Makapuu Lighthouse - The beacon of hope on Hawaii’s shore
On the easternmost point of Oahu sits the Makapuu Point Lighthouse, a shining beacon constructed 1909 on a 600-foot sea cliff overlooking Makapuu Beach—a stretch of sand known as one of Oahu’s best bodysurfing beaches—and family-friendly Sea Life Park.
What can we observe from the lighthouse?
The Molokai Channel runs right past the Makapuu Lighthouse, so this is also a great place to spot whales using on-site telescopes during whale watching season between December and May. The Makapuu Lighthouse Tide Pools, including a small blowhole, are quite popular and can be found just down from the first set of whale information signs. A word of warning: never go out past the tide pools near the ocean, be careful of big surf crashing into the tide pools, and don’t visit if there are strong winds. If you’re looking to swim, Alan Davis Beach over by Pele’s Chair is a beautiful swimming area with a small secluded beach that is almost always safe for swimming and diving.
Nearby attractions that you should not miss
Near the lighthouse lies the Makapu Point trail, within Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, which offers outstanding views of Oahu’s southeastern coastline, including Koko Head and Koko Crater. Renovations were recently made to the lighthouse and the trail was recently repaved and additional lookout points were added. From the trail’s destination at Makapuu Head, one is rewarded with magnificent views of the windward coast and offshore islets, as well as the historic red-roofed Makapuu Lighthouse, O’ahu, which makes a stunning picture against the deep blue sea below. On a clear day, you may even see Molokai and Lanai. The offshore islets are wildlife sanctuaries for Hawaiian seabirds, such as the frigate bird, and tropicbird. This trail is an excellent place to view migrating humpback whales in season (November-May). Binoculars are suggested for viewing the whales and seabirds. An interpretive sign and viewing scope along the trail help you view and identify the whales seen from this location.
