Well, to end this dumpster fire of year that is (was) 2020, I figured I'd write an update of a place that always brings me happy thoughts. And it's not just reminiscing of good ol' days but very recent memories and what I'm sure will be good visits to this place in the future. I've been coming here since I was a kid, fishing, diving, surfing and in the last 15 years or so, photographing its beauty. The area is just so diverse for activity. Just across the way is Makai Pier (currently closed) and the waters between Kaupo park and the pier has some nice areas to fish and dive and you can also get some waves too, I'm actually not exactly sure if this spot has an official name but I've always known it as either baby Makapu'u or cockroach bay. The other surf spot that's to the right of the point is called Suicides. Named that because the waves break in front of the sharp, rocky coastline. As for the photography here, not much more to say than it's a beautiful coastline and pretty much epitomizes the beauty of Hawaii, the coastline with both sandy and rocky shores, the clear pacific waters with waves crashing onto shore, and the sheer uprising mountain face of the Ko'olau mountain range...amazing. This has long been and is still my favorite place to shoot sunrise shots on the island. Cheers everyone to a better 2021! read more

See all

I am always looking for cool places for photos and found this neat little spot quick run down: Pros: Lots of parking spaces Nice views of ocean and photos Lots of paved areas for walking and taking photos Some weird and cool little structures that you don't see almost if the time The bathrooms had showers and changing areas Cons: Bathrooms had no toilet paper, a broken door, and no working latches read more

PICTURE PERFECT POSTCARD VIEWS! Beautiful scenery, cool breezes, and tidepools = 4 stars plus a bonus star for still having free admission, parking, and facilities! http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/Ki8Dys9gprTvQm7CkFjO0g?select=Bx6bRkY2wL4xX0uaSIqkZA#949tt_DkQUV6AFACzJ_Aig "BABY MAKAPU'U" is what my son calls this place, which is just to the left of the adult "Makapu'u Beach". He got to choose what would top the "summer lineup" and this was his first pick! http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/Ki8Dys9gprTvQm7CkFjO0g?select=Bx6bRkY2wL4xX0uaSIqkZA#YPKXRzeK_Tfm3gBn8w_fbw Located on the eastern side of the island between Waimanalo and Sea Life Park, we love this place because it usually isn't too crowded, even on weekend mornings. By lunchtime this place gets pretty busy, mostly with 1. Brides/grooms taking wedding pictures. 2. Locals fishing out by the rocks. 3. Large extended families hanging out for the day. 4. Local families with kids who love playing in the tide pools and shallow water. 5. A few brave body boarders. The sand is not fine white sand (it's more pebbly and full of coral rocks and shells) and the actual "beach" area can be small during high tide, so if you are visiting and want to lay on a "white sandy beach of Hawaii", please pick another beach. K thx. We only stayed in the tidepool area and the shallow swimming area protected by lava rocks. (The other area has lots of mean waves and a strong current.) During their marine discovery, the kids were able to find a sea urchin, tons of fish, an eel, hermit crabs, and lots of pretty shells and rocks. They were thrilled to find so many creatures and wanted to take them all home (!!) but we don't have a salt water tank. (Good thing they didn't know the Waikiki Aquarium sells salt water because that was up next in the summer lineup.) read more

See all

Great tidepools for kids to the left! Came here with my 1.5 yo son at the recommendation of a friend who also has a toddler. When you get there go all the way to the left parking lot facing the water. Great pockets of tidepools, not very rocky at all, great for little ones. Could also see some fish! Easy parking on a weekday afternoon, no shade available, no bathroom or showers nearby. read more

See all

Makapuu, Sandys and Yokohamas are my favorite beaches to boogie board at. If you didn't get the hint, Makapuu isn't really a beach to lay out in. Boogie boarding, surfing or fishing. So, tourists, go away! Actually, all kidding aside, it's a great place. It's on the windward side over near Sea Life Park. If the waves are pumping, it's a lot of fun but you better know what you're doing because if not, you could get hurt. It's also a great area for pictures because of the vibrant colors of the water and the island backgrounds as well as the lighthouse. Again - if you don't swim well, don't chance this beach. Go somewhere else where the water is more "novice swimmer" friendly. read more

