Makapu‘u Lookout, Honolulu - On out way to Diamond Head
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Makapu‘u Lookout Honolulu

4.8
·4k reviews·Waimanalo, United States

Iconic lookout on Oahu's eastern tip, offering dramatic sea cliffs, a historic lighthouse, and stunning ocean panoramas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Makapu‘u Lookout, Honolulu - On out way to Diamond Head

Makapu‘u Lookout Honolulu

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic lookout on Oahu's eastern tip, offering dramatic sea cliffs, a historic lighthouse, and stunning ocean panoramas.

4.8
(4k reviews)

"One of the most beautiful lookout points on the island of Oahu! The views are absolutely breathtaking."

Vertical photo
TIP

☀️ No Shade, Bring Water!

The paved trail is fully exposed. Carry plenty of water and wear sun protection.

👟 Paved Trail, Good Footing

The trail is paved and well-maintained, making it accessible for most fitness levels.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Ocean Vistas

Panoramic Ocean Vistas

Breathtaking views of the Pacific, showcasing vibrant turquoise waters and distant islands.

Makapu'u Point Lighthouse

Makapu'u Point Lighthouse

Visible from the lookout

Iconic white lighthouse perched on dramatic sea cliffs, a picturesque landmark against the blue expanse.

Whale Watching (Seasonal)

Whale Watching (Seasonal)

During winter months, this is a prime spot to witness majestic humpback whales migrating offshore.

Rabbit Island & Bird Islets

Rabbit Island & Bird Islets

Offshore view

See Manana (Rabbit Island) and Kaohikaipu islets, unique volcanic formations rising from the sea.

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit Makapu'u Lookout early to avoid the midday sun and crowds. The paved trail has no shade, making morning visits much more comfortable. Parking can fill up quickly, so an early start is key for a stress-free experience.

Getting There & Around

While ride-sharing is an option, it can be unreliable for return trips from Makapu'u. Consider renting a car or utilizing the bus system for a more dependable journey. Kaimana Tours offers transportation, but with limited flexibility.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Winter mornings
Why
Best chance for whale sightings
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Visiting O’ahu and want an easy hike? Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail is paved, only about 2 miles round trip, and has stunning panoramic ocean views—plus, during winter, you might even spot whales! 🐳 • • • #oahu #oahuhawaii #hawaii #honolulu #hawaiivacation #makapuulighthouse #travel #whalewatching #Hiking #fyp #CapCut
@adventuring.allie
30.4K likes • 291.5K views

☀️ No Shade, Bring Water!

The paved trail is fully exposed. Carry plenty of water and wear sun protection. Reddit

👟 Paved Trail, Good Footing

The trail is paved and well-maintained, making it accessible for most fitness levels. Reddit

The view of Manana and Kaohikaipu islands on the East end of O'ahu. Most commonly known as Rabbit Island because it resembles a Rabbits Head and once was inhabited by introduced Rabbits 🐇 #makapuu #islet #island #rabbitisland #oahu #lookout
hawaiianstylerentals
0 likes • 3.4K views
📍Makapu’u Lookout 🌊🏝️ 🐠 Save this post if Hawaii is on your bucket list ✨ #travel #adventure #bucketlist #makingmemories #vacation #summer #trails #hawaii #honolulu #hawaiihonolulu #beachdays #ocean #summerdays #travellifestyle #bucketlist #travelling
_margaryta._
121 likes • 1.3K views

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Limited parking spots mean you might need to park on the main road and walk a bit. Reddit

🐳 Winter Whale Watching

Visit between December and May for a good chance to spot humpback whales. TikTok

Makapuʻu (Bulging Eye) is the eastern point of Oʻahu in the Hawaiian Islands, known for its dramatic sea cliffs, scenic lighthouse trail, and breathtaking ocean views. The rugged volcanic landscapes, strong trade winds, and a popular lookout for whale watching in winter.
edboutilier
62 likes • 2.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

☀️ No Shade, Bring Water!

The paved trail is fully exposed. Carry plenty of water and wear sun protection. Reddit

👟 Paved Trail, Good Footing

The trail is paved and well-maintained, making it accessible for most fitness levels. Reddit

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Limited parking spots mean you might need to park on the main road and walk a bit. Reddit

🐳 Winter Whale Watching

Visit between December and May for a good chance to spot humpback whales. TikTok

🚌 Bus Option Available

The bus is a viable, though longer, option if ride-sharing is unreliable. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the absolutely breathtaking and stunning views from Makapu'u Lookout, calling it one of the most beautiful spots on Oahu. The paved trail is appreciated for its accessibility, though many note it's steeper than expected and lacks shade. Parking can be a challenge, and some find the lack of fences concerning for young children.

"Planned to hike out to the lighthouse originally but opted to enjoy the view from the lookout and spend the time we saved to see other beautiful places along the east shore heading north. Parking wasn't a problem around 1pm"

Jeffrey Ewing

"This is a beautiful look out with an amazing view!! The look out area is paved and there's parking on site. We didn't hike the area but just stopping to see the view was well worth the drive there."

