Makapuu Beach- The Hidden Gem Of Oahu
Located at the southeastern edge of Oahu, the Makapuu Beach displays the stunning beauty of Hawaii in all its raw glory. The large and small lava rock cliffs with giant waves crashing into them, creating an eerie atmosphere that pulls you towards itself. The perfectly turquoise sky, often marked by clouds, creates the ideal backdrop for photography.
A red-tipped lighthouse is also balanced precariously at the edge of a cliff, a popular tourist site. The sparkling white sand and the inky blue waters create contrast like no other. Surrounded by lush greenery, Makapuu Beach is the perfect spot for the beach bum!
My reason for being here was to meet up with a friend I haven’t seen in quite a long time. Being a local, she introduced me to this area. And not only was it not crowded, but it was also for sure my favorite spot. Love at first sight. It reminded me of something out of National Geographic. The pristine blue waves, crashing violently against the abrasive shores, with a lighthouse towering from above.
The Beauty Of Makapuu
Makapu’u is over one mile southeast of Waimanalo Beach and is often missed by visitors traveling from Honolulu. Tucked along the towering cliffs of black stone, Makapuu Beach boasts all elements of nature in one spot. Whether it's the unruly waves crashing along the shore, the thick green plantations, or the dark, soaring peaks, the Makapuu Beach is often a favorite tourist destination. Although the strong winds may not always make the beach an ideal sunbathing spot, it is perfect for swimming, bodyboarding, beach lounging, paragliding, etc.
While a lifeguard is present, it is advisable to speak to them beforehand because strong currents can often create gigantic waves that can be dangerous. During sunny days, many people swim in the cool water and take part in bodyboarding while others lounge on the beach, getting that picture-perfect tan! The cliffs along the shoreline are remnants of a volcanic ridge situated over 600 feet from sea level.
The Ku Heiau is an area that is supposed to be sacred to the Hawaiian people. Hidden by thick greenery on all sides, this site has recently been discovered and is now looked after by the locals. Restrooms and showers are available for those who need to use them. There are designated picnic areas and grills for those who want to have a BBQ party. While the beach provides an excellent destination for an outdoor day, make sure to follow all the regulations and avoid littering as it can result in serious fines.
The Lighthouse
Located on an exceptionally high point among the cliffs, the Makapuu Lighthouse is a popular site for exploration by tourists. You start from the parking lot, and after over a mile of the hike, you can access Makapuu Lighthouse. This spot offers stunning panoramic views of Manana Island (also known as Rabbit Island), Black Rock (or Kaohikaipu Island), and Oahu’s eastern shore. When the skies are clearer, the islands of Molokai and Lanai may also be visible. The red top of the lighthouse makes it hard to miss and also offers a cute photography venue!
Photoshoot
Model: Ms Korruption
So, meeting up with a friend I mentioned before, we got to take some photos. Here’s a small sample but feel free to check out the rest of the set here!
Also check out these two photosets! Click on one of the two photos below:
Conclusion
While Oahu has more locations worth your time than you would've thought, the Makapuu beach takes precedence over some of the others due to its raw and stunning beauty. With the dark volcanic rocks rising in perfect contrast to the white sands and lush greenery, the Makapuu beach is a visit worth the books.
