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    Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail

    4.6 (1.1k reviews)
    Open 7:00 am - 7:45 pm

    Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail Photos

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    Brittany L.

    Wonderful hike but rough if you have a stroller! It is uphill all the way with no tree coverage for shade. There are a few places to stop along the way with benches in case you need a break. Be sure to wear a hat with a chinstrap as it can be super windy at the top.

    Brian F.

    Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail is a trail on the southeastern side of Oahu along the Kalanianaʻole Highway. There's a parking lot at the trailhead and on the short road to get there. The trail itself is fully-paved and is about 2 miles round trip to the lighthouse and back. It takes about an hour to complete but could take longer depending on your pace and due to the different viewing stops along the route. Although relatively short there is no shade along the hike. The summit of the trail has panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the coast, and Koko Crater. The Makapuʻu Lighthouse was built in 1909 and is active although inaccessible from the hike. From December to May this is a prime viewing spot for humpback whales. The paved trail and small elevation gain make this feel less like a hike and more like a stroll. The views are great and you'll be lucky if you can see some whales.

    Whale sighting!
    Rae W.

    Fantastic paved trail on the east side of the island. Parking always a challenge; note, I have witnessed terrible parking attempts with bumping on multiple occasions, so don't bring your fancy car here. Came 3 times in January with visiting friends, specifically to watch for whales. Was rewarded with epic views of multiple whales breaching and spouting just off the coast. Incredible views, even on days without whale sightings. Trail is paved, open and HOT, so come early and wear a hat.

    Makapu'u
    Erica H.

    The Views From The Top of Makapu'u are Beautiful! Such an amazing hike with a makai views most of the way shared with mauka views the rest as you hit switchbacks on your way up and back. Park or rideshare to the base and bring water. Some wear exercise footwear, some feel comfortable making the 2 mile round trip trek in slippers since it is paved and well kept. Pet and keiki friendly, easy to take strollers to the top. There is one area I recall that has steps only access. On a clear day, Molokai is easy to view along with the light house and nearby Sea Life Park. The Google says this is 500 ft incline so it is not flat and does take a bit of effort, as they estimate for anyone not typically in hike mode to plan about 1 hour 30 minutes. Sunscreen and a hat or visor are a good idea as well! (And take !)

    Lighthouse
    Bob R.

    This place is absolutely beautiful and it definitely worth a visit if you're in the area. The views here are nothing short of spectacular. It's very peaceful just watching the ocean crashing into the old lighthouse.

    Erich L.

    Beautiful hike but it is quite long and mostly uphill. Make sure you have good shoes, water and covering because the sun can be intense. You get some magnificent views at the top.

    Barbara D.

    It's a gorgeous hike on a paved road! Definitely go early because the parking gets pretty packed after 10am. We took our little dog there and I made such a mistake of not bringing him water on the trail and left it in the car! He was so exhausted and I had to carry him half the time. It was pretty hot without any shade so it was a tough walk for him. The view is absolutely gorgeous here and although it may seem easy, make sure you keep your loved ones close. Keep an eye out on any older folks you're with because there's been a time when a man had cardiac arrest while he was walking and sadly passed. Also, we saw a man with a baby in a stroller almost like a newborn baby and the baby was crying so much because it was so hot! Probably not a good idea to bring your small dogs and babies. It gets super hot if you go past around 9am. On our walk, we even saw some whales from afar! Awesome views and it's free so bring your water, sunscreen and camera!

    Stevi P.

    Such a beautiful hike! I'm glad the day we came, it was windy and not hot at all! This hike is good for all ages.. there were a lot of pets on this hike as well. Once you get to the top, it was breathtaking.

    Mic V.

    This is a very family friendly hike. The entire path is paved. However, there isn't any shade so it gets really hot during peak times. Remember to bring extra water. I've seen people push a baby stroller up this hike. I think this may be the easiest hike on Oahu. The difficulty is probably only a 1/5. The view is very beautiful so it's worth the walk up there. You cannot goto the lighthouse Parking can be really bad if you go after 10am. Get there early to secure a spot.

    Light House
    Vivian T.

    Walked the trail last year and took it further and explored the tide pools this year! The trail is very family friendly as I took my family last year and the paved road made it safe and easy to walk up. The tide pools were a little more work to get to, so wear shoes with grip and watch your step! This trail with the pools takes some time out of the day and it was nice to chill in the cool water for a bit. There are sea urchins so water shoes would be helpful. I'd recommend the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail for your itinerary as a great introduction to one of the many trails if you are visiting for the first time!

