What a beautiful hike and views all the way! Found ourselves here after not being able to get into Diamond Head because, unbeknownst to us, you have to make an online reservation. No reservations needed here. The trail is completely paved. The hike is a little long, but relatively easy. We saw older hikers, toddlers, pregnant moms, dads pushing strollers, etc. Everyone can do it! The lighthouse is beautiful, but you are not allowed to get close to it; too dangerous. The views once you get to the top are really stunning. Blue ocean and green mountains as far as the eye can see; stunning. Well worth the walk. And totally free.

For some reason I had it in mind this was a leisurely stroll to the lighthouse. It is not. We hiked Diamond Head the day before so maybe I was tired but this one seemed harder. It was very humid which made it hard as well. The views along the way make it way worth it.

I want to level set here. The hike is great. We were lucky to see humpbacks during our hike. But, this isn’t an easy hike. It is straight up with several areas with a very steep incline. Plenty of spots to rest, but be ready for a workout. My legs are still killing me and we did the hike 2 days ago. I would recommend doing the hike early in the morning so you get a break from the sun. It does get very hot, so bring plenty of water.

We got a 23 bus to Sealife park then walked to the trail stopping at Makapuu lookout and beach park on the way to check out the views. We then proceeded to hike the Lighthouse trail, which is on a cement path all the way. There are parts where it gets hilly and it is hot as no shade so don't forget to bring water with you. After we did the trail to the top we walked alone the shoreline trails to get to Sandy Beach. From Sandy beach you can walk to the blow hole, but on the day we went you could see the blow hole spraying from Sandy beach and as we had done the blow hole previously we just took pictures of it from Sandy Beach. After spending time roaming Sandy Beach we caught a 23 bus back to Waikiki from the bus stop at Kealahou St + Kalanianaole Hwy

Unfortunately we didn't make it all the way to the top because it started to rain and we didn't have our umbrellas with us. It's a pretty steep hike up to the top, so if you aren't in great shape it might be a difficult hike. It gets busy and parking is limited so you'll want to get there early. There are port-a-potties on site, but no actual restrooms. We stopped just down the way at some before going on the hike. Make sure you have your camera, plenty of water and sunscreen and enjoy the hike :)

Fantastic walk, not hard at all as is paved all the way and there are plenty of places to stop and rest and take in the views. Make sure you take plenty of water and be sun smart. We were blessed to have been able to see whales and their young swimming and breaching. If you don't want to drive, you can always get an Uber to get there. It was totally worth the walk to take in the views and just have some relaxing time away from Honolulu.

This hike is easily accessible by car (a fair sized parking lot with people parking along the sides as well), and doable by bus from Waikiki as well. We took the 23 bus from Waikiki and got off at Sea Life park. To get to the start of the trail, you need to walk back up a short stretch of highway. (Don't worry there are usually a few people doing the same thing!) It's quite a narrow path walking along the road and some areas had overgrown plants which made it non-existent. We started walking up going with traffic, and then crossed the road once we saw a clear path on the opposite side. Walking opposite traffic allows cars to see you as they come around the corner. As well, you get a great view of the beach and water from there- but be aware of your surroundings as it is a busy area! In total after passing the scenic point, it's about 15 minutes to Makapu'u starting point. The trail itself is paved and all uphill. There is no shade so plan to hike early and wear sunscreen and a hat. The ocean breezes at some break points do help. We did the hike at 12:30pm which was a mistake. It was VERY hot. Views are nice from the top and scenic along the coast as you go. We saw humpback whales on our way down and many other hikers reported seeing whales. There is a second path at the start of the trail that we did not take unfortunately. There is a beautiful beach across from Sea Life park as well. Public bathrooms available (and the closest ones to Makapu'u).

We were running late for the hike so we only had 1 hour 20 minutes before the park shut. We ran up where we could before we were too puffed and walked as fast as we could. We didnt really stop at the lookouts but it was beautiful. We spent 5 minutes at the top, took some pics and then power walked back down! It was beautiful and we wish we had more time. We saw seabirds sawing above us too. The ranger was angry at us as we left, for being a couple of minutes over the time and she had already shut the gate. there was still others in the car park so I don't know how they would have gone getting out.

If you’re not accustomed to inclines, this trail will give you a bit of a workout. Going up was easier for my old knees than coming back down. My dog was unimpressed by my slow, steady pace. The views are spectacular, and the winds were powerful. Add some rain to the mix, and prime 🌈 moment. Overall, a bit of a challenge for my exercise-deprived body, but worth every knee pop. No facilities. Glad I carried water.

Nice paved hike which takes about 45 minutes each way with some stops to take pictures. Very windy once you get higher up and can see the ocean. There are a lot of people on the trail. There were no whales in the ocean to see though. It is moderate difficult at times but lots of little kids made it to the top. Great views of the ocean and lighthouse.