Welcome to Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, one of Oʻahu’s last undeveloped coastal areas. Stretching along the island’s rugged southeastern edge, this protected shoreline offers sweeping Pacific views, the iconic Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail, and seasonal whale watching that rivals any in Hawaiʻi.
What Is Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline?
Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline is a state-managed preserve that protects over 350 acres of native dryland habitat, coastal lava cliffs, and panoramic views. It’s a favorite for nature lovers, families, photographers, and fitness hikers alike.
Unlike more commercialized parts of the island, Kaiwi remains untouched — no hotels, no shops, just the sound of seabirds and crashing waves. Whether you’re chasing sunrises, watching whales, or just out for a scenic walk, this shoreline delivers.
Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail
Trail Length: 2.0 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Surface: Paved road (old lighthouse access)
Activity Type: Pedestrian only
Estimated Time: 1–1.5 hours
The trail begins at the clearly marked Makapuʻu Point Trailhead and climbs gently uphill along a paved path. At the top, you’ll reach a lookout with breathtaking views of the Makapuʻu Lighthouse, the Kaiwi Channel, and on clear days, even Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi in the distance.
Highlights:
- Panoramic views of the windward coast
- Historic red-roofed lighthouse (built in 1909)
- Binoculars or zoom lenses recommended
- Interpretive signs along the way
- Whale sightings in season
- Seabird sanctuaries on offshore islets
Note: The lighthouse is off-limits to the public, but the views are more than worth the climb.
Whale Watching at Makapuʻu
Each winter, the Kaiwi shoreline becomes a front-row seat to one of nature’s great migrations.
From November through May, humpback whales (koholā) pass through the Kaiwi Channel — often breaching, tail-slapping, or even swimming with calves near the surface. The peak season is January to March, when sightings are most frequent.
Tips for Whale Watching:
Over 10,000 whales migrate to Hawaiian waters each year — and this trail is one of the easiest and safest ways to view them from land.
- Best Time: Early morning (clear skies and calm seas)
- Best Spot: Makapuʻu Lookout or any point along the trail
- Bring: Binoculars and a camera with zoom
- Distance: Whales can often be seen several hundred yards offshore
Park hours and Access
Summer Hours
(April 1 – Labor Day): 7:00 AM – 7:45 PM
Winter Hours
(Day After Labor Day – March 31): 7:00 AM – 6:45 PM
Entrance Fee
None – free for all visitors
Restrooms & Water
Not available — bring your own water and use facilities before you arrive
Safety Notice: Tide Pools Are Closed
Do not attempt to reach the tide pools.
The Makapuʻu Tide Pools may appear inviting from above — but they are officially closed and dangerous. Powerful and unpredictable wave surges have led to fatal accidents in this area.
Additionally, the steep, loose-rock trail down to the pools poses hazards for both climbers and those below. If you’re spotted in the area, emergency responders may be deployed at risk to their own safety.
How to Get There
Location: Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, Oʻahu, HI.
Trailhead Parking: Lot located directly at the trailhead off Kalanianaʻole Highway (Hwy 72).
Parking Fee: Free (arrive early, fills up by 9 AM).
Public Transportation:
- TheBus Routes 23 or 24
- Closest stop: Sea Life Park (~10 min walk to trailhead)
- Travel time from Waikīkī: ~60–75 minutes
Nearby Attractions
Make the most of your East Oʻahu day trip.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Snorkel among coral reefs.
Waimanalo Beach
Soft sand and fewer crowds.
Halona Blowhole & Lookout
Natural geyser and scenic cove.
Lanai Lookout
Dramatic lava shelves perfect for photos.
Plan Your Visit to Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline
From sunrise hikes to seasonal whale sightings, Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline is one of the best free outdoor adventures in Oʻahu. Whether you’re a nature photographer, family traveler, or solo hiker, this trail belongs on your itinerary.
Respect the land. Pack out your trash. Stay safe.
Ready to hike? Get directions, parking tips, and trail conditions now.