Makapu’u Point (Lighthouse Trail)
This is a very popular hike for good reason – it’s simple to find, easy to park, completely paved, and the views are varied and stunning. To me, this hike is the equivalent of staring up at the Milky Way on a dark, starry night – the sweeping views of the ocean make me feel both tiny and magnificent, the boundaries of where I end and this landscape begins blend away and I feel as light as the ‘iwa birds that soar above.
The trailhead is right off of Kalanianaole Highway (72) and parking is fairly abundant. The 1.6 mile there-and-back trail gains enough altitude to make you feel it and to rate its difficulty as “moderate” but you see people of all ages making the climb. (Side note: I was very proud when I learned to pronounce “kuh-la-nee-ah-nah-o-lay” Highway )
My iphone does not do justice to the ethereal islands in the background (which are bird sanctuaries, by the way).
The first part of the hike provides stunning views of the southeastern coast of O’ahu, looking back on Koko Crater and the Ka’iwi shoreline.
There’s a lovely plaque thanking the people of O’ahu for preserving this part of the coastline.
Mahalo nui loa = thank you very much
Again, my iphone does not come close to capturing the incredible, expansive ocean views along the first half of the trail.
If you squint, you can kind of see the cloud chains marching slowly across the horizon.
We are DEFINITELY coming back in whale season as this is a fabulous viewing spot.
The summit has a decent view of the lighthouse, although it’s definitely not the focal point of the hike (the trail up to the lighthouse is off-limits).
The views of the windward side of the island, with the Jurassic Park mountain ridges and striking coastline, are sublime and breathtaking.
This will become a regular activity for sure!
