or after hiking the Ehukai Trail.

If you don’t make it to Ted’s Bakery, you’re still in luck.  Ted’s pies are sold in Foodland grocery stores, back in town.

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Famous North Shore Beaches

The Banzai Pipe tubes are world famous and add to the North Shore character and experience.  Remember that Ehukai Beach is right across the street from the Sunset Elementary School.

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Toa Luau at Waimea Bay

Just make sure you give yourself enough time to get back in time for the festivities.  Note that this luau only takes place on Mon - Wed.  Learn more and reserve a spot...

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Turtle Bay Resort

Turtle Bay Resort is a relaxing estate that sits at the tip of the North Shore all by itself.  You might need to check in with the security attendant if you are not vacationing on the premises, but you are allowed to visit the restaurants & golf pro shop.

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Sister Hike on the Windward Side

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Lanikai Pillbox Hike