Kaupo Beach Park
Kaupo Beach Park is a narrow but scenic beach along Oahu's southeastern shore, located across from Sea Life Park. While not ideal for swimming due to rocky terrain, it's popular for tidepooling, snorkeling near the pier, and relaxing with views of Rabbit Island and Black Rock offshore.
Kaupo Beach Park, Oahu
Kaupo Beach Park (view panorama) × is located across the street from Sea Life Park Hawaii on Oahu's southeastern shore. It is a narrow roadside beach park with a sandy beach. Swimming isn't really possible here because the nearshore ocean bottom is rocky, but the snorkeling and diving conditions next to the pier are good. Also, there are a few sand-bottomed pools, where families take their kids to play in.
In the Hawaiian language, Kaupo means "night landing." It got this name from the former fishing village that used to be located here. Kaupo Beach is also known as Baby Makapu'u, Kumu Cove and Cockroach Bay. The youngest lava flow on Oahu is believed to have occurred here.
From the beach one can see the Makai Research Pier. The pier also has a small boat harbor and submarine slip and is used by a few ocean engineering firms.
Located offshore are two small islands, Rabbit Island (the larger one, which is also known as Manana Island) and Kaohika'ipu (also known as Black Rock). Both are seabird sanctuaries and landing on them is only allowed with a permit.
Another feature at Kaupo Beach can easily be overlooked because it is just a rock that's mostly submerged at high tide. This rock is called Pohaku Pa'akiki, and according to an ancient legend, it is a monument that reminds of the agreement between Hawaiians who lived in this area in the old Hawaii and a guardian shark that there would be no shark attacks here.
Key Features of Kaupo Beach Park
- Across from Sea Life Park: Easy to access with a great view of Rabbit Island (Manana) and Kaohikaipu
- Sand-bottomed pools: Small pools protected by reef are good for young children to splash in
- Good snorkeling and diving: Conditions near the Makai Research Pier are ideal for exploration
- Historic significance: Site of former fishing village and lava flow; home to submerged Pohaku Pa'akiki rock
- Multiple names: Also known as Baby Makapu'u, Kumu Cove, and Cockroach Bay
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at Kaupo Beach Park?
Not easily. There are rocks in the nearshore ocean, but kids can play in small sandy pools during calm conditions.
Is this a good snorkeling spot?
Yes, snorkeling near the Makai Pier is popular due to clear water and reef structures.
What are the two islands visible offshore?
They are Rabbit Island (Manana) and Kaohikaipu (Black Rock), both seabird sanctuaries.
Where is Kaupo Beach Park?
It's on Oahu's southeastern coast at 72 Kalanianaole Hwy, directly across from Sea Life Park.