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Makapu’u

By Jonathan Howery

Another one of the great stops that your guide will make along the way on the Hawaii Turtle Tour is to Makapu’u. Makapu’u is the most eastern end of the Island of O’ahu in the Hawaiian Islands chain. The cliffs at Makapu’u Point form that very eastern tip of the island and it is also the site of a 46 foot tall lighthouse. Makapu’u, in the Hawaiian language, means “bulging eye”. The name is thought to derive from a nearby cave hidden in the cliffs. The entire area where the tour bus stops, features a great panoramic and scenic view off the side of the highway.

Along the Makapu’u area you’ll get to see and take pictures of some distinct places and landmarks. Near the stop is Sea Life Park, a large commercial aquarium featuring Hawaiian marine life and shows with trained dolphins and seals. Makapu’u Point Lighthouse is in range of pictures at the stop. It is still an active lighthouse established in 1909 by the US Coast Guard. Makapu’u Point State Wayside is a turn-off point with a paved road leading to the top. Its a great place to go back to and hike up as it is open to the public and leads up to Makapu’u Lighthouse. The trail is roughly 2 miles roundtrip and is well worth the trip to the summit lookout. Its a great place to view blowholes and whale watch during whale watching season on Oahu.

Some other noteworthy marks for pictures are Makapu’u Beach Park and Manana Island. Makapu’u Beach Park is a local body and boogie boarding beach with easy catch waves unless its rough surf on the seas. Manana Island, also known as Rabbit Island, is an offshore volcanic formation known as a tuff cone that resembles a large rabbit’s head rising out of the ocean. It was once inhabited by introduced rabbits from a rancher in the 20th century. The island is now a protected bird sanctuary and is unfortunately off limits unless you have a permit.

Well, enjoy your vacation here in the lovely Hawaiian Islands. If you have any questions about Hawaii Turtle Tours or about this blog, feel free to email at [email protected].

 

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