Koko Head District Park

423 Kaumakani St, Honolulu, HI 96825
40 acres | 16 hectares

About Koko Head District Park

Location and Overview

Nestled in the Hawaii Kai neighborhood of Honolulu, Koko Head District Park spreads across 40 acres at the foot of Koko Crater. This spacious public park offers excellent views of the surrounding Hawaiian landscape - a nice backdrop for exploring the area.

Looking towards O'ahu's easternmost tip
Looking towards O'ahu's easternmost tip

The Infamous Koko Crater Railway Trail

Let's talk about what really puts this park on the map: the Koko Crater Railway Trail, or as the locals call it, the Koko Head Stairs. Fair warning - this isn't your average stroll in the park. You'll be conquering over 1,000 steps along an old railway track that zigzags up to the summit of Koko Crater.

Yes, it's a leg burner, but those panoramic 360-degree views of East Honolulu, Hanauma Bay, Diamond Head, and the coastline? Totally worth every drop of sweat. Most people take about 30-60 minutes to reach the top, depending on how many times you need to stop and pretend you're just enjoying the view (when really, you're catching your breath).

A few practical tips: bring more water than you think you'll need, wear actual shoes (save those flip-flops for the beach), and consider sun protection since shade is basically non-existent on the trail. If you're not a fan of feeling like you're in an oven, aim for an early morning or late afternoon hike.

About halfway up, you'll encounter a section where the railway tracks form a bridge with nothing but air beneath you. If heights aren't your thing, don't worry - there's a bypass trail available.

Succulent plants emerge from the soil
Succulent plants emerge from the soil

Recreational Facilities

Not up for the stair-climbing challenge? No problem. The park has plenty of other options to keep you active. You'll come across several athletic fields, tennis courts, baseball fields, and basketball courts scattered throughout. There's also a gymnasium where the local community often gathers for various sports activities and events.

For families, the park includes a playground where kids can burn off energy, plus picnic areas with tables where you can refuel and relax. These spots make for a nice rest area before or after tackling those infamous stairs.

Tree branches reaching toward the bright blue Hawaiian sky
Tree branches reaching toward the bright blue Hawaiian sky
Photo: Joel (CC0 1.0)

Visitor Information

There's parking available at the park, but be prepared for a full lot if you arrive on weekends or holidays - those stairs are popular for a reason.

You'll discover restrooms near the parking lot and baseball complex. Do yourself a favor and use these before starting your hike, as there are zero facilities on the trail or at the summit. Trust me on this one.

Koko Head District Park combines recreational facilities with hiking opportunities - whether you're a fitness enthusiast looking to challenge yourself, a family seeking outdoor fun, or just someone who appreciates good views without necessarily having to earn them. The park welcomes visitors daily from 7AM to 10PM.

All Features & Facilities

Active Recreation

Baseball FieldBasketball CourtPickleball CourtTennis Court

Nature & Wildlife

Walking TrailHiking Trail

Visitor Services

Parking LotPlaygroundRestroomsRecreation Center

Food & Gathering

Picnic Area
Succulent plants emerge from the soil
Succulent plants emerge from the soil
Looking towards O'ahu's easternmost tip
Looking towards O'ahu's easternmost tip
A spectacular view of Koko Crater
A spectacular view of Koko Crater
Photo: Fil.Al (CC BY 2.0)
Ascending the long Koko Crater Stairs requires stamina
Ascending the long Koko Crater Stairs requires stamina
Hanauma Bay can be seen in the distance
Hanauma Bay can be seen in the distance
Plant life thrives in the area
Plant life thrives in the area
Photo: Joel (CC0 1.0)
An aloe plant in the Koko Crater Botanical Garden
An aloe plant in the Koko Crater Botanical Garden
Photo: Joel (CC0 1.0)
Tree branches reaching toward the bright blue Hawaiian sky
Tree branches reaching toward the bright blue Hawaiian sky
Photo: Joel (CC0 1.0)
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ParkMagnet Score

Great Park

Park Size

40 acres | 16 hectares

Opening Hours

Monday:7AM-10PM
Tuesday:7AM-10PM
Wednesday:7AM-10PM
Thursday:7AM-10PM
Friday:7AM-10PM
Saturday:7AM-10PM
Sunday:7AM-10PM

Weather

Top Restaurants Near Koko Head District Park

Zippy's Koko Marina

0.6 miles

7192 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96825

Hawaiian casual dining chain serving comfort foods like chili, loco moco, and local favorites with marina views.

Website

Moena Cafe

0.6 miles

Koko Marina Center Building E, 7192 Kalanianaʻole Hwy Suite #D-101, Honolulu, HI 96825

A charming breakfast and lunch spot featuring local ingredients and Hawaiian-inspired dishes in a cozy setting.

Website

Assaggio Hawaii Kai - Ristorante Italiano

0.7 miles

7192 Kalanianaʻole Hwy STE D107, Honolulu, HI 96825

Intimate Italian restaurant serving fresh pasta and classic dishes with waterfront views and attentive service.

Loco Moco Drive Inn

0.7 miles

7192 Kalanianaʻole Hwy # C117, Honolulu, HI 96825

Counter-serve spot specializing in Hawaiian plate lunches with generous portions and local flavors.

Website

Greek Marina

0.7 miles

7192 Kalanianaʻole Hwy e126, Honolulu, HI 96825

Casual waterfront Greek restaurant serving authentic Mediterranean dishes with outdoor seating and traditional atmosphere.

External Links

Interactive Park Map

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