Ka'ena Point Nature Reserve

For the longest time, my friend Marissa and I talked about going hiking. About a year passed, and each time we saw each other, we'd lament over the fact that we still had not ventured out together. Finally I said to Marissa, "let's set a date right now." We agreed on September 12, and it was as simple as that.
We decided to hike out to Ka'ena Point. I say "out to" because Ka'ena Point is the westernmost point on the island of O'ahu and when you finally finish hiking the 2.7 dusty miles into the reserve, you feel like you are at the tip of the world.
Once we were past the rutted road on the hike in, the land became completely different. Sand dunes with green, salt-loving plants growing all over them were abundant. The dunes were roped off because they are a nesting area for endangered birds. The water was a deep teal, blending into a dark cerulean blue with bright white waves crashing.
Had I not been so hot at the end of the hike, I would have loved the open solitude of the area. As it was, I really wanted some shade. If you decide to make this hike, start early, take water, and wear a hat and sunscreen.

Below are a handful of images I took that day. Hopefully they give a sense of the vastness of the area. Enjoy!














Riji hiked with us