Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail and Shuttle Service
4.5
Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail and Shuttle Service
By Kaimana Tours
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-99, max of 14 per group
Duration: 4h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More
- National Park fees
- Bottled water
What's not included- Gratuities
- Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.Pickup details
- Please contact Kaimana Tours to confirm your hotel pick up, 8082300023, if we won’t pick up there , maybe will be across street or next door.
Hotel pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
- Infants must sit on laps
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 69524P12- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Drivers and Receptionist MAY speak Portuguese as well.
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Not recommended for children under 3 and people with disabilities
- We do not recommend this hike for ages older than 65
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 69524P12
From
$38.99
per adult
Select date and travelers
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- Passenger078385044570 contributionsBeautiful opportunity ❤️It's very beautiful and informative about the sea life but it's like "crossing the border," as my driver stated. There's lots of rules and informative videos ahead of time but it took over an hour just to get into the ocean...lots of people very crowded.Written January 17, 2025
- adrianasX4382SJ0 contributionsGreat Hawaiian Experience!Thank you Kaiama team for making our stay in Oahu so memorable. From our awesome driver, Nando, in the morning, to the how helpful and caring the team was. My son wears glasses and didn't bring his contacts, and Márcio personally brought the prescription mask to Hayana Bay so my son could see the fish and have fun. This meant the world to him and to us. I highly recommend touring with them!Written January 17, 2025
- A4207ZKcindyv0 contributionsEpic hike with incredible views! Many thanks to Matthew for the tips, information and hospitality! The hike was challenging but rewarding with stunning views! At a leisurely pace I finished the hike in 1.5 hours.Written January 16, 2025
- CookswithpassionTN0 contributionsLovely experience in a pristine settingThis was a very enjoyable activity on our first morning in Hawaii. Being on East Coast time made it easy to do the early departure at 5:45a. The vendor was excellent in providing pre-arrival info on meeting time and place and rental/purchase options and cost. The drivers were friendly and provided laminated sheets that showed the snorkeling area and the fish that are in the reefs. Whales had also been seen in the area as they migrate south. Active duty military with ID are not charged the $25 State Park Fee. The staff at the park were very informative. There is a concession for burgers, chicken tenders, fries etc. for the usual high prices. There is a rental fee for lockers. Free trolleys run frequently from the park entrance up and down the hill to the beach, or there is a walking path. The 12:30 departure from the park is well-timed. It would be nice if a small "non-snorkel" discount could be offered for people (like me) who don't do well in that activity and have no need of the equipment but want to spend time with others who do. My husband did enjoy the water and saw a few fish--I enjoyed the sun and beautiful beach. There are nice areas to walk in the park for overlooks of the beach, look for birds, and see beautiful trees and flowers.Written January 16, 2025
- kennethkL9293RV0 contributionsKaimana Tour Hanauma Bay Snorkeling.One of the best things to do on the island. Kaimana Tours was EXCELLENT to deal with!!!!!!! The driver was amazing that everything was planned out and coordinated!!! Had a wonderful day at Hanauma bay!!!!!!! No hassle about purchasing tickets on line or dealing with the very limited parking. The snorkeling gear was provided as part of the package!!!!!! Kaimana tours took care of it all including pick up and drop off locations to and from hotels!!!Written January 16, 2025
- caterinasM9485EE0 contributionsgreat!They were great, we were among the firsts to enter the park. I was proably the second person in the water and saw a lot more in those first 30 mins, than the rest of the time there when the fish were getting scared away by the crowd. Fernando, the driver and guide, was super efficient and on time. He dropped us off and picked us up and the exact time he said he would. The equipment was good, don't be like me and rent extra umbrellas and chairs because you'll be in the water the whole time anyways.Written January 14, 2025
- 286shannanb0 contributionsYOU CAN WALK IN - this is just transport & equips.- READ THE FINE PRINT - Hanuma Bay is by by reservation OR WALK IN. We thought the reservations were sold out. This excursion company advertises "last minute cancellation". 2 tickets. - They are not 2 tickets into the park. Just transport. Wasted $150.00, because we already had a car. My dumb. But I called and they referred me back to trip advisor. KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK.Written January 13, 2025
