Pu'u Ma'eli'eli: Exploring Kaneohe's Pillbox on "Digging Hill"
- Stephen Warner
- Aug 27, 2025
- 3 min read
Pillboxes — small concrete military bunkers — are scattered throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Built during World War II as coastal lookout points, these structures now double as incredible hiking destinations thanks to the views they were originally designed to command. The pillbox at the top of Puʻu Maʻeliʻeli (“Digging Hill” in Hawaiian) offers one of the best perspectives of Kāneʻohe Bay, with minimal effort required. Although the trail can get a little muddy in parts, the short journey is well worth it for the stunning Windward views.
Trail Info
Trailhead Name | Pu'u Ma'eli'eli |
Distance | 2.2 miles / 3.5 km (out and back) |
Estimated time | 1-2 hours |
Elevation gain | 650 ft / 200 m |
Highest point | 685 ft / 208 m (Pillbox) |
Permits / fees | None |
Parking | Shoulder |
Toilets? | No |
Dog friendly? | Yes |
Know before you go
The trailhead entrance is along a busy road, and you’ll briefly walk the shoulder facing traffic. A bit awkward, but yes, this is the real trail.
The trail can be muddy and slick, especially during or after rain. The steepest section is right near the start, although there are a few additional rope assisted sections.
Other trails nearby
Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) out and back
Elevation gain: 600 ft (180 m) gain
Details: A scenic ridgeline with views over Kāneʻohe and a nearby quarry — good for those looking for a bit more distance but not too much additional effort.
The Trail
You’ll begin at the roadside entrance, marked by a break in the trees off Kahekili Highway.
The hike kicks off with what’s probably the toughest part: a short, steep incline that can be slick if it’s rained recently. Thankfully, it was pretty dry when I went.
At the top of this climb, you’ll hit the only real junction. Head left.
As you continue, keep an eye out for early glimpses of Kāneʻohe Bay ("K-Bay") through the trees.
The trail continues to gain elevation gradually with a few steeper sections, usually aided by ropes for balance.
Before long, you’ll near the end of the trail, marked by this sign. The destination is just beyond a little brush.
First, the pillbox itself, marked by a small entrance. If you're feeling it, you can climb down the ladder for some additional 'sploring.
But walk a bit farther for the main event. Boom! K-Bay in all its glory.
Straight ahead, you’ll spot the Marine Corps Base, the sandbars, and the glistening blue of the bay stretching beyond.
Turn to the left for a wider view of the windward side of the Koʻolau Range. The prominent peak often shrouded in clouds? That’s Puʻu ʻŌhulehule.
Not bad for a relatively easy climb. Big reward for minimal effort in my opinion.
SS Reflections
Before moving to Hawaiʻi, I had never heard the term pillbox. My mind immediately went to those plastic cases old people use for organizing vitamins. But after a few hikes on the islands, I not only learned the history, I started to associate “pillbox” with amazing views. After all, these were built to keep an eye on the ocean — and you can't keep watch without a good vantage point.
Puʻu Maʻeliʻeli quickly became one of my go-to trails when I wanted a quick dose of nature without committing half a day. The effort is modest, the scenery is stunning, and it’s one of those trails that’s easy to revisit again and again — especially when you want to introduce someone new to the beauty of Hawaiʻi hiking.
Other helpful resources
Aloha Lovely's post about this hike