Nikki Appleton

"4 km in total (2 km uphill)
Views are amazing
Take water with you
Probably wouldn’t recommend to take small children, it is steep and no fence.
I got told it is an easy walk but it is certainly not an easy stroll.
Well worth the hike though"

Istvan Ulmann

What People Like

Stunning panoramic ocean views
Iconic lighthouse scenery
Seasonal whale watching opportunities

What People Dislike

Steep, exposed trail
Limited parking
Lack of shade

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can drive, take a bus, or use ride-sharing services. Driving is about a 30-minute trip from Honolulu. Instagram Ride-sharing can be unreliable for return trips, so consider a rental car or the bus. The bus route from Sea Life Park to Waikiki is an option, though it takes longer. Reddit

Parking is available but limited. If the main lot is full, you may need to park on the main road and walk a short distance. Reddit

Yes, you can take a taxi or Uber, but be aware that securing a ride back can be challenging. It's recommended to have a backup plan or arrange a return trip in advance. Reddit

Yes, you can take the bus. It's a longer journey, but it's a budget-friendly option. Be prepared for a walk from the bus stop to the trailhead. Reddit

Kaimana Tours offers transportation to the trail, but this limits your flexibility with timing. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Makapu'u Lookout is a public scenic viewpoint and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. Instagram

The lookout and the paved trail are generally accessible at all hours, though the lighthouse itself is not open to the public. Reddit

There is no admission fee to access the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail or the lookout. Instagram

The trailhead is technically always open as it's a roadway. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Reddit

The lighthouse is an active U.S. Coast Guard facility and is not open for public tours. You can view it from the trail. Reddit

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

It's a paved, uphill trail approximately 2 miles round trip. It offers stunning panoramic views but has no shade. TikTokReddit

While paved, the trail is steep and can be challenging for those not accustomed to inclines. It's considered moderate, not an easy stroll. Reddit

The trail is steep and has no fences, so caution is advised, especially with young children. Stay on the designated path. Reddit

Expect breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic sea cliffs, the lighthouse, and offshore islets. Instagram+1

Due to the steepness and lack of fences, it's recommended to exercise caution with small children. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography. The golden hour before sunset provides stunning colors. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean views and coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting whales. TikTok

The main lookout area offers the most iconic views. Continue along the paved trail for different perspectives of the lighthouse and coastline. Instagram

Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near protected wildlife or the lighthouse. Always check local regulations before flying. Instagram

Walk along the paved trail towards the lighthouse for unobstructed shots. The contrast of the white lighthouse against the blue ocean is striking. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Makapu'u Lookout offers stunning views that can captivate children, but parents should be aware of the trail's conditions. The paved trail is steep and has no fences, so close supervision of young children is essential to ensure their safety. Reddit While the 2-mile roundtrip hike is manageable, consider the heat and lack of shade; an early morning visit is highly recommended. Reddit Pack plenty of water and snacks, and make the most of the panoramic ocean vistas and the chance to spot whales during the winter months. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Active Adventurers

For those seeking a moderate hike with a big payoff, the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail is a great choice. The paved, uphill path provides a good workout, and the panoramic views at the top are well worth the effort. Reddit Consider extending your adventure by exploring the rugged coastline or combining your visit with other scenic spots along the east shore. Reddit Remember to wear sturdy shoes, bring ample water, and be prepared for the sun's intensity. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Makapu'u Lookout is a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram The dramatic sea cliffs, the iconic lighthouse, and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. Instagram Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens if you're hoping to photograph whales during the season. TikTok The vibrant blues of the water and the rugged volcanic landscape offer a unique Hawaiian photographic experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail Experience

The Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail is a popular, paved 2-mile roundtrip hike offering spectacular coastal scenery. While the trail itself is well-maintained and accessible, it's important to note that it is entirely exposed with no shade. This means visiting during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon, is highly recommended to avoid the intense Hawaiian sun. Reddit The ascent is steady and can be challenging for those unaccustomed to inclines, so bring plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear. Reddit

At the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the iconic Makapu'u Lighthouse, and the offshore islets of Manana (Rabbit Island) and Kaohikaipu. Instagram+1 During the winter months (December to May), this lookout is a prime spot for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate through Hawaiian waters. TikTok Remember to stay on the marked path and be mindful of the steep drop-offs, especially if you are visiting with children. Reddit

Transportation Options to Makapu'u

Getting to Makapu'u Lookout requires some planning, as public transportation and ride-sharing can be less straightforward than in more urban areas. While ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available, securing a return trip from Makapu'u can be unreliable, leading to potential wait times or the need for alternative arrangements. Reddit Many visitors opt to rent a car for more flexibility, or consider using the local bus system. The bus is a budget-friendly option, though it involves a longer travel time and a walk from the bus stop to the trailhead. Reddit

For those seeking a guided experience, tour operators like Kaimana Tours provide transportation, but this often comes with a fixed schedule, limiting spontaneous exploration. Reddit If you choose to drive, be aware that parking at the trailhead is limited and can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. In such cases, parking on the adjacent main road and walking a short distance is a common alternative. Reddit

Whale Watching at Makapu'u

Makapu'u Lookout is renowned as one of the best land-based vantage points for whale watching on Oahu. From December through May, humpback whales migrate to the warm Hawaiian waters to breed and calve. TikTok The elevated position of the lookout provides an excellent, unobstructed view of the ocean, allowing visitors to spot these magnificent creatures as they breach, spout, and play. Reddit It's advisable to bring binoculars for a closer look and to be patient, as whale sightings are not guaranteed but are frequent during the season. TikTok

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