Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail

Easy, breezy! The «hike» up to see the Makapu’u lighthouse is a nicely paved path. It’s a decent incline with one switchback where you can take a break midway through to soak in the views of Koko Head and Koko Crater. The more active people will probably want to run up the path to feel like they’ve gotten a good work out. Others will definitely feel the heart pumping, some sweat breaking out, and maybe feel like they have noodle legs after they complete the 2.60 miles round trip.
Heading up the trail no later than 7:00am, or after 5:00pm is what I’d recommend. Otherwise, you’ll be walking up with the sun following you everywhere. There’s really no shade on the entire path, unless you’re going up before sunrise or if the rain clouds are out to play.
From November to April, the Kohola, or Humpback Whales, will migrate to the waters of Hawaii to breed, birth, and nurse their young. So, bring your binoculars if you visit during that time frame!
On January 1^st, New Years Day, the trail is popular to walk up, hang out, and to watch the first sunrise. Actually, any time you can catch the sunrise out here, it’s breathtaking!
Parking may look like its full, but there’s usually a few open spaces as you drive up closer to the start of the trail. It’s free of charge.
Lots of dogs on leashes walking along the trail. There can be a lot of tourists, too. No public toilet facilities available. Bring some water. Wear comfortable shoes, especially with rubber soles so you have a better grip going down.
Gorgeous views at the very top! Sea Life Park, Waimanalo, Lanikai, Kaneohe, and a glimpse of Molokai island on a clear day are some highlights. All of the lookouts are open at the top, so you can safely stand and take your photos.
The trail to see the lighthouse up close and personal is restricted to the public. There’s also a trail heading down to get to the tide pools, but I’ve never attempted that myself. Just be smart about the choices you make. Aloha & mahalo!

Probably one hike that every Oahu resident has done once in their lifetime. I’m a bit biased when it comes to hikes because I really prefer un-​paved ridge hikes. Despite that, I can’t deny that the view from the end of the trail is quite beautiful, although cramped.
The trail itself probably only takes an hour or so to complete, very easy going up and easier coming down. There are numerous places to pull over to the side for photo ops and if the heat ends up being too much to bear, one can take a stroll down the side of the trail to the tide pools. It’s an easy hike, but bring lots of water. If you bring dogs, be extra careful and diligent in making sure they get enough water (recently there was a short news clip about vets in the area reporting dogs overheating — and sometimes dying — at Makapuu, especially during the summer).
There’s a large lot for the trail but it fills quickly. Parking will always be an issue, but since you’re about to walk about two miles anyway, parking along/​across the street shouldn’t be too much of a bother!

Awesome and somewhat of an easy hike! Entirely on paved concrete… we went with a toddler in a stroller and a 6 year old and we made it to the top…
It’s a nice hike to have some «me» time — thanks to our now local friend Val for the recommendation to come here!

This is the first time I’ve been back to Makapu’u since their face lift. It’s now the Rolls-​Royce of hikes on O’ahu! It is completely paved and even sports lookouts with barriers for safety! Saw lots of Moms with strollers. The signs have been redone, and most of the brush has been cleared, giving you a good view of the summit as you hike up the hill.
Makapu’u is always a deceiving hike, you think its easy — then midway through you’re wondering why your legs are burning and your breath is short. Roundtrip its 2.6 miles, with about 550 ft. in elevation change.
Like other Unilocalers mentioned, get there early. Parking is rough if you get there after 9 AM. I love Makapu’u, especially when I’m hiking alone because I know it’s a no-​brainer, safe and fun hike.
I gave this hike 4 stars because I noticed a lot of the brush and cacti were burnt to clear the path for the trail. I couldn’t help but think that it lost some of it’s rustic charm, and I hope that the cacti and brush were cleared in an environmentally-​friendly way. With the trail so well-​manicured, it almost feels less like a «hike» and more like a «nature walk», but I love it none the less!

Easy hike if you want to avoid a dirt trail. And when I say easy I mean easy. My 3 year old was able to do most of it. The main pathway looked like it was newly paved as of 2016. Great panoramic views start once you reach about ¹⁄₃ the way up and there are several spots to sit and rest if you need it.
There isn’t a lot of parking but people are constantly coming and going so you shouldn’t wait long for a spot. I also usually see a few cop cars that drive through the area or park there for a few minutes probably to deter a**holes from trying to break into your car.
Come early and finish the hike to the top before the sun comes out and beats on your head because there isn’t any shade to rest under. If you come after 9am bring water you might need it.
There are side paths which aren’t paved but we did not go there. They lead to the bottom of the hill and around the side where it looks like you can take a steep trail up the side towards the top.
Super easy hike just be prepared to work your thighs and calves. Other than that it’s cake.