- 907gretchenp0 contributionsDisappointedHanauma Bay was beautiful and we had an amazing time snorkeling. However, our driver was extremely rude and unfriendly and it really put a damper on what should have been an incredible experience.Written January 13, 2025
- U2217WLdavidm0 contributionsVery nice, had to take kids for the experience3Very nice time but super hard to get reservations. They only allow to book reservations 2 days in advance, starting time 7am Hawaiian time, sold out by 7:10am, so you have to have credit card and try hard to get the limited appts. 25 bucks a person plus 3 for parking. Saw some fish but remember alot more back when. Kids had a good time. Buy your snorkle stuff at Walmart in town, 15 bucks for simple set. You can rent, did not ask, had my pwn stuff. They will not let you in early, so be there 20 mins before appt time.Written January 13, 2025
- H2145GOfernandad0 contributionsSnorkeling experience with Kaimana TourI got to experience the best experience with Kaimana Tours, never went snorkeling before and I got to do it for the first time in my life. Saw many different fishes and Kaimana Tours allowed me to use their equipments which allowed to see these beautiful fishes up close. It was a great day for my family and I! I recommend Kaimana Tours!Written January 12, 2025
- V8097PRpaulot0 contributionsA lot good memories.very good experience we had on this tour the treatment was excellent we will definitely go back. We took lots of photos to remember the moments we had there and the service was 1000.Written January 11, 2025
- Angelica D0 contributionsThe best experience everMy family and i had a very great experience with kaimana tour, started when we booked and until of the equipment rental . I had with me a nephew who couldn't dive without glasses and they provided the appropriate goggles that made him very happy. We will definitely use them again, and we very recommend.Written January 11, 2025
- H2145GOfernandad0 contributionsSnorkeling with Kaimana ToursKaimana Tours allowed me to experience a very good day with my family at the bay. We went snorkeling and saw many different fishes, it was such a wonderful time. Thank you for allowing me to use your equipments so I can snorkel. Will never forget this experience I had!Written January 11, 2025
- Angelica D0 contributionsThe best experienceMy family and I had a very great experience with Kaimana tour and all the details. My nephew needed prescription goggles and Kaimana tour took care of that for him. Snorkling was amazing, saw different fishes and was a very amazing memory to keep. Of course we will use they again for sure.Written January 11, 2025
- N2125ASnormag0 contributionsBeautiful view!!Thank you Tommy (Thomas Kim) Our tour was amazing! He recommended a few restaurants along the way and back! We highly recommend this tour.Written January 5, 2025
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
49 reviews
Excellent
40
Very good
5
Average
2
Poor
0
Terrible
2
anotherwhatever
Winnipeg, Manitoba12 contributions
We considered renting a carto go and do this hike. We are really happy that we did not rent a car. Kevin, the Kaimana tour driver was prompt, informative and had a great sense of humour. We were picked up at the hotel at 6:50 am sharp. We were dropped off at the trail head at approximately 7:30am. Already, a lot of the car parking spaces were full! We met Kevin at 9:45 am (exactly where and when he said he would be there to pick us up).
The hike is easy and well worth doing, but that isn't what this review is about. At 9:45 am, the parking was full beyond capacity. It is not worth the car rental, the frustration of morning traffic or trying to find parking! Call Kaimana Tours or book online!
By the way, we forgot my binoculars in the van, and I received a message within minutes and Kevin brought them back to me! 5 stars!!!
The hike is easy and well worth doing, but that isn't what this review is about. At 9:45 am, the parking was full beyond capacity. It is not worth the car rental, the frustration of morning traffic or trying to find parking! Call Kaimana Tours or book online!
By the way, we forgot my binoculars in the van, and I received a message within minutes and Kevin brought them back to me! 5 stars!!!
Written February 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your feedback! We really appreciate you taking the time out to share your
experience with us! We are glad Kevin was accommodating to you folks! It brings us a great deal of
joy that we were able to leave a mark on your trip to Oahu!
Written March 6, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kimberly G
107 contributions
Feb 2022
This tour was excellent! I was picked up from a nearby hotel (I had to be picked up at neighboring Illikai Hotel since they don't do pickups from Hilton Hawaiian Village). And I was picked up right on time!
We were then taken to Halona Blowhole where you can see whales in the distance (it was whale season when I came!). The views are gorgeous and I believe Jurassic World was filmed there as well as 50 First Dates if I'm not mistaken. A bunch of films were filmed there I'm sure!