    Sallie R.

    This paved inclined trail leads to an historic lighthouse also offering spectacular coastal views of the Pacific Ocean. There's no shade best to visit in the morning. Parking can be limited advised to arrive early. Bring plenty of water to replenish along the way because it can get exhausting. Walk on your own pace as there are also lots of break stops overlooking the stunning ocean. As you reach the lighthouse, a rewarding view will await you. Glad I took the time to take my kids for this amazing experience. Perfect for families and casual hikers.

    Beautiful views
    Joy K.

    This was a good hike for my level. It's on a paved path, is long enough, and there are several resting spots to stop and take a breath when needed. I think it's a 2-2.5 miles round trip hike. The views on the way and at the top are beautiful! The walk up is pretty steep and I definitely needed those resting spots as well as lots of water! There were many different levels of hikers, including young and older, and families with kids in strollers. I did the hike in Reef flip flops (silly me!), which was fine, but good walking shoes would have been so much better. At the top is the viewing area which looks out towards Molokai and where you can see the lighthouse. Beautiful views of Hawaii's deep blue seas. The path and viewing area is clean and kept up nicely. I didn't notice any bathrooms. The paved parking lot has some parking spots. It was full when we arrived, so we parked along the busy street. This is a good hike that won't get you dusty and dirty (because of being paved). But, you will get sweaty and thirsty. So be sure to take water and wear comfortable shoes.

    March 2025
    Lolo A.

    Come early to find parking! The lot fills up quickly, but there's a lot of street parking available if you're willing to park on the road outside the gate. Don't leave any valuables in your vehicle! This family-friendly hike is paved and on an incline. While not the hardest hike, you'll still get your steps in and a bit of a workout. If you're looking for a stroller-friendly hike, this is it! Friendly warning! There's no shade and no bathrooms. Use the bathroom beforehand (check out Koko Marina Center) and slather up with sunscreen (don't forget your neck and ears) or bust out your SPF clothing and sunhat. On the way up, you'll discover a trail that goes down to the beach if you're so inclined. Bring water, take lots of breaks and enjoy the gorgeous views as you make your way up to the top. Note: The lighthouse is not accessible.

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    Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail

    Is makapu'u open tomorrow?12/26/22

    Yes, the trail will be open

    Is Makapu'u open on Christmas Day?

    How long does it take to hike the trail?

    Usually less than 2hrs round trip. It can take much longer depending on stopping for pictures and exploring. People can run up and down in less than 45min.

    How late do they close?

    The trail gates usually starts closing around 6:45p everyday. Definitely plan ahead as it's about 1hr hike or longer depending if you stop a lot.

    Are dogs allowed?

    Dogs are allowed on-leash, under control of the owner. There are usually several dogs on the trail, so if your pup struggles to behave around other dogs, keep that in mind. Enjoy!!

    Is this trail still open to the public right now?

    Per the DLNR website, all State Parks are closed until further notice.… Read more

    Is the Trail closed due to covid-19?

    The Dept of Land @ Resources has closed state parks til end of the month.

    My friend and I want to come do this hike to see sunset. Will our car get locked in if we return to it after 7:30? If so, where is an alternate place to park?

    You can park on the shoulder of the main road just outside of the gate. Just to be on the safe side.

    We want to hike Makapuu to see the sunrise but it said the trail doesn't open until 7am...is the top accessible any other way?

    You can park on the side of the road and walk in through the gate -- a lot of people do this so they can catch the sunrise

    Can u do it with stroller?double stroller 😂?

    Absolutely can hike with stroller. I've hiked with a 1 and 4yr old. Plenty of stopping points as well it's all nicely paved.

    Is this a place to see sunrise or sunset? Is there a waterfall?

    a lot of people hike here for the sunrise

    8.26. will it open?

    The lighthouse itself has been closed for a while now, but the trail is always open even when it's closed!

    What happens if you go before it opens?

    The main gate will be closed, so you won't be able to get a vehicle in there. It's possible that you could be cited for trespassing if you are caught on the trail after hours. They do patrol the area. (I once witnessed a group that was detained for… Read more

    What other fun things to do nearby?

