Makapuu Beach Park
Oahu's eastern gem, Makapu'u Beach Park boasts stunning turquoise waters, powerful waves for bodyboarding, and breathtaking coastal scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waves are powerful and fun
Makapuu Beach Park
Best Time
Waves are powerful and fun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Oahu's eastern gem, Makapu'u Beach Park boasts stunning turquoise waters, powerful waves for bodyboarding, and breathtaking coastal scenery.
"A powerful wave paradise with stunning views, but be mindful of the sun and the intense shore break."
🌊 Respect the Waves
Powerful shore break! Only experienced swimmers/bodyboarders should enter. Watch for warning signs.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun is intense. Bring an umbrella or seek shade. High SPF sunscreen is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Powerful Shore Break Waves
Main beach area
Experience thrilling bodyboarding and body surfing on strong, crashing waves. A true thrill for experienced water sports enthusiasts.
Stunning Coastal Scenery
Overlooking the beach
Enjoy breathtaking views of turquoise waters, white sand, and offshore islands like Manana and Kaohikaipu.
Makapu'u Lighthouse View
Distant view from beach
Catch a glimpse of the iconic Makapu'u Lighthouse perched on the cliffs, adding to the picturesque landscape.
Black Rock Formations
Left side of the beach
Explore unique black rock formations along the shoreline, perfect for a scenic walk (wear water shoes!).
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Wave Warnings & Sun Protection
Parking & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Respect the Waves
Powerful shore break! Only experienced swimmers/bodyboarders should enter. Watch for warning signs.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun is intense. Bring an umbrella or seek shade. High SPF sunscreen is a must.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can fill up, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider weekdays.
👟 Water Shoes for Rocks
If exploring the black rocks, wear water shoes for grip and protection.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Respect the Waves
Powerful shore break! Only experienced swimmers/bodyboarders should enter. Watch for warning signs.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun is intense. Bring an umbrella or seek shade. High SPF sunscreen is a must.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can fill up, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider weekdays.
👟 Water Shoes for Rocks
If exploring the black rocks, wear water shoes for grip and protection.
🧼 Bathroom Alert
Be prepared for potentially dirty restrooms. Plan accordingly.
🏄♀️ Boogie Board Paradise
Ideal spot for boogie boarding due to the strong waves.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Makapu'u Beach Park is lauded for its stunning natural beauty and powerful waves, making it a favorite for experienced bodyboarders. Visitors appreciate the scenic views and the vibrant turquoise waters. However, the intense sun and the often-dirty restrooms are noted drawbacks, and the strong shore break requires caution for swimmers.
"A very powerful wave best enjoyed by those accustomed to such a surf from a young age. Boogie boarding is a thing here. Beach sand good for sunbathing, though the rays here are also strong. Lighthouse view in the distance makes for a scenic vista."
Christopher Chung
"Nice spot. Water is clean. Scenery is amazing. Make sure to bring your umbrella as it can get get really hot. Plenty of parking spot. Only thing is bathroom is filthy!"
Christophe LEE
"Loved this beach! Great for body surfing if your not much of a swimmer. Lots of sun, perfect for sunbathing or bring an umbrella of you want some shade. There's a bathroom and outdoor shower for rinsing."
Kia Yang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Makapu'u Beach Park is located on the eastern side of Oahu. Driving is the most common way to get there, with ample parking available, though it can fill up quickly on busy days. Public transportation options are limited, and rideshares might be less reliable for return trips from this more remote location.
While public buses do service the general area, direct and frequent service to the park itself can be challenging. It's often recommended to have a rental car or to arrange transportation in advance if relying on rideshares for your return journey.
Yes, you can typically get an Uber or Lyft to Makapu'u Beach Park. However, as noted in traveler discussions, relying on rideshares for your return trip from this location might be less dependable than in more populated areas like Waikiki.
For maximum flexibility and ease, renting a car is often the preferred method for visiting Makapu'u Beach Park. This allows you to explore at your own pace and ensures you have transportation back.
Makapu'u Beach Park is on the eastern tip of Oahu, a scenic drive from Waikiki. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Makapu'u Beach Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the beach and its amenities free of charge.