Then we were taken to the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail. I love that this is self guided because you can go at your own pace. Just make sure to meet your driver at the designated spot and time. This is a paved trail, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's an easy hike. Experienced hikers will eat this up with no issue, but if you're not an active person, it will be quite the workout: your thighs and butt will be sore the next day! The inclines can get a little steep.
The views along the trail are GORGEOUS. You will definitely feel compelled to stop and take pictures/selfies. You'll see the Koko Head crater from a distance.
When you finally make it to the top, you'll realize it was ALL worth it! I mean, wow! You'll see a picture perfect view of the pacific with two gorgeous rock formations in the distance. You'll also see the lighthouse, but it pales in comparison to the natural wonder that lies before you. I'm an atheist, but the views at the top challenged my beliefs. Stunning!
I'd suggest that Kaimana Tours invest in rain ponchos. They would be greatly appreciated during downpours.
I highly suggest booking the earliest time you can get before it gets too hot!
We were then taken to Halona Blowhole where you can see whales in the distance (it was whale season when I came!). The views are gorgeous and I believe Jurassic World was filmed there as well as 50 First Dates if I'm not mistaken. A bunch of films were filmed there I'm sure!
Then we were taken to the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail. I love that this is self guided because you can go at your own pace. Just make sure to meet your driver at the designated spot and time. This is a paved trail, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's an easy hike. Experienced hikers will eat this up with no issue, but if you're not an active person, it will be quite the workout: your thighs and butt will be sore the next day! The inclines can get a little steep.
The views along the trail are GORGEOUS. You will definitely feel compelled to stop and take pictures/selfies. You'll see the Koko Head crater from a distance.
When you finally make it to the top, you'll realize it was ALL worth it! I mean, wow! You'll see a picture perfect view of the pacific with two gorgeous rock formations in the distance. You'll also see the lighthouse, but it pales in comparison to the natural wonder that lies before you. I'm an atheist, but the views at the top challenged my beliefs. Stunning!
I'd suggest that Kaimana Tours invest in rain ponchos. They would be greatly appreciated during downpours.
I highly suggest booking the earliest time you can get before it gets too hot!
Written February 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
olga k
Glendale, CA30 contributions
May 2024 • Solo
Matthew was our guide, and he was fantastic! As a local, he knows the island inside and out and has a great sense of humor. He was punctual, picking everyone up on time, and was patient with those who got lost at the pickup point. With the island's tricky parking situation, I highly recommend this tour to avoid the hassle of finding a spot for your car.
I also suggest taking this tour early in your trip and early in the day. We had time to explore the stunning Koko Crater by the sea and make a restroom stop. If you're visiting from the mainland, you'll likely be jetlagged and up early, so why not start your vacation with something fun and active? This tour is the perfect way to kick off your adventure!
I also suggest taking this tour early in your trip and early in the day. We had time to explore the stunning Koko Crater by the sea and make a restroom stop. If you're visiting from the mainland, you'll likely be jetlagged and up early, so why not start your vacation with something fun and active? This tour is the perfect way to kick off your adventure!
Written May 29, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rich C
Osseo, MN7 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
My wife and I used your service 2 days in a row during our dream vacation to Oahu. Both of our drivers went above and beyond our expectations!
Jensen was born and raised here and was wise and hospitable beyond his years.
Mark was also quite knowledgeable about the history of the island and shared that helpful information with us all along our route...in a very humorous way!
Both drivers we prompt and friendly. They made our vacation that much more enjoyable.
Rich & Dawn Cleveland
Jensen was born and raised here and was wise and hospitable beyond his years.
Mark was also quite knowledgeable about the history of the island and shared that helpful information with us all along our route...in a very humorous way!
Both drivers we prompt and friendly. They made our vacation that much more enjoyable.
Rich & Dawn Cleveland
Written February 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your feedback! We really appreciate you taking the time out to share your experience with us! It brings us a great deal of
joy that we were able to leave a mark on your trip to Oahu!
Written February 24, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Callie P
37 contributions
Cousin Mark was our driver and he did absolutely fantastic. He was on time for pickup. He kept the drive entertaining and told us all kids of things about himself and the island. He made sure we knew what to expect on our hike and was back exactly when he said he would be. You could tell he knew all of us were a little tired after the hike and kept the drive back light on conversation and smooth.
