Makapuu Scenic East Oahu Lookout

Name: Halia Private Tours
Price range: $$$

Oahu Nature Tours

The Makapuu lookout and lighthouse area offers dramatic sea cliffs, sparkling blue waters, and iconic coastal views on Oahu. In winter, you might even spot kohola (humpback whales) breaching.

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Makapuu lookout & lighthouse

Perched above the Pacific, the lookout offers panoramic views of Makapuu Beach Park, Rabbit Island (Manana), and the rugged coastline. In the winter months, you might even spot humpback whales breaching offshore. Whether you’re soaking in the views, snapping photos, or just enjoying the breeze, Makapuu always amazes.

South East Oahu

Located along the scenic Ka Iwi coast.

See as we drive

There is no stopping at this lookout.

Koolau Caldera

See main vents of the Koolau volcano.

Movies & Television

Featured in several big productions.

Lighthouse Trail

See the Makapuu Lighthouse trail.

More information about

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.

Featured excursions for

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. Your route is entirely flexible, customizable, and, of course, unforgettable.

Frequent questions

About scenic lookout & lighthouse

Whether you’re drawn to dramatic cliffs, expansive ocean views, or a quiet moment on the coast, the Makapuu Lookout offers one of the island’s most memorable scenery. Keep scrolling for answers to help plan your visit.

Where is the Makapuu Lookout, and how do you get there?

The lookout is located along Kalanianaole Highway (Route 72) on Oahu’s southeastern tip. It’s about 30 minutes from Waikiki and is easily viewed from the vehicle along custom routes heading toward Waimanalo or Kailua.

What makes the Makapuu Lookout on Oahu unique?

This lookout pairs unobstructed ocean views with offshore islets and dramatic cliffs. It’s a chance to enjoy Oahu’s southeastern beauty without the crowds.

What are the hours and best times to visit Makapuu?

The lookout is open to the public daily from early morning to sunset. The morning light is especially beautiful, and whale watching season (November to May) adds a bonus. But the answer for that on Your Private Tours is anytime we round that corner.

Does the Makapuu lookout need reservations?

No reservations or fees are required. It’s a roadside stop, so parking is limited, and brief visits are best. But the lookout is off-limits for commercial vehicles, and itʻs not safe to load or unload on a busy highway.

Are there restrictions at Makapuu?

Stay off the edge and be mindful of traffic and winds. Drones are not allowed, and there are no bathrooms or facilities available.

Looking for more scenery?

Similar activities & places

No matter when you swing by, the Makapuu Lookout offers clear air, vast skies, and sweeping views of Windward Oahu. Looking for more coastal drives or scenic spots? There are so many memorable options around the South Shore and throughout the island.

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.

Top tour for Makapuu view

Related excursions & Tours

See Oahuʻs best coastal lookouts

Makapuu is a favorite for photographers, road-trippers, and anyone looking for that classic Oahu coastline moment. Want to include this view in your adventures? Here are a few private tours that pass this area.

Half-Day

Any 6 hour tour route and add a positive impact

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Save $100-$200

Positive impact tour

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Spend 9 hours circling the Koolau Mountains

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Explore Pearl Harbor on Oahu in a 12 hour tour

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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.

Choose Route

Pick from iconic destinations like Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, or a majestic Circle Island adventure to perfect your getaway!

Plan By Time

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.

Tour Locations

Customize your private tour with family favorites, local cuisine, shopping, hiking, and visits to some of the islands best beaches.

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More ideas from Halia Private Tours

We’ve shared this view with guests worldwide, and it takes your breath away every time. That moment never gets old. So stay in touch, and hopefully, we’ll get to share it with you one day.

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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.

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