Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail
Waimānalo, HI
A paved path of about two miles round trip to lookouts above a red-roofed lighthouse and the Windward coast. It is exposed with no shade; go in the morning, and look for humpbacks in winter.
The Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail runs through Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline near Waimānalo on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi, to lookouts above the Makapuʻu lighthouse. According to Hawaii State Parks the trail is 2 miles (about 3.2 km) round trip with roughly 500 feet (150 m) of elevation gain, and is rated moderate. Plan on about two hours.
The lighthouse stands at the easternmost point of Oʻahu, was completed in 1909, is 46 feet (14 m) tall, white with a red lantern roof, and is still in service. It was a landmark for ships heading from the American West Coast to Honolulu. From November to May humpback whales pass by; along the trail you will find an information sign and a viewing scope, and binoculars are worth bringing.
The route is hot, dry and sunny, often windy at the summit, with almost no shade. Bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water, start early if you can, stay on the trail and do not light fires. Check current closures with the State Parks before you go.
- Nearest town
- Waimānalo, HI
- Category
- Scenic viewpoints
- GPS
- 21.3030, -157.6510
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually December–February. Still fine, with some compromises, in March–June and September–November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Waimanalo beach parkCampsite3 mi from Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail
- Ke'ehi Lagoon MemorialCampsite16 mi from Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail
- Kahana campgroundCampsite23 mi from Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail
All campsites in Hawaii · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail?
Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail is in Waimānalo, HI, at GPS 21.3030, -157.6510. It is about 13 mi from Honolulu.
Can you camp near Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Waimanalo beach park, about 3 mi away; within 25 mi there are 3 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail?
Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Oʻahu circle: Diamond Head to the North Shore.
What is there to see near Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail?
Places worth a stop nearby: Hālona Blowhole (2 mi), Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (4 mi), Diamond Head State Monument (10 mi) and ʻIolani Palace (13 mi).
When is the best time to visit Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail?
The most pleasant months are usually December–February. Still fine, with some compromises, in March–June and September–November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)