    Snorkeling at Haunama Bay, lunch with a view at Kona Brewing Company, SeaLife Park, watching the surfers and boogieboarders at Makapu'u or Sandy Beach Parks.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail

    Wear good walking shoes, bring water, wear sunscreen and hold your hat tight because it can be windy in some areas.

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    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    4.8(172 reviews)
    11.2 mi

    Visiting Pu'u Ualaka's State Park is on my top ten favorite things to do in Honolulu. The Park…read moreoffers spectacular views of the entire Southside of the Island. I travelled up Mount Tantalus to the Park yesterday with my daughter. We travelled through beautiful dense forest at the Park entrance. At the highest overlook, we could see everything and more from Diamond Head out to (and beyond) the airport. We could see all of Honolulu. I felt like we were on top of the world! Plaques offer fascinating overviews of the history and geology of the landmarks below. We could even see inside the famous tuff cone, Punch Bowl! Nearby is the first macadamia nut orchard in Hawaii. The overviews are paved with railings and easily accessible. The Park offers picnic areas with a couple pavilions and picnic tables. There is a charge for non-resident parking of $7 that can be paid electronically. Resident parking is free. Parking is limited, but there are several parking areas. We had no trouble finding parking mid week. Warning signs tell guest not to leave valuables in the car. Pu'u Ualaka'a State Park is only two miles from downtown Honolulu (maybe a couple more miles to the top). The Park is an easy 5 star and worth a visit.

    There is a lookout in this park that provides a panoramic view of Honolulu and Waikiki. The view is…read moregorgeous. Also a perfect place to watch sunset. One thing to note is that it does get really windy here. There are two parking lots available near this lookout. The one right next to the lookout is very small. It only holds about a dozen cars. The safer bet is to park at the slightly further parking lot with only a five minute walk to the Vista point.

    Photos
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

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    Lulumahu Falls

    Lulumahu Falls

    4.5(360 reviews)
    10.8 mi

    A beautiful day for a hike! Every time I do this hike it's a little different. Today the waterfall…read morewas cold and bracing and there were a lot of people hiking the falls. We started out around 8:45 AM and by the time we reached the waterfall, it was getting full of families and pairs of hikers. I recommend go early to skip the crowds. The hike itself isn't too technical and there are only a few places where you have to step up high over a rock or scramble through a stream.

    Here are clear and concise directions for this hike!!…read more Main parking off Pali hwy. Entrance is easily visible. You'll enter the bamboo forest. Within the first 50 feet it will split into a Y trail, take the left path. If you go straight you'll likely end up in the bamboo section for 20-40 mins. If you do not exit the bamboo area within 10 mins, you're lost. You'll exit the bamboo area through a lifted/broken section of the fence. Walk uphill onto the paved pathway. This will open onto a wide valley. You'll pass a large bridge structure. Follow that till road till you get to the supply shed structures. Look for a small concrete stairway in the trees. Stay left mostly, and look for pink ribbons. Pass the old fenced off pool looking area. Once you hit the rock/mud path (approx 10 mins) there's a hard right turn down into the main river area. A large tree has fallen so you'll need to spot the ribbons, and climb over this tree. If you pass this fallen tree by mistake, the trail will seem oddly difficult and dense. You'll need to turn around. Walk until you see the man made rock wall with a small waterfall, and walk across this to the other side. Follow the ribbons up the path and you'll need to cross the river 3-5 more times after this. Keep looking for clear open paths. There's two ways you can continue after that point so don't worry. (One way is just more difficult) Before the waterfall there's a larger section of rocks you'll have to climb over. Main takeaways: You will have to walk across slippery rocks several times. It is muddy. It's not that difficult but can be dangerous at some parts. If you don't see a pink/orange ribbon for more than 5-10 mins at any time, you are likely lost.

