Makapu'U Point Lighthouse Trail
សើនបហ្ចាមងផ្លើង ការសំរាកកំសាន្ត ក្រៅផ្ទះ ផ្លូវដើរតាមព្រៃភ្នំ សួនច្បារ ព្រំដែន និងកន្លែងប្រវត្តិសាស្ត្រ តំបន់ដើរជាប្រវត្តិសាស្ត្រ កឥការតាក់តាញ Near The Hawaii Kai Golf Course On Kalanianaole Highway, ហូណូលូលូ, ហាវ៉ៃ, ស.រ.អ
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Contact & Hours
Near The Hawaii Kai Golf Course On Kalanianaole Highway, Honolulu, Oahu, HI
Opening Hours
- Sunday: 10:00-18:00
- Monday: 07:00-19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00-19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00-19:00
- Thursday: 07:00-19:00
- Friday: 07:00-19:00
- Saturday: 07:00-19:00
Nearby Attractions
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Reviews (2680)
Great first trip out of Waikiki!
What a beautiful, slow grade walk up to a great lookout! It is unshaded asphalt but doable for most if you need to take your time. You end up above the lighthouse or nearby for a kiss with it the background
Beautiful Hike / Lighthouse
This is not only a beautiful lighthouse, but a wonderful experience. While hiking to the lighthouse overlook area, we saw numerous whales breaching the water. We also noticed several species of birds not seen in Eastern US. I highly recommend doing this hike the very first thing of the morning. We began ours at 9am, but if possible do the hike prior to that - rather as soon as the gates open! There is very little shade, it is sunny and windy. Carry water with you - you'll need it. Plus there are no restroom facilities on this hike. So go prepared. There are stopping points along the way with information to read, very informative. This lighthouse is the 3rd highest in the US - based on location not height of the actual lighthouse. The view points from many angles is wonderful. This was my 115th lighthouse to see in person. I did see a path that seemed to go to the lighthouse, however, the lighthouse is not accessible supposedly, therefore I did not get off the paved area. At the top of the climb (500 ft in elevation) we saw the Makapu' Beach area. There is restroom facilities at it - which is only a short drive once leaving the parking lot from the trail. I do recommend doing this hike while in Oahu
Beautiful walk
This was a wonderful walk. The path up to the lighthouse viewing area is totally paved and in excellent condition. The incline isn't too steep in most places. The view is extremely beautiful. We went in March and were able to see some whales slapping their tail in the water. Be sure to bring your camera!! The parking and hike are free. There is a trail that goes down to the water just before you begin up to the lighthouse. That trail isn't paved, and we go in that direction. There are several places where you can stop and sit if needed, but we just took our time and didn't need to rest. If I lived here, this would be a regular outing for me.
Great views of the water and light house. March 9th, 2025
The trail gradually ascends to the summit, with a few spots along the way toward the top offering great views of the water and places to sit and take a break. We spotted several whale spouts and a few fins breaking the surface. The wind helped keep us cool as we hiked. It took us just under two hours total; to reach the top, with stops for rest, photos along the way and back to the car. We're all in our sixties and enjoyed the views.
Climb to the top
Nice walk on paved trail but up, up, up the whole way, very little shade to rest, good view of the ocean and occasional whale spottings, good view of little red-roofed lighthouse on cliff below, parking limited, very busy, and no bathrooms. Did enjoy the walk.
Afternoon walk to Makapu'u Point Lighthouse
So fun! Very simple and a great experience. Parking was a bit challenging, but it didn't take long to sort out. The walk was easy and well worth it!!
Beautiful views, saw whales and a sea turtle,. Little shade, bring water (especially for your four legged companions.)
This trail is paved and the way out is almost completely on an incline. It has very little shade, so be prepared. It can also be windy. Make sure to wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water for yourself and especially for your four legged companions. That being said, what a fantastic hike. Solo hikers, families, people with strollers, some more senior hikers, some people with dogs, even a few runners, shared the trail with me, today. The views are absolutely beautiful and keep getting better as you go along. There was a huge sea turtle swimming near shore and whale sightings happened often enough to keep you continually scanning the water. One particular set of whales really put on a show. There were dozens of fin slappings followed by a tail-visible dive. A few minutes later, one came up and actually breached. It was incredible. The hike back from the lighthouse overlook is downhill and easy. Parking is in a lot not far from the trailhead. It gets crowded. Big sign warning you it is a high theft-from-vehicle area, so make sure to bring everything with you. This is a must see / do attraction, especially during whale season. Bring your binoculars.
Parking can be tricky
Parking is a nightmare. I recommend going early in the am right before the gate opens. Weekdays and much better than weekends. The visitors are friendly, it's a family / pet friendly hike up to the lighthouse.
Another " Must Do " on Oahu
Another " must do " on Oahu!! Get there early in the morning to beat the heat! It's SO worth the walk. Another most photogenic spots on the island!
Return Visit - Just as Nice 2nd Time
Really enjoyed the walk up the lighthouse trail! There is a decent amount of parking, except on a holiday. We visited this time on Thanksgiving and everyone else had the same idea to enjoy a morning walk. We found a place to park near the start of the trail around 7:30 am, but some were parking along the highway before our arrival. The walk starts as a more serious incline and then levels off as you gain altitude towards 500 ft summit. The view are amazing. Bring some water and good walking shoes. There are no toilet facilities. Make sure your camera or phone is charged!
A View to Kill on Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail
A paved trail with a fantastic view that you can hike at your own pace. Wear comfortable shoes and cool clothing, bring plenty of water, sunscreen and sunglasses. Forget the hat, as those can easily fly away. No restrooms available at this site. Parking is a bit of a challenge, but it is worth the hassle.
Nice workout, but it is not necessary to do the trail to get a fantastic view
All paved. Very steep at the beginning, after that still steep til the end. No shade whatsoever. Very windy (very pleasant as there is no shade). No restrooms at parking lot. Restrooms at the beach right across Sealife which is a little bit further down the road. We took the 23 Bus from Waikiki, stopped the Sealife and walked back up to the parking lot past the first lookout you reach. Not that bad even though you walk along the road with limited space in the lower part (close to Sealife), more space next to the road after that. From Sealife to the trail head roughly 15' by foot. BUT: The view is not way better once you arrive at the top of the trail compared to the first lookout.
Would love to come back
It's an easy paved trail with amazing views, the light house is almost always backed by a beautiful dark blue sea. Unfortunately the trail directly to the light house is closed but there are still many other non-paved trails if you know where to look.
Historical Views from the Lighthouse Trail
A nice walk and great views!! Walked this trail in early evening (about 5 pm?) - was windy but perfect temperature. We made every stop to take pictures and enjoy the views. All paved trail - good incline - no restroom facilities. Bring water. Enjoy the views and the history!!
Easy Hike, Breathtaking Views
This is a very easy hike with a paved road the entire way up. There are plenty of lookout points along the way. The views are incredible.
Beautiful! Beautiful paradise!
This was a great hike! It was an incline all the way to the top, but the paved path made it easy. (We did this after completing Koko Railway trail, so it may seem easier to others doing this fresh :). There were great stops along the way with signage to read and learn about the island. We truly enjoyed this hike. The lighthouse and views were incredible. One of my favorite spots on our trip to Oahu!
Makapu'u Lighthouse
This is quite a hike on a paved trail. On the way down, we did see four whales swimming near the shore and one did a breech. Amazing views from the top of the trail.
Great views
It was a very hot afternoon when we walked the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail, so at times it felt more challenging than Diamond Head. It is worth the walk, the views are great at multiple points along the trail. I just don't recommend doing it mid afternoon with a limited amount of water.
Sunrise hike 10 / 10
We arrived at 6am, parked on the road, and walked the trail for sunrise. Probably my top experience on Oahu. Coming down, it was way more noisy and crowded, I think pre-dawn is the time to go.
Scenic hike
This is a great hike!!! It is on a paved trail all the way. Several switchbacks and fairly steep in spots. Several spots for viewing and to rest on the way up. Parking is very good, but can get crowded. Unbelievable sights from the top lookouts. Out in the open so bring water and hats. No facilities here. Most people will make it up just fine. Will do it again!!!
