Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail
The Makapuʻu trail rises along Oʻahu’s dry southeast coast to overlooks above a red-roofed 1909 lighthouse.
Artwork inspired by John Melville Kelly
The Makapuʻu trail rises along Oʻahu’s dry southeast coast to overlooks above a red-roofed 1909 lighthouse. Koko Head, Molokaʻi on clear days, seabird islets, and migrating humpback whales expand the view beyond one summit. The pavement makes the route accessible to more visitors but does not create shade or eliminate grade.
Start early, carry more water than the short mileage suggests, and secure hats in strong trade wind. Stay behind cliff barriers, use binoculars for whales and seabirds, and remember the lighthouse itself is not reached by the public trail. The practical value comes from keeping lighthouse overlook and offshore islets in view together.
- Anchor
- Oʻahu
- Second look
- winter whale views
- Pace
- 1½–2½ hours
Quick guide
- Start with
- Begin with lighthouse overlook so the larger story has a clear physical anchor.
- Look closely at
- Compare offshore islets with winter whale views; their relationship is what makes this stop distinctive.
Know before you go
- Start with
- Use lighthouse overlook to establish the place before widening the visit.
- Look closely at
- Compare offshore islets with winter whale views rather than treating either as background.
- Connect the story
- Koko Head, Molokaʻi on clear days, seabird islets, and migrating humpback whales expand the view beyond one summit.
- Plan around
- Start early, carry more water than the short mileage suggests, and secure hats in strong trade wind.
Good to know
At Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail, do not separate lighthouse overlook from winter whale views. Start early, carry more water than the short mileage suggests, and secure hats in strong trade wind.
Notice these
- lighthouse overlook
- offshore islets
- winter whale views