Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail
Makapuʻu Point
A paved trail climbs the sea cliffs at the southeastern tip of Oahu, overlooking the red-roofed lighthouse built in 1909, Rabbit Island and the turquoise coastline. Whales can be spotted in winter.
Makapuʻu Point is the easternmost headland of Oahu. The lighthouse trail is fully paved, about 3.2 km round trip with about 150 meters of elevation gain, and it is stroller-friendly. It takes about 1–1.5 hours. Along the way and from the summit, you can overlook the red-roofed Makapuʻu Lighthouse, built in 1909 (not open to the public), Rabbit Island offshore, and Makapuʻu Beach. On clear days you can see Molokai and Lanai in the distance. December to April is humpback whale season, when spouts and breaches are often visible on the surface. Entry is free, but the parking lot is small and there have been cases of car windows being smashed, so do not leave valuables in the car. The trail has no shade, so bring water and sunscreen.
Opening hours
07:00–18:45
Nearby sights
- Hālona Blowhole
- Koko Crater Railway Trail
- Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
- Waimānalo Beach
- Lanikai Pillbox Hike (Kaʻiwa Ridge Trail)
- Lanikai Beach
- Kailua Beach Park
- Mānoa Falls