One of the most beautiful hikes in Oahu to hike especially during the whale season. You have a nice viewing. However, for myself I have never seen any whales since I don’t hike this trail during the whale season. I take that back, my bf and I did this hike in March, but we didn’t see any whales. It was between mid morning and noon, we completed the trail. The trail is a beautiful hike to watch the sunrise or sunset (I also never do the trail during those hours, I should). I seen pictures and videos of time lapse, very pretty the sun rising or going down. Those with photography skills can get a kick out of their cameras.
This 2 mile hike has been recently renovated and the path has been widened and repaved. It is much safer and enjoyable especially when you want to pass the slow hikers. Since this trail is all flat, it is a great hike for those tourists who want a quick, non dangerous hike. My prefers flat trails with no mud or dirt involved lol. But sadly, this is one of few trails in Oahu that is flat and paved.
The two lookout towers they are currently renovating (putting in new side rails) has gorgeous views. So many tourists on Saturday morning taking pictures and spending time with their families. Plenty of dogs were walking with their owners. I saw a Shiba Inu, so adorable and the tail curled up walking in front my bf and me. Sadly the dog was nowhere to be seen as we descended down to the car. SAD FACE :(!!!
Parking is a nightmare. The lot was completely full when we arrived. We had to park the car on the side of the road, running across with worried looks of not getting hit by the speedy cars. It is best to come earlier when the gates open at 7am.
FYI, the lighthouse is off limits and it belongs to U.S. government. So don’t go off the path and hike to lighthouse. There is a locked gate and a camera. You have a beautiful view of it in the movie 50 first dates. Yes the movie that starred Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler, filmed entirely on Oahu.
Wear sunscreen, there is no shade on this trail. Have fun and enjoy the views :)

I’m not sure why I gave it only 4 stars. Oh well, here’s to adding one more star!
— They’ve recently repaved the path up, so if you’re doing a sunrise hike, no need to worry about the potholes in the dark. They’ve also clearly marked the edge of the path with white concrete, easy to see in the dark.
— Fit for all shapes and sizes, all forms and paces. Bring your dogs, your kids, wear slippers, wear dresses, whatever! Easy-​going and easy.
— As is recommended with any outdoor activity, consider bringing water and sunscreen.
— Awesome for sunrise. Maybe catch a whale or two during the winter season.
— I’m not sure what time the parking opens, but when I went last month for a sunrise walk, the lot was open by 6:00am.
— Make a detour after you round the first uphill run if you will, to go to Makapuu Tide Pools. Or go off to check out the Geo-​Caching spot.

Breathtaking.
After a month of nagging my husband to get up early enough to hike this trail I decided to go it alone last weekend.
At every point of the hike there is something beautiful to look at. The top lookout is still closed, and I still give this trail five stars. When I got up to the top and saw the end view… I literally had to catch my breath for a second. It’s stunning-​especially for a first-​timer and non-​native. I’m not sure if locals are accustomed to these beautiful ocean views, but as a native New Yorker, I sure am not!
This hike is great for families with young children, even babies. I saw countless women pushing strollers or baby-​wearing on this trail. It’s also dog friendly and a good trail for running since it’s paved.
Parking was pretty intense but I got lucky and got up pretty close. I went sort of late, around 9:30 but didn’t find the sun to be unbearable.
You’re so stunned by the views that I don’t think the sun even matters all that much!

I love this hike!!! not too hard & not too easy, just right :)
came here because im on spring break so we got there around 8:30ish. there was already soooo much people there so we waited maybe like 5 min for parking and we found one. there was still alot of people coming in so thank jesus we found one. this hike is flat on paved road so its really easy, i used slippers before lol theres kids, dogs, strollers there and lots of families :) theres also a tidepool on the bottom but you gotta hike it to the bottom. its pretty steep but people make it down there. thats when you should wear shoes haha
oh! and the main reason, theres whales!!! not all the time you might see them but if you’re lucky you just might.

A nice easy hike for everyone (even my mum did it!) and a beautiful view when you get to the top, actually the view is amazing anywhere on the hike up. Not sure what the distance is but the road is paved and for the most part not too steep. Lots of families, dog walkers and tourist too I guess. Funny though, I took quite a bit of pics but didn’t get the lighthouse. Love this place!

