Makapu'u Lighthouse Hike Guide

This is a straightforward 2.5-mile round-trip paved trail that climbs about 475 feet to the old lighthouse site. Expect sweeping views of the windward coast, rugged cliffs, and often a clear look at Rabbit Island and the open ocean. The path is wide and smooth enough for most fitness levels, but it has zero shade and can feel relentless on a hot, windy day. In winter you stand a decent chance of spotting humpback whales offshore; in summer the water looks Caribbean turquoise but the sun beats down harder.

Best time is early morning (before 9 a.m.) any season; sunrise in winter gives you both cooler air and whale activity. Expect to pay around $0–15 total—completely free if you drive yourself and bring water, or $10–15 per person if you join a small guided van tour that includes pickup and binoculars. Skip the crowded midday hours and any “sunset hike” unless you enjoy hiking down in the dark with everyone else.

Bring at least a liter of water, a hat, and sunglasses. Wear real shoes, not flip-flops. If you only have one morning on Oahu’s east side, do this hike and then head straight to breakfast in Kailua instead of lingering at the crowded lookout parking lot.