Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail Hiking Guide
The Makapuʻu Point trail follows an old paved service road up the easternmost headland of Oʻahu to two railed lookouts above the red-roofed Makapuʻu Lighthouse. It is easy to follow and free, but it climbs steadily in full sun and wind. In whale season it is one of the best places on the island to watch humpbacks from land.
Distance and Grade
State Parks lists the trail at 2.0 miles round trip with 500 feet of climbing; AllTrails maps it at 2.5 miles and about 490 feet. The road climbs the western side of the ridge, switches back to the north at about the halfway point, and then eases up the eastern side to the summit lookouts. The surface is paved the whole way, but the grade is steady and there is no shade to rest in.
Whales, Seabirds and Neighbor Islands
The lighthouse, built in 1909, is closed to the public, but the overlook gives you a clean look down on it. State Parks says up to 10,000 humpbacks visit Hawaiian waters each year; whale season runs November through May, peaking January through March, and a viewing scope and sign along the route help with spotting. The offshore islets are sanctuaries for seabirds such as ʻiwa and tropicbirds. On a clear day you can see Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi. Bring binoculars.
Wind, Sun and No Water
This corner of the island is hot and dry, covered in low kiawe and cactus, and the summit can be very windy. Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline has no drinking water and no restrooms, so arrive with what you need. State Parks suggests a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water and recommends allowing about two hours to take in the views.
Gate Hours and Parking
There is no entrance fee. The park lot off Kalanianaʻole Highway (Route 72), past Hanauma Bay and Sandy Beach, is gated: from April 1 it is open 7 a.m. to 7:45 p.m., and from the day after Labor Day it closes at 6:45 p.m. Leashed dogs are allowed on the trail. Do not leave valuables visible in the car at any Oʻahu trailhead.
Stay Away From the Tide Pools
The tide pools below the point are a closed area. State Parks says unpredictable wave surges there have swept people out to sea and killed them, and the steep, loose path down endangers both the people on it and those below. Stay on the paved road and the railed lookouts. The cliffs along the route have falling-rock hazards too, so keep off the edges.
Hiking tips for Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail
- Go early; the lot opens at 7 a.m. and the road bakes by midday.
- Pack binoculars in whale season, November through May, and especially January through March.
- Carry all your water; there is none at the trailhead or on the trail.
- Hold on to hats and phones at the windy summit lookouts.
- Skip the scramble down to the tide pools; it is a closed area for a reason.
Nearby trails to explore
- Koko Crater Tramway
- Kaʻiwa Ridge Trail (Lanikai Pillbox)
- Kuliʻouʻou Ridge Trail
Hike this trail with TrailMates
Whale-watching from Makapuʻu goes better with a second pair of eyes. Use TrailMates to find Honolulu hikers walking up to the lighthouse lookout. Download the TrailMates app to connect.