Good hike, with caveats
It's steep, but that's okay, as it's only about 4 miles round trip. But. The pathway is paved, and the asphalt retains and reflects heat, so you'll be super hot if you go during the day. Bring water, and don't rush it. Also, the path has no barriers, so if you're heights averse, be warned. The views are incredible, but the dropoffs are terrifying. Also, no bathroom access.
Light house
This by no means and easy hike, but very scenic. Pace yourself and bring water. You go to the light house, but pretty close.
Nice hike, good views
Very nice paved trail to the lighthouse viewing area. Good workout but not too strenuous if you're in reasonable shape. Uphill on the way out, downhill back. Nice views along the way.
Good Exercise And Lovely Views
You can see the beginning of this trail from the road. What you probably don't know is that it's just the beginning. It's paved, but it's a pretty steep incline the entire way. They have a few stops along the way so you can check out the views and catch your breath. In the end, you're looking down at a not that impressive lighthouse that you can't go in. It's a good physical challenge and the views make it all worthwhile.
Awesome views!
This hike was done at sunrise! I can't say enough about the views! We lucked out and there was a nice breeze as well but I bet in the sun it would be crazy hot! Best view in Oahu!
Amazing Views
Its a steep walk up for sure but it was so worth it. The views were absolutely incredible. I loved every minute of just staring at the view. If you're in Hawaii you need to go here. It's on the East Side of the Island but it is better if you do rent a car to get here. You won't be disappointed with the views you'll see.
Great trip!
A hike with some lovely views! Took about an hour there and back with a carpark at the bottom - we did see a few people struggling as it is a steep incline all the way up but the views were worth it
天国に通じるトレイル
ワイキキから市バスに乗って終点のシーライフパークで降り、来た道を戻る感じで車が走る道の端を５分ほど歩けば公園に着く、ここからは " 天国'に通じるトレイルが続き、15分ほどで岬の先端に到着。快晴の日を選ぼう！水携帯はマスト。
Incredible Hike
Definitely worth the effort to take this hike. The views are spectacular. The hike was a gradual uphill on a paved road and seemed to go on forever. Once at the top, you can hike to other spots but we did not. Lots of traffic here so parking can be difficult. Definitely worth the effort.
Nice Easy Ascent To Lighthouse Overlook
Nice uphill walk on paved trail. This trail is part of the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline and as you begin the uphill surge you'll find a spur trail off to your right that points into the valley and skirts the shoreline. This is an option if you want to make this a long day outing. Otherwise, follow the rest of the adventurers and continue upward toward a bench area at the ridge. Wonderful views along the way including Moloka'i and Lana'i but, unfortunately, no shade. After the bench area, the trail curves back and up to a series of overlooks. The actual 1909 lighthouse is still there, but off limits to visitors. You might find the spur trail but avoid it. It is not maintained and might be dangerous. Roundtrip to the peak and back is about 2 miles. This is also a good hike for kids and pets. Downhill is pretty quick. There's usually ample parking on site but could get crowded. Avoid very hot days, even with a hat.
Wow
The views are stunning. Apparently Obama made this walk, not really a hike, a famous one. Get there early otherwise it is difficult to find a parking spot.
Pretty Views (*no bathroom)
Beautiful hike with gradual, paved incline. No bathrooms in the parking lot or along the trail so be prepared! Also not much shade so if possible, plan for a morning hike and wearing a hat / sunscreen. At the top is a good place to hang out and watch for whales during the spring. I think we spent about 90 minutes total from parking to leaving but you could spend more time at the top if you wanted to relax.
Go in the morning
We did a morning hike so it was cooler. It was very windy that day. There are plenty of places along the way to stop, look out and catch your breathe if you need to. Again the hike is worth the views at the top.
Excellent Hike!
We enjoyed our hike up to the top of the trail which provided magnificent views of the surrounding area.
Breathtaking view!
this was a well worth your while short hike. The paved trail made it an easy walk. The day we were there, the wind was strong, which made it a bit harder up to the lighthouse, but easier on the downhill. The view was fantastic: could look up and down the coast and see the Rabbit head island just offshore. Well worth the effort!!
netter Spaziergang
Am besten Vormittags oder am Morgen, da kann man eventuell auch Wale sehen, am Nachmittag ist die pralle Sonne über dem Weg.
moderate strenous hike for 45 minutes each way
Nice paved hike which takes about 45 minutes each way with some stops to take pictures. Very windy once you get higher up and can see the ocean. There are a lot of people on the trail. There were no whales in the ocean to see though. It is moderate difficult at times but lots of little kids made it to the top. Great views of the ocean and lighthouse.
Sunset hike the whole family loved
We were running late for the hike so we only had 1 hour 20 minutes before the park shut. We ran up where we could before we were too puffed and walked as fast as we could. We didnt really stop at the lookouts but it was beautiful. We spent 5 minutes at the top, took some pics and then power walked back down! It was beautiful and we wish we had more time. We saw seabirds sawing above us too. The ranger was angry at us as we left, for being a couple of minutes over the time and she had already shut the gate. there was still others in the car park so I don't know how they would have gone getting out.
Beautiful views
A steady uphill climb with a few view / rest points along the way. Bring a sunhat and water, as it gets hot. Saw whales breaching in the bay, as well as Molokai'i and Maui in the distance.
Great Walk - Nice and Easy
Fantastic walk, not hard at all as is paved all the way and there are plenty of places to stop and rest and take in the views. Make sure you take plenty of water and be sun smart. We were blessed to have been able to see whales and their young swimming and breaching. If you don't want to drive, you can always get an Uber to get there. It was totally worth the walk to take in the views and just have some relaxing time away from Honolulu.
Wide flat paved trail all the way
Wide flat paved trail all the way. Beautiful views of one of the last few places on the island reserved for nature (no housing developments, etc.)
Worth the Hike
Unfortunately we didn't make it all the way to the top because it started to rain and we didn't have our umbrellas with us. It's a pretty steep hike up to the top, so if you aren't in great shape it might be a difficult hike. It gets busy and parking is limited so you'll want to get there early. There are port-a-potties on site, but no actual restrooms. We stopped just down the way at some before going on the hike. Make sure you have your camera, plenty of water and sunscreen and enjoy the hike :)
Easy walk
We got a 23 bus to Sealife park then walked to the trail stopping at Makapuu lookout and beach park on the way to check out the views. We then proceeded to hike the Lighthouse trail, which is on a cement path all the way. There are parts where it gets hilly and it is hot as no shade so don't forget to bring water with you. After we did the trail to the top we walked alone the shoreline trails to get to Sandy Beach. From Sandy beach you can walk to the blow hole, but on the day we went you could see the blow hole spraying from Sandy beach and as we had done the blow hole previously we just took pictures of it from Sandy Beach. After spending time roaming Sandy Beach we caught a 23 bus back to Waikiki from the bus stop at Kealahou St + Kalanianaole Hwy
Great hike, but not a moderate hike as TA advertises
I want to level set here. The hike is great. We were lucky to see humpbacks during our hike. But, this isn't an easy hike. It is straight up with several areas with a very steep incline. Plenty of spots to rest, but be ready for a workout. My legs are still killing me and we did the hike 2 days ago. I would recommend doing the hike early in the morning so you get a break from the sun. It does get very hot, so bring plenty of water.
Humid but gorgeous views all the way up
For some reason I had it in mind this was a leisurely stroll to the lighthouse. It is not. We hiked Diamond Head the day before so maybe I was tired but this one seemed harder. It was very humid which made it hard as well. The views along the way make it way worth it.
Breath taking
Makapu'u Point is the easternmost point on the Hawaiian island of O'ahu. Easy hike with great views. The flora beautiful, and the information panels are well presented.
