Makapuu Lookout

Makapuʻu Lookout is the lookout atop a headland above the historic Makapuʻu Lighthouse in Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, reached by the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail along a paved roadway. The park and trailhead are off Kalanianaʻole Highway at the southeastern tip of Oʻahu. Just offshore lie Mānana, also called Rabbit Island, and Kāohikaipu, and the islets are sanctuaries for seabirds such as the ʻiwa, frigate bird and tropicbird. The red-roofed lighthouse itself is off-limits, but you can see it from the trail. DLNR names the lookouts here for whale watching in humpback season, which runs from November through May and peaks from January through March. On a clear day the hike rewards you with views of Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi. This side of the island tends to be hot and dry, and there is no drinking water or restroom on the lighthouse trail, so bring water and sun protection. State Parks lists falling rocks, a hazardous cliff, strong current and waves breaking on the ledge as hazards here, and the Makapuʻu tide pools are a closed area where wave surges have swept people out to sea and killed them. Alcohol, smoking, rock climbing and motorized vehicles are prohibited in the park, while dogs on a leash are allowed.