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Makapu'u Lighthouse Hiking Trail
Rating Details »
Categories: Hiking, Landmarks & Historical Buildings [Edit]
South Shorebetween Sandy Beach and Sea Life Park
Waimanalo, HI 96795
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
5 reviews for Makapu'u Lighthouse Hiking Trail
I went on the most romantic date of my life here.
His name was Zach. He was a gorgeous, blond massage therapist. I was sweet and innocent, living very far from home, and quite lonely in paradise. Zach took me on the best date of my life.
We took a midnight hike up the Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail. Our path was lit entirely by moonlight. I was a little nervous to be going on a hike at midnight, with a stranger, but my coworker set me up with him, so I figured if I was missing the next day, she would at least report him.
The hike was short, and I had no excuse to be hot and sweaty when I reached the top. However, having a nice view of Zach's behind for part of the hike, I was fairly short of breath and trying hard to keep naughty thoughts from my mind for the entire hike. When we reached the top we talked about anything and everything, listened to dolphins playing below and waves hitting the cliffs. We cuddled a bit when it got chilly...We were both so comfortable that we fell asleep, and I woke up in his arms. If I wasn't such a prim and proper lady, I would have shown him a much better time, but it was only a first date. He held my hand as we walked back down, and had me back to my apartment by 4am. I was up at 5am for work, and didn't stop smiling all day.
Several dates later, while in the midst of falling madly for Zach, he told me that he was still in love with his ex, and that he had to break our next date so that he could fly to visit her on the Big Island...I never heard from him again. Heartbroken, I left Hawaii and went back to the mainland for my best friend's wedding. Where I met Pete :)
The point of all this? When I think back to Hawaii, I think of this amazing place. It is an amazing spot, and super romantic under a full moon. The hike is short, but very, very beautiful. Just the memory of it covers up the part that followed. Come here during the day and enjoy the view, or plan a hike during a full moon, and completely sweep her off her feet, or be swept off yours.
I hope to have a more romantic date at some point in my life, but since my fiance is completely unconcerned about holding that title, and his idea of a "date" involves me picking up takeout for him to eat while he plays World of Warcraft, I think Zach will always hold that title.
Ahhh....Hawaii. I can't wait to go back :)
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This is a fun place to take the fam for a beautiful and challenging uphill activity. But that is all it is. I would not call it hiking. The trail is paved and there is only one, very clear way to go.
PS It is windy! Be prepared!
whatever you are looking for this place has a lot to offer for hikers. the road up is a gradual incline, fairly easy - beginner level hike. I've done it a few times. its nice for a family. if you are looking for more adventure and a bit more bang you can go up the opposite side of the mountain. park at the 2nd lookout and just start walking/climbing up. Eventually you will find a trail and it goes around the side. Not for the acrophobic. After the climb you can go down the lighthouse road and back to your car - makes it a loop.
Also if you are looking to cool off after the walk half way up or down the road there is a side trail that takes you the tide pools. (look for the whale watching binoculars) I uploaded a photo for you. It is a harder hike but it worth the effort. Just don't turn your back to the water. rogue waves are a possibility.
anyhoo, be safe and have a great hike!
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This is not the easiest trail to find, but it's by far the easiest hike with the biggest payoff, IMHO.
Absolutely astounding views, seasonal whale watching, and a paved trail for us outdoors wussies make this the perfect hike for anyone below a beginner's status. Namely...ME.
I hate hiking with a passion, and avoid nature at all costs. Every hike I've tried has either ended in mud-soaked messes or a ka-jillion mutant-sized mosquito bites. PASS.
But this trail is simply stunning, and a mosquito-free, relaxing walk. I can't visit the islands without making it to the lighthouse at the end of this trail at least twice.
And I think I saw the live-action version of Free Willy the last time I visited! Woo!
Either that, or 1977's Orca...sans wet t-shirt wearing Bo Derek.
P.S. Do NOT leave things in your car. Car break ins have been known to occur every now and again in this area.
...
Directions from Waikiki: When you're on the Kalanianaole Highway, go past Hanauma Bay and Sandy Beach Park towards the Hawaii Kai Golf Course. Half a mile past the golf course, SLOW DOWN. On the right you'll see a gate blocking the trail entrance.
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Agree! it's a very easy hike with beautiful view. We used to come here everyday after work just to walk or run. Don't agree that it's not the easiest trail to find... you can see the trail easily from the road. However, you need to give this trail a try if you are a so-so hiker but would like to reach good reward at the end of your hike.
