Makapu'u Beach Park Information, Activities & Amenities

Makapu'u Beach Park

East Oahu Beach Park

Looking for a scenic escape from the crowds of Waikiki? Makapu'u Beach Park, located on the southeastern shore of Oahu, offers stunning coastal views, powerful waves, and a more secluded atmosphere. This picturesque beach sits just minutes from Sea Life Park and is close to the historic Makapu'u Point Lighthouse. Nestled between rugged black lava cliffs, this beach is well-loved for its breathtaking beauty and powerful shore breaks.

Overview of Makapu'u Beach Park

The name "Makapu'u" translates to "bulging eye" in Hawaiian, a reference to a legendary Tahitian goddess who was said to have resided in a cave near this area. According to the legend, the goddess had eight bulging eyes and was respected by the people of Waimanalo. In honor of her, a statue was placed in the area, and the beach was named after her. Today, Makapu'u remains a significant cultural and natural landmark, with its lighthouse as a modern "bright eye" watching over the coast.

Makapu'u Beach is framed by dramatic cliffs that provide a stunning contrast to the deep blue ocean. The beach is well-known for its challenging surf conditions and is a favorite among bodyboarders and experienced swimmers. Visitors can also take in the breathtaking views of the Ko'olau Mountains, Rabbit Island (Mānana Island), and Kaohikaipu Island just offshore.

Directions to Makapu'u Beach Park

Makapu'u Beach Park is easily accessible via Kalanianaole Highway (Route 72). If you're coming from Waimanalo Beach, it's a short 1.2-mile drive heading southeast. From Honolulu, drive east past Hanauma Bay and Sandy Beach Park, following the scenic coastline. The route offers spectacular ocean vistas, with the Koko Head Crater visible along the way. As you approach Makapu'u, the lush greenery of the windward side gives way to the dramatic rocky cliffs of the southeastern coast.

Amenities and Facilities at Makapu'u Beach

Lifeguards on duty
Parking lot
Picnic area with tables and benches
Public BBQ grills
Public restrooms and showers
Limited shade from scattered trees

Enjoy the Many Fun Activities on Makapu'u Beach

Family-Friendly Activities

While some visitors enjoy swimming and bodyboarding, caution is advised due to the strong currents and powerful shore breaks. Water levels often reach chest height, and the presence of submerged rocks and coral reefs can make swimming risky for inexperienced swimmers. Always check with lifeguards before entering the water, especially with children.

Other activities at Makapu'u Beach include whale-watching, hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The area’s scenic beauty makes it a great spot to relax and take in Oahu’s natural wonders.

Makapu'u Bay Beach Activities and Attractions

Swimming: Best for strong swimmers due to the challenging surf and currents. Exercise caution and be prepared for strong waves.
Makapu'u Tidepools: These natural tidepools, formed from lava rock, are best explored during low tide. You may spot crabs, small fish, and other marine life. Wear sturdy footwear to navigate the rocky terrain safely.
Whale-Watching: During December through March, humpback whales migrate through the area, offering spectacular viewing opportunities from the beach or nearby Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail.
Bodyboarding: A popular activity due to Makapu'u’s strong shore breaks. The best waves are at the far end of the beach, where experienced riders gather.
Hang Gliding: The Makapu'u cliffs are among Hawaii’s top launch points for hang gliding, offering stunning aerial views over the coastline.
Sunrise Viewing: Makapu'u Beach Park is one of Oahu’s best sunrise spots. The early morning hours offer a peaceful and less crowded experience.
Discover the sacred Ku Heiau: Ku Heiau to the left of the parking lot at Makapu'u Beach Park. It is an area sacred to Hawaiian people and looks like it may have been hidden by overgrowth until recent years, like many of the sacred sites of Hawaii. The heiau is now being beautifully preserved and cared for by local people.
Hike to Makapu'u Lighthouse: The 1¾ mile hike to the Makapu'u Lighthouse starts from the beach's parking lot. The sight affords more expansive panoramic views of Manana Island (better known as Rabbit Island), Black Rock (also known as Kaohikaipu Island), and the eastern shore of Oahu. On a clear day, you can see the islands of Molokai and Lanai. Additionally, humpback whales come to Hawaii each winter and are pretty cool to see from here. On your way down, you can sometimes see the blowhole on clear days.
Makapu'u Point Lookout: Located just off Kalanianaole Highway on Oahu's southeastern tip, the lookout point overlooks the sea cliffs, Makapu'u Beach Park, Rabbit Island (also known as Manana Island), and Kaohikaipu Island. The lookout point sits within the 38-acre Makapu'u Point State Wayside Park. It's a beautiful place!
WWII Bunkers: At Makapu'u Lookout Point, history buffs will enjoy sites of WWII bunkers present here. Oahu has many hidden military bunkers that are remnants of the past on its coastal hills. The people built these bunkers to guard against battleship attacks. Sea Life Park: If you want a thrilling and educational experience, head to Sea Life Park! With plenty of exciting marine exhibits, this Oahu attraction can offer your family hours of fun. Spend 20-30 minutes in a 300,000-gallon tank with trained professionals who will teach you about their animals and lead the way through a unique interactive experience. Sea Life Park sits across from Makapu'u Beach Park.