Makapuu Beach Park Photos

Makapuu Beach Park

Makapuu Beach Park, Oahu

You may have seen this lighthouse on postcards. The Makapuu Point Lighthouse is a popular landmark on this picturesque southeastern Oahu beach. Bordered by sea cliffs, Makapuu Beach Park is popular among surfers and bodyboarders. Riptides and powerful waves make for a very rough ride, perfect for adventure seekers.

However, the shorebreak makes it dangerous for swimmers and beginning surfers. If you’d rather stay out of the water, you can take a stroll on the white sand and enjoy the beautiful views. The nearby Sandy Beach and Koko Head Crater can be seen from two different lookouts.

A paved walking trail leads you east towards a popular whale watching point. Humpback whales make frequent appearances here during the winter months. Between December and April, they swim close enough to the shore so that you can see them without binoculars. From the coast, you can paddle over to Kaohikaipu (Black Rock) and Manana (Rabbit Island), where you can watch native seabirds in their natural habitat.

However, visitors should know that because Rabbit Island is a protected sanctuary, it is not legal to land there unless you have permission from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.