Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline

 Aloha! We are currently encountering delays in processing Special Use Permits, Camping Permits, and Kaʻena Point Vehicle Access Permits.  We graciously ask for your patience during these times as both of our Honolulu Administrative Office Permit Staff positions are vacant. - Mahalo, State Parks

Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline

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    Hours

    April 1 to Labor Day:
    7 am to 7:45 pm

    After Labor Day to March 31:
    7 am to 6:45 pm
    Entrance Fee None
    Trail Name

    Description

    A 1-mile hike (one-way) along a paved roadway leads to a lookout atop a headland above the historic Makapuʻu lighthouse (the lighthouse itself is off-limits, but can be viewed from the trail). At various points along the route there are sweeping views of the southeastern O’ahu coastline, and migrating humpback whales may be visible during whale season. No drinking water or restrooms are available.

    Whale Watching

    The trail and lookout within Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline provide great whale watching opportunities in season. As many as 10,000 humpbacks come to Hawaii every year to mate, give birth and nurse their calves. Hawaii’s humpback whale season runs from November through May, with January through March being the peak whale-watching months.

    Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail

    The 2-mile round-trip trail involves an uphill climb to 500-foot elevation under hot, dry, and windy conditions. The surface is paved and is a former access road to the lighthouse. For more information on the Lighthouse Trail click here.