A secluded spot off the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, this easy-to-moderate 2 mile round trip hike was easily one of the highlights on my Hawaiian honeymoon trip. Marveling at jaw-dropping views while swimming in crystal clear water made scrambling up and down the steep cliffside completely worth it. Hiking to the Makapu’u Tidepools should be on everyone’s list of top Oahu hikes!
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INTRODUCTION
I must admit that ever since I saw a photo just like the one above, I was determined to find out where it was taken on Oahu. It wasn’t until several years later when I finally discovered that these gorgeous pools were none other than the Makapu’u Tidepools located just south of the Makapu’u Lighthouse on the windward side of the island. When I was last here in 2013, I was on a hike to the Makapu’u Lighthouse. Little did I know that these turquoise tidepools were waiting below.
HOW TO GET THERE
The best time to visit the tidepools is at midday during sunny conditions. This is when the water is exceptionally clear and turquoise blue. You may want to keep in mind, however, that the parking lot gets crowded on weekends so you may want to arrive earlier. The parking lot opens daily at 7 am. Also, please remember to follow the Leave No Trace principles. Always pack out what you bring in.
HIKING TO THE MAKAPU’U TIDEPOOLS
The trail begins at the far end of the parking lot on a paved path. Though this portion of the hike can be steep at times, it is relatively easy-going. You’ll reach a third lookout point with an informational sign about humpback whales about 2/3 of the way up. Off to the side, you’ll spot a worn, unpaved path which leads down to the pools at the base of the cliff. Follow the rocks painted with white arrows to help guide you down the easiest path.
I highly recommend wearing hiking or water shoes due to the sheer number of rocks you will have to scramble over. On the way down, I witnessed multiple people with flip flops struggling to make it down without tripping or slipping. This hike is also completely exposed. Therefore, hats, sunscreen, and water are definite essentials. In addition to the rock scrambling, there are many steep drop-offs. Please keep this in mind if you plan on bringing little ones.
THE TIDEPOOLS
Once at the tidepools, place your belongings in a safe, dry place. A general rule of thumb is to avoid any areas that are wet due to waves. Another group of travelers had unfortunately placed their things too close to the waves, which resulted in their items becoming soaked.
When I went, there were two larger tidepools that were approximately 4-5 feet deep. I chose to swim in the calmer of the two since there were no active waves crashing into it. Wearing water shoes helped with navigating the slippery and sharp rocks. The water was incredibly clear, and I could see multiple fish swimming around. I was sorely disappointed that I didn’t bring snorkel gear with me, as this was perhaps the clearest water that I encountered on my trip. You can also explore the surrounding smaller tidepools to look for other sea creatures. One girl found a gigantic sea cucumber that was almost the length of her arm! Once back up at the top, feel free to walk the rest of the way to the Makapu’u Lighthouse to enjoy panoramic views of the eastern side of the island.
A WORD OF CAUTION
Please be aware that swimming in the tidepools is at your own risk. Check the tide charts to make sure that you arrive during low tide. Rogue waves are always a possibility, even at low tide. There have been several incidences where people have lost their lives due to these unpredictable conditions. Always use your best judgment. As they say, if in doubt, don’t go out!
WHAT TO BRING ON THE HIKE
- Sunscreen. Please use reef safe sunscreen! This mineral sunscreen from Blue Lizard worked really well & it’s small enough to pack in your carry-on luggage! I recommend reapplying after swimming in the water. I regretted not doing so after seeing that the backs of my legs were pretty burned after returning from the hike.
- Hat. This trail offers no shade, so a hat is essential.
- Water. Always bring more than you think you might need! My husband and I almost ran out of water so we had to ration our water on the way back up. I like to use my Hydro Flask water bottle when traveling since it’s easy to clean & keeps water ice cold.
- Sneakers, hiking boots, and/or water shoes. Shoes with tread are a must! Water shoes were definitely helpful when navigating over the slippery rocks and swimming in the tidepools. I have these water shoes in pink and they’re extremely comfy & durable!
- Swimsuit. Wear a swimsuit underneath if you plan on swimming in the tidepools!
- Towel
- Snorkel gear. I really recommend this dry top snorkel set! The snorkel valve was so great at keeping water out & was even better than the more expensive brands recommended by the snorkel shops in Hawaii. I was so bummed when I lost my snorkel set when kayaking in Kaneohe.
- Camera/GoPro. I use the GoPro for all of my underwater shots! This GoPro hand grip definitely came in handy while snorkeling. It securely attaches to your wrist so that you don’t have to worry about losing your GoPro while underwater.