Asphalt road with no shade
This was one of the top hikes we wanted to do, but after arriving by bus and walking on the road to get to the trailhead, we found the " trail " to be a paved road with a fairly significant incline and no trees to provide shade. There was no access to the ocean, so it just sounded too hot and not fun. So we took the beach trails instead and had a great time! The trail head is in the same place as the light house, just veer right.
Stunning view
Easy trail on paved route. No shadow on the hole trail. On the top an amazing view. Absolutely worth it and its for free, also parking.
Amazing
This trail is so amazing and worth it. It has beautiful views and really amazed us. Make sure you wear sunscreen and take a hat as it's really bright
Butt kicker but well worth it
We have some experience hiking at home and thought this would be no problem for us. We were wrong. The trail up is quite steep and proved to be more strenuous than we anticipated. That being said- the view from the top was WELL WORTH IT! The trail is in great condition- the pavement seems well maintained and there are several rest points along the way with amazing views of their own. My advice is to plan to be there longer than you think you'll need, bring extra water, and try to take your time.
Phenomenal
This was a very difficult hike for me at with a knee issue, but I kept pushing to the top. The view of the light house and the other islands around are so worth the hike up.
The other hike we did
Hawaii has many unsurprisingly nice hikes. On this trip, we did Ka'ena (reviewed separately) and Makapu'u. We've done Diamond Head on a prior trip and I wish we could have done Koko Head this time around but the gf preferred more beach time. Makapu'u is on the eastern coast of Oahu - roughly a 25 to 30 mins or so drive from Waikiki. As you drive here, there are numerous lookouts and sites so be sure to take it slower and enjoy. Makapu'u has a free parking lot that had more than enough spaces for that day. The trail itself is about 30 mins each way and not too strenuous. It wasn't too steep and we went on a cloudy day so it wasn't too hot either. The hike was pretty as you see the mountain range to your left and behind you as you go through the trail (which is all paved BTW). To your right is the ocean. As you go up and look back, you'll see the road which you come from and Koko Head. The scenery in Hawaii is always beautiful and Makapu'u is no different. You finally make it to the end / top and you'll look down towards Waimanalo Beach, the eastern coast, some offshore islands and the lighthouse. In retrospect, I feel you get more bang for your buck with this hike than Kaena. Kaena is long whereas this is short. I would still do them both, however.
Paved coastal walk
Like all the other reviewers have said, it is a steady 30 minute incline walk to the top with about 4 stop off points if you need a break. The path is wide and paved with asphalt so I found it to be the easiest on the island.
Paved trail but no shades
Easy hike all the way with paved road. Parking could be a little difficult at times. No sheds along the trail. Bring a big brim hat or even an umbrella if you prefer not to much direct sun.
Underrated walk
Nice walk with epic views and cool history. Not far from Waikiki. I went with a rental car which seemed the easiest way to get there. Good car parking on site. Good to dress accordingly even though the hike itself is not overly demanding
Easy Hike for families
If you are not driving, bus # 57 from Ala Moana is the only bus going but it drops you off at the entrance of Sea Life Park. From there you have to walk on a busy highway for about 15 minutes to get to the base of the hike. The nearest washroom is across the Sea Life Park. The lighthouse is not accessible to the public and you can only see it from the lookout. This is an easy paved hike but no shades at all so be ready with your hat or sunblock. This is hike is good for kids, it's not a steep hike. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the top. Go early as the bus ride is about 1.5 hrs and for those driving, not a lot of parking. There js a hill across the lookout, the view there is amazing
Most spectacular views we saw on Oahu
The views along the way and especially at the summit are breathtaking. I've certainly not seen everything Oahu has to offer, but the coastline, lighthouse and ocean scenery on this trail was the best I saw during my visit. The trail to the Makapuu Summit is paved, but steep. It was quite warm the day we were there and that made the hike up feel more strenuous. There is little shade, so be sure to use sunscreen. The roundtrip distance is only 1.5 miles. I you appreciate coastal scenery, this is a must do.
Breathtaking views - paved hike up
The most breathtaking views I have ever seen! It's a paved trail, but it's pretty steep so it is a harder hike than advertised. I did this with my family (girls ages 12, 9, 5). They did fine, but we hiked Diamond Head the day before I felt like this was harder. The lighthouse is near, but honestly all the other views way overshadow the lighthouse. I'm so glad we did this trail!
Gorgeous hike!
This hike was easy and provided incredible views! I also enjoyed reading the historical plaques detailing information about the lighthouse area and its history.
のんびり登れるマカプウ岬
なだらかなコンクリートで整備された道を登るので 小さいお子さんベビーカー、ワンチャンを連れた人など家族連れには最適です ペレの椅子は途中立ち寄るのでは無く、最初から道が分かれています。ペレの椅子も行きたいという方はビーチサンダルはお勧めしません。舗装されていない道で少し崖登りみたいな場所もあります。 楽しいので、パワーを貰いに行ってみてください
You won't get disappointed
My husband and I visited the trail around two in the afternoon on a Monday, and it wasn't busy. Easy path all the way up, and wonderful views all around us. Parking wasn't as bad as we expected. People come and go, so you might want to wait a little, if you want to park in the parking lot, instead of parking on the street.
Awesome hike
All uphill. Great workout. We went at sunrise. Parking lot wasn't open yet, so we parked at the next lot up the road where there is a lookout. We had to walk in the bike lane till we reached the parking lot. Headlamps helped till the sun was up enough. Beautiful hike!! Lots of whales. Beautiful trail!! Birds.
ダイヤモンドヘッドよりきれいな景色
基本的にはレンタカーで行くか、ツアーを利用して行く形になるかと思う。バスで行けなくもないけれど、バス停はかなり歩く。 無料駐車場はあるが、狭いので多くの車が路肩にとめている。 駐車場からトレイルの入口までも結構距離がある。 トレイル自体は道がすべてコンクリート舗装されているので、ベビーカーを押して登る人もいるくらい。 普通に歩いて30分かかるかな…という感じ。 傾斜も緩やか。風はかなり強く吹く。 登り始めてすぐに脇へそれる道からペレの椅子に行けるが今回は時間が無かったため、行けていない。 ダイヤモンドヘッドより素晴らしい景色。ここからのサンライズも見てみたいが、駐車場が開くのが7：00～のようなので、少し厳しいかも…。 傾斜も緩やか。風はかなり強く吹く。 登り始めてすぐに脇へそれる道からペレの椅子に行けるが今回は時間が無かったため、行けていない。 ダイヤモンドヘッドより素晴らしい景色。ここからのサンライズも見てみたいが、駐車場が開くのが7：00～のようなので、少し厳しいかも…。
Pathway to the Light
Fabulous views await those that want to fight to find a parking space and then hike / walk up the 2.3 mile paved walkway with nearly 500 feet of elevation gain to reach the Lighthouse. Certainly more of an uphill walk instead of a trail.
Dura.:.. ma vale la pena davvero!!!!
La strada è abbastanza ripida ed esposta al sole... quindi fatelo a prima mattina!!! Non appena starete per arrivare al punto più alto il panorama vi lascerà senza fiato... qualcosa di magnifico!!!! Se capitate da quelle parti non mancate di fare una sosta li... andateci!!!!
Room to walk!
This is the exact opposite of the Diamond head hike--an all-paved and spacious trail. No walking up like a line of ants here. At the top are spectacular views. I appreciate that Oahu has trails for all ages and abilities. Because it was a humid, sunny 85 degree day, it made this a moderate hike in terms of activity. We parked at the Scenic viewpoint parking lot that was just beyond the trailhead parking lot. That added an extra mile and made it 2.8 mile RT.
Scenic walk
This was a beautiful option for us. Diamond Head had no parking spaces and we were told to come later. So, we went to the lighthouse trail, which wasn't nearly as busy and the vistas were beautiful. I would recommend it, but go before 11am to avoid extreme heat. No bathrooms there.
Stunning Views From The Summit
Sunscreen, water and hat. Bring them all for a great hike. You are very exposed to wind, sun and rain. Best to stay on the paved trail. I saw two young women walking far off the trail near a cliff overlooking enormous waves crashing against rocks. A man stood atop a high boulder with a nervous daughter looking on. A young child posed on top of a stone wall as her father framed a stunning snapshot. She looked scared. What is everyone thinking?
Simple hike for sunrise view
The trail was mostly paved for an easy hike up the slopes instead of steep uphill. For that, do come early in order to catch the sunrise over the lighthouse as it's gonna be about a 20min walk.
Nice and Easy Uphill Hike
My wife, our toddler and I did the lighthouse hike in mid-December. We arrived around 11am and there were no parking spaces left, but luckily we found parking along the shoulder near the entrance. Make sure you bring a hat and put sunscreen on, because there is no shade along the hike. The whole trail is paved, so we brought our stroller which was great, because it provided shade for our little one. From the bottom to the top it took us about an hour, walking at a leisurely pace and stopping at the various lookout points. The uphill hike was gradual. If you wear walking / running shoes and bring water, you'll be okay. Also, there are no washrooms on site. Overall, it was a nice way to spend a few hours, get some moderate exercise, and catch some breathtaking views.
Prachtig uitzicht
Wandeling is erg goed te doen. Je loopt op een geasfalteerde weg, komt wat saai over. Er zijn verschillende uitzichtpunten. Let wel op dat er geen schaduw is, dus gebruik zonnebrand. Kan ook erg warm zijn in het begin, echter wat hoger staat er een lekker briesje. Vuurtoren is niet toegankelijk.
Relatively Easy Hike to great view
The hike is uphill and in the sun, but the trail is easy to walk on. You can see in all directions both along the way and at the top. Parking and porta-potties at the bottom.
Nice little uphill hike
Not a difficult trail, but is uphill all the way up from the parking lot. Has some nice views of the ocean and nearby islands.
Wonderful, paved trail with 360 degree views!
My friend knew of this trail and it's minutes from Sea Life Park, so we decided to do this hike before swimming with Dolphins... made for a perfect day! Parking was a little challenging so my tip is to come early and be patient. We arrived by 10 am and found parking right near the entrance. It's a relatively easy hike we made it to top in less than 30 minutes. Gradual but not steep online and paved. Strollers, dogs, mommy with baby packs, pregnant ladies.. all appeared comfortable on this trail. Loved it! Now a to-do every trip, glad I finally am in the know. Go check it out for yourself!
Simply amazing.
The views are simply amazing. It was not hard to get here. Took H3 and H1 in the way back. Traffic a bit backed up about 7 miles from the destination however did not take more than 15 minutes. It was well worth the wait for the views were astonishing. Will definitely be coming again while on the island.
お手軽に絶景
舗装がされているので、気軽にどなたでも楽しむことが出来ます。 私は時間があまると " ハワイ " の景色が見たくて、よく行ってしまいます(笑) バスでも行けるし、駐車場もあるので、車でも行けるので、ホント便利です。 ただし、トイレがないので、ご注意ください。 工事中の時に訪れましたが、展望台? 展望スポット? を作っていたので、完成後は、もっと景色が見やすくなると思いますので、また行ってしまいそうです。
のんびりゆっくりハイキング
ワイキキからレンタカーでマカプウ岬専用無料駐車場からスタート。 ワイキキから行くと右手に多くの車が駐車していますので、迷うわずに入ります。 そこからのんびりゆっくりと歩を進めます。途中には西部劇に出てきそうなサボテンがチラホラと。強い日差しと潮風に耐えるに最適な植物なのでしょうね。 現在は歩道を工事していますので、工事車両を一旦停止してもらいながら進んでいきます。 １０分ほど歩くと眺めも良くなり、ポイントまではずっと右手に海を眺めながら景色を楽しんで４５分ほどで到着します。 自撮り棒持参で撮影の用意をしていきましたが、結局は使わずじまい。なぜなら、写真を撮ろうとすると他の観光客の人から写真を撮ろうかと気軽に声をかけてもらえるので、助かりました。 お礼にすかさず撮影してあげることがポイントですね。 あと、忘れてならないのは帽子・サングラスそして水は必ず携行して下さい。 ひとしきり撮影し、休憩したら来た道を戻りますが、下りのため商用時間は３０分もかかりません。 ワイキキの喧騒をはなれ、綺麗な景色を見たくなったらマカプウポイントは外せません。 私にとってはオススメしたい観光名所の一つです。 ぜひ、あなたもどうぞ行って下さい。
Wish we had veered from trail
This is a nice " hike. " We found out later that you can veer from the main trail at the whale lookout sign and get down by the water for Dragon's Nostrils which are supposed to be very cool when they blow. You can't actually go to the lighthouse, it's protected by the park, but it's still spectacular views.
Wonderful views, paved trail, bring water
Positive - Relatively easy trail and paved - Free parking - Wonderful views of Koko Head, Koko Crater and Oahu's southeastern coastline - Watch whales during winter months (bring binoculars for best view) Negative - Lighthouse is off-limits - No restrooms or facilities - The trail incline could be difficult those in poor physical condition Other Things to Know: - It is best to go in the morning since it gets very hot. Bring water and wear sun screen. - Parking lot fills up quickly, but you can park on the street - Do not park at Makapu'u Lookout and walk the trail because of the time limit / tow zone. - There isn't much shade, but there is one spot more than halfway to the top where you can stand underneath some vegetation and cool off from the sun. - 1-3 hours round trip - Top of the trail there are a couple of overlooks, but are not-wheelchair accessible (stairs)
Scorcher of a trail with cool views. Don't miss it
This is a paved trail, large enough for strollers, uphill to the lighthouse, and a delightful downhill on the way back. There is NO shade, so bring a hat, sunscreen and lots of water. The views are beyond wonderful. Green mountains against blue, blue water and a red-topped lighthouse. Looks like a postcard. But it is hot! Did I say it was hot? :-) There were four adults on this hike and we had drained our water bottles before the top. The pavement is a bit uneven in places, but they have sprayed white paint around the areas so you can avoid tripping if you can quit looking at the vistas and watch where you are walking. Saw cool birds and a couple of mongooses. Don't miss it.
long walk, but worth it
If you want to get your exercise and have a scenic trail, this is the place to go. Get up before dawn so you can arrive at the top just as the sun rises for an awesome view. The round trip is about 3 miles.
Bring a lock!
Cool short hike to the top. Spectacular views, cool locks place by travelers at the top that we think is done to declare their love or just show they were there. You may be fortunate enought to see a whale (we didn't). Fun pitstop after a great day at Hanauma Bay which was the highlight of the trip for me.
Don't Miss the Dragon's Nostrils
This hike was enjoyable and offered supreme views. We were in bright sunshine the entire time, so sunscreen is highly recommended for future travelers. The main trail itself was mostly paved and somewhat dull until we got to an alternate hike that led down to a lava shelf at the ocean. Once there, we found some tide pools for swimming and my personal favorite blowhole in all of Hawaii, known as the Dragon's Nostrils. There are two blowholes here that make a lot of noise and go off with a lot of force. Most Hawaiian blowholes are quite dangerous to approach, as they are often large enough to swallow a person. The Dragon's Nostrils are much smaller in diameter and are mostly safe to approach. If you're willing to get a little wet, you can stand near them and get sprayed with wind and ocean water. While down at the shelf, you can also swim in the tide pools while the waves crash around you. The pools are not super deep and even contain some nice fish. Best of all, the water is super clear and refreshing. To reach this area, locate the whale watching information sign about 2 / 3 of the way up the main trail. If you look down to the ocean you will see a lava shelf with small pools. Follow the rough trail down the cliff side. Always be aware of the conditions and don't go if you see waves washing across the shelf. We timed our hike so that we would be there at high tide to maximize the blowhole action. Even at the highest tide, the water wasn't reaching the blowhole area, but an especially high tide could mean trouble for the entire shelf. The climb back to the top was a little strenuous in the hot sun, but there were plenty of spray-painted arrows to lead the way back to the main trail.
You might see a whale!
