Turtle Bay Coastal Trail
Scenic coastal path on Oahu's North Shore, offering stunning ocean views, wildlife encounters, and 'Hunger Games' filming sites.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Turtle Bay Coastal Trail
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic coastal path on Oahu's North Shore, offering stunning ocean views, wildlife encounters, and 'Hunger Games' filming sites.
"Easy trail with beautiful ocean views and a chance to see monk seals and turtles!"
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be uneven. Good walking or running shoes are essential for comfort and safety.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense, especially midday.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hunger Games Beach
Near Turtle Bay Resort
Relive movie magic on the shores where 'Catching Fire' was filmed. A must-see for fans!
Monk Seal Hangouts
Various secluded coves
Spot endangered Hawaiian monk seals basking on the rocks. A truly special wildlife encounter.
Coastal Vistas
Along the entire trail
Breathtaking ocean panoramas and rugged coastline views await at every turn.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Wildlife Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be uneven. Good walking or running shoes are essential for comfort and safety.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense, especially midday.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on warmer days. There are no water sources along the trail.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera or phone! The scenery is incredibly photogenic.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be uneven. Good walking or running shoes are essential for comfort and safety.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense, especially midday.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on warmer days. There are no water sources along the trail.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera or phone! The scenery is incredibly photogenic.
🐢 Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from monk seals and sea turtles. Never feed or touch them.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Turtle Bay Coastal Trail for its stunning ocean views, easy accessibility, and opportunities to see wildlife like monk seals and sea turtles. It's a great spot for a relaxed walk or run, with the added bonus of being a filming location for 'The Hunger Games.' Some find the trail can be exposed to the sun and wind.
"A great spot to hike or ride. Easy difficulty."
David
"Great running trails if you are staying in the area and unfamiliar with the land. These will always put you back in the right direction or on a road."
Austin Semmel
"Beautiful spot to walk"
Jessie Ser
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is accessible from various points, often starting near the Turtle Bay Resort. Parking is available at designated lots.
While direct public transport to the trailhead might be limited, local bus routes can get you to the general Turtle Bay area, requiring a short walk or taxi.
Yes, guests of the Turtle Bay Resort often have direct access to parts of the coastal trail.
Yes, several parking areas are available, particularly around the resort and public access points along the coast.
Signage can vary, but the trail generally follows the coastline. Using a map app or following other visitors is helpful.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Turtle Bay Coastal Trail is generally free to access and does not require tickets for entry.
The trail is typically open from sunrise to sunset. It's an outdoor natural area, so hours are dictated by daylight.
There is no entrance fee for walking or hiking the Turtle Bay Coastal Trail.
While not always advertised, some local tour operators may offer guided walks focusing on the natural history and filming locations.
The main restriction is to respect the natural environment and wildlife. Stay on marked paths and do not disturb animals.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main trail is considered easy, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Some offshoots might be more challenging.
The time varies depending on your pace and how much you stop. A leisurely walk can take 1-2 hours to cover a significant portion.
Restroom facilities are typically available near the main access points, such as the Turtle Bay Resort or public beach parks.
Generally, pets are not allowed on protected trails or beaches in Hawaii to protect wildlife. Check local signage for specific rules.
Yes, it's a popular spot for runners due to its relatively flat terrain and scenic views.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for dramatic cliff edges, secluded coves, and the iconic 'Hunger Games' beach for stunning shots.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Yes, but always maintain a respectful distance. Use a zoom lens to capture close-ups without disturbing them.
Drone usage may be restricted in protected areas and near wildlife. Always check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. A polarizing filter can enhance ocean colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Recommendations: Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities are scarce along the trail. Sunscreen and hats are essential. Consider focusing on shorter sections of the trail to keep little legs from getting too tired. The 'Hunger Games' beach area can be a fun point of interest for older kids who are fans of the movie.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
Tips: Early mornings are ideal to avoid the heat and the few other visitors. The trail offers a good loop or out-and-back option depending on how far you want to go. Be aware of uneven sections and watch out for other walkers and wildlife.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
Best Shots: Capture the sweeping ocean vistas, the rugged rock formations, and the golden hour light. If you're lucky, you might get incredible shots of monk seals or sea turtles. Remember to use a zoom lens for wildlife and a wide-angle for landscapes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters: Monk Seals & Sea Turtles
Many visitors report seeing monk seals lounging on the rocks, especially during the warmer parts of the day. Sea turtles are also frequently spotted in the shallow waters or coming ashore. The less-traveled sections of the trail, like those near Ka'ena Point (though not strictly Turtle Bay, the principle applies), are often cited as prime spots for these sightings. Always be aware of your surroundings and look for signs of wildlife.
Key takeaway: Patience and respect are your best tools for wildlife viewing here. Bring binoculars if you have them, and a telephoto lens for your camera to get great shots without getting too close. The thrill of spotting a monk seal or a sea turtle is a highlight for many visitors to the Turtle Bay area.
Filming Location Fame: The Hunger Games
Walking along this part of the trail, you can easily imagine the epic scenes that unfolded here. The rugged cliffs and expansive ocean views provide a dramatic backdrop that perfectly captured the spirit of the film. It's a unique opportunity to connect with a popular movie in a real-world setting, adding an extra layer of excitement to your coastal exploration.
Pro-tip: While the exact filming spots might not be explicitly marked, the general area around the resort offers the most recognizable coastal scenery from the movie. Take your time to soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the natural beauty that also made it a sought-after filming location.
Trail Conditions and Accessibility
However, it's important to note that 'coastal trail' can imply varied terrain. While the primary routes are easy, some sections might become more rugged, with uneven ground, rocks, and potential for muddy patches after rain. Wearing appropriate footwear, such as sturdy walking shoes or trail runners, is highly recommended to ensure comfort and prevent slips.
For those seeking a more challenging experience or different perspectives, there are often smaller, less-maintained paths that branch off the main trail. These can lead to more secluded coves or higher vantage points. Always exercise caution if venturing onto these unofficial paths and be mindful of the natural environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit