Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail
A paved, accessible hike offering breathtaking panoramic ocean views, a historic lighthouse, and seasonal whale watching opportunities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid heat & crowds
Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail
Best Time
Avoid heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A paved, accessible hike offering breathtaking panoramic ocean views, a historic lighthouse, and seasonal whale watching opportunities.
"The paved trail offers stunning views and is accessible for most, but be prepared for intense sun!"
☀️ Beat the Sun!
The trail is fully exposed. Bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
🅿️ Parking Pointers
Arrive early, especially on weekends. Parking is limited; street parking is an option if the lot is full.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Ocean Vistas
Summit overlook
Sweeping views of Oahu's southeastern coastline, offshore islets, and the vast Pacific Ocean.
Historic Makapu'u Lighthouse
Lighthouse viewpoint
A picturesque, historic lighthouse perched on the cliffside, offering a classic Hawaiian photo opportunity.
Whale Watching (Seasonal)
Summit overlook
During winter months, keep an eye out for majestic humpback whales breaching in the ocean below.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Whale Watching & Tide Pool Adventures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Beat the Sun!
The trail is fully exposed. Bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
🅿️ Parking Pointers
Arrive early, especially on weekends. Parking is limited; street parking is an option if the lot is full.
🐳 Whale Watching Wonders
Visit between November and May for a good chance to spot humpback whales from the overlook.
👟 Stroller & Kid Friendly
The paved, gradual incline makes it suitable for strollers and families with young children. 
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Beat the Sun!
The trail is fully exposed. Bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
🅿️ Parking Pointers
Arrive early, especially on weekends. Parking is limited; street parking is an option if the lot is full.
🐳 Whale Watching Wonders
Visit between November and May for a good chance to spot humpback whales from the overlook.
👟 Stroller & Kid Friendly
The paved, gradual incline makes it suitable for strollers and families with young children.
🥾 Tide Pool Exploration
Venture to the Makapu'u Tide Pools for a unique experience, but be cautious as it's off the main trail.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic ocean views and the well-maintained, paved trail, making it accessible for many. The chance to spot whales during the season is a major highlight. However, the complete lack of shade and intense sun exposure are frequently mentioned drawbacks, requiring visitors to come prepared with water and sun protection.
"The hardest part about this hike is the fact that the trail is not shaded. It’s paved all the way but completely exposed. Bring plenty on water for it and for the love of god, don’t bring pets. The pavement gets incredibly hot. I’ve seen people carrying a massive golden doodle as the poor thing could not walk anymore due to the heat."
Adriana Y
"This is an awesome paved hike up to the top of the trail that has beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and a Lighthouse. It's a little over 2 miles out and back. We got to the trailhead around 7.15 am on Sunday morning, and there were plenty of parking spaces. 45 minutes later, as we made our way back down, almost all the parking spaces were full, so get to this hike early. It's one of the best trails on the island."
A R
"This is a great trail! It's a fully paved, very wide, out and back hike to the lighthouse. You don't actually go by the lighthouse, but there's an incredible view at the top where you see a full panoramic view of the island, and the lighthouse below. It took me 30 mins to get to the top and 20 to get down, at a pretty reasonable pace. The hike is steep all the way up, and downhill all the way down, but it's never unbearable, and there are plenty of rest stops and view points to pause. I highly recommend it!!"
Theo Wiggin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive, take a bus, or use rideshare services. Driving offers the most flexibility. The bus (e.g., TheBus route 23) is an option but can be a long ride. Rideshares like Uber or Lyft are available but can be less reliable or more expensive due to the distance. Some recommend pre-scheduling or using a backup plan like the bus from Sea Life Park. +1
Walking along Route 72 from Sea Life Park is generally not recommended due to narrow shoulders and fast-moving traffic. It's safer to drive or take a rideshare directly to the trailhead. +1
Yes, TheBus routes like the 23 can take you near Sea Life Park, from where you can walk or take another bus. Be prepared for a walk on the side of the road.
Yes, there is a parking lot at the trailhead. It fills up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak hours. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Yes, rideshares are possible, but availability can be inconsistent, and it might be more expensive than other options. It's wise to have a backup plan.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail is free to access.
The trail is technically part of Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, which has opening hours, but the roadway to the trailhead is generally accessible at any time, allowing for early morning or late evening hikes.
No, tickets are not required as there is no entrance fee. It's a public trail.
Yes, you can hike before the official opening time as the roadway is accessible. Many people hike for sunrise, but be aware of limited lighting. +1
Occasionally, sections of the trail may be closed for maintenance. It's advisable to check local advisories before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The trail is considered moderate due to its gradual, consistent incline. It's paved and about 2 miles round trip, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
The hike typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours round trip, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summit.
Yes, the entire trail is paved and has a gradual incline, making it very stroller-friendly.
There are no restrooms directly at the trailhead or along the paved trail. Public restrooms are available at nearby beaches like Makapu'u Beach.
Yes, dogs are allowed on the trail, but they must be kept on a leash. Be mindful of the hot pavement for their paws.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit overlook offers stunning panoramic views. The lighthouse itself is a great subject, and various viewpoints along the trail provide unique coastal shots.
Sunrise is very popular for its beautiful light and potential whale sightings. Sunset also offers lovely colors, though the trail may be less crowded then. +1
While not essential, a telephoto lens or binoculars can enhance your whale-watching experience and help capture clearer shots of distant marine life.
A wide-angle lens is great for the expansive views. A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. Protect your gear from sun and potential sea spray.
General photography is allowed. However, be respectful of the environment and other visitors. Drone usage may be restricted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The 2-mile round trip is manageable for most children, and the stunning views provide a great reward for their efforts. Remember to pack plenty of water and sun protection, as there is no shade. Consider bringing snacks and making it a fun outing with a picnic at the top. For a unique experience, some families explore the nearby Makapu'u Tide Pools, though this requires extra caution and is best suited for older children who can navigate rocky terrain safely.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
The main expenses will be transportation to the trailhead and any snacks or water you purchase. Utilizing public transportation like TheBus can significantly reduce costs compared to taxis or rideshares. Packing your own water and snacks from a local grocery store will also save money. The stunning views and the chance for whale watching (during season) provide a high-value experience that doesn't break the bank.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The iconic lighthouse provides a classic subject, and its contrast against the blue sky or dramatic clouds is always a winner. If visiting during whale season (November-May), bring a telephoto lens or binoculars to capture the majestic humpback whales.
The trail itself offers interesting textures and perspectives, with opportunities to photograph the paved path winding up the hillside. Remember to protect your gear from the sun and potential sea spray. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Paved Path to Paradise
+1While the pavement is great for accessibility, it also means there's no shade along the entire route. This is a critical factor to consider, especially during the midday sun. Visitors consistently emphasize the need for ample water, sunscreen, and protective clothing to combat the heat and intense Hawaiian sun.
Despite the lack of shade, the payoff at the summit is immense. The panoramic views of the rugged coastline, offshore islets, and the vast Pacific Ocean are truly breathtaking. It's a prime spot for photography and simply soaking in the natural beauty of O'ahu.
+1Whale Watching and Coastal Wonders
Beyond whale watching, the trail offers stunning views of the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline. You can see the dramatic cliffs, the turquoise waters, and the iconic Makapu'u Lighthouse itself. For the more adventurous, there are opportunities to explore the Makapu'u Tide Pools which are located off the main paved trail. These pools offer a unique natural swimming experience, but require careful navigation and awareness of ocean conditions.
It's important to note that while the main trail is well-maintained, venturing to the tide pools involves navigating rocky terrain. Always prioritize safety and be aware of the tides and surf when exploring these natural formations.
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