Makapuu Point Lighthouse: Family-Friendly Hike and Scenic Views in Oahu

Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse is the newest addition to the DuckAbroad lighthouse collection, and it’s one your family will love seeing in person. Located on the southeastern tip of Oahu, this bright white lighthouse with its striking red roof stands above some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Hawaii.

Built in 1909, Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse was designed to guide ships traveling between California and Honolulu. Its giant hyper-radiant lens is one of the largest of its kind in use and was once the strongest lighthouse light in the Pacific. Today, it still serves as an active aid to navigation and remains one of Oahu’s most photographed landmarks.

Why families love visiting Makapuʻu Point

The lighthouse sits along the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail, a paved, family-friendly hike with sweeping views of the coastline. The trail is a little over two miles round trip and offers steady but manageable elevation. Kids will enjoy watching for whales during the winter months and spotting seabirds gliding along the cliffs.

You cannot enter the lighthouse itself, but the overlook areas offer incredible photo spots. From the top, the scenery stretches out toward Rabbit Island, the deep blue Pacific, and the rugged cliffs that make this side of Oahu so memorable.

Tips for your visit

• Go early in the morning to avoid heat and crowds.

• Bring water and sunscreen, especially for kids.

• The trail is stroller-friendly thanks to the paved path.

• Winter is prime whale-watching season from the viewpoints.

Visit the park web site for more information.

Add Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse to Your DuckAbroad Passport

Your family can now collect the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse sticker in the DuckAbroad Travel Passport app. If you’re planning a trip to Oahu or already have the Hawaii destinations in your collection, this lighthouse is a must-see addition.