Kaupo Beach Park - Parks Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

Beautiful and breath taking picturesque! Rough water... So be careful to get into water here. There is no life guard! You are taking your own risk! read more

See all

Beautiful views, adjacent beaches, crystal blue water and surrounding landscapes and areas. Parking is limited, with one way, right turn only it exits. Visited this area 4-5 times during my 2 week visit. This area is a seasonal birthing sanctuary for the great hump back whale. Lots of tourists including buses and vans which adds to the traffic flow as well as parking areas. read more

Beautiful Beach with pretty strong waves On the way to the Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail we passed this little beach. It looked nice so we pulled over. There are about 15 parking lots....and a cop car was also there the whole time. It is indeed a nice little beach, mostly local families with their kids were here. The waves at the beach were pretty strong....brave kids! We walked along the beach a bit to the rock/lava formations. It's a really nice area. Sand, rocks, lots of green....a feast for your eyes. If you dare, go a bit closer to the shore to really get a feel for the strong waves breaking on the rocks here (check the pics). It might not be a beach to spend a whole day. But if you are in the area, it's surely worth spending an hour or two. Pretty and quiet. read more

See all

Makapu'u beach park is amazing. One of the best on the island. Not too crowded, at least when I was there. The drive out is just as beautiful as the beach itself! Definitely have someone in the passenger seat taking pictures while you head there and back. The beach has a 360 view: to the right you will see the light house (recommend doing the light house trail), to the behind and to the left of you are beautiful mountains and straight ahead are amazing waves perfect for body boarding. The water isn't too cold here with very limited rocks in the water or coral. The sand is nice as soft and there is also a life guard on duty here. We had a good time, my daughter enjoying the waves crashing into her and me just going for a swim and body surfing. All in all, this is a must do, and more than once I may add. Enjoy!! read more

Kaupo Beach Park - Parks Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

Makapu'u beach is an awesome place to swim or board, if you are a string swimmer that is. The beach is very nice and sandy, as is a large portion of the shore. I was here in September and the waves were pretty fun, big enough to play in and board but not too dangerous that day. The current can be pretty strong and you should heed the warnings, do not go out far and keep an eye out. There was a manned watch post, even though there were only a few dozen people in the water. Definitely going back! read more

Kaupo Beach Park - Panorama from the viewpoint overlooking the beach - Parks Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

Makapu'u Beach Park has a small, but fantastic beach. It takes a short stroll to reach the beach from the parking lot. Oftentimes there are jellyfish, but when there are not, it's a joy to swim in. The sunrise can be seen from here, which is awesome. There are a couple of full-sized benches to sit on while you do so. There is a rocky area as well that you can navigate if you wish to sit on the rocks or boulders. read more

Kaupo Beach Park - Parks Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

07/19/13 (last visited) Beautiful & breathtaking picturesque! A lot of body boarders like to come here, but if you'd rather stay on the sand, there's a lot of room to lay out. If you look up to the sky you may even see some paragliders! It has a few little tide pools that kids can explore. Swimming there is a little rough because of the powerful waves so you have to be careful. It is a bit of a hike down to the beach from the parking lot and the surf was a little stronger but worth it all. If there are signs posted pay attention to them. There are no food facilities in the area, so make sure to pack a small cooler with food and drinks before arrival.  It's unfortunate, but there have been a lot of car break-ins over the years at Makapuu Beach.  I have not experienced any trouble, but it is very important to take all personal belongings with you to the beach and leave nothing visible in the car. It is right across the street from the Sea Life Park and has a great view of the light house. It does have showers though by the restrooms to wash off all of the sand. The parking is pretty limited. This is one of the best beaches for bodysurfing and bodyboarding. But beware the rough surf, currents and undertow if you are a novice. As with all beaches in Hawai'i, if you are unfamiliar with the waters, make sure to consult the lifeguards before going into the water. It could save your life. Still, I would definitely recommend going there to at least enjoy the scenery. *FACILITIES Restrooms above the parking lot Beach showers above the parking lot A couple of picnic tables midway down A few shady trees Life guard on duty Free parking - maybe 40 spots available Telephones *Also be sure to check a Jellyfish Arrival Calendar to avoid getting stung! read more

