Hawaii Hikes: The Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail

Hawaii Hikes: The Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

If you’re looking for an easy hike in Hawaii with gorgeous views, then make sure to hike the Makapu’u Lighthouse trail (Kaiwi Scenic Shoreline). While, you won’t find seclusion on this trail, it’s still a hike that’s definitely worth doing.

Hawaii Hikes: The Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail

The lighthouse isn’t really the main reason to do this hike. You will only see it from a distance. The reason to do the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail is for the incredible vistas that you start seeing before you even reach the top. Also, the entire path is paved, so this makes it great for strollers or those who are in wheelchairs.

Hawaii Hikes: The Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail

Hawaii Hikes: The Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail

The hike is only two miles round trip, so it’s also a great way to get in a hike that won’t take all day. Hiking time is about an hour, but give yourself more time to enjoy the scenery. Make sure to peer over the edge and watch the intoxicating waves breaking against the cliffs below. And, keep your eye out for whales. This is one of the best places to see them from December-May.

Hawaii Hikes: The Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail

Hawaii Hikes: The Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail

Also, if you want to beat the crowds, go just before sunrise. You’ll get some gorgeous lighting, and have this Hawaii hike practically to yourself. Sunset is also a great time to go, though, it will definitely be more crowded.

Hawaii Hikes: The Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail

Hawaii Hikes: The Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail

Keep in mind that this hike is in direct sunlight, so wear sunscreen and take plenty of water. Also, there are no restrooms on this trail, so keep that in mind before you go.

Hawaii Hikes: The Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail

Hawaii Hikes: The Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail

Enjoy the views at the top of Rabbit Island and Kaohikaipu Island which is a seabird sanctuary. On clear days, you can even see Molokai, Maui, and Lanai from this perch above the world. This is definitely one of those spots in Hawaii where you can feel the mana as they like to say. It’s definitely one of my favorite spots to see the beauty of Hawaii.

Hawaii Hikes: The Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail

 

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