Makapuu Lighthouse

Makapuu Point Lighthouse is one of the most interesting places in Hawaii, even before the trail begins. This lighthouse stands on the easternmost tip of the island of Oʻahu, on a high cliff 600 feet above the Pacific Ocean. Built in 1909, this red-roofed lighthouse has kept watch over ships for more than a century, and today it guards one of the island's most scenic coastal walkways. Its location, where volcanic cliffs drop straight into the deep blue water, makes an impression on anyone who visits.

The area around Makapuu, part of the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, consistently makes lists of top Oʻahu attractions, particularly for those interested in history, coastal scenery, and whale watching in winter.

The walk starts just past Hanauma Bay and Sandy Beach, where the landscape shifts to dry hillsides and open ocean views. A large parking lot marks the trailhead for the paved 1.5-mile (3.2 km) path. The climb is steady but manageable, with steady trade winds keeping things comfortable even in full sun; and because the trail is completely exposed, you get views right from the start.

Initially, the shoreline curves toward Koko Head and the dark volcanic ridges beyond. Within minutes, the horizon opens up over the water. The trail hugs the hillside in a straight line with several natural stopping points that are hard to pass without pausing.

For those visiting O‘ahu between November and May, the Makapu‘u Point trail should be at the top of the 'things to do' list. This is prime season for viewing migrating Humpback Whales. The elevated vantage points along the trail make it an exceptional spot to watch them breach and spout in the waters below.

Further up, the offshore islands of Manana (Rabbit Island) and Kaohikaipu appear. Both are wildlife sanctuaries that add depth to the coastline. On very clear days, Molokaʻi can be seen on the horizon. The final turn reveals the lighthouse below, set against open water and the cliffs of the Windward Coast.

The lighthouse itself is a simple concrete tower with a red roof that stands out sharply against the Pacific blue from its 600-foot (183 m) cliff perch. It's been there since 1909.

While the lighthouse is a powerful visual focus, its most fascinating feature is actually inside: a massive hyperradiant lens. This lens, manufactured in Paris, is the largest of its kind ever used in a U.S. lighthouse and consists of 1,188 individual glass prisms. It was initially exhibited at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair before finding its permanent home here. Rising 395 feet above the water, the light became crucial for maritime safety, especially after a nearby grounding in 1888 sparked the initial push for its construction.

The lighthouse first shone its beam on October 1, 1909. The structure is now automated and off-limits to visitors, but it remains an active navigational aid and one of the most recognizable sights on Oʻahu.

Makapuu occupies one of the driest, sunniest corners of the island. The vegetation stays low – mostly kiawe shrubs and scattered cactus – which keeps the entire coastline exposed to constant wind. This creates an unusually open feeling. The view is mostly cliffs, ocean, and sky.

Despite being a paved, accessible path, the Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail gives a strong sense of the natural character of Oʻahu’s southeastern edge. It is part of the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, an area preserved in 2001 to keep this stretch of coast undeveloped and open to the public.

Makapuu doesn't require much preparation, but it leaves a lasting impression. Some people come for the whales, others for the chance to photograph the red-roofed lighthouse against the ocean – a shot that's become iconic for those on Hawaii photo tours. Many just appreciate standing where Oʻahu meets the open Pacific without anything in the way.

Morning light differs from afternoon light, and each visit has its own feel. The coast here stays straightforward and unembellished, which is probably why people keep coming back and why it remains one of the island's best coastal walks.