At the southeastern tip of Oʻahu, the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail carves a gentle path along the island’s rugged coastline. This two-mile, fully paved trail offers an easy but visually stunning hike that culminates in one of Oʻahu’s most breathtaking vistas—making it a favorite for families, early risers, and wildlife watchers.
The path winds gradually uphill, hugging the cliffside with uninterrupted views of the deep Pacific and the rolling waves below. As you climb, the historic Makapuʻu Lighthouse becomes visible in the distance, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop since 1909. On clear mornings, the rising sun bathes the cliffs in gold, illuminating the entire Ka Iwi coastline in a spectacular display. Offshore, the twin islets of Rabbit Island and Kaohikaipu add to the seascape, and in the winter months, humpback whales breach in the waters below.
Because the trail is fully exposed, there is no shade, but the wide-open sky and sweeping ocean panoramas more than compensate. The hike can be completed in an hour or so at a relaxed pace, and while there are no water fountains or shaded rest stops, its smooth incline and accessibility make it suitable for almost anyone. Whether you’re chasing whales or the perfect photo, Makapuʻu delivers a rich sensory experience high above the sea.
To make the most of your adventure, consider starting your day with a scenic drive along the coast. Renting a vehicle through Blue Diamond Vacations offers you the freedom to explore on your schedule—no tour groups, no timetables, just wide open roads and the salty breeze through the windows. With easy access to both the trail and nearby gems like Sandy Beach and Waimānalo, it’s the kind of flexibility that turns a good day into an unforgettable one.
