Makapu'u Beach, Oahu

The beach sits just ¼ mile from Makapu'u Point, Oahu’s most easterly tip. Travelling north-east on Highway 72, continue past Hanauma bay, and about 3 miles later the road reaches a crest to reveal the island’s East coast. It’s easy to park here, so stop a few minutes to admire the great views of the ocean, Makapu'u beach, and also spectacular Halona blowhole below . Offshore lie 2 wild islands, Kaohikaipu and Makana, giving the scene a real wow factor. The latter is more commonly called Rabbit island (it used to be the home for a group of rabbits - long gone). Carry on along the road for about ¼ mile to get to the signed turnoff for the parking lot to the beach. Next to the parking lot you’ll find restrooms, picnic tables, and bbq grills.

The beach has a great reputation for bodysurfing and boogieboard surfing, due to reliable medium-sized surf. Unpredictable currents abound though, so weak swimmers beware. There’s a lifeguard on duty during busy periods – if in doubt ask the person(s) on duty, and look out for any red flags.

Away from the beach, the short hike to Makapu'u Lighthouse can be recommended. It’s along a 1½ mile paved road, which starts from Hwy 72 (lots of parking available, about 200 yards before the road reaches the East coast). The path eventually traverses the steep ground above the lighthouse, giving breathtaking views of the windward side of the island. In winter months, it’s also a fantastic vantage point for whale spotting. The brave can take a detour off the main trail, scrambling down a steep path to the ocean to see the Makapu'u Blowholes. It’s great fun to fool your friends into standing too close – ‘you’ll get a really good look’ (and a good soaking).