See all

Absolutely beautiful. The sand isn't fine ground, like Waikiki. Walk around for thirty minutes or so and you'll have baby-soft feet. They have tables, and a lifeguard on duty, in case you're a shaky swimmer. The waves are comfortable, if you're an intermediate body surfer. In fact, it's quite a popular spot for body surfers...you'll see many a cafeteria tray floating on the surf on a busy day. It's one of the more appealing beaches on the island, although it can be quite crowded during the busy season...which, on Oahu, is all year round. You may be able to find a quiet moment early in the morning, however, so bring your troubled mind or stressed out psyche for some quiet time in your happy place. Sigh. read more

Kaupo Beach Park - Parks Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

See all

This review is for "Baby Makapu'u" beach, which is on the Waimanalo side of Makapu'u beach park. This is the best beach on Oahu for kids in my opinion and enjoyable for adults as well! It is a calm beach where the waves break on the rocks super far out so there are literally no waves ON the beach. Instead it is composed of small tide pools from 6 in to 4 feet deep. PERFECT for kids of all ages to explore, splash and play. The scenery is just lovely. With rabbit island in the background, the water sparkles and contrasts with the white sand. There is a small lot when you go in to the right for this beach and a bigger lot for Makapu'u Beach Park farther up. There are facilities although you need to walk up to them. Please remember to pick up your trash and any you see on the beach- take care of Hawaii! read more

Kaupo Beach Park - Baby Makapu'u! - Parks Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

Like other reviews say, this is a great beach. One, it's a relief to get away from the crowds at Waikiki and Hanauma Bay. Once here, you'll find mostly locals enjoying the day (the whole day) with canopies set up, grills and everything needed for a day a family at the beach. The condition of the beach itself is good. You may seem someerrant pieces of trash, but most of that is stuff that blown about from the wind. When I see it, I pick it up and toss it in the receptacles. Water wise, there is something for everyone. One area is well served for the surfers. Nice waves, sometimes breaking hard. Further north around the a corner area of lava is a more gentle area ideal for kids. The water is calmed by some lava ridges and is about 1 to 3 feet deep. Lots of fish and an occasional turtle. read more

See all

One of my favorite beaches all time. Great waves, sandy bottom, clean beach, chill crowd, and lifeguards and bathroom facilities. Every time I'm on Oahu, I go here. Some of the best bodyboarding I've ever done has been here. You don't have to paddle to far out. The water is just the right depth, there isn't any rip current that I've ever experienced. The whole stretch of the beach has waves you can ride, so everyone isn't all bunched up. The conditions are just perfect in my opinion. I can't say enough about makapu. It is also a reminder of my youth. read more

This rocky area on the Eastern facing shoreline of Oahu also has a sandy beach famous for its shorebreak, delighting generations of body surfers. The beauty of this area sometimes masks the danger that lies beyond the shoreline. Over the years, many people have lost their lives at this iconic spot. There is a strong shorebreak and undertow that many are unaware of. Besides the dangers of the area, this stretch of coastline is beautiful, period!! I always try to scan the area before I move closer to the surf zone, although I tend to move into the area while the sun is still below the horizon. But that's no excuse, my dad used to always remind me when I was a youngster to never turn my back to the ocean, and I always try to adhere to that one simple rule. If you were to walk along the jagged coastline in this area, you would see the many monuments erected by Japanese fishermen many years ago to mark areas where fellow fishermen or family had been killed from the treacherous waves. So with this I say, enjoy the beauty God has given us, but always be wary of the unseen dangers that lie in wait... Five Solid Stars * * * * * read more