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    Lulumahu Falls
    Lulumahu Falls
    Lulumahu Falls - Crossing through the stream - hopping on the rocks

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    Crossing through the stream - hopping on the rocks

    Diamond Head State Monument - Shaved Ice

    Diamond Head State Monument

    4.5(2.2k reviews)
    10.3 miDiamond Head

    Vacationed in Hawaii (4/29-4/3 2026) so of course we had to hit up the beautiful island trails!…read moreDiamond Head was on our list so we booked it in advance since you need to make reservations. We did it all through Groupon to get picked up from our hotel and dropped off as well. The trail is definitely a popular hot spot for tourists but we didn't mind the crowd. We did an early one to see the Sun rise, though by the time we got there the sun was out already. Totally okay. Water was provided by our tour guide. He gave us some history on Diamond Head and then dropped us off and gave us 2 hours to explore before getting picked up. Thank you Jonah from Fun Hawaii Group! Aaaand we were on our way! Paths were clean and clear of overgrown plants for the most part. My wife and l hike regularly so we didn't feel the hike was bad at all. Weather was perfect (it rained on us a bjt too which was unexpected but fun) and it wasn't a long hike either. There are steps involved which we enjoyed for the added cardio! When we made it to the top it was breathtaking! The views of the ocean and the mountains were beautiful! Still find myself looking at photos. It was truly magical. We were in paradise!

    Hiking Diamond Head State Monument is honestly one of my favorite things to do when I visit Oʻahu…read more It's about a 1.6 mile round trip hike and took us around 1.5-2 hours, but this can vary depending on stops and crowds. I'd say it's a moderate hike--not super long, but you definitely feel it. There's a pretty significant incline, especially toward the end with all the stairs, so it gets your heart rate up for sure. The path isn't paved, so it's a mix of rocky, uneven ground and dirt trails, and it can get a bit muddy if it's rained recently. There are also these dark tunnels you walk through, which was actually really cool and made it feel a little more adventurous (just use your phone flashlight). The best part is definitely the view at the top. You get these insane panoramic views of Waikīkī and the ocean--totally worth the climb. A couple quick tips: make reservations before you go, get there early because it gets hot fast, bring water, and wear decent shoes (especially if it's been rainy). Also expect a little waiting in tight spots like the stairs near the top. Overall, it's a fun hike and 100% worth it if you're visiting.

    Photos
    Diamond Head State Monument - Top of the crater

    Top of the crater

    Diamond Head State Monument - Super Mommy and Son Son

    Super Mommy and Son Son

    Diamond Head State Monument - Happy Hikers!

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    Happy Hikers!

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Bench where you can relax!

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike

    4.3(38 reviews)
    11.5 mi

    Did this amazing hike again starting at a different location with an alteration due to a closure of…read moreone section of the trail. I love the combination of this trails because the variety of beautiful views, landscapes, type of surfaces. Dense lush rainforest to dryer areas with a variety of foliage. Started at the Makiki Arboretum trail, taking the loop to the right on the Maunalaha Trail. This section will get the blood flowing as you climb upward over a very rooted trail. Once you arrive at an area with metal benches there is an intersection of multiple trails. Take Makiki Valley Trail to the Right. After a short hike take the Moleka Trail to the Left. The Moleka trail becomes the Manoa Cliff trail which you stay on for a number of miles. If you struggle with narrow trails with drop offs this section may not be for you. There are beautiful views of Manoa Valley from the trail. Some sections of this trail can be muddy. In the past Hike once you go through the gate the Manoa Cliff trail takes a sharp turn to Left at Intersection of other trails. In our case there was a recent landslide and there was a warning sign not continue on the Manoa Cliff Trail. No problem we took Pauoa Flats Trail until we reached Kalawahine Trail and took a Left on it. Take this trail until you reach a paved road, take a right down the road until you see the next trailhead, Nahuina Trail which zig zags its way down. When you come to Makiki Valley trail go left. When you reach Kanealole take it to your right. This trail will take you back to trail you started on. Since there are so many different trails to do this loop I suggest using Alltrails download. We clocked over 10 miles. I'd rate it as intermediate. Bring plenty of water, I carry crampons in case there are muddy slippery areas. Would not do if heavy rain or strong winds expected.

    Afternoon hike at Manoa Cliff, Kalawahine, and Makiki Valley Loop…read more Great trail, awesome views. Best if you can download the map as you loose service in several areas of the trail. My trail map also showed I hiked 7.3 miles and my husband stated 6.4, but either way it is long. Just be ready for a good long hike. We started in the rain so yes mud was around, and yes places were pretty slippery. But all in all not too bad to get around. Just wear good hiking shoes. Conditions: bugs, muddy, easy parking, great views, dog friendly, well maintained, wild flowers

    Photos
    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Son son and mommy

    Son son and mommy

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Mommy and son son

    Mommy and son son

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike

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    Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail - hiking - Updated May 2026

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