Written July 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It is our pleasure to hear your valuable feedback. Hope to see you again!
Written July 30, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Leo G
4 contributions
Jan 2021 • Couples
Makapu’u Lighthouse was a really nice and fun hike. We used Kaimana Tours shuttle to get there and they made sure we were safe and good to go. Our driver Diogo made sure to check our temperatures before getting in the shuttle. We had our masks on and so did he. There were bottles of hand sanitizers placed throughout the van as well. My fiancé and I got lucky because it was only us on the shuttle so it felt really safe and cozy, especially during these times were in. I would most definitely recommend Kaimana Tours for traveling around the island. Mahalo
Written January 11, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bohatchlady
99 contributions
I would highly suggest booking this tour! The shuttle service is so convenient and our driver pointed out many sites along the way. He even made a stop to the Halona Blowhole on the way back which was amazing!!
So to start…..since this is a review of the actually Kaimana company……I will start there: when booking through Kaimana, they ask you where you are staying and they tell you which resort/hotel to go to for pick up. We only had 4 stops I think….so you may have to walk a few minutes to nearest pickup location.
Be on time and look for either a white or black shuttle bus. It will say Kaimana on top. When you get dropped off at your destination, keep in mind, the driver probably has to go back into Waikiki to pick up another group for another tour…..so being on time is important!!
The driver (he said to call him Richard, I think) I hate I can’t remember his name. He was very informative and made jokes on the drive.
We went on the Makapu’u Trail and it was amazing!!! And very windy!! Especially at the top….so hold on to your hats!! He gave us 2 hours, which was plenty of time and returned promptly.
So again, I would definitely recommend Kaimana for your next tour while in Oahu!
So to start…..since this is a review of the actually Kaimana company……I will start there: when booking through Kaimana, they ask you where you are staying and they tell you which resort/hotel to go to for pick up. We only had 4 stops I think….so you may have to walk a few minutes to nearest pickup location.
Be on time and look for either a white or black shuttle bus. It will say Kaimana on top. When you get dropped off at your destination, keep in mind, the driver probably has to go back into Waikiki to pick up another group for another tour…..so being on time is important!!
The driver (he said to call him Richard, I think) I hate I can’t remember his name. He was very informative and made jokes on the drive.
We went on the Makapu’u Trail and it was amazing!!! And very windy!! Especially at the top….so hold on to your hats!! He gave us 2 hours, which was plenty of time and returned promptly.
So again, I would definitely recommend Kaimana for your next tour while in Oahu!
Written July 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We enjoy reading reviews like this! Thanks for participating in our tour and we home you come back to our island soon!!
Written July 21, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mehdi k
3 contributions
Feb 2020 • Friends
This was an easy hike and the view was amazing. Kaimana always seems to do a good job with their customers. They even give us helpful Tips about where to see some whales. They also provided water for us. 5 star experience would definitely recommend
Written February 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your feedback! We really appreciate you taking the time out to share your experience with us! Hope you got to see some whales! Aloha,
Written February 24, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Travelcooking
London, UK3,687 contributions
Dec 2019
At the east of the island of Oahu you will find this trail which is fairly and easy hike as it is a paved road. It will take you around 45 minutes to conquer and you will enjoy scenic view. In our case, we had wind, rain and sun so be prepared. The views are genuinely nice, and it is enjoyable. Parking fills quickly and our suggestion is to come early as it opens.
Written July 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your feedback! We are glad we were able to leave a good impression on our beautiful island for you folks! Aloha and best wishes.
Written July 3, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Passport15044781124
1 contribution
Jul 2024 • Family
Used the go city pass which is unlimited. Had an emergency come up and notified driver, yet they charged my credit card the full price even though I was using a gocity pass. Will never do business with this company again. Avoid and go with someone else.
Written July 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha, we suggest reading company guidelines and rules before booking. We have a 48 cancellation policy, GoCity can only be used if you appear on the tour, its all stated in your booking reservation.
Written July 30, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
lmatt77
Long Beach, New York
Have you addressed the bathroom break request as suggested by one reviewer?
Written August 23, 2019
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