I can’t believe I haven’t reviewed this place yet.
We came here with a friend who’s been to the Island so many times he knows of a lot of local spots.
The «hike» itself is not very impressive, since it’s mostly paved. I’d give it 3 stars, not because it’s not nice. But because it’s HI, you get this view EVERYWHERE! It’s very kid friendly because it’s not strenuous.
What sold it for me was visiting the tide pools. At one point I think it was a «secret» spot that only the locals knew about, but I’ve seen it mentioned in a few reviews so I think people have caught wind of this.
I’m not gonna go into full on detail except to say, you must try this trek down the mountain onto the beach. Bring closed toed water shoes or something along those lines because it is rocky.

We came here early in the morning on our last day in Hawaii to catch the sunrise because we were told that this was one of the best places to watch one!
Even though we came here around 6 AM, it was already super packed!
Parking is extremely limited, so either arrive SUPER EARLY or you’re going to have to deal with traffic and park outside of the park.
It is the easiest trail because it’s all paved cement up to the top of the mountain.
Unfortunately they were doing some construction at the top of the mountain so there wasn’t much to see but a bunch of tourists.
If you’re feeling extra adventurous and is wearing comfortable shoes, you can climb down the side of the mountain and visit the blow holes and tide pools.
BE AWARE that this is extremely dangerous. There is no «real trail». It’s more of a made up trail, it’s a little bit easier going down because you know where you’re going, but going up can get confusing. There are tons of slippery dirt and rocks so I highly recommend you wear shoes.
Also wear some swimming clothes so you can swim in the tidepools.
And DO NOT stand close near the end of the tidepools where the waves are coming in, I made that HUGE MISTAKE because a giant wave came in and pushed me off the rocks and I went tumbling into the tidepool with our cellphones. Huge bummer, but it was still a beautiful site.
Careful not to get lost climbing back up the mountain because we did that as well and a few other people and had to climb back down the mountain towards the made up trail.

I’m not too sure if you can really call this trail a hike since it’s paved, but it is one of my faves!
You’ll see people of all ages, families & lots of dogs!
During whale season expect to see a lot of whales too! This is one of the main reasons I love to come here!
Parking can be a hassle especially on the weekends. My tip is to go right when they open then you can get parking. If you can’t get there that early, then wait about 45 mins since that’s when the first batch of hikers will finish.
Don’t forget the water & sunscreen!

Probably my favorite light trek. Parking is free and the path is paved for the most part. Do stop at the occasional look outs to see whales /​dolphins.
Bring some water and a camera phone and don’t miss out on the view from the top two bunkers. There’s also a different path that takes you to some tide pools and rock look outs for variety.
You could technically make this trail more difficult but of course the signage warns you against off path walking/​climbing. ;)
Looking forward to these views again soon!

This is an outstanding, relatively easy hike (novice level) with excellent views — a high payoff-​to-​cost ratio. It’s suitable for everyone from children to healthy seniors. I’ve heard multiple people talk about using this hike as a warm up for a more strenuous hike — something like Diamond Head or Koko Head — or as a cool down afterwards.
One of the things I appreciate about it is that one doesn’t have to wait until the top to enjoy the splendid scenery — lots of that along the way. In addition to the ocean, one can see whales at the right time of year (November-​March?). The top offers a stunning, panoramic, 270+ degree view.
The path was recently re-​paved and possibly widened, so it’s more like a steep walk. Could be done in slippahs, but I find it easier in shoes.
On the downside, there’s not much shade on the path, so some will want to wear a hat and/​or sunscreen.
Parking can be atrocious, but if you can find it, this hike is a must. Bring a camera and get fantastic shots of the Windward coast.

It’s a great hike, I definitely recommend it. The pathway is paved, which means it’s easy to walk and take a stroller. There’s an incline the whole way to the lighthouse, but it wasn’t too bad and there were plenty of viewpoints along the way to rest. We saw quite a few whales in the distance so I was super excited! The few on top was amazing. They are working on the highest lookout so didn’t get to see it when went, but the second highest was well worth it.
There’s a port-​o-​potty at the beginning and I didn’t see any other restrooms on the way up, just a heads up. Bring your own tp, it was out when we visited!

Super easy. The path is paved for you and it wasn’t that long or hard getting up there. It’s a little hard to get parking but it’s great for families with younger children and pets. Nice breeze that blows through as well.

