Haiku Stairs: the secret hike to Hawaii’s sky!

Want to take height and gravel the real Stairway To Heaven? So the Haiku Stairs of the island of Oahu in Hawaii are made for you!

Hawaii is an American archipelago consisting of 137 islands of the Pacific Ocean. It is a holiday destination taken by the Americans, but also by tourists from all over the world. This is not just one reason. Indeed, here the landscapes are heavenly, and the time, favorable all year round. On this rosary of Pacific islands, temperatures are mild and hospitality is out of the ordinary. Not to mention the many activities, tours rich in discoveries and especially hikes in the midst of a unique fauna and flora!

Speaking of hikes, there is one that really worth it and detour: the Haiku Stairs! Also named Stairway To Heaven, or Paradise Stairs, the Haiku Stairs are a must! It is a gigantic long staircase of 3,922 steps along a ridge on the island of Oahu. It leads to an old military radio antenna.

In a way, this place fell into oblivion. Tourists trying to visit it are rare because of the restrictions put in place for several years. However, if you want to know more about this exceptional place, Wanderlix has prepared you a article dedicated to Haiku Stairs!

In the footsteps of Hawaii’s Haiku Stairs

To discover the origin of the Haiku Stairs, we have to go back a few decades earlier. We are then in the middle of the Second World War. Between 1942 and 1943, the US government decided to install a military radio station and an antenna in the Hawaiian archipelago. The goal is obvious in this troubled period: sending messages to boats in the Pacific Ocean.

Wishing a secret place and away from the eyes of the inhabitants of the island, an altitude of 800 meters is chosen in Kaneohe. The altitude is essential for the proper operation of the antenna.

For several years, the antenna was used. Its operation is optimal but its usefulness is controversial from the end of the war. In 1950, metal staircases were installed to replace the wooden stairs that became too dangerous. Access to the public is then allowed. Many curious, local as tourists, then climbed these steps to discover this place filled with mysteries.

Unfortunately, access to the Haiku Stairs has been illegal for some thirty years. This prohibition was established for security reasons. Nevertheless, the most intrepid tourists continue to climb the stairs to admire the magnificent view from the top.

The reopening of stairs to the public has been debated many times, including through a local association. However, in 2015, a storm caused heavy damage to the structure. They have largely questioned the conservation of the site. Today, the fate of the Haiku Stairs remains uncertain and it is possible that they will be demolished in the coming years.

What's behind the Haiku Stairs?

Before you start your hike, you will be marvelled by the Moanalua Valley during your trip to the Haiku Stairs. You will have a magnificent view of the green peaks that peak over 750 meters above your head.

You will then arrive at the hiking site at the bottom of the stairs. Depending on your physical condition, the ascent will last between 3:30 and 4:30. Meanwhile, you can discover the majestic vegetation typical of Hawaii and take pictures worthy of postcards!

When you reach the top, at 755 metres above sea level, you will reach the old station and the military radio antenna. They are impressive, but the panoramic view is even more! You can see the valley and almost the entire island from this point! Enjoy the exceptional view, relax and set aside all your worries. This panorama will make you forget everything. Take your picnic on site to regain strength before the way back.

After a moment of rest and a series of photos, the time will soon come down. You can choose to take the stairs or another hiking path, full of charms. Indeed, the Moanalua Valley Trail will lead you directly to the heart of the valley.

Do not delay too much: borrowing the night stairs can be very dangerous. Some try experience but accidents are more than frequent!

To go

Before giving you the information to go to the Haiku Stairs, let's make a little reminder. Theoretically, the Haiku Stairs hike is illegal. It is therefore possible to have a fine if you get caught by one of the police officers watching the place. It is at your own risk and we would only advise you to take all necessary precautions regarding the risks associated with this getaway.

If you feel the soul of an adventurer, you can try to bypass the ban and go to the stairs. Here is all the information you need to go to the Haiku Stairs!

How?

The Haiku Stairs site is located on O’Ahu Island. So you are on the same island as Honolulu .

You can rent a car in Honolulu to go to the hiking place. However, police officers are positioned at the site entrance. You will need to park your vehicle away to avoid being spotted by the Hawaiian premises and police. This security device puts it in the mood! It would seem to be propelled straight in the middle of a James Bond.

However, there is an alternative to avoid denying a place away for your car. You can indeed take one of the buses that go nearby and walk to the entrance of the stairs. Here are the different possibilities:

• take buses 69 or 651 to Alaloa station. From there you will have to walk for 25 minutes on Haiku Road to reach the entrance of the stairs.
• with buses 69 and 651, but also 61 and PH4, go to the Kamehameha Highway. You can then follow Lilipuna Road or Mehana Street to the Haiku Stairs. The journey should take about 30 minutes.
• take bus 65 to Heeia Street. From this stop you will have 35 minutes walk on Opp Kalimaloa Street.

When?

Thanks to Hawaii’s heavenly climate, you can hike the Haiku Stairs at any time of the year! However, take certain precautions. For example, do not climb stairs in case of strong winds or risk of rain. You could easily be destabilized or slip on metal steps and hurt yourself. Plan a waterproof jacket, just in case.

How much?

The hike is totally free! However, be careful not to be spotted by the police or premises. These monitor the access of the Haiku Stairs from day to night! If you get caught, you risk a fine of up to $1,000 as well as legal proceedings.

It may be wise to take insurance. In the event of a problem, aerial aid returns to approximately US$1,000.

Precautions to be taken for Haiku Stairs

You're the kind to take risks and decided to hike? So here are some tips and precautions to take for your ascent of the Haiku Stairs:

• Be in shape! The Haiku Stairs has 3,922 steps. A good physical condition is essential for your quest for the summit!
• Some places are really dizzy. This is almost a scale, not stairs! If you are subject to vertigo, we advise you to try the adventure!
• Make your security pass first! The current staircases are made of metal and quickly become slippery. Check.
  always the weather and cancel your hike if there is a risk of rain.
• prepare your expedition! Choose light and comfortable clothing as well as hiking shoes. In addition, take a large amount of water with you, as well as snacks such as protein bars.
• Do not hesitate to warn some of your loved ones about your willingness to access Haiku Stairs and give their news once you arrive at the top and once you get down!

Alternative to admire the top of the Haiku Stairs

Would you like to admire the view from the top of the Haiku Stairs without taking the risk of a fine? So there is an alternative hike, that of the Moanalua Valley Trail. It is a 9-kilometre round trip that allows to climb the highest peaks of the valley.

It is as difficult as the rise of the Haiku Stairs and therefore requires an excellent physical shape. Nevertheless, the six hours of hiking will allow you to see beautiful landscapes that will leave you a memorable memory!

Note, however, that you will likely need a local guide to follow this path. Indeed, not only is it difficult, but also, there are few panels to indicate it. But don't worry, you will easily find guides in the nearest cities.

What I can find out in the area

Want to enjoy Hawaii after the Haiku Stairs? Here are some nice ideas of visits and activities:

• Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You can see the various volcanoes of the island and enjoy the view from the top.
• Preach yourself in the sun and enjoy a cool cocktail on the most beautiful beaches of the state! You can go to Magic Sands Beach, Mauna Kea Beach and Hapuna Beach.
• the beach of Papakolea is a curiosity in Hawai. Its sand is green. However, it is located on the Great Island;
• Visit the Wahiawa Botanical Garden on the island of Oahu. You can walk in a little over eleven hectares of tropical forest, a real paradise!
• Go to the Manoa Falls thanks to the hike of the same name. These are among the most beautiful of Hawaii!
• A little hollow after a hike or a day's visit? Discover the delicious local dishes in Hawaii’s best restaurants!