By Hawaii.com
14 February, 2026
This article was originally published on Jan. 18, 2022, and was updated Feb. 14, 2026.
The Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail is one of the most accessible and rewarding hikes on Oʻahu. Located at the southeastern-most point of the island, this family-friendly 2-mile trail offers paved paths, panoramic views and the chance to spot humpback whales during the winter season.
Whether you’re new to Hawaiʻi or a longtime resident, this is a must-do coastal hike, especially between December and May, when whale sightings are common from the lookout points.
Accessible for all fitness levels.
Boasts ocean views and an opportunity to see whales November through May.
Offers a clear view of Makapu‘u Lighthouse perched upon a 600-foot sea cliff overlooking Makapu’u Beach.
The Lighthouse was built in 1909 and still helps mariners navigate their way to Oʻahu harbors today.
Open year-round, no fees.
Makapuʻu's offshore islets are wildlife sanctuaries. Bring binoculars for a chance to see native seabirds.
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The 46-foot-tall Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse was built in 1909.
Makapuʻu, which means "hill beginning" or "bulging eye" in Hawaiian, was named after a goddess who lived in a nearby cave. One moʻolelo, or legend, describes her as a stone placed at Makapuʻu Point by the God of Fishes to lure uhu, or parrotfish, to nearby fishers.
The 46-foot-tall Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse was built in 1909 after the 27,000 ton S.S. Manchuria ran into the reef at Makapuʻu Point. According to Hawaiʻi Public Radio, U.S. Coast Guard lighthouse keepers lived onsite and manually operated the lighthouse until 1974, when they made it fully automated.
According to The U.S. Coast Guard, all North American West Coast commerce coming into Honolulu passes Makapuʻu Lighthouse. Its hyper-radiant lens is the largest lighthouse lens in the United States, shooting light 420 feet over the ocean. This light can be seen from 28 miles away and the lighthouse's radio signals can be heard over 200 miles away. In 1909, the lens was one of the most expensive in the world.
Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail is worth every step, even when there's a crowd, which is likely. The trail is fully paved, making it accessible for strollers and beginner hikers. Wear a hat, comfortable shoes and reef-safe sunscreen — the path heats up quickly and there is no shade. The gradual incline climbs toward two lookout points with sweeping views of:
Makapuʻu Beach and the Windward coastline
Koko Crater and the east Oʻahu volcanic landscape
Mānana, also known as Rabbit Island and Kaohikaipu Islet
The islands of Moloka'i and Lānaʻi on a clear day
You’ll also see the historic red-roofed Makapuʻu Lighthouse below. While access to the lighthouse itself is restricted, the elevated lookouts offer picture-perfect angles of the structure.
Makapuʻu is one of Oʻahu’s top whale-watching spots, especially during peak humpback whale migration season. The lookout points at the summit offer an unobstructed view of the ocean, making it a favorite among photographers and marine mammal enthusiasts.
Whales often breach, slap their tails and bring calves close to shore. Bring binoculars or a camera with zoom for the best experience.
Local Tip: Early mornings offer better lighting and calmer seas for spotting spouts and breaches.
WWII-era pillboxes: Look up the hillside to your left where you'll see several old military bunkers, or pillboxes, peek through the brush.
Tide pools: Far below, you’ll see waves crashing against the rocky shore and the Ka Iwi tide pools (not accessible from this trail).
Memorial plaque: Near the top is a plaque commemorating nine naval aviators who died in a 1942 crash on the hillside.
Desert flora: Cacti and native Hawaiian plants line the trail, giving it a rugged coastal desert vibe.
Trail Name: Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail
Location: Ka Iwi State Scenic Shoreline, East Oʻahu
Trail Length: 2 miles roundtrip (takes 1-2 hours to complete, depending on how often you stop
Difficulty: Easy – paved, no shade, steady incline
Elevation Gain: ~500 feet
Kid & Pet Friendly: Yes (dogs allowed on leash)
Best Time to Hike: Morning for cooler weather and clear skies
Whale Watching: November to May
Hours: 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. daily
Parking: Free lot at trailhead, recently improved
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The view of Oʻahu's Windward Side from Makapu'u Point Lookout.
Bring sun protection: There’s zero shade on the trail
Carry water: Especially during mid-day heat
Dogs are allowed: But must be on a leash
Pack a camera or binoculars: Great for whales and panoramic views
No restrooms at trailhead: Use facilities at nearby Makapuʻu Beach Park if needed
Arrive early (trail opens at 7 a.m.): Parking lots fill quickly
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail Hike & Halona Blowhole Tour - Stop for photos of Halona Blowhole on your way to the hike.
Koko Head Trail Hike, Makapu'u Lookout, Halona Cove & Blowhole - An entire day of hiking, epic views and relaxing on the beach.
Makapuʻu LIghthouse Point Trail.
The Makapuʻu Trail is located within the Ka Iwi State Scenic Shoreline on Oʻahu’s southeastern coast. The address is: Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail, Waimānalo, HI 96795.
Take Kalākaua Ave to Diamond Head Road
Merge onto H-1 East
H-1 turns into Kalanianaʻole Highway
Drive past Hawaiʻi Kai, Hanauma Bay, and Sandy Beach
About 1 mile past Hawaiʻi Kai Golf Course, look for a right turn onto Makapuʻu Lighthouse Road
Enter the gate marked “Ka Iwi Scenic Shoreline”
The parking lot sits right at the trailhead. It's free, but fills quickly. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.
Early mornings or late afternoons during the week to beat the crowds and scorching sun. Come November through May if you want a chance to see humpback whales. Otherwise, this trail is fantastic year-round.
Once you’re done exploring Makapuʻu Point, check out these nearby East Oʻahu gems:
Makapuʻu Beach Park – Great for bodyboarding and tide pool exploration
Sea Life Park Hawaiʻi – Family-friendly marine life park just minutes away
Waimānalo Beach – Quiet, scenic beach with fewer crowds
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve – Top snorkeling spot (reservations required)
Waimānalo Beach. Photo by Marco Garcia.
Yes! The trail is paved from start to finish, with a gentle incline suitable for strollers and young kids.
No. The lighthouse is an active Coast Guard facility and is off-limits to the public. However, the view from the trail is excellent.
Between December and May, especially in January and February during peak migration season.
Most hikers complete the round-trip in 45–60 minutes, not including time spent enjoying the views or whale watching.
Whether you’re a seasoned local or first-time visitor, the Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail offers one of the best easy hikes with views in all of Hawaiʻi. From its historical significance and coastal vistas to thrilling whale-watching opportunities, it’s a trail that rewards at every turn.
Pro traveler tip: Pair this hike with a sunrise start or a post-hike picnic at Makapuʻu Beach for an unforgettable East Oʻahu experience.
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