Makapuu Tidepools
(Makapuu Point/Lighthouse)

Trailhead

Description: Follow the rocky shoreline abutted by crashing waves around the south point of Makapuu Head. End up at a serious of deep, saltwater tidepools. This approach provides a terrific, natural variation to the Makapuu Lighthouse Road hike (which is used as a return route). It also offers excellent views of Kaloko ("Alan Davis"), Koko Crater, the Pacific Ocean, and whales in the Molokai Channel. DANGER: See below for important warnings about this hike. What to Expect: This hike does not involve a typical trail: there are no well-worn paths or signs. Hikers must carefully pick their way over lava rock scree which often can be wet and slippery. While the terrain remains relatively flat and the hike elevation stays near sea level, there are occasional spots which require four-point, rock-climbs/descents. Not to worry: they are very few and far between and never exceed 8 feet in height at most. Also, while this trip begins near the same vehicular gate as the Makapuu Lighthouse Road hike, the hike in does not travel any part of the asphalt access road to the lighthouse/lookout (until leaving the tidepools as described below). Instead, initially follow a muddy, 4WD/jeep-road to the right side of the gate and head for the southern end of Makapuu Head (where the ocean meets the hill). Just before meeting with the shore, reach a small plateau with an unusual-looking, vertical rock outcropping on one end overlooking a small ocean cove. Continue down the opposite side and reach the rocky shoreline. About halfway to the main series of tidepools is a secluded saltwater pool shadowed on the mauka side by a large rock face engraved with a noticeable circular pattern. This pool, deep enough for a refreshing full-body dip, is followed by a wide, dark cave cut deep into the hillside. The main series of tidepools is on the most windward (east) side of Makapuu Head in view of the Makapuu Lighthouse perched high along the cliffs. Most of these are quite large and deep - some exist as quiet catchment ponds, others are directly circuited with the ocean. Just mauka of the tidepools is an active blowhole about two feet in diameter. Depart the tidepools and continue mauka (uphill) directly behind the tidepools/blowhole. Find the best route which switchbacks through the rock debris toward the asphalt-paved road above. White arrows denoting the best path have been painted on the rocks but keep in mind that these are not "official" markers: follow them with caution. Once the road is reached (elev. 420-ft), turn right and continue uphill to the lookout above the lighthouse. Otherwise, head downhill (left) and back to the trailhead. Alternatively, hikers can backtrack the shoreline from the tidepools to return home instead of making the 420-foot climb to the road above. Distances: It is approximately 1.2-mile (one-way) from the access road gate to the tidepools and another 0.6-mile from there to the lookout above the lighthouse (via the access road). The paved Makapuu Lighthouse Road itself is 1.4-mile long (one-way) The lookout (above the lighthouse) elevation is 560-ft while the pillboxes on the opposite peak is 647-ft. Trailhead Location: This hike begins at a locked, vehicular gate at the start of Makapuu Lighthouse Road. Instead of proceeding through the gate, veer right and head south briefly skirting the edge of the highway, then make your way down to the jeep road on your left. Accessing the Trail: The hike travels through the Makapu'u Point State Wayside Park operated by the DLNR Division of State Parks. This is on the east side, or right-hand side heading Waimanalo-bound, of Kalanianaole Highway (Hwy 72) between Hawaii Kai and Waimanalo. Specifically, it is along the stretch between the Hawaii Kai Golf Course and the Makapuu Lookout (which is well before Sea Life Park). Parking/Facilities: There is no designated parking lot nor stalls. Parking near the trailhead is available along the public highway - be careful of the passing traffic. There are no facilities (e.g. restrooms) and the park is not staffed. Property/Access: Open/public-access. This is a state park, public land, and access is not restricted. Dangers/Other Considerations: Do not attempt this trail during actual or forecasted periods of high tide (ocean), heavy rains, or large wave heights. Never turn your back to the ocean: always keep an eye on surf conditions and rogue waves. Remember that tides can change at any time throughout the day. The shoreline is strewn with loose rocks and boulders, both underfoot and above in the hillside. This presents a hazard of falling rocks and unstable footing. Furthermore, the rocks closest to the shoreline are wet and algae-covered and therefore extremely slippery. Tabis (reef walkers) may provide some traction but do not offer adequate ankle support and foot protection - use them at your own discretion. Finally, beware of the extreme sun exposure. With the exception of an occasional rock outcrop, there is absolutely no shade throughout this area. Reflectivity off the ocean and rocks intensifies the brunt of the sun's rays. High-SPF sunscreen may not be adequate: consider light, cool removable outerwear and headgear which provides ample coverage. Also, never neglect your body's hydration needs especially in light of the sun exposure. As with all hiking, exercise caution and prudent judgement.	Jeep Trail to Shoreline (first 0.5-mile)
	Transitioning to Shoreline (south side of Makapuu Head)
	South Side / Below Puu o'Kipahulu (looking back)
	Along the Shoreline (east side of Makapuu Head)
	First Deep Tidepool (approx. halfway to main tidepools)
	Makapuu Tidepools (one of main tidepools)
	Ascending from Tidepools/Blowhole (looking back during ascent)
	Makapuu Tidepools (viewed during ascent to road)