Makapu’u Tide Pools

The Makapu’u Tide Pools are a rock formation off the beaten path of the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail. Of the thousands who visit the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail throughout the year, not many venture down to these amazing tide pools. If you get the chance, and are able to handle the rocky trek down and back, it is worth a visit at least once!

Trail Difficulty – Moderate/Hard
Length – 2 miles (*roughly- round trip)
Duration – 2 to 3 hours (lots of scrambling on the trail)
Condition – Dry, loose rocks, steep hill

*Please be aware that The Beyond Paradise will not be held responsible for any person(s) who attempts this hike, their safety, conduct, and well being.

Getting to the Makapu’u Tide Pools

To get to the Makapu’u Tide Pools, you will have to follow the main Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail until you get to the third rest area (less than a mile from the parking lot). When you see the telescopes and a sign that says, “A sanctuary for Kohola-Humpback Whales”, this is where you want to be to start your way down to the tide pools. You will notice a small trail off to the left of the telescopes. The trail is descending down, and this is where the actual hike to the tide pools begins.

The hike down and back will be steep and has lots of loose rocks, so watch your step every step of the way! The trail is very faint in some areas as it’s not really a trail, but you’ll notice there are some arrows painted on the rocks for some guidance. There is definitely a lot of scrambling to make your way down and back, so just be aware that you might be off the initial trail you started on. You will be able to see the tide pools below, as long as you are heading in the direction towards them, you’ll have nothing to worry about. Just take your time, be careful, and you’ll be there in no time.

Safety Tips for Makapu’u Tide Pools

Always maintain three points of contact on your way down and back to the tide pools.
Be careful when getting in/out of the tide pools, the rocks can be very slippery.
Check the depth of the pools, most of them are no more than 3-5ft.
Stay away from the edge of the tide pools, the ocean is very unpredictable, you don’t want to get pulled in and dragged out.
Lastly, never turn your back to the ocean. Like I said previously, the ocean is unpredictable, and you’ll want to know when the tide is changing as well watching for any incoming waves.

What to bring for Makapu’u Tide Pools

Hiking boots/shoes with good grip and support (highly recommend not wearing sandals/slippers)
Towel
Sunscreen
Swimwear
Waterproof bags/cases for electronics
Water/snacks
Don’t forget your camera!