Makapu’u Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse that stands as one of the major landmarks along Oahu’s extreme southeastern coastline. It’s visible to hikers making their way along the popular Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail, a paved path that offers visitors stunning views of Koko Crater, Koko Head, and if you’re lucky, a humpback whale or two. Makapu’u Lighthouse is located just a half-mile south of Sea Life Park.
History and Background Information
Makapu’u Lighthouse was built in 1909. Its tower is made of brick and painted white, while its large lantern is a distinctive red. When the lighthouse was first put into service, it featured an oil vapor lamp lit by an alcohol burner. This active flame made the lighthouse prone to fires and even the occasional explosion; fortunately, the lighthouse became fully automated in 1974. In the mid-1920s, Makapu’u Lighthouse was where Hawaii’s first-ever radio beacon was installed (though the radio was removed in the early 1970s).
In all, the Makapu’u Lighthouse stands approximately 46-feet tall. It is still a working lighthouse, operated to this day by the United States Coast Guard. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977. Remarkably, Makapu’u Lighthouse remains in possession of the largest lens in use at any lighthouse located within the United States of America.
What’s Here
While you’ll be able to enjoy excellent views of it as you hike along Oahu’s majestic windward coast, Makapu’u Lighthouse itself isn’t accessible to the public; instead, the real draw of Makapu’u Lighthouse as an attraction is the opportunity to view the breathtaking surroundings. The cliffs here are a popular place for hang-gliders to do their thing, while on a clear day you can even see the islands of Moloka‘i and Lana‘i off in the distance.
Hiking along the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a terrific way to experience the natural beauty of this striking stretch of Oahu’s windward coast. The waters here are renowned for the significant populations of humpback whales and green sea turtles that call the area home, making the trail a good vantage point from which to try and see these wonderful creatures in action; be advised that the best time of the year for whale watching here tends to be the winter months. If you’re feeling ambitious, many hikers combine a trip to this popular trail with a detour to Halona Blowhole, a beloved rock formation that makes for an outstanding photo opportunity.
Koko Crater is an extinct volcanic landform that looms large above Oahu’s southeastern coastline, and this unforgettable natural formation can be viewed in the distance from along Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail. The smaller, adjacent Koko Head will also be visible during this hike. Scenic Hanauma Bay—a fabled spot for snorkeling—can also be incorporated into an afternoon of exploring this area.
Tips for Visiting
*Many visitors wishing to hike along the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail will opt to do so via Kaimana Tours’ Makapu’u Lighthouse and Halona Blowhole Tour. This product will provide you transportation to and from the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail’s trailhead; from there, you’ll have time to enjoy a two-hour self-guided hike along the popular 2.5-miles of paved trail.
*Those visitors interested in the Kaimana Tours product described above will want to note that reservations are required for this excursion. Once you’ve made your reservations, if something comes up and you’re faced with the prospect of changing your plans, you’ll need to cancel that reservation at least 48 hours in advance of the tour’s scheduled departure time or you’ll be charged even if you can’t go.
*When hiking along Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail you’ll be quite exposed to the elements: this means you should expect direct sun, wind, and warm temperatures. As a result, be sure and wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses; also, make certain to carry plenty of water.
*The culmination of your Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail hike is a summit that rises sharply; resist the temptation to sit out this final stretch, as it makes for one last wonderful photo opportunity before you turn around and make the trek back to your transportation.