Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail

Overview

The Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail is a scenic hike in East Oahu, offering breathtaking views of the coastline, ocean, and the iconic Makapu‘u Lighthouse. The trail is known for its gentle terrain, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels.

The trail is historically significant as it leads to the Makapu‘u Lighthouse, which has been guiding ships since 1909. It is also a hotspot for whale watching during the winter months.

Hiking Trail Scenic Viewpoint

Location

Address

Honolulu, Hawaii

Neighborhood: East Oahu

Coordinates

21.259100, -157.685600

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

December-March

Best Time of Day

Early morning

cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2 hours

Full Experience

3 hours

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• wildflowers

summer

hot

• sunrise views

autumn

cool

• sunset views

winter

cooler

• whale watching

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

No entrance fee
Bring water
Wear comfortable shoes

What to Bring

essential

water sunscreen hiking shoes

seasonal

jacket umbrella

not allowed

drones pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• uneven terrain

Medical facilities: none on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

free

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $0

parking $5

food N/A

souvenirs N/A

Dress Code

casual, comfortable hiking shoes, hiking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• not required
• N/A
• N/A
• N/A

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Hawaii Hikes

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Trail info, Whale watching tips

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: none

Charging Stations: none

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport

Distance: 15 km

Travel Time: 20 minutes

taxi

$30 20 min

public_transport

$3 40 min

From City Center

Distance: 10 km

bus

$2.50 30 min

taxi

$20 15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Beautiful views and easy access

Historical Significance: Makapu‘u Lighthouse has guided ships since 1909

Insider Tips

Best whale watching spots
Hidden gems along the trail

Local Recommendations

• Try shave ice at local stands
• Ask for guide Dave

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Aloha

thank_you Mahalo

where_is Eia

how_much Pehea

beautiful Nani

ticket Tiketi

Guide Languages: English, Hawaiian

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Makapu‘u Lighthouse

Best Time: Sunrise

Tips: Wide angle

Result: Stunning sunrise views

#makapuu #hawaii #travel

Photography Rules

allowed areas entire trail

prohibited areas none

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy allowed

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve