The Makapuu Lookout is a roadside scenic viewpoint along Oahu’s southeastern Ka Iwi Coast, offering sweeping views of Rabbit Island, Waimanalo Bay, and the rugged cliffs of the Koolau Range.
Makapuu lookout & lighthouse
South East Oahu
Located along the scenic Ka Iwi coast.
See as we drive
Tours arenʻt supposed to stop here.
Koolau Caldera
See main vents of the Koolau volcano.
Movies & Television
Featured in several big productions.
Lighthouse Trail
See the Makapuu Lighthouse trail.
Tour Guide & Founder
Driving around this corner never gets old. Even after 15 years of guiding guests in this area, each trip is special. Itʻs one of the most visually striking stretches of coastline on the island of Oahu.
Tour Guide & Founder
Driving around this corner never gets old. Even after 15 years of guiding guests in this area, each trip is special. Itʻs one of the most visually striking stretches of coastline on the island of Oahu.
Seeing the view at Makapuu
Though the lighthouse isn’t visible from this pull-off, the area is rich in history and coastal beauty. Built in 1909, the nearby Makapuu Point Lighthouse remains one of Oahu’s most iconic landmarks.
Located right off Kalanianaole Highway, Makapuu offers more than just breathtaking views on the way to Waimanalo, Hanauma Bay, or Sea Life Park.
Whether snapping photos, soaking in the scenery, or enjoying the breeze, Makapuu Lookout is a picture-perfect highlight of your island day.
Makapuu Lighthouse Viewpoint
Makapuu is part of the Ka Iwi State Scenic Shoreline corridor, known for its exposed volcanic ridges and uninterrupted ocean visibility. Located just around the corner from the Halona Blow Hole, the view from this side of the island never disappoints.
| Detail | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Site Type | ✓ Coastal lookout overlooking Waimanalo Bay |
| Experience Style | ✓ Roadside viewpoint with sweeping ocean and cliff views |
| Environment | ✓Coastal ridge with strong tradewinds and elevated visibility |
| Physical Effort | ✓ Minimal: viewable directly from vehicle or designated pull-off |
| Best For | ✓ Whale watching (seasonal), Rabbit Island views, landscape photography |
| Time Needed | ✓ 5–15 minutes (quick scenic stop / pass-through viewpoint) |
| Key Character | ✓ Iconic East Oahu coastal overlook near the lighthouse trail |
- Operating Hours: Open 24 hours (Best during daylight)
- Special Closures: Occasional filming and maintenance
- Parking Costs: There are no fees to park at the lookout
- No Facilities: No restrooms or visitor services
- Address: 10040 Kalanianaole Hwy, Waimanalo, HI 96795
- From Waikiki: 35 - 50 minutes drive, 1.5 hours by bus
- From Ko Olina: 1 - 1.5 hour drive, 3 hr bus (Transfers)
- From Turtle Bay: 2 - 3 hour drive, 4+ hr bus (Transfers)
Similar activities & places
Looking for more coastal drives or scenic spots? Makapuu pairs naturally with other East and South Shore stops, like the Nuuanu Pali Lookout which highlight Oahu’s volcanic shoreline and protected marine bays.
But wait, there’s more. Click the button to discover even more scenic lookouts and botanical gardens.
These are the top nearby activities and location options available on this featured tour.
This South East Oahu Scenic view
Pair Makapuu Lookout with a scenic drive past Hanauma Bay, local flavors, and shopping in Waimanalo, or a morning hike up Diamond Head on a private Oahu circle island tour. Your route is entirely flexible, customizable, and, of course, unforgettable.
Mini Circle Island
-
Group rates from
$699
- See the North or South Shore
- 1 activity + 2/3 photo stops
- 6 hour custom private tour
Positive impact tour
- 1.5 hour positive impact
- Choose any routes or location
- 6 hour custom private tours
About scenic lookout & lighthouse
Whether you’re drawn to dramatic cliffs, expansive ocean views, or a quiet nature tour on the coast, the Makapuu Lookout offers one of the island’s most drastic scenery. Keep scrolling for answers to help plan your visit.
Where is the Makapuu Lookout, and how do you get there?
What makes the Makapuu Lookout on Oahu unique?
What are the hours and best times to visit Makapuu?
Does the Makapuu lookout need reservations?
Are there restrictions at Makapuu?
Makapuu is found just inside the Koolau Caldera on the south eastern coast of Oahu. In Hawaii, we ask visitors to respect each place they visit. At Makapuu, that means enjoying the view safely and leaving nothing behind. Let’s help keep it beautiful for the next traveler.
Explore Routes
Pick from iconic destinations like Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, or a majestic Circle Island adventure to perfect your getaway!
Select Length
Enjoy a half-day excursion or a full-day adventure. You can go all out with a sunrise-to-sunset tour and make the most of your day.
Must See Stops
Customize your private tour with family favorites, local cuisine, shopping, hiking, and visits to some of the best island beaches.
More ideas from Halia Private Tours
We’ve shared this view with guests worldwide, and that moment when you hear awestruck gasps is always refreshing. So stay in touch, and hopefully, we’ll get to share it with you one day.
Love places like Makapuu, or want something a little different? Check out the Things to Do in Oahu Blog for more scenic routes, hidden gems, and island stories.
Best Scenic Drives in Oahu & How to Get Around
From golden beaches to hidden waterfalls, Oahu’s scenic drives are an adventure in themselves. Cruise coastal loops, lush valleys, and rugged cliffs. Discover the island’s beauty, culture, and surprises at every turn.
Oahu Half-Day Tours: Best Ideas, Routes & Local Tips (2026)
Discover the best half-day tours, from Pearl Harbor and Kualoa Ranch to Waikiki, the North Shore, and Downtown Honolulu. Local insights, travel tips, and itinerary ideas to make every moment count.
New GPS Audio Tours in Hawaii (Explore Oahu Self-Guided in 2026)
Discover the best Hawaii GPS audio tours in 2026. Explore Oahu with affordable and fun self-guided walking & driving routes shared by locals.
Subscribe & connect
Spots like the Makapuu Lookout leave locals and travelers alike humbled and awestruck. We love these island moments, and memories and the lifelong connections made at places like this.
More great Oahu nature tours
Makapuu is a favorite for photographers, road-trippers, and anyone looking for that classic Oahu coastline moment. Want to include this view in your sightseeing adventure after Pearl Harbor? Itʻs an easy addition to nearly any island excursion.
Positive impact tour
- 1.5 hour positive impact
- Choose any routes or location
- 6 hour custom private tours
Circle Island Tour
-
Group rates from
$799
- Circle the Koolau Mountains
- 1-2 activities + 3-5 photo stops
- 9 hour custom private tour
Oahu Combo Tour
-
Group rates from
$899
- 1.5 hour positive impact
- 2-3 activities + 4-6 photo stops
- 12 hour custom private tour
Not sure about the right fit? Take our quick tour quiz or scroll down to search tour options and help with the perfect Oahu experience.