The Makapuu Lighthouse Trail is completely paved but is a challenging climb nonetheless. I would recommend sneakers or hiking shoes. I wore sandals and ended up with a minor blister. Parking at the bottom of the trail was full, but we were able to park on the road leading up to the parking lot. It was clear and extremely windy the day we went (in March). There is a sign part of the way up that says the bay is a whale sanctuary. Sure enough, we did see a whale! It surfaced a couple of times. Unfortunately, I wasn't quick enough to grab a picture.
Nice easy hike with great scenic views
I've walked this trail several times, usually late in the afternoon. The trail can be somewhat crowded, but I've always been able to find parking. The last time I went, I started later than usual, closer to sunset. The trail was nearly empty of people and cool. I had a beautiful view of the sun nearly setting behind Koko Head. I then scambled up the ridge just below the pillboxes to see the sun set on the water / horizon, to the right of Koko Head. I returned to my car after sundown (less than 30 minutes). A Parks Ranger was waiting in his truck, I presume, to close the parking lot. So, if you walk this trail at sundown, I wouldn't take too long to get back to your car. The trail is 2 miles round trip. Makapu'u Lighthouse and Lyons Arboretum are my favorite places to go for an easy escape from Waikiki. I highly recommend it.
The ONE lighthouse you should see in your life!
Let me just say this, there are by far some of the best views to be seen here to the East. It is also a very good vantage point to see Humpback Whales migrating here in the Winter. The landscape is beautiful as well, marked by vegetation we didn't see anywhere else on the island. Prickly Pear Cactus! You also get to see a working lighthouse which is very cool. So it is definitely worth the effort to get up here. It's not an easy hike up to the top on a zig-zagging paved asphalt trail that increases in elevation the whole way, but I wouldn't say it is difficult either. It's pretty much doable for just about anyone that doesn't mind sweating a bit. You will see all ages of hikers here. Once you reach the Humpback Whale sign about 45 minutes in, you are at kind of a central point to explore from or not. You can travel up further to various " pill boxes " that now double as lookout points, and they all have spectacular views. When we were here, most people tended to stay on the main path and did not explore these other vantage points. They are all easy to get to and equally as safe for the most part. Of course one should be careful everywhere up here, as it is high up. The only difference is there is not a paved pathway to them, but they are easy to spot off the main trail. I say go for it. For the views, they are totally worth it if you have the energy. The Makapuu Tide Pools: One more thing to explore that is definitely more dangerous. I wouldn't recommend for kids or people with bad mobility. It is a hike down the side of the Makapuu cliff side to the oceanfront. It's very beautiful down here. The Tide Pools are big holes in the rock created by erosion that are filled up from waves crashing into the rock. There's also a cool " blowhole " here. The trail starts at the Humpback Whale sign I mentioned earlier. From here you follow a " path " etched in the side of the cliff from the many people that go down here. A little ways down you will start to see white arrows to guide you a bit. Now this is NOT a trail that is made by the parks department, the arrow markings are spray painted on the rock by someone. I'm glad they were there to help, so thank you to the person who did this. The trail and tide pools are very sketchy for many reasons and should be taken seriously. People have died out here. The first dangers are on the narrow trail down. Most of the rock and dirt is loose to varying degrees. This makes it unpredictable. As well, the trail is somewhat steep. One could make a mistake just about anywhere. So be careful. As for the Tide Pools, it's wet, slippery, and huge powerful waves crash upon them. The bigger the wave the more the tide pools fill with water. If you happen to be in the pools when they fill, there is the potential of getting sucked out with the outgoing water. Rogue waves occur all the time. You get the picture. It is more than worth the effort, if you have it in you. A good rule of thumb anywhere in Hawaii is, " Always keep one eye on the ocean. Respect it at all times. " All said, it's a fantastic day out here for every level of adventurer. There's something for everyone. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen because there is very little shade. I don't recommend flip flops either. Oh yeah, and it's FREE. A must for Oahu travelers. Pics included!
Beautiful view, easy hike
This was a fairly easy hike. Path is paved most of the way, just a few areas at the very top that aren't paved. We left early in the morning so it wasn't too hot, though there were parts with the sun shining directly on you that got pretty warm. I would recommend bringing water with you and starting out early. Once you get to the top the views are amazing!
Nice walk with a great view at the top
This is something the whole family can do together. The road is paved and is not a bad climb. The view at the top is worth the long walk.
Wind, Whales and whining
I had a lot of fun hiking to the lighthouse. The wind was whipping my hair and keeping me cool. The Whales were jumping off the lighthouse point. Watching them jump and flip their tales in the white caps was excellent. And the path up was quite long and steep - thus the whining. It was a great way to get some good views and enjoy seeing the sights but it was quite a steep climb with not a lot of places to sit and rest. Do not forget to take your sun screen and your water. Worth the climb but be ready to puff a bit. (okay there were people jogging up to the top but I think they were just showing off...)
You can do this!
I kept away from Makapu'u because I thought it would be too challenging. Let me assure you, Diamond Head is much tougher than this delightful trail. I recommend going early in the summer because it does get hot. I have joined babies, toddlers, pregnant women and men with walkers on this trail so don't worry that you won't be able to summit. My disappointment was that you can't get close to the lighthouse. It is gated off. But you can get above it and take some great pix. There is no better way to see the east coastline of Oahu than on this trail. Enjoy!
Please Don't Bring Your Dog Here
We live in Hawaii Kai and this was first time doing the trail. First off, parking is limited. There are NO public bathrooms or concessions. If you are reasonably fit, you should be okay. No shade, you are in full sun and you are on newly laid asphalt the entire walk. No grass to walk on at all. On both sides of the paved walkway, there are small drop offs. In one area, they really should have up fencing because the drop is right there and it is big one, right into the ocean. Views are very nice with the island of Molokai in the distance on a clear day. As in all Hawaii, the temps. are cooler in the morning, but the humidity is higher. Avoid mid day if you can... I would to suggest to arrive 4-5PM. But, my main suggestion is please DO NOT BRING YOUR DOG HERE. It is no place to walk them, no matter how fit your dog is. We saw several dogs panting so hard and they were trying to / lifting their paws off the hot asphalt. It would like us having to do this hike BAREFOOT. They were salivating badly as that is the ONLY way they can cool themselves. We saw one nice man having to carry his little dog down. It's way to hot and strenuous. And, there is NO where for the dog to stop and take a break and go to the bathroom, if it needs to. ONLY hot asphalt the entire way up and the entire way back. We love animals and it was hard for us to see the dogs. They will push themselves as hard as they can, even if it is to the point of exhaustion. So, with this being said, please bring water, sunglasses and wear sneakers or hiking boots... no flip flops. And, most importantly, leave man's best friend at home. Don't leave them in your car either. The best place for them while you and yours are enjoying the hike... is home. Please give me a heads up vote if my review has been helpful to you and yours. Aloha.
Going by Bus
I walked this trail in January 2014. It is very easy to get there by bus. A car is not necessary. Take the # 22 or # 23 bus. Get off at the Hawaii Kai Golf Course. Walk on the leeward (not coastal side) of the highway, against traffic. That side has a large shoulder and the walk is easy, perhaps 15-20 minutes. Because the walking route from Sea Life Park has no shoulder, this route is not recommended on arrival. However, after the hike, you can walk along a paved shoulder from the Makapu'u Point trail on the seaward side for about 3 / 4 of the way. When the shoulder disappears, straddle the guardrail, and you will find a trampled earth path for the remainder of the walk. You will be protected from traffic and have a great view of Makapu'u beach.
Short and Simple
This is about as short and simple a hike as you can get on Oahu. It's great for beginners, and you can complete the hike in an hour. I threw my back out 3 days before doing this hike, and it was still doable. The views at the top are great, and it's definitely kid friendly.
Best Sunrise Hike on O'ahu
Leave early, park outside the locked gate (and make sure there's nothing valuable in your car), take a camera and a flashlight and head up the trail. No matter the weather, there's no better place to see the sun come up than Makapu'u. I done it rain and shine and I never tire of it. A don't-miss experience!