See all

Makapu'u has always been a favorite to catch waves on the body board. It's such a gorgeous beach with deep blue waters and smooth sand. Not as crowded as other beaches nearby, it's also a great area to get some sun or have a picnic. No tables but just plop down and use the rocks as your seat. The sunrise from Makapu'u is breathtaking too. Definitely check the surf report before coming and exercise extreme caution. I've been through a few nasty tumbles on rough days, and the waves tire you out VERY quickly. The addition of large, jagged rocks also add a level of danger. The waters aren't going to be for everyone, but it's still a beautiful beach to spend a lazy day. read more

Kaupo Beach Park - Makapu'u - Parks Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

Another one of my favorite beaches on Oahu. What can I say, just a beautiful beach with an amazing view, nice sand and cool water. An awesome place just to chill out and think about nothing.. :) read more

See all

Makapuu Beach can get a bit crowded when the waves are good so you'll have to go early to get a spot in the parking lot. For the most part the beach itself is pretty spacious. It's fun to explore the tide pools around the area and see what's living in them. I do like that there are paved walkways to make it more accessible and the fact that there are decent restrooms and showers. The area seems to be pretty well kept and the naupaka flowers are always so pretty. However my one complaint is that beach goers dont clean up after themselves. Multiple times I have found beer cans, candy wrappers, old slippers, and even a sock lying around in the sand or in the bushes.. Gross and definitely unsanitary... But at least for the most part the beach is clean and I've never seen anything in the water.. Also FYI.. If you set up your stuff in the little "nooks" of sand around the trees, keep an eye out for red ants because those little dudes bite. read more

See all

We came upon this beach park on accident, by way of driving on one of our car rental days. We did not actually go down onto the beach (there were a handful of people there and one dog that was running so carefree, so it was virtually empty during the weekday afternoon), but we did take numerous pictures of the picturesque views and my husband also took video which began, "Ok, I don't know where we are..." It was probably the prettiest beach and mountainside I had ever seen on the island of Oahu. We stopped at more than one vista point to take in all the beauty. Overlooking the beach, a man was doing Yoga on the side of the mountain, beyond the protective railing. I suppose that he was a regular. I would not guess that someone would just be doing that activity unless that person was certain that he would not fall off the side of the mountain. On the other hand, I could see why he wanted to see the beach while doing Yoga, doesn't Rodney Yee have a few videos of him at the beach? They say imitation is the highest form of flattery. This place is gorgeous- white sand, crystal blue waters, complete with crashing waves. I wasn't so sure where parking was, as we had pulled over the side of the curvy road to stop. I really want to see the beach itself up close and personal, though. Maybe on our next trip. read more

Still love this beach. Good body surfing, and surprisingly, decent snorkeling despite the big waves. Next time I'm gonna try snorkeling near the rocks along Makapuu point where the water looks super clear. read more

See all

PROS: Breathtaking beautiful beach Saw a rainbow perfectly Great picture taking spot esp. with RABBIT ISLAND in the background Windy fresh air CONS: Semi-Touristy Hard to find parking read more

Makapuu Beach Park is a classic locals-only beach with great surf and a wonderful beach. The fact is, it's been many moons since I've been to Makapuu, but this place has a special spot in my psyche from many days spent here as a kid. You see, my pops is a born and raised Honolulu boy, and over the years of visiting relatives, there's nothing he likes more than grabbing his slippers, a single fin (who knows why only one fin) and heading out for some bodysurfing at Makapuu. Thing is, for knobby-kneed mainland haole kids like me, the surf here can be a bit more than we might bargain for. I've had more than a few nightmares recalling the times where big sets have come in driving me and my petite sister in to the sandbar, ripping the fins off our feat, filling our mouths (and lungs) with foamy saltwater, and spinning us around like the inside of washing machine on spin cycle. And that's just the inside break. Good times. For stronger swimmers and confident surfers, the left side here has a great outside break great for advanced body surfers and boogie boarders alike. For more acquatically challenged like me, there's great sandcastles to be built on the shore. Watch out for the parking lot. There have been cars broken into here, so stash your valuables accordingly. read more

