Incredible views from the lookout, a great spot for photography. The lookout is steps from the parking lot. There was nobody else there when I as everyone else was doing the lighthouse trail. We had other stuff planned so i felt this was a good quick option. read more

Makapu'u Lookout - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

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Makapuʻu Lookout is located on the southeastern side of Oahu along the Kalaniana'ole Highway. It's next to the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail and is only a short walk from the small parking lot. From the lookout you'll see panoramic views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean. From December to May, this spot and the general area as a whole are popular spots for humpback whale watching. It's also a popular spot for sunrise as this side is where the sun rises from. You will be able to get a lot of the same views as the lighthouse trial here without needing to go on the hike. read more

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Makapu'u Lookout was one of my favorite stopping points for photos - the ocean had beautiful blues/turquoise and great views of the mountains. This was such a great spot to enjoy the ocean breeze, marvel at the expansiveness of the ocean, and to take in the scenery. There is parking available. +great views +parking available read more

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Spectacular lookout point of the coast! It was quite windy during our stop, but definitely worth it. Saw a few hiking trails, but stayed on the paved road as we weren't properly dressed for walking through dirt. Free parking is available and people don't stay too long, so be patient and a spot will open up soon enough. read more

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One of the best coastline views on the island! LIKE COME ON So Gorgggg. It can get a bit windy, but there's free parking, and it's the perfect spot if you're not in the mood for a hike but still want a breathtaking view. On a clear day, you may spot whales in the distance! Definitely worth a stop. read more

Makapu'u Lookout - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

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BEAUTIFUL! Absolutely beautiful lookout. We were trying to go to the Makapu'u trail, missed the turn and ended up here. Honestly the view here was so beautiful we ended up not even doing the trail. There was plenty of parking and we saw police drive through the parking lot a couple times which was nice because one of the other scenic views we stopped at had cars with busted windows. There's a wheelchair/ stroller ramp to get to the lookout. Pictures really don't do this place justice. It's breathtaking. read more

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It's all about those VIEWS!!! Views for daaays. Yes ma'am! One of the most scenic vista points in Oahu and rightfully so. The views don't lie ladies and gents; these sights are simply magical. This is one of many stopping points along the scenic Kalanianaole Highway. It serves as not only a relaxing pitstop, but it's also a great little spot for a short walk or hike. The picture taking opportunities are endless and the informational placards are really fun and interesting to read. There's not a ton of parking, but since this serves as mainly a vista point, most people don't stay here to long. Since this vista is elevated high up on the hill, you'll have some magnificent views of the coastline. That all too familiar aqua hue will hit you in the face like a ton of bricks. Pure beauty all around. It's one of those spots where you won't be able to stop taking pictures because the view is just so dang gorgeous. Definitely a must stop when cruising down the Kalanianaole Highway. read more

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Looooved this place. I think the pictures shared on here speak for itself. It's a beautiful view. Some look outs are on the side of the road and a little sketchy. This, however, has a little parking lot. Plenty of parking and stairs that lead you up. (Mini stairs). Lots of angles to choose from. We found ourselves looking out into the view for a while. Relaxing and just taking in the amazing view. Must see if you're visiting. read more

Makapu'u Lookout - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

If you do not have time to walk the Makapu'u trail, then you must stop at the Makapu'u Lookout to see the incredible view of the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean and Makapu'u beach. The picturesque Lookout is just slightly north of the Trail off the Kalanianaole Highway. From the Lookout, you can see Manana Island, also known as Rabbit Island. The island, slightly shaped like a rabbit, was once home to introduced rabbits. Today, the island is a protected bird sanctuary. There is a nice, but small, parking lot with free 20 minute parking. A few stairs lead up to the viewing area. There are no facilities at this location. read more

Makapu'u Lookout - Early morning view from the Lookout. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

The views are breathtaking!!! This lookout provides one of the best views on the scenic route in my humble opinion. You can see paragliding from afar. A beautiful mini island in a short distance. The beautiful beach cove. While being able to walk a nice trail. Parking is limited but the crowds are constantly coming and going so you're not waiting too long to park. read more

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Beautiful place to stop and look out over the ocean. While driving around Oahu we made numerous stops to admire the scenery. This lookout is easy to locate and provides excellent views. Unfortunately we chose a chilly, rainy day to drive around Oahu. Therefore, we only briefly left our car at scenic points and did not get great pictures. Nonetheless, we enjoyed the journey and seeing the amazing sights. read more

Makapu'u Lookout - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

Makapu'u means "Bulging Eye" in Hawai'ian. Your eyes will definitely bulge at the site of the sheer beauty of this place. Located on the southeastern tip of O'hau, it provides a scenic and gorgeous view of Makapu'u Beach and Waimanalo Bay. The two islands in the middle are Rabbit Island (bigger island) and Kaohikaipu Island, which is now a bird sanctuary. According to the locals, there used to be rabbits on Rabbit Island, but they were not natives to the island and ended up destroying the ecosystem so they were later eradicated. Driving in this area, I can't help but think of the original Magnum P.I. opening scene and have the theme song playing in my head. I pretend to be driving the red Ferrari 308 GTS instead of a rental car...black Volkswagen Passat. Hey, it's easy to daydream, especially in this wonderful area. There's a decent amount of parking spaces at this lookout and if you can't find one, just have a little patience since more than likely one or several will open up shortly as people who visit here tend to be tourists to have a quick view of the place. If you don't want to do the hike to Makapu'u Point, the lookout will suffice, but you won't see the lighthouse from here. However, I've witnessed people climb up the side of the cliff to get to the top and other side. Fair warning though as tourists have fallen off these cliffs since they weren't paying attention to their surroundings and terrain as it's very easy to get distracted by the beauty of this place. I'd recommend not to climb the railings to get a better view just to be on the safe side. Yes, the place is beautiful, but it can also be dangerous so better respect Mother Nature from a safe distance. read more

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One of the most beautiful lookouts I have ever been to -- so peaceful and relaxing for a morning or afternoon walk. Since we are still in the COVID19 era, there were barely any people when I pulled over. It was so nice to enjoy some sun and stunning views without having to hustle through crowds. Parking states that there is a 20 minute limit but I doubt that rule is being heavily enforced right now because I stayed for about an hour. Oops! Can't blame me -- the beauty was just too hypnotizing. Serene place to do some serious thinking and reflection. read more

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27 November 2020 Easy peasy! Finally! For a few months now I have been meaning to go do this trail. I wanted to go specifically to take my mother because I was told it is paved all the way and is an easy trail even for beginners. However, with her health coupled with covid restrictions, our visit was delayed until today. We left home early (around 730am) and set out for Makapu'u Point Trail. I think because a lot of people were still off from the holiday, traffic was light so we made it there without any congestion. It did take us longer than anticipated since we stopped at a few of the lookouts along the route. It was approximately 9am when we go to the trail's parking lot. When we arrived, the parking lot was full and visitors had began parking along the road. I parked along the road leading to the parking lot but moved because I was over the line and I worried that I would get cited. Someone pulling out soon after so, I was lucky to get a parking spot. The spor was unmarked and had a manhole cover but, to me, it was better than the previous spot. We parked and headed  up. From the moment we enter the trailhead, it is smoothly paved. The trail is paved all the way to the top. Along the route, there are lookouts points each with their own informational boards and a small seating area where visitors can sit and rest, though it should not be needed by most since it is just a gradual incline. It is such an easy, accessible trail that I saw someone in a wheelchair going up,  several pregnant women, and even children hiking with any visiblesigns of strenuous exertion. There are also footpaths that lead to other lookouts however, there are warning signs advising against it. Of course some risk tolerant people ignore the warning signs. (I even saw a couple take their two young children off the approved path) . The dirt footpath to the lighthouse is well marked, though and some areas along that trail has a rope rail. The trail is clean and looks well maintained. I did not notice any bathrooms so handle your business prior to venturing out. I did not notice any rubbish bins either (I did not need one so if there was any, I probably just overlooked them). Once you get to the top, the views are amazing! But, hold onto your hats, masks, or anything not secured to your body; it is very windy! read more

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This is one of our favorite places to visit when we're in Oahu! Always a beautiful sight. Beautiful blue water, white beaches, dark volcanic soil, deep cliff. What's not to like? read more

Makapu'u Lookout - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

Really recommend this scenic lookout spot. Easy to access from the road, parking spots, and good view of the east side if one doesn't want to go up the trail. Nice place to bring friends! read more

Makapu'u Lookout - Really stunning views - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

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The Makapu'u Point Lookout is located along Kalanianaole Highway that runs along southeast O'ahu curving nearby to the Makapu'u Lighthouse. This lookout is located just as you pass the Hawaii Kai Golf Course, if you're coming from Waikīkī or up the winding curve towards the Makapu'u Lighthouse just past the Makapu'u Beach Park if you're coming from the Windward side. I think the view from this Makapu'u Point Lookout is one of the most breathtaking views of Windward O'ahu. You can clearly see the moundlike sand of Makapuu Beach Park cascading down to the ocean. Then, as our eyes were drawn out over the deep blue ocean water, we didn't miss seeing our State's Island Seabird Sanctuary islands, Kāohikaipu (Black Rock) and Mānana (actually means "buoyant" but we refer to it as Rabbit). In case you're wondering about how (Mānana) Rabbit Island was named... you'd probably think that it's because it resembles a rabbit head or rabbit head. But, that's not so. There actually WERE rabbits on this island! I remember my parents telling me about a prominent Hawaiian Royal family member who owned a sugar plantation in nearby Waimānalo who decided to raise rabbits on the island. However, because the rabbits multiplied so quickly, they upset the ecology or depleted the natural resources of the island. During my lifetime, we'd often stop at this lookout or at Makapu'u Beach Park with a pair of binoculars to look for rabbits hopping about. But finally in the early 90's there was a State effort to eradicate the rabbits from this island. Both islands, Mānana and Kāohikaipu, were designated as State Island seabird sanctuaries. It can get rather windy while you're at this lookout so hold onto your hats and sunglasses. Also, when you leave your vehicle, make sure that you don't leave your valuables visible in your car to tempt potential car thefts and make sure you lock your car when you leave to take your photos of the scenery. Also, please don't climb over the rails as the lava rocks on this cliff side are rather brittle. Go ahead and enjoy the views and Live Aloha! read more

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Paved road of about a 20 minute hike up. Incredible views! Go during sunrise or sunset. I think the park closes at 7pm so make sure you go before then to avoid the park being closed! read more

Makapu'u Lookout - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

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Worth the price of admission! Drive takes a few minutes from the city but will well worth the time. Lovely views are perfect to take pictures for any occasion. Just be careful as most tourists are zooming and zig zagging on the sharp road. Plan on sticking around for at least half an hour to wait for people to take pics, taking turns taking pics, etc. read more

Beautiful views of the island - pretty beach and easy in and out access for cars or scooters. read more

Makapu'u Lookout - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

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Review #044 - 2020 After spending about half an hour at Sandy Beach, we decided to head over to Makapuu Lookout to check out the lighthouse, but it was too hot to hike all the way up so we just made a quick stop to take some pictures with the beautiful view. Sadly, because it was so windy, we couldn't get too many pictures at the top because I was afraid that my daughter would run around & end up injuring herself or get blown away by wind. I've actually been here before, but I don't remember spending more than five minutes here the first time around. I honestly don't remember much about my first visit here other than I took a picture with the same background. LOL This is a great spot to stop by if you want to make a day trip hiking up to the lighthouse and then swinging by to take some pictures. It's probably best to come before noon or right before the sun sets so you don't get too hot & worn out from the heat. read more

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Beautiful views. A must stop for epic pics. My husband and son enjoy climbing the rocks.

Best landscape photography spot on the SE shore. Better than the lighthouse. read more

Makapu'u Lookout - Rabbit island - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

One of the best, if not the best lookout in Oahu. It's one of those lookouts that, if you drive by, then see what youre driving by, you want to turn around and go back. As you turn the SE corner of the island and start your way up the East coast, this is the first lookout that allows you to see up the beautiful coastline, including beaches and islands. Makes you really feel like youre in Hawaii. Highly recommended. No cost and although the parking lot is somewhat small, a spot usually frees up quick. read more

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There many scenic areas to turn off from Kalanianaole highway when traveling along the coast southeastern coast of Oahu. Between Hanauma Bay and Waimanalo, this is one of the nicest ones to get a nice view of the islets that exist off the coast in this area. What's nice about this area is there is a nice pull in/pull out parking area and also a nice area to sit down and enjoy the ocean scenery. There is also a decent amount of parking. If you are coming along Kalanianaole Hwy and traveling east towards Sea Life Park , this pull off will be on your right, oceanside just after the Makapuu lighthouse trail. If you don't have time to do the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail ( and I heartily recommend you make time for that nice hike) this is a nice stop along the way. A relaxing interlude as you traverse the highway along a portion of southeast Oahu. read more

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must-see views of Hawaii! There's ample free parking and it's a great photo op! There are a ton of great look out stops and this is one of the best. We stopped by this right before our Ka Moana Luau night. The area says high theft so make sure you don't leave anything exposed in the car. There is also highway patrol around this area so abide by the traffic laws! Interesting to see that the speed limit is around 30mph. read more

Makapu'u Lookout - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

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Great view of the southeastern side of the island overlooking some smaller islands and sea life park. If you're on this part of Oahu, it's worth the 5 minute stop to view the majestic Pacific Ocean and feel the breeze of the Windward side read more

There are several great look out stops along the highway between Honolulu and Kailua, but Makapu'u is one of the best! Easy on and off access Makapu'u lookout is full of beautiful views in all directions. As the sign at the entry says, it is a high theft area so take your valuables and lock your car. It is a short walk up a couple stairs and you are rewarded with unobstructed views of the gorgeous blue Pacific Ocean and Makapu'u beach. We were able to see all the way to the far tip of Kailua and the Mokulua islands. If you are traveling on Highway 72 or even visiting Hanauma Bay this stop is well worth your time. read more

Makapu'u Lookout - Gorgeous views - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

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it is located near the tide pools and Sea Life Park. This gives an amazing view of the Oahu coast. There is ample parking, but there is a 20 minute time limit posted. I am not sure how strict that is enforced though. It usually has. Breeze up there and you overlook a beach area. The area look well kept and will provide you with some awesome photos. This is definitely a must stop if you are in the area. read more

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Nice hike with nice paved path. Still can be tough if the weather is hot since there is not much covering or shade. But great views. read more

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Five stars because of the beauty. The trail is quite easy walking at a pace comparable to 2.5-3.0 on a treadmill. What you'll enjoy is the view and breeze when is hits you. I brought my nieces today to get outta their house and do something active. One was jamming next to me while the other was huffing and puffing like the wolf blowing down the house!! Hahaha Anyway, if you're ever on the east-ish side of the island, go take a walk on tje Makapuu Lighthouse Trail!! P.S. Bring sunscreen and water=) read more

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This was a nice scenic stop on the side of the road. I did a quick hike up the side of the hill where abandoned lookouts can still be found. It's definitely worth a quick stop! read more

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7/1/19 Beauty surrounds us! Lucky we live Hawai'i! These are the many sayings we grew up with. But u know it's true.Especially if you moved away. If you've returned to Hawai'i,u know what I'm saying!!! Everyone's pics are basically the same but some daring people/tourists climb OVER the railings!!! Ugh,we shudder as we watch them gingerly climb up the mountain side! I noticed there is always a police car present @ this site. Mahalos to da HPD! There is also a sign in the parking lot stating "Warning:high theft area ". How about a warning sign for climbing the rocks? I really don't wanna see anyone get hurt. Guess the police officer didn't see that! The ocean is so clean,the sky so blue & on this day we witnessed hang gliders! read more

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Makapu'u Lookout is gorgeous! A really nice view of Makapu'u Beach. You also get to see the two little islands that are just northeast of Makapu'u beach (Rabbit Island and Kaohikaipu Island). And you also get a glimpse of the two islands that are east of Lanikai Beach (Mokulua Island and Moku Iki). Deep blue ocean waters, spectacular view of Southeastern side of Oahu. You may get luck and see some paragliders across the highway. There is plenty of parking here, good time to stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and enjoy the views before you continue up the coast. read more

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Makapu`u Lookout has spectacular views of Makapu`u and Waimanalo along with panoramic views of the ocean and a few small islands. It does get sunny early here, as early as 730 or 8 am on a summer morning. Sun protection is recommended! Parking is very easy to find on non-peak times like before 8 am during a weekday. If the lot is full, parking is available on the shoulder of the highway. Just avoid the spots that have no parking signs and keep off the bicycle lane (watch out for boulders!). If you're feeling like an adventure, there is the slightly dangerous, slightly illegal Tom Tom Trail hike right across the highway. Just be mindful of the cars speeding around the blind turn here. read more

Makapu'u Lookout - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

I don't see how you can give a view like this any lower than 5 stars. The parking is tight but mostly there are people coming in and out so just be patient. There is an area to view without hiking however if your adventurous the view hiking a few rocks is outstanding. It's nature, there are no bathrooms present but there is a cop that sits close to keep the traffic in the lot moving which does help one obtain a parking space. Overall if your going this way you have to stop if only for a quick second. read more

Super windy, but really pretty lookout. There are lots of parking spaces and easy to get off and back onto the highway. You don't have to walk far at all to see the lookout. read more

This is a must if you visit the island of Oahu. I've been to the Makapu'u Lookout 3 different times and every time I return I'm still in awe as if it was my first time. It is such a beautiful place with amazing views. The very first time I was there I was able to see a few of the military copters going buy. the most recent time I was there I got to see a few para-gliders surfing the winds, it was absolutely amazing. The parking can get a little crazy depending on the time of the day that you go. Make it a stop on your trip. read more

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The wind was a bit harsh but it was still so beautiful to see the ocean and the mountains surrounding. It was worth it read more

Makapu'u Lookout - Windy day but still so beautiful - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii

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Beautiful lookout for a quick stop. Don't miss the old 'pillbox' (military lookout) accessible on the hillside on the other side of the railing. Our tour guide said it was fine to check it out i.e. going over the railing to access it was not prohibited. read more

Makapu'u Lookout - View from the pillbox - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Waimanalo, Hawaii