I kind of hate people so I had been procrastinating to do this «hike» for about 2 years now. Everytime I come, I get turned off because there are always a million cars parked over there and you can literally see crowds of people walking up the mountain.
I finally came here midweek though around 9:00AM… To my surprise, there actually weren’t that many people there when I arrived. There were already a lot of cars parked there, but not as many as on the weekends. So if you don’t like people as much as me, I’d recommend to come midweek, early in the morning. Anyways, I was so hyped to finally do this! Mind you, when I do a hike (no matter how easy), it’s a big deal for me because I’m like, the most unathletic person ever. I put my sneakers on maybe twice a year so this hike was a big accomplishment for me.
On to the hike… this was hands down the easiest «hike» ever. It took 30 minutes to get to the top and I was taking my time! Wait, should this even be considered a hike? It’s more like a stroll with amazing views! It’s paved the entire way and is a pretty good workout! I brought my 5 year old daughter on this hike, and the hardest part for her was probably the sun beaming down on us towards the top. So I’d suggest to definitely wear sunblock, bring an umbrella, wear a hat, whatever floats your boat!
Actually, most of the hike was shaded around that time of the day so yea… chill… you ain’t gotta do all that. Actually, you don’t even need to bring water if you’re just planning on walking the entire time because it’s only going to weigh you down. I was so pissed that I had to hold that raggedy water bottle the entire way up, especially because the water ended up being hot as piss when I got to the top.
Anyways, I would definitely recommend this hike to everybody! Super easy, scenic and a great workout! You might even see some whales!

BEST (easiest) HIKE EVER! Great for families, solo hike, groups, joggers, everyone!
Pros:
–Easy because it’s on newly paved roads
–Every corner is a breath taking view (either the ocean or mountain tops)
–The top has a breathtaking view & it’s nice & cool
Cons:
–There is no shade so if you do this in the afternoon, you will get burned
–No wind while going up
–If you’re going to go down the tide pools, it’s a bit rocky going down
Overall, this was a great short hike to accomplish. We did Manoa Falls after this and my legs didn’t feel like falling off. I also found a secret passage to see the lighthouse up close and personal but it’s gated off with barbed wires. Be as Nike says, «Just Do It.»

Great for beginner hikers, families, kids, tourists, and anyone who wants a not-​so-​strenuous hike with killer views of the ocean and maybe some whales if you’re lucky. The very top was still under construction and closed off, but you could still see everything. The paved road was also great for our stroller and our toddler fell asleep as we hiked. A great way to spend 2 miles each way, which is why parking can be bananas and the trail can be a bit crowded. Bring your binoculars if you want to see whales.

Beautiful and novice level hike which was exactly what we were looking for on this day when the bf and I took his aunt and cousin who were apprehensive about going hiking. My good friend suggested we meet here for great views and a beautiful experience.
Pros: The whole trail is paved and at an easy incline, making this very family friendly, runner friendly, and pet friendly. The main stretch is 2.0 miles roundtrip, so you can plan on spending anywhere from 30 minutes and upwards depending on how many pictures you like to take as well as how many side trails you care to venture on. We took the trail leisurely and stopped frequently to chat or snap a picture and probably spent at least 1.5 hours here. Some highlights of your route include possible whale sightings and views of the historic Makapu’u lighthouse (the same one featured in 50 first dates!)
Cons: It’s a popular destination meaning it can get very busy. There is parking, but once the lot is full you may have to stalk people walking back to their cars. On the trail there is little to no shade. Bring a hat/​sunscreen and water to stay hydrated.
There’s a bit of ongoing construction. Be sure to follow signs and stay on the trail! Happy hiking!

A wide paved walking trail with wonderful vistas leading to the top of a small ridge with a light house perched out in front.
During our 5 night stay in Oahu, we walked two of the trails recommended on trip advisor. This walk was by far more scenic and pleasant (the other, diamond head was like one long line at a theme park-​2 stars max).
Like all the attractions we visited on Oahu, parking was an issue. Cars were parked all along the highway which adds to your hike.
As for the walk itself, the majority of the trail is a newly paved, smooth, wide asphalt walkway with plenty of room for people going up and down. In fact there were quite a few strollers and even some dogs taking the walk on this warm and blustery day.
TIP: be sure to bring water (something we neglected) and use sun screen if it is sunny as there isn’t any shade. When we took the walk around mid day late in December. The views of the ocean along the way were great with turquoise waters and waves.
They are in the process of building a new structure up at the top (it seems) but there is still a great view. From there, you can climb up further along a more rustic, rocky path to some even higher peaks also with great views (which we did) but hold on to your hat! The day we were there the winds were fierce.
If you only take one walk during your holiday-​this is the one to take-​if you can find parking! We were there around 2 hours door to door.

Like this well paved trail, make life so much easier if you didn’t bring a pair of heavy hiking boots while traveling like I did. Super windy though. Easy to achieve the top, just remember to bring binocular if you want to spot some whale in distance.

This was a nice easy hike — since the trail is paved, it’s less of a hike rather than a just a long uphill walk. The hike took us a little more than an hour round trip, with plenty of time at the top and at the lookouts along the way to admire the view. There is no shade, and walking uphill in the blazing sun can get pretty hot. Sun protection is a must, and bringing water is a very good idea.
There are nice views from the top. Unfortunately, the trail to the lighthouse seems to be permanently closed (there are clearly marked «No Trespassing» signs at the fork of the main trail leading to the lighthouse.)

This was out first stop during our tour around the island. As with many of the scenic spots here is Hawaii the views are amazing. We arrived in he early AM and there was plenty of parking available. We walked up to the lookout spot to take in the coastline and view Rabbit island.
It was a great beginning to what would be one of our more memorable days in Hawaii. We had done touristy things before but not taking in the best part of Oahu which is the amazing beauty of the lovely Island. Once you do you can understand why folks come here and just can’t leave.
I got to thank my brother who was here for work for suggesting we go with him around the Island for sights he loves to take it. Many of the places I have not heard of and without his previous knowledge would never have stopped at some of them. I had a wonderful day and have many great pictures of the beauty the beholds this very special place. Next time I am going to head out on my own to take in even more of the Nature sights and not just the silly touristy things we norming do.

Easier hike, ever! The entire trail is paved and it’s just over 2 mi round trip with about a 500 ft elevation gain. This is the perfect hike for beginners or for those that like to run up hills! There’s still some construction going on at the top so we couldn’t see down to the lighthouse, but there are several other points where you can look out toward the ocean or down into the valley.
Easy parking, easy access to the trail, and super easy hike! 5 star worthy once they finish construction. If I lived in Oahu, I’d be hiking here every evening at twilight.

If you are a novice hiker, this hike is for you. This is an easy hiking trail with a paved road. It’s a 2-​mile hike up to the top of the mountain. Along the way, you will see great views of the mountains and the beaches but the true reward is at the top of the mountain where you see amazing views of Waimanalo Bay.
Access to the lighthouse is restricted so you cant really visit the lighthouse. However, on your way up the mountain, you can catch a glance at the lighthouse.
Towards the top of the hike, there is a trail that you can take down to visit the tide pools below. I would not recommend it if you are not an experienced hiker because the trail is steep.
There is also a lookout point where you can see whales in the winter time but we didnt see any during our visit.

Beautiful view, not too crowded on a Friday morning, worth checking out then do the lanai lookout after.
Free parking.
For more tips and suggestions for your Hawaii trips check out my blog

Great easy and quick hike, but ongoing construction right now.
Makupuu lighthouse trail is a great hike when you’re looking to spend an hour or so on a well maintained path. More like a uphill walk than a hike. There are plenty of places to stop off and enjoy the view or vegetation (sooo many cacti).
Really great for kids, dogs and older people as well.
The only bummer is that they were doing a bit of construction when we went and some areas were closed off. Ah well, we will just have to come back.

Nice paved hike to get to a 360 degree lighthouse view.
Also, contains the entrance way to get to the esteemed Makapu’u Tidepools.

You know you’re out of shape when the beginning of this trail makes you break a sweat. Or it could have been the heat, the humidity index this afternoon was between WTF and OMG! Our younger dog Dola, threw a princess fit and made me carry her partially up today. If its hot out like today, you’ll sweat buckes, which is a good sign that fat cells are dying off your body. It never ceases to amaze me in the get up people sometimes wear up here. I always see at least one girl that’s dressed to go out to dinner rather than hike. Don’t know of why you’d want to get decent clothing sweaty.
We did this trail a few months ago and it was littered with metal panels that covered construction holes, they are gone now so the level of safety sketchiness has decreased. The city seems to be repaving and building scenic look outs along the trail, which is super. All the spots chosen, have great AC like wind.
This is a moderately easy hike and make sure you keep watching the ocean to your right. On a clear day like today you can see Molokai and whales! It also seems to be the season that the cactus pears are in full bloom and they are everywhere on the trail. Yep you can eat those bulbs on those cactus but be warned, I once ate one years ago and got a super tiny «I exist solely to bring misery to you» fiber/​needle stuck in my lip for a day.
Its a bummer that the top look out of this trail is shut down for renovations. Not sure of when it’s going to be open again, but there is a golf cart guy that sits up there now and we saw him bring down people that were too hot to walk down themselves. My fiancé and I watched the cart balance on two to three wheels during some portions of its trek down, that golf cart be scary!
Hands down this is the most scenic hike on Oahu and it never gets old!