The good - Great beach and the waves break outside and long rides on the boogie board . Its fairly crowded with good sun for the first part of the day and nice sunrises in the morning. The bad - The walk down and back up and all the time being worried if your car will be ripped off or stolen. The infamous limu. I can't stand it and never could get used to it. The ugly - On occasions, this has to be one of the worst smelling restrooms this side of the island. Mens side is bad. According to the wife, their side is always out of tissue so bring your own tp and hand cleaner if possible. read more

Makapuu is a beautiful cove. It's literally the makings for a post card. There is big surf at times but not as hostile as Sandys. It's the current you really have to watch for. If you are not a stong swimmer do not go in the water. 20 years ago I got caught in the current and dragged as far out as the light house. It was my Treading skills that saved my life. That and the 2 surfers who paddled as hard as they could. At 12 years old I made peace with the fact that I may drown. No one should have to think about that. Please use water safety at all times. read more

Once, my friends and I came up the hill after dark, and found somebody in the passenger seat of my friend's mom's car trying to jimmy open the locked glove box with a screwdriver. Yeah, the parking lot is pretty infamous for that. Sometimes, when the waves are especially rough, all the sand will be gone, and huge cavernous crags create an especially uninviting environment. Other times, when the waves are mellow, the sand completely covers the rocks, and the beach becomes an idyllic white crescent. There's also scratchy, brown limu, and portuguese man-o-war to contend with, depending on the conditions. The waves here are so good for bodysurfing and bodyboarding (or paipo boarding, if you're roots li'dat) that Churchill named one of their surfing fins "Makapu'u," after this thumping shorebreak. You can surf here, too, but you gotta wait until the lifeguards pack it up for the day at 5pm. Late at night, get all kine other activities going on here... read more

I really enjoyed watching the sunrise from this beach. If you are heading northbound on the road, there is also an entrance to the Makapu'u lighthouse trail on the right. It is an easy hike on a paved road (2 miles round trip). The entrance does not open till 7 AM but you can park on the side of the road next to the entrance and walk in. We did the hike after sunrise but we probably should have just did the hike earlier to get a slightly better view of the sunrise. If you are visiting Oahu and looking for recommendations, feel free to message me through Yelp and I can share my itinerary, which includes my Yelp reviews. The information for an electronic copy can also be found via my Yelp profile. read more

Awesome beach, well worth the drive. Not very crowded during the week and the waves are usually pretty awesome here. One of the best places on the island to play in the water and get some sun. read more

I would definitely check the conditions and play here with caution. Especially in a two piece suit. The day we went the waves were pretty powerful so I tumbled around, fumbled with my suit a bit, and tried to get sand out of the places where the sun don't shine...and decided we had to leave. Sad...it was fun while it lasted...but how do you not drown while holding on to your swim suit so it won't fly off? Maybe next time I'll be better dressed...or the waves will be a tad bit more calm. read more

I thoroughly enjoyed myself at this beach. If you're looking for somewhere off the beaten path to go boogie/body boarding, not very touristy and absolutely gorgeous, this is the place to go! WARNING - you shouldn't go here if you want to wade in the water or catch some calm waves.... This is a place for boarding, body/board surfing. NOT FOR LAYING OUT! I would recommend bringing flippers and the ability to SWIM through these rough waves. read more

A smaller beach, but awesome. Great location for watching the sunrise and bringing your dogs for a walk at those times. I have been offered drugs from people dealing in the parking lot here. Plus I observed Oahu's meth heads smoking it up in the parking lot and attempting to break into others cars here. Other than that, the beach is great. read more

