Makapu'u Point Lighthouse | Honolulu

Information

Landmark: Makapu'u Point Lighthouse
City: Honolulu
Country: USA Hawaii
Continent: North America

Makapu'u Point Lighthouse, Honolulu, USA Hawaii, North America

The Makapu'u Point Lighthouse is a historic navigational aid located on the southeastern tip of Oahu, Hawaii, USA.

It is situated on a prominent headland overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Visual Characteristics

The lighthouse structure is a cylindrical concrete tower, painted white, standing approximately 46 feet (14 meters) tall. It features a red lantern room at its apex. The surrounding landscape consists of rugged, dark volcanic rock formations and sparse, dry vegetation typical of coastal Hawaii.

Location & Access Logistics

The lighthouse is accessible via the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail, a paved 2-mile (3.2 km) roundtrip path. The trailhead is located at the end of Kalanianaʻole Highway, approximately 17 miles (27 km) east of downtown Honolulu. Parking is available at the trailhead lot, which can fill quickly during peak hours. Public transportation options are limited; TheBus route 23 stops near the entrance to the park, requiring a short walk to the trailhead.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse was completed in 1909. It was built by the U.S. Lighthouse Board to serve as a crucial aid for maritime navigation in the Hawaiian Islands. The headland itself is composed of ancient lava flows, part of the Koʻolau Volcanic Series.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity is walking or hiking the paved trail to the lighthouse. Visitors can observe the lighthouse from the exterior. During whale migration season (December to May), the point offers a vantage point for spotting humpback whales. The trail also provides views of the offshore islands of Manana (Rabbit Island) and Kaohikaipu (Bird Island).

Infrastructure & Amenities

The Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail is paved and includes some shaded rest areas. There are no restrooms or food vendors directly at the lighthouse or along the trail. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the area.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting conditions for photography, early morning or late afternoon are recommended. The best months for whale watching are January through March. The trail is accessible year-round, but can be very hot during midday in summer months. No tide-specific access is required.

Facts & Legends

The lighthouse is automated and no longer staffed. A unique aspect of its construction involved the use of a unique Fresnel lens, which was originally powered by kerosene and later converted to electricity. Local folklore sometimes associates the area with Menehune, the mythical dwarf-like people of Hawaiian legend.