Introduction
In the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail is a popular 2.5-mile out-and-back trail on Oahu’s southeast coast. Stunning views of the coast, including Koko Head and Koko Head Crater Hike, are to be had from this moderately difficult walk. The hike, which is famous for its panoramic views, typically takes one hour and twelve minutes to complete. This well-traveled walking path leads you to a viewpoint above the Makapu’u lighthouse after it contours the rocky shore of Oahu’s southeast spit. The paved path at the end of the parking area is where the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail begins, and it continues for just over 1.0 mile.
Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail
The Makapu’u Point trail at Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline provides breathtaking views of the southeast Oahu coast, including Koko Head and Koko Crater. The moderately easy trail is worth the effort with lovely scenery of blue ocean and Oahu’s Windward Coast, or eastern coast. Mount Tantalus Lookout is another top spot in Oahu to visit with kids and family.
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail Hours
The Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail is open from 7 AM and closes at 6:45 PM. Although the lighthouse is off-limits to the public, the hike, which is two miles round trip and has a two-hour hike time, has ocean views. It must be noted that the hike is fully exposed, so visitors must bring water and sunblock ahead of time.
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail Parking
Parking for Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail is in a surfaced parking lot off Kalanianaʻole Highway in Honolulu. Because of its popularity, parking is difficult to find, particularly during peak hours. Others park along the street in front of the trailhead gate with a short additional walk.
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail Sunrise
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a popular and easy 2.5-mile paved hike on Oahu that is among the best spots to watch the sunrise. The trail offers open eastern views, so it’s an ideal place to watch the sunrise. It’s family-friendly and offers stunning views of the sunrise. Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail is another top spot in Oahu to visit with family and friends.
Makapuu Light Trail Directions
To access the Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail from Honolulu, drive on the H1 freeway east. This road becomes Kalanianaole Highway (Highway 72). The trailhead and parking are along Kalanianaole Highway at the southeastern tip of Oahu. The park and the hike are free, and there is a trail to the water before the lighthouse trail proper. This trail to the water is not paved.
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail Images
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail Tide Pools
Along the east coast of Oahu, Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail offers access to blowholes and tide pools constructed of black lava rock. The 1.9-mile trail is popular with locals and visitors. The clean water and stunning environment of the tide pools are famous. There are a few areas deep enough to jump into. Depending on the hiker’s speed, the actual hike will take one to two hours to complete.
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail Length
The length of the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail varies slightly depending on the source, but one source estimates it as approximately 1.5 miles round trip and 2.5 miles out-and-back. The consensus is that the hike is moderately difficult. Families have no problem making the well-paved trail. It will take one hour and twelve minutes to hike on average. Kuliouou Ridge Trail is another top place to visit in Oahu.
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail Whale Watching
The Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail is excellent for whale watching, particularly during the migration season between November and May. Whales, such as humpback whales, have been sighted by trail visitors. It is highly recommended to bring binoculars to better view and also to view whales and seabirds. The trail itself is renowned for its views, and it is an excellent spot to enjoy a scenic hike, along with the potential of watching whales.
Waikiki to Makapuu Lighthouse Trail bus
Despite the fact that there is no direct public bus to the Makapuu Trail, Waikiki shuttle services provide easy access to the trailhead. The nearest public bus stop is on the Sea Life Park road, but it is not safe on foot. Thus, the most convenient means of access to the trail is the shuttle service from Waikiki.
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail Bathroom
There are no toilets along the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail. Visitors are advised to make arrangements ahead of beginning the hike. The nearest toilets are located at Sandy Beach, which is on the way to the trail.
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail Cost
It is free to park and walk the Makapuu Trail. The tour costs approximately $43.79 with taxes and charges. There is a trail that leads down to the water before the lighthouse trail.
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail Map
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail Time
The exposed trail is generally warm and sunny. It will be windy at the top. Apply sunscreen and wear a hat, and be properly hydrated. Take two hours for this hike and its stunning views.
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail Weather
The Makapuu Lighthouse Trail has direct sunshine all year round, and wind typically blows over the summit. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. The trail is open year-round, but it is best to visit early morning or late afternoon to miss the middle of the day heat, especially in winter.
Restaurants close to Makapuu Lighthouse Trail
There are numerous restaurants around the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail. A few of them are Smokey Ranch Barbeque, Moena Cafe, and others around the Hawaii Kai area, including Original Roy’s, Kona Brewing – Oahu, and Heavenly Island Lifestyle – Hawaii Kai. The options range from barbeque to cafes and other varied options.
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail Elevation
Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail is moderately difficult. The trail’s elevation gain differs slightly by source but is around 475 to 600 feet on its 2.5 to 3-mile round trip.
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail Reviews
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail is paved and well-maintained with spectacular ocean views. The trail is fairly easy, with a gradual incline, and therefore accessible to most fitness levels. Along the way, there are some viewpoints where one may stop and take photographs. One reviewer recommends proceeding on to Makapuu Head for additional scenery. The paved trail is well accessible, though those in poor physical shape will find the ascent challenging.
Conclusion
Waimanalo, Lanikai, and Kailua are a few of the great things to see and do on the windward side. I hope this helps you with some great ideas for what to see and do in town and the surrounding community. The Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, with its unbelievable views of the beauty of Oahu, is a must. With so many Pacific vistas along the trail, it is well worth the trip. Because there is minimal cover and the landscape is desert, best to hike early in order to avoid the sun and crowds.