One of my favorite spots on Oahu
We had half a day to kill time before we headed to the airport and thought it would be a good 2 mile (round trip) hike - enough to get the heartrate up but not so much that we would be smelly / sweaty on the plane and we were right. But really, the views were in incredible. The day was slightly overcast - perfect conditions since there's little shade. We were lucky enough to be in whale migration season (jan-march) and it was fun scanning the waters for whale spouts and breaches; we encountered dozens of them. This island point of the island gave you such spectacular views both to the south and the east. It's a definite recommend!
Closed for repair
We went there 6 am today for sunrise. The gate was closed and it said closed for repair. I heard that it would close to repair the trail for 6 months.
Do not rent a-Car, it's waste of money
I and my wife took 13 / 67 bus from Waikiki which took us all the way to sea life park. From there the light house trial is only half a mile of may be a mile away. Easy walk with amazing views of the ocean. We thoroughly enjoyed the walk from Sea life park to the lighthouse trial parking lot. We went there early in the morning by 7 am, the trial was easy and must do for all kinds of people with diff fitness levels. Incredible views on top. While coming back down I did notice that the parking was over crowded and people started parking on roads. I highly recommend people to take. One day " THE BUS " pass for 5.50$. You can use this on any bus / any route in Oahu. The bus also offers rides to most remote destinations you won't imagine.
Fantastic Views from the Top!!
Wow! What magnificent views! We did over 10 hikes during our 2 weeks in Hawaii, and I have to say this one had the best panoramic views of all of our hikes on Oahu. We hiked early in the day in late June. It was HOT, but I know it would have been much hotter had we waited any longer to stat the hike. We took a backpack of water and used every drop. Paved all the way, but no shade. Views of Oahu were truly spell-binding. Definitely recommend this for families (even families w / strollers).
About to be Closed for Construction
This is a great hike about 1.2 miles each way and 500' elevation on a paved path. Double check before you go because it will be closed for big chunks of time over the next 6 months to redo the path. It needs it. The views are super and the whale watching was the best we had during our 10 days in Hawaii.
Breathtaking views of Makapuu Beach and the beginning of the Windward Coast
This free trail leads to the iconic Makapu'u Point Lighthouse which was built in the 1900s. While this trail is good in that it is paved and provides ample benches, and most of all, offers a breathtaking view of Makapu'u Beach and the Windward Coast, you are mostly exposed to the sun and the wind so be prepared - dress appropriately and soak up on plenty of sunscreen.
A Paved hiking Trail
Nice hike, nice views. Wished one could see legally get to see the lighthouse. Would have loved to see one of the original caretaker family homes but no longer standing. Don't think I have ever been on such a long paved hiking path that was just for hikers. Saw some whales in the distance out in the ocean. A bathroom at some point would have been nice. Arrive early as parking limited though can park along the road. Bring some snacks and water too!! No shade so sunscreen a must.
Subir a un bello punto panoramico!
Cerca del camino a Hanauma bay, esta este paseo, es para hacer un treking subiendo una cuesta un cerro. Està pavimentado, al ascender se hace mas ventoso, y las vistas son geniales. El que quier lo hace de una vez o puede ir deteniéndose a sacar fotos, contemplar o.. tomar un respiro... Es de dificultar media. Depende siempre de cada uno... había papis y mamis subiendo con el cochecito con el bebè. Y era seguro. El camino empieza con una leve pendiente y va bordeando el cerro, acantilado, y uno va viendo el mar... be lli si mo!!! No tiene peligro, hay unas vallas y por supuesto la gente que sube es conciente y no se acerca màs allà de lo prudente al borde. Si se quiere sacar las fotos al bajar, da igual, porque se baja por el mismo camino. Depende de cuanto uno aguante sin extasiarse con ese paisaje. Al llegar a la cima (40-45' caminar), hay un faro. Pero diría que no es esa la mayor atracción, sino hay unos escalones muy bien protegidos con baranda y alambrado, un mirador, en el que uno se instala un rato, a sacarse las fotos, y contemplar un lado y otro del acantilado, ya que està en un vèrtice, así se comtemplan ambas costas de un mar y rocas impactantes y como hay vientos, un oleaje inquieto, bello. Bueno, parece que me gustò. Como pasa siempre, la bajada es màs rápida que la subida. Merece la pena!!!
Many whale sightings!
Highly recommend this hike. It is paved so you can bring a stroller. It has gorgeous views and we saw many many whales. It is closed during the week so plan ahead. I would go earlier in the morning to get parking and avoid the peak of the afternoon sun.
Go early!
Parking is limited and it gets HOT later in the day, so go early! The road is paved, if steep, and not very long to get to some of the best views of the Waimanalo end of Windward Oahu. During the winter, watch for humpback whales breaching off shore. At any time of the year, scan the water to see red-footed boobies skimming just above the surface (bright white birds usually flying in pairs or small groups). The lighthouse can easily be seen (and photographed) from the top. Make sure to bring some water and don't wear slippahs!
Great views, helps to be in shape
The Makapuu Lighthouse Trail path has been re-paved recently and it is a great way to get some exercise. Getting to the lighthouse is all up hill but worth it once you reach the top. My wife and I had to stop several times along the way because we are out of shape but there are resting spots where you can take in the views. Make sure you lock your vehicles and take your valuables with you because this is a common area for thieves who will take anything they can from you. Oftentimes there a police officer stationed nearby or in the parking area. Take a walk and enjoy the views!
Toller und einfacher Trail
Die Busse 22 und 23 haben leider keine Haltestelle direkt am Parkplatz, an dem der Trail beginnt; man muss bis Sea Life Park fahren und dann über die stark befahrene Straße bergauf zurück zum Trail gehen, ist aber weniger problematisch, als man denkt. Da es keinerlei Toilettenmöglichkeit auf dem Parkplatz oder im weiteren Verlauf des Trails gibt, sollte man die WCs direkt gegenüber der Einfahrt zum Sea Life Park nutzen (am Strand) ! Der Trail ist in jedem Fall lohnend, da er wunderbare Ausblicke eröffnet. Er ist sehr gut ausgebaut, so dass man auch viele Familien mit Kinderwägen sieht, also ohne Probleme, selbst mit Flip-Flops leicht zu gehen. Es geht bergauf, aber nie zu steil. Der Weg direkt zum Leuchtturm ist gesperrt, aber man sieht ihn schön von oben - zwei kleine Aussichtsplattformen stehen zur Verfügung. Wer öffentlich unterwegs ist, sollte auf dem Rückweg auch einen Blick vom nächsten Parkplatz, an dem man zwangsläufig vorbeikommt, riskieren, auch dieser Aussichtspunkt ist lohnend! Aufpassen - die Busse fahren ca. stündlich - vorher im Internet recherchieren!
Not at all what I expected!
Several guidebooks stated that this is an easy paved family hike. Well, the paved part is true. The easy part only applies if they mean you are not scrambling over rocks or searching for your footing. It is a very steady incline for several miles. I'm sure it is easy for fit adults, but I saw many little children (say the 3 - 6 age group) being carried by the end. Older kids (6+) were fine (because frankly, they are in better shape than me). It takes at least an hour to get to the top. I did many hikes on Oahu and Kauai and I found this one to be quite challenging for me because of the steady incline. There are no plateaus where the walk is easier. There are no declines where you can catch your breath. Just constant steady uphill for an hour. My calves were killing me. Was I able to do it? Yes, certainly, but it is not the easy stroll that people make it out to be. It is quite scenic along the way with spots to stop (and rest...) and check for whales during the winter. The summit is a bit of a let down because the lighthouse is actually below you, so you can't walk up to it. I did get some cool photos though of the lighthouse from above and the wide expanse of Pacific Ocean. If you know what you are getting into (long, uphill paved stroll), it is definitely worthwhile and doable. I just think that describing it as a paved family stroll is a bit of an understatement! At least the way down is easy! Oh also - parking is easy. There is a large free parking lot at the trail head. Off to the right immediately after starting the paved trail is another unpaved trail down to the Ka Iwi Coastline. I liked that hike much better though you have to watch your footing (because it is an actual trail not a paved hill).