See all

Looking over the cliffs at the water is beautiful, there's no cost to park and look out like at other spots, and was relatively less crowded than other spots. read more

Kaupo Beach Park - Parks Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

This is a "hidden gem"! We actually saw a couple get married, which is proof that this an amazing beach. We loved walking on the lava rock, and taking in the views of the mountains, Rabbit Island and the lighthouse. read more

Beautiful and not to crowed. Located between Hawaii Kai and Waimanalo, this beach park has been the back drop for weddings with Rabbit Island in background. The State does lack on its up keep. The parking lot hasnt been paved in years and the gates are all rusted and could be a danger to some. The State does maintain the trash pick up but thats all this beach park is getting with the limited funding the State has right now. On this visit, I was here to help a beach clean up. Tons of trash gets walked ashore and they need volunteers to assist with cleaning up. I was actually surprised at what gets washed ashore these days. Cigarette butts, plastic pieces, and tons of construction materials. When you get a chance, I would ask that if you see a piece of rubbish while at the beach, please pick it up. We are polluting this earth one piece of rubbish a minute. read more

This beach is PERFECT for body boarding and it has a few little tide pools that kids can explore and find little fish and hermit crabs. The parking IS pretty limited. read more

Kaupo Beach Park - Parks Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

See all

178/365 Came here for some night fishing and it was a great night. The tide was rough so my friends had no luck as the line just kept coming in or it got stuck in the reef. The beach was very beautiful though. The night sky was naturally bright with only the stars and moon. It was also very cold and windy from the ocean breeze. It did rain a couple times but it was just quick drizzles. The only thing was that there is not much parking and since the park closed at a certain time, we had to park across the beach; in that lot on the bottom of sea life park. I know a lot of people go body boarding here too so watch for the waves as I hear they are pretty rough. read more

KAUPO BEACH PARK and nearby MAKAPU'U TIDE POOLS provide two of the many beautiful scenic spots along the northern shores of O'ahu. These two places are easy to find because they are right off Kalaniana'ole Highway. Starting from Kaupo Beach Park and heading counterclockwise, we encounter Kualoa Regional Park with its stunning view of the mountain ridge known as, Mo'o Kapu O Haloa. Then, continuing counterclockwise, we encounter Kaaawa Valley, then Kahana State Park (with many hiking trails), and eventually Ka'ena Point (the farthest west you can go). Kaupo Beach Park provides an iconic view of Manana Island (also known as, Rabbit Island). Please see my posted photographs of Rabbit Island, one taken from Kaupo Beach and the other from nearby Makapu'u Tide Pools. The Makapu'u area features black lava formations that resemble the inside of a cardboard egg carton. I used a cherrywood Tachihara 4x5 field camera to take these two photographs. For one of these, I used a wide angle lens (90mm Schneider) and for the other, I used a standard lens (150mm Schneider). Kaupo Beach Park is one of the places on O'ahu where you can go whale-watching. During one of my visits to Kaupo Beach, I spotted a pair of whales out in the ocean. (Sorry, I didn't take photographs of these whales.) read more

Kaupo Beach Park - View of Rabbit Island from vicinity of Kaupo Beach Park. - Parks Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

See all

Absolutely gorgeous beach!!! Went there in mid October. The waves and shore break were serious, but still manageable. The key is to get past the shore break and swim just past it, otherwise you will be battling waves the entire time. Incredible beauty!! Wonderful water!! One of the coolest beaches I have ever been to!! read more

Great beach off the hidden path. We were only on this side of the island because of family in area. This beach is favorable among locals and not at all crowded. It is especially good for BOOGIE boarding and surfing. They have public bathrooms and a shower area to get clean after the fun. The parking lot can get full so be prepared to park your car in the dirt side lot. Also, be sure to stop off at the scenic point on the way down to the cove for postcard worthy photos. read more