Koko Crater is a cinder cone remaining from the last active volcano that occurred on O'ahu approximately 10,000 years ago. This crater is the tallest tuff ring in Hawaii, measuring 1,207 feet in height. The slopes of the crater drop steeply into the Molokai Channel, an area which lacks protection from any offshore reefs, causing very turbulent seas in this area.
Over the years, the ocean waves lapping against the cliffs have created dramatic sculptures in the soft volcanic ash. Inside the crater is the Koko Crater Botanical Garden filled with native dryland flora and fauna. Visitors can hike or drive through these newly built gardens.
Excellent observation lookout located along Kalanianole Highway past Hanauma Bay
Hiking Trails available to the top of the crater and inside the crater
For Additional Information on the Koko Crater Botanical Garden, click here
From Waikiki: Take H1 east bound and you will see Koko Crater on the left side. The seaward wall of the crater can be seen from Kalanianale Highway just past Hanauma Bay on the East Coast, approximately 20-minutes from Waikiki.
HIKE TO THE TOP: start behind the Hawaii Job Corps Training Center across from Hanauma Bay - follow the road past the rifle range and park at the Training Center. There is a rough but adequate stairway to the top.
HIKE INSIDE: follow Kalanianaole Highway for two miles to Wawamahu Beach near the Hawaii Kai Golf Course. Nearby is a path that leads to the crater
Koko Crater is a cinder cone remaining from the last active volcano that occurred on O'ahu approximately 10,000 years ago. This crater is the tallest tuff ring in Hawaii, measuring 1,207 feet in height. The slopes of the crater drop steeply into the Molokai Channel, an area which lacks protection from any offshore reefs, causing very turbulent seas in this area.
Inside the crater is the Koko Crater Botanical Garden filled with native dryland flora and fauna. Visitors can hike or drive through these newly built gardens.
