Mariners Ridge - Hawaii Kai

About the Hike: Mariners Ridge is a great hike for beginners.  You can go pretty much any time of the day and you won't be alone on the ridge.  That being said, it is rather hot, so go early for the most comfortable journey.  It can be described as a short semi- steep path.  Give yourself between 1 to 2 hours for this hike as you may want to enjoy the views and rest at the top.  The lookout is a great place for a small snack or lunch, and bring plenty of water for the heat.

Where: It begins at the top of Mariners Ridge neighborhood in Hawaii Kai.

Directions: To get there, take the Kalanianaole Highway from town and go left on Keahole St/Hawaii Kai Drive.  Then go left on Kaluanui Rd.  You will see the sign "Mariners Ridge" to mark the neighborhood about 100 yards from the turn.  Continue all the way up the road until you are at the highest point.  There will be a dead end, park on the street.  The trail head is at the end of the road (there is a small cul de sac).  You are ready to begin.  As will all hikes in Hawaii, lock your car and don't leave any valuables.  If you have anything in plain site, it may not be there when you return.

Here are some of my favorite views from Mariners Ridge.

One of the shortest ridge hikes on this side.  A rewarding view of Kailua, Kaneohe, and Waimanalo await.

You can see Kaneohe Bay and the twin islands in the distance.  Look at the white sand beach...

As always, plenty of great mountain views.

One of my favorite things to photograph: Moss.  This moss grows on the cliffs of ridges.  You can find it all over the island at high altitude.  I love the bright orange color mixed with the sea foam green.  Don't get too carried away oogling the moss though, as I said it grows on the EDGE of CLIFFS...