Makapuu Beach: The golden-haired beauty of Hawaii
As you drive around the Makapuu Beach Point Lookout, make sure to pull over and take a moment to enjoy one of the most scenic views of the Windward side of Oahu, including the stunning hillside that leads up to the Makapuu Beach Lighthouse, and a spectacular view of Makapuu Beach Park below. There are 2 sections of the beach separated by a sand dune and a large lava rock pile at the base of the ocean.
A word of caution
While beachgoers explore all areas of the sand, body surfers tend to congregate at the furthest side of the beach where the shore breaks are more ideal to ride. Be mindful that the currents can become strong at times on Makapuu beach, creating tidepools. Do not challenge the powerful and dangerous breaking waves if you are inexperienced or in doubt. I would advise checking in with the lifeguard before going into the water to learn about current conditions and guidance on best ocean entry points.
Visiting Tips
- Bring the equipment and food
- Restocking at Koko Marina Shopping Center located in Hawaii Kai for food options, before you continue driving to Makapuu Beach Park.
- Makapuu parking lot provides an excellent location for cars.
How to get to Makapuu Beach
By Car:
- Follow the H-1 through the residences, around the Koko Head Crater, pass Sandy Beach and up towards Makapu’u Point.
- When you reach the top, take a moment to check out the beautiful views before heading down to the Makapuu beach parking lot.
- Turn into the Makapuu Beach Park parking lot located directly across from Sea Life Park.
By Oahu Bus:
- Take the number 22 or 23 Oahu Bus from Kuhio Ave in Waikiki, headed in the Diamond Head direction. Depending on traffic, it should only take about 1 hour to 90 minutes to arrive at Makapu’u.
- These buses run on the hour during, weekdays and about every half hour on the weekends.