Amazing
One of the best hikes on the island super easy hike paved all the way to the top so one could bike to the top or I am pretty sure most of the way one can use a motorized scooter. Very easy to do and an amazing hike.
As good as Diamond Head
Like Diamond Head, this hiking trail is not for the weak of heart, lung or joints. But it is easier than Diamond Head due to the paved trail. It provides a nice payback of scenic views and photo ops. If you are in shape, do it. You will be glad you did.
Beautiful view. Great for Whale watching!
The Waimanalo area is one of the true beauty of Oahu. From the beautiful beaches, local eats and breath taking views. The Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail is a very easy paved walk so if you don't feel like taking one of the many hikes that Oahu has to offer and would like to see beautiful views then this your spot to go to. PROS: Location: The Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail is also known as the Kaiwi Scenic Shoreline is located on the east side of the island (the windward part). My husband and I stay in Honolulu for the convience of food, shopping and other tourist attractions. The drive here from Honolulu was about 30 minutes. It is a beautiful scenic drive to this side of the Island. We had to stop a couple of times to capture the natural scenery that this area has to offer. Trail: The trail is about 2 miles altogether (30 minutes each way). It is a very easy and busy trail. Very kid and family oriented. I walked up this trail in flip flops! It slowly inclines up so for those that do not like the steepness of hikes, this is perfect for you. The Scenery along the trail is BEAUTIFUL with impressive views overlooking Makapu'u Beach, Koko Head and the windward coast. Whale watching: We came in mid January-whale season! During our decent to the top, we had to stop a couple of times to watch the many whales emerging from the ocean. I recommend carrying binoculars if you plan on whale watching. CONS: Weather: Not a lot shade available to hide from the hot sun. I recommend coming earlier in the morning if you want to beat the heat. We came here around noon and it was extremely hot. Parking: Although there are parking available, this is one of the most popular trails in Oahu. Depending on the time and day, parking spots can be very limited. Tips: No restroom facilities around!
Easy Hike for all ages
If you're looking at doing a hike that's achievable in a short period of time then this one is for you. There's a wide path all the way to the top so people can pass each other easily going in different directions. There are several lookout spots so you can stop and take in the scenery and read up on the information about the area. At the top the views are amazing. The colour of the water against the cliff faces was just picture perfect. You can see whales from December to April but unfortunately we didn't see any. You are exposed to the elements so I would recommend wearing sun cream and a hat. I highly recommend doing this trail.
Breath-taking views at the end of a doable hike
Amazing hike! I did this after Diamond Head and it was comparatively much easier! Path is paved and wide. Lots of people with strollers and dogs. Incline is doable and there is shade here and there. Good idea to start early in the morning though ! Hike takes 2 hours at a very leisurely pace with lots of photo stops. The views are absolutely stunning at every turn. I even saw a whale breach - amazing! A must-do hike if you are in Waikiki. The only downside are the logistics. Getting there from Waikiki is a bit inconvenient without a car. Bus takes almost 1.5 hours, so I ended up calling an Uber. Alternatively, you could rent a car for the day and drive along the coast and stop over to check out Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole, Waimanalo Beach and other scenic spots.
Have to be young and vigorous
Wanted to see this but couldn't as not set up for people with disabilities.. Too expensive for average family to see up close.. Money hungry event.. We drove on. not impressed as it had such poor parking not many people can get in.. not advertised on road as an attraction, before you already missed it.. don't recommend a visit here at all., but have to put 1 hr. on this survey but i wouldn't go there.
Easy Hike with Breathtaking Views
We hiked this trail on a Sunday just before sunset and it was not crowded. It is paved the entire way, making it family-friendly and easy to navigate. We enjoyed the overlooks with informational signs and the views are truly spectacular! At dusk, the lighthouse was a sight to behold!
Beautiful Views!
This trail is paved the entire way, it's a moderate walk and has no steps except at the very top if you want to take them and it's very few. However, don't expect to actually be able to go out to the lighthouse because it is off limits which was disappointing to me as I didn't realize that until we had made it to the top! I guess I should have done my homework!
Yes, YOU can do it!
I am 61, have asthma, and due to several non-stop decades of martial arts training I need both hips replaced. I hiked this path all the way to the top with relative ease. I did take advantage of the provided benches to sit and rest my hips but in general I found this hike pretty easy and well worth the effort. Go for it!
Beautiful Views, but Crowded and Hot
Get there early, before late morning, to avoid crowds and the hot sun. It is an easy, but steep, hike on a completely paved walkway. It isn't too difficult of a walk and I have seen people of all ages including senior citizens and infants being pushed in strollers. Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat! Bring water for your dog! Also, the pavement can get very hot on your pup's paws if you take them in the afternoon. Keep them leashed. Another option is to park on the street around sunset and watch the moon rise and stars come out after dark. DO NOT PARK IN THE PARKING LOT IF YOU DO THIS because they close the gate and your car will get stuck overnight. PARK ON THE ROAD IF YOU PLAN ON STAYING AFTER DARK. Great place to see whales during the winter (whale season). I even saw a monk seal swimming off the coast.
Know before you go
This would have been more enjoyable if we had more accurate information beforehand. We saw a couple of estimates of the distance, as 1 1 / 2 miles round trip, or 2 miles round trip. According to our phone app that measured steps, it was 3 miles round trip. We are in pretty good shape for 70 years old, but the 1 1 / 2 miles of a steady uphill climb was more than I expected. Also, we were doing the North Shore drive in one day, and this walk ate up more time than we expected. It is all paved, so it is easy in that sense, and we saw lots of strollers at the beginning, but I don't know how many of them had actually gone the whole way. As someone else noted, there is no bathroom on the trail, or at the trailhead, so be prepared. We continued to drive up toward the north shore, and in that direction you will quickly come to a beach with a bathroom. The scenery on the way up, looking south, was pretty but not remarkable, but if you hang on until the end, you see a beautiful view toward the north.
Breathtaking Views - tough but doable hike for an old, fat woman!
I completed the trail and it was worth every step. It was not easy. Yes, the path is paved all the way up, but it was much steeper and longer than I anticipated. We arrived at 9 am and were lucky to get one of the closest parking spots. The parking lot only accommodates about 20 cars; the rest are parked along the side of the Lighthouse Road and then up along Kalanianaole Hwy. Reaching the lighthouse was truly an accomplishment for me, and, like I said, worth every step. The views are breathtaking all along the way. The walk down is very easy. Now, here's what you need to know if you're like me (50+ and very overweight) : 1) There are NO bathroom or refreshment facilities anywhere near the trail. 2) Bring more water than you think you need, and drink it! 3) It took me a full hour to reach the top. I think most people do it in 30-45 minutes. I stopped numerous times and walked very slowly. Yes, I was embarrassed but kept my sense of humor as people passed me by. 4) I do not have any heart, back, knee or hip problems. If you do, I would think very seriously about whether you should really do this. 5) There is no shade. The vegetation along the sides of the trail provides some respite from the sun, but definitely not full shade. When you reach the ocean side, it is very windy (hold on to your hat!) and the breezes provide some relief from the heat. 6) It's hot, the sun is blazing, you will sweat, and your legs and feet will ache. 7) You will be rewarded with amazing views at every turn and at the top.
Beautiful views
Nice paved wide path. Pretty steep and warm so bring water. There are no drinking fountains there. You get many opportunities for great views and pictures. It took us about 45 minutes to hike up with lots of photo stops along the way. About 25-30 minutes to get down.
Great walk to a greater view for those of us that liked to walk on paved trails
I've been to Oahu twice and did this both times. The walk up is a paved wide trail and the reward at the top is a great view and place to take pictures. I don't remember seeing any facilities so bring water with you.
Awesome Hike!
