Olomana State Scenic Area wilderness guide
State Scenic Area · HI

Olomana State Scenic Area

Olomana State Scenic Area on Oahu's windward coast offers challenging hiking with rewarding panoramic views from its three distinct peaks, drawing outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The rugged ridgeline hike showcases Hawaii’s lush landscapes and cultural history.

State Scenic AreaNot officially designated but roughly 200 acres4+ Trails
DesignationState Scenic Area
Total Wilderness AreaNot officially designated but roughly 200 acres
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Olomana State Scenic Area

Olomana State Scenic Area on Oahu's windward coast offers challenging hiking with rewarding panoramic views from its three distinct peaks, drawing outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The rugged ridgeline hike showcases Hawaii’s lush landscapes and cultural history.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Olomana State Scenic Area, often referred to as the Three Peaks of Olomana, is located in the Ko‘olau mountain range on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. This scenic area features a striking ridge with three prominent summits: Olomana (First Peak), Middle Peak (Second Peak), and Third Peak, each presenting increasingly difficult terrain and breathtaking vistas of the windward coastline, Kailua Bay, and the surrounding native forest. The area is rich in native Hawaiian flora, including native ohia lehua and uluhe ferns, providing habitat for native birds. Historically, Olomana is named after an ancient warrior chief, and the peaks hold cultural significance for Native Hawaiians. The ridgeline trail is a strenuous, technical hike involving steep ascents, narrow exposed ridges, and occasional rock scrambling, appealing to experienced hikers seeking both challenge and stunning views. The summit views reward visitors with expansive panoramas of Oahu’s windward side, including offshore Mokulua Islands. Due to steep cliffs and exposure, the area requires caution and preparedness. Visitors appreciate the sense of achievement this hike provides along with the natural beauty and coastal breezes. While no formal facilities or campgrounds exist within the scenic area, it is accessible from a trailhead in Waimānalo with parking nearby. Olomana State Scenic Area remains a popular destination for day hikers, climbers, and photographers drawn by its rugged terrain and dramatic scenery.

Field Guide · State Scenic Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Olomana State Scenic Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Olomana Ridge with its three distinct peaks offering progressively more technical climbs✦ Panoramic views of Kailua Bay and the Mokulua Islands from the summit✦ Native Hawaiian cultural significance tied to ancient warrior chief Olomana✦ Lush native Hawaiian vegetation and scenic coastal breeze along the ridge
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Olomana State Scenic Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Olomana State Scenic Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Olomana State Scenic Area
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Olomana State Scenic Area
Park Recreation

Rock Scrambling

Available in Olomana State Scenic Area
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Olomana State Scenic Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Olomana State Scenic Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees; free public access with parking at Olomana trailhead though limited spaces available

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Olomana State Scenic Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Kailua, HI
⌖ 1.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kailua, HI

Kailua is a tropical adventure hub offering stunning beaches, hiking, and water sports. With excellent kayaking, snorkeling, and cycling, it's a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.

Year-round
Explore Town
Kailua, Hawaii
⌖ 1.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kailua, Hawaii

Kailua is a laid-back Hawaiian town with stunning beaches, coastal trails, and calm bays perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and hiking. It’s a great spot to enjoy ocean adventures and scenic mountain hikes just minutes from Honolulu.

April to October
Explore Town
Waimanalo, Hawaii
⌖ 1.86 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Waimanalo, Hawaii

Waimanalo is a peaceful beach town on Oahu’s southeastern shore, offering pristine beaches, calm waters for paddling, and easy access to coastal hikes. It’s a perfect spot for travelers seeking authentic Hawaiian outdoor adventures away from heavy tourism.

Year-round, with spring through fall offering the best weather for water activities
Explore Town
Wailea-Makena, Hawaii
⌖ 3.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wailea-Makena, Hawaii

Wailea-Makena on Maui’s sunny south shore offers world-class snorkeling, scenic hiking, and tranquil beaches. From paddleboarding calm bays to hiking rugged coastlines, it’s an outdoor adventure hub with luxury and aloha spirit.

April to October
Explore Town
Kaneohe, HI
⌖ 5.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kaneohe, HI

Kaneohe offers vibrant tropical adventures from lush mountain hikes to serene paddling across its famed bay. With abundant outdoor activities and rich Hawaiian culture, it’s a perfect base for exploring Oahu’s natural beauty.

Year-round (with drier months April to October preferred)
Explore Town
Kaneohe, Hawaii
⌖ 5.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kaneohe, Hawaii

Kaneohe offers outdoor lovers calm bay waters perfect for paddling and snorkeling, plus scenic mountain trails for hiking and biking. Experience Hawaii’s lush landscapes and peaceful coastal adventures year-round.

Year-round with peak outdoor activity in spring and fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Olomana State Scenic Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Mokulua Islands Guided Kayak Tour, Kailua's Twin Islands
ADVEXPEDITION
Kailua, Hawaii
Guided TourADV Bookable

Mokulua Islands Guided Kayak Tour, Kailua's Twin Islands

Paddle from Kailua Beach to the stunning Mokulua Islands on a 5-hour guided kayak tour. Explore coral reefs, hike the islands, and spot sea turtles in this unique Hawaiian adventure.

Guided TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
5'8" Sci-Fi 2.0 - LFT
ADVEXPEDITION
Kailua, Hawaii
SurfADV Bookable

5'8" Sci-Fi 2.0 - LFT

Hawaiian Island Creations pushes surfing limits with the Sci-Fi 2.0 board, merging innovation and local expertise for unmatched wave performance in Kailua, Hawaii. Discover how this design transforms your ride across Hawaii’s varied surf conditions.

SurfCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
5'7" Seaside Helium
ADVEXPEDITION
Kailua, Hawaii
SurfADV Bookable

5'7" Seaside Helium

Dial in your surfing with the 5'7" Seaside Helium from Hawaiian Island Creations, designed for energetic beach breaks around Kailua. Ride tighter turns and gain an edge with Rob Machado’s renowned board shape.

SurfCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Wing Foiling Lessons
ADVEXPEDITION
Kailua, Hawaii
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Wing Foiling Lessons

Learn to fly above Kailua Bay with two-hour, coach-led wing foiling lessons on Oʻahu. Small-group and private options, full kit provided, and wind-reliable launch spots make this an ideal first-foiling experience.

Water ActivitiesCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Multi-Day Kayak & Beach Gear Rentals
ADVEXPEDITION
Kailua, Hawaii
RentalsADV Bookable

Multi-Day Kayak & Beach Gear Rentals

Take your Oahu visit to the next level with hassle-free multi-day kayak and paddleboard rentals from Active Oahu Tours. Delivered and picked up at your convenience, this service lets you craft your own coastal adventure along Kailua’s scenic shorelines.

Rentals2 Days to 21 DaysCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Kailua Favorites Guided E-bike Food Tour- Half Day
ADVEXPEDITION
Kailua, Hawaii
E-BikeADV Bookable

Kailua Favorites Guided E-bike Food Tour- Half Day

Discover Kailua’s vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery on an electric bike food tour. Taste local delicacies and uncover hidden gems with expert guides—perfect for active travelers!

E-BikeExplore Kailua • Ages +16Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip