The Makapuu tide pools sit at the base of dramatic sea cliffs on the southeastern tip of Oahu, reached by a steep, rocky descent off the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail. They’re not a beginner detour — the trail is loose and uneven and the pools are dangerous when surf is up. But when conditions are right, outside of winter when the waves are pounding, this is one of the most dramatic and rewarding spots on the island. A rumbling blowhole, deep turquoise pools, sea urchins, and enough rugged coastline to feel far from everything.
Get Outside
We’ve been dragging lately. The summer heat and crowds feel oppressive and it seems we only leave the house for visits to Target (air conditioning) and the library (excellent air conditioning).
For the first time in … ever? The kids asked if we could go on an easy hike. They requested something within a half-hour drive of Kailua. I racked my brain, checked the tides and surf forecast and decided on Makapuu Tide Pools. We visited the pools only once in the past after following another hiker off the main trail for the Makapuu lighthouse. At the time, we were curious about what they were up to and after a bit of scrambling, we were rewarded with views of the gleaming turquoise pools far below. On that particular day, the surf was high and anyone brave (stupid?) enough to swim in the tide pools was thrashed about like rag dolls whenever a big set rolled in. However, the weather conditions seemed more forgiving on this day, so we packed our swimsuits and set off.
The Southeast Corner of Oahu
The southeast corner of the Oahu is full of rugged beauty and adventure. It’s a harsh landscape dominated by sharp lava rock and pounding waves. Even the plants pack a punch. Only the most hearty and salt-toler
At the Makapuu Lighthouse Trailhead, you have three options. You can hike up to the lighthouse (look for whales in the winter), down to quiet Alan Davis Beach, or hike partially up and make the steep ascent to the tide pools.
The Makapuu Tide Pool Hike
To get to the pools follow the trail up as it weaves around the backside of the cliffs. At the third rest area, you will see two pairs of binoculars and an informational sign about whales. After that, look for a loosely defined trail allowing you zig-zag down the mountain. Go slowly to avoid slipping on loose rocks and most importantly, bring plenty of water.
You will be welcomed by a rumbling blowhole, which spits an impressive (and forceful) spray intermittently. After that, find your favorite tide pool and submerge.
The descent is steep and loose. The pools are dangerous in high surf and even if it looks calm you have to be vigilant. A big set can sneak up on you.
What to Bring
Swimsuits are a given, but the rest is worth thinking through before you leave.
The descent is steep and the lava rock is sharp, so footwear matters more here than on the main lighthouse trail. Reef shoes can be handy once you’re at the pools so it’s easier to navigate.
Bring more water than you think you need. The hike down is short but the sun is intense and you’ll want it once you’re at the pools.
On sunscreen: most sunscreen sold at drugstores and grocery stores contains chemicals that damage coral reef ecosystems. Hawaii banned several of them in 2021 for exactly this reason. They’re not great for humans either. Use reef-safe sunscreen, and skip the aerosol spray entirely. Applying it on a windy exposed trail means everyone around you is inhaling it, which is not a gift. If possible, UV shirts and hats are even better — you’re swimming in tide pools, so sun protection that doesn’t wash off into the water is the best option here.
Bring a bag for wet gear, snacks if you have little kids, and plan for no bathrooms at the trailhead.
Looking for More Great Family-Friendly Hikes on Oahu?
The tide pools are one of three adventures accessible from the Makapuu trailhead. You can hike up to the Makapuu Lighthouse for whale watching and big views, or take the easy dirt trail down to Alan Davis Beach for a quiet swim. Keep the Lanikai Pillboxes link as a second option: For a completely different kind of hike, the Lanikai Pillboxes are 20 minutes up the coast.
If you’re already out this way, the windward side guide has everything worth doing from Makapuu up through Kailua and beyond.
Makapuu Tide Pools FAQs
Q: Are the Makapuu tide pools safe for kids?
A: It depends on conditions. The pools are calm and swimmable when the surf is down, typically outside of summer. When there’s swell, they’re dangerous and not suitable for kids or inexperienced swimmers. Always check surf conditions before you go. The descent to the pools is steep and rocky, so kids need to be steady on their feet.
Q: When is the best time to visit the Makapuu tide pools?
A: Outside of summer, when the swell is down and the pools are calm. Avoid going after any significant surf. Morning is best for light and temperature. Check the surf forecast before you leave.
Q: How do you get to the Makapuu tide pools?
A: Park at the Makapuu Lighthouse trailhead on Kalanianaole Highway. Hike up the main paved trail to the third rest area, where you’ll see two spotting scopes and a whale information sign. From there, look for a loosely defined trail that descends steeply to the pools below. The descent is steep and loose, so go slowly.
Q: Is there parking at the Makapuu tide pools?
A: Use the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail parking lot on Kalanianaole Highway. The lot opens at 7:00 am and closes at 6:45 pm. On weekends it fills fast. Go early or on a weekday. There are no bathrooms at the trailhead.
Q: How difficult is the hike to the Makapuu tide pools?
A: The main Makapuu Lighthouse Trail is paved and easy. The descent to the tide pools is a different story. It’s steep, loose, and exposed, with crumbly rock underfoot and no real trail markers. Comfort on uneven terrain matters here. A sure-footed five-year-old can handle it. Some adults can’t. If you’re hesitant on loose rocky descents, skip it or turn back when it stops feeling fun.
Off The Beaten Path
Get my top ten list of spots in Oahu complete with photos + directions, so you know exactly what to expect. You’ll also receive ongoing adventures, beautiful images and happy updates. Escape to the islands once a month and learn exactly how to enjoy Hawaii like someone who raises their family here!
Get on the list