My husband and I have just recently realized we enjoy hiking!! That being said, we know our limitations and enjoy keeping with hikes that meet the beginner's guidelines!! The Makapuu Lighthouse Trail was perfect for us!! The path is paved and the incline is perfect. It's a short hike, only a little more than 1 mile to the top. And if you are a little more adventuresome there is an off trail " path " that leads down to tidal pools that look so inviting!! Many were veering off the trail and taking the " path " down, but it looked quiet dangerous and one wrong step and you're going down a rocky cliff!! The views are amazing and it was a great experience for this Beginner Duo!!
Best view on Oahu!
Nice paved trail that leads to a light house then further up to a look out over beautiful blue ocean. Best hike in my opinion on Oahu. About 1.5 miles round trip. Good for all ages young and old.
Stunning views from top and along the way
At the most easterly point of Oahu, Makapu'u Lighthouse and trail is a great, fairly easy hike, that rewards you with gorgeous vistas along the path - including Koko Crater, the Windward Coast and islets from Waimanalo to Kalua and beyond... It's a fairly steep, paved trail that doubles back on itself, ascending nearly 500 feet over the course of roughly a mile. It is exposed, and dry (driest part of the island), so you need to have a hat, lots of sunscreen and plenty of water. It's also windy, so hold on to that hat! The lighthouse itself is on a notch, blasted out below the peak, but you get a few different vantage points of it. It makes for some striking photos. Once at the top, you are treated to additional views of the Windward Coast, as well as back toward Koko, with Diamond Head and Honolulu in the distance. Depending on breaks for photos, roughly 30-45 mins round trip.
Good!
Scenic hike to beautiful lookout with panoramic views of Pacific, coastline, inland mountains, and smaller islands off the coast. In area? Have two hours? Worth it! Here's everything you need to know: No admission fee. Parallel parking along side of road at entrance. No bathrooms so plan accordingly! Approximately 3 miles round trip. Well maintained walking paths but wear sneakers just in case. Hike is do-able for all ages and levels of fitness. Hats, water, and sunscreen very necessary--no shade! Excellent trade winds near top. Are you a romantic? Bring a lock to attach to the gate at the top. Also, please note that YES, you will see a small lighthouse on this trail but it is not accessible!
Awesome view and very well maintained trail system
The trail is somewhat long (probably 2 miles), but is paved and well maintained. If your out of shape your going to be sweating. There is a beautiful view of the water almost the entire way up. Parking is free and available onsite. Don't miss out on this place. It was my favorite place on the Island, except for all the action packed things in Waikiki.
A Long, Steep Trail
This is a very long, very steep hike on a paved trail. Every turn of the trail I was thinking, " It can't be much farther: they said it was only a moderate hike. The people in the YouTube video had a baby stroller! " only to see even more trail and elevation in front of me. Nice view from the top (my wife made it her wallpaper on her phone) and I did see some humpback whales from a distance (could not have known I was seeing whales except that I had binoculars). But I was wiped out when I was done and on balance it was not worth it.
Great view
This hike is on a paved trail and somewhat steep but fairly easy to do in an hour round trip. The views all along the trail are great but when you get to the top lookout they are stunning. Parking lot opens at 7:00am and fills up quickly you can park along the road and walk in any time. There are no restrooms so plan ahead. We go as early as possible to avoid the heat of the day and crowds. Wear comfy shoes and use sunscreen and bring water.
I would skip it
I'd much prefer Manoa Falls, Diamond Head, or Lanikai Pillbox over this hike. It is very dry. I did it once, and don't plan to do it again. HOWEVER, if you're with young children and need to push a stroller on a " hike " this would be an excellent option for you.
鯨をみました
23のバスは寄り道が多く22がおすすめ。終点から20分ほど自動車道を戻るのはやや辛いが、左手に見える海は最高。二つ目の駐車場から入りひたすら舗装した道を登る。 ココクレーター、そして海が最高。平日の午前中だが人気スポットなのかかなりの人出。登りは30分位。マカプウ湾の眺めは素晴らしい。下りの途中クジラの潮吹きを 見つけ、その後他の人達としばらくクジラ探し。何度も潮吹きと姿を見る事が出来ました。 時は2016年1月29日。 今日30日はダイヤモンドヘッドの下の海岸道路の観光スポットからも20回以上の潮吹きを見る事が出来ました。
Good hike and great view
We hiked up the path to view the light house in July 2014. Its a good stretch of the legs and goes up quite a bit, but if are worried about it being too strenuous - dont. We encountered plenty of strollers going up and down the path. Its all paved and very scenic. At the very top is an obervation platform where you can look down onto the lighthouse. (you cant actually get to the lighthouse - legally - from this hike) On the platform, the railing features a hevy duty expanded metal (think BBQ grating) where lots of people bring padlocks to leave. We also went off the path to have a look at the WWII observation towers that still remain at the top of the hill adjacent to the observation platform. That was a bit of a scramble as the path was not paved - lots of loose rocks and steep at times. If you are adventurous then its a fun climb. If you are worried about doing the paved hike - i would avoid going off the path.
Easy, if not steep, " hike "
Makapuu is a one mile paved, wide, winding trail with little shade and no facilities. The parking are seems ample if you get there early enough. The " hike " was easy enough and the views from the top are incredible! The contrast of the vibrant blue water against the rocky terrain, as well as tide-pools below made for excellent views and photo ops. There are no bathroom facilities here, so you definitely want to take care of business before arriving. Also, it was a bit windy, so take that into consideration when considering clothing and hats. Overall, I highly recommend Makapuu as a fun and family friendly hike.
Very nice hike! Bring water!
Definitely worthwhile making a stop here. It's an easy hike, but it's on pavement the whole way. Make sure you have a decent pair of shoes, and bring water and sunscreen. There is no shade and you're walking uphill on black pavement. You will cook. The view is most certainly worth it.
Easy hike, great view!
Tip: the Light house hike is not the same as the Makapuu lookout point. If you hit the Lookout, you have gone to far, turn around and take the immediate left onto the road for the trailhead. You can climb over the hill to the lighthouse from the lookout point, but the trail is narrowed, unmarked, and probably not entirely legal. I did it by accident and hiked the paved trail back to my car. People have been leaving keepsake locks on the fence at the top of the hike, consider bringing an engraved one to leave with you and your sweetie's names :)
Makapuu Trail
Great hike, the view of the ocean from the top is great. We hiked up the trail to watch the sunset on evening, well worth the hike. If you do chose to hike up to watch the sunset, don't forget bring a flashlight for the hike down (Like we did). :-)
市バスでも行けます
駐車場が整備され、車でのアクセスが便利になりました。 但し大人気スポットで朝早めに行かれることをお薦めします。 市バス22番または23番でも行くのは可能。ゴルフ場前かシーライフパークバス停にて下車、ハイウエイを15分ほど歩きトレイル入口へ。 歩きやすく危険箇所はないものの、日陰がなくトイレや売店もありません。
Not an easy hike for the elderly
Not an easy hike for the elderly. My 80 yr old dad could not have handled the steepness nor the distance of the incline. It is all paved, so if you have a strong person pushing a wheelchair that's possible. Having said that, I loved the hike and it had my fave views in Honolulu. You could see the whales splashing in the distance.
Fabulous views
The hike, about a mile uphill, is not too bad and the views are well worth it, It is a great spot for whale watching. Try and go in the morning when it is less likely to be hot.
2016 - Hawaii - Makapuu
Quando chegamos no topo, desta atração, sabíamos que a visão seria de tirar o fôlego e realmente foi. Porém para chegarmos no fim, é preciso estar com o fôlego em dia, pois a caminhada é intensa e com certo grau de inclinação. A paz que o lugar transmite é incrível e vale à pena subir com tempo, para simplesmente avistar o mar e ter a certeza do quanto somos minúsculo perto de tudo.
8:30 am
This is a beautiful hike on a decent incline, but go at your own pace. It is about an 8 foot wide smooth asphalt surface. It is so scenic but go before the heat of the day and bring water! There are no restrooms so plan accordingly. Parking is limited in that unless you are there early (7:30 am ish), you will likely have difficulty finding a legal place to park. We took Kaimana Tours which was well worth it - plus they made a couple of sight seeing stops, provided water and dropped us off / picked us up basically at the trail head.