Makapu'u Beach Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. It's a public park, so hours are dictated by daylight. Always check local advisories for any temporary closures.
No advance booking or tickets are required for Makapu'u Beach Park, as it is a public access beach. Simply arrive and enjoy the facilities.
There are no specific entry restrictions beyond standard park rules. However, be aware of ocean safety warnings, especially regarding the powerful shore break.
While the scenery is beautiful for all, the strong waves make it challenging for inexperienced swimmers. It's best enjoyed by experienced surfers, bodyboarders, or those who prefer to relax on the sand.
🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience
Makapu'u Beach is famous for its powerful shore break, making it ideal for experienced bodyboarders and body surfers. You can also sunbathe, enjoy the scenic views, and explore the black rock formations on the left side of the beach.
Yes, lifeguards are typically on duty during the day at Makapu'u Beach Park, providing an added layer of safety for visitors.
The park offers restrooms and outdoor showers for rinsing off. However, reviews indicate that the restrooms can be quite dirty, so manage expectations.
Swimming can be dangerous due to the strong shore break and undertow. It's recommended for experienced swimmers and bodyboarders only. Always heed warning signs.
The sand at Makapu'u Beach Park is described as soft and white, perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. 
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the turquoise water, white sand, and the offshore islands. The black rock formations on the left offer unique perspectives. The distant view of Makapu'u Lighthouse is also a popular subject.
Golden hour, around sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday provides bright, clear shots of the vibrant blue water.
Drone usage is subject to Hawaii's state and local regulations. It's essential to check current rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the park.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. If you plan to photograph the waves, a telephoto lens might be useful. Don't forget waterproof protection for your gear.
The most iconic landmark visible from the beach is the Makapu'u Lighthouse, perched on the cliffs in the distance. The unique offshore islands also make for striking photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a safer water experience, families might prefer to visit nearby beaches with calmer waters. However, if your children are older and experienced swimmers, or if you're content with sandcastle building and enjoying the views, Makapu'u can still be a rewarding destination. The presence of lifeguards offers some reassurance, but parental vigilance is paramount.
🏄♀️ Thrill-Seekers & Surfers
If you're looking for a challenge and love the thrill of riding big waves, this is the place to be. For those who prefer to watch, the beach offers a fantastic vantage point to witness skilled athletes tackle the formidable waves. The dramatic crashes and the energy of the ocean are captivating. Remember to respect the ocean's power and only enter the water if you have the necessary skills and experience.
📸 Photographers & Scenery Lovers
+1 Capture the dramatic wave action, the expansive coastline, and the distant Makapu'u Lighthouse for stunning shots. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a warm glow over the landscape.
The black rock formations on the left side of the beach also provide interesting foreground elements for your compositions. Be prepared for the elements, and consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the breathtaking vistas. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Waves at Makapu'u
Videos often showcase the dramatic crashes and the skill required to ride these waves. For casual swimmers, these waves can be dangerous. The force of the breaking waves can easily knock you over and pull you back into the surf. Traveler reviews consistently warn about the intensity, advising caution and recommending entry only for those accustomed to such conditions.
If you're not looking to brave the waves, Makapu'u still offers a spectacular experience. Simply watching the surfers and bodyboarders can be entertaining, and the beach itself provides a beautiful backdrop for relaxation and soaking in the Hawaiian sun.
Maximizing Your Visit: Practical Tips
Parking is a common consideration. While there are parking lots, they can fill up, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving earlier in the day or visiting on a weekday can significantly improve your chances of finding a spot.
Facilities at Makapu'u include restrooms and outdoor showers. However, be aware that reviews frequently mention the restrooms are not well-maintained and can be quite dirty.
The Scenic Beauty of Makapu'u
The panoramic views extend to the offshore islands of Manana (Rabbit Island) and Kaohikaipu, adding a unique and captivating element to the landscape. Beyond the immediate beach, the surrounding cliffs and coastline provide a dramatic backdrop. While not directly on the beach, the distant view of the historic Makapu'u Lighthouse adds to the scenic vista and is a popular subject for photographers.
+1 The combination of the powerful ocean, the unique island formations, and the rugged coastline creates a truly memorable and visually striking environment that draws visitors seeking the quintessential Hawaiian beach experience. 
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