Surrounded by the vast waters of different shades of blue, the Makapu’u lighthouse trail provides a memorable experience for visitors
Makapu'u Lighthouse is the largest of the six lighthouses built in the United States, according to the Historic Hawaiian Foundation website. Providing a detailed description, the website says the lighthouse has a fresnel lens known as "hype-radiant" that has 1,140 prisms and includes 12 centerpieces. For half an hour, the light is turned on before sunset and then secured half an hour after sunrise, especially during all periods of low visibility, it says.
History
Makapu'u Lighthouse and Trail were initially constructed for horses and mules to reach the lighthouse, according to the Department of Land and Natural Resources website. They are within the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline and was built in 1909, the website says. Changes, such as pavement, rocks, and mortar pilings that served as vehicle barriers with steep drop-offs were made in 1930, it continues.
Key Sights
The hike might take up to an hour or two, depending on one's pace, according to the Department of Land and Natural Resources website. The website says the trail leading to the red-roofed lighthouse starts from the parking area and climbs up the western side of the ridge.
The half-point switches to the north, following the rest of the trail. At the stop points, visitors can take breaks and admire the deep blue sea and possibly see wildlife such as wild birds and migrating humpback whales. Wildlife viewing is best seen using provided binoculars at some stop points. Interpretative signages are also located at the stop points as references and act as guides in viewing. This area of the island is hot and dry. Most plants on the trail are a variation of cacti, shrubs and low-lying trees.
Sidney Clark Ordonia, a sophomore majoring in information technology from the Philippines, said his favorite part of the hike was seeing fellow hikers take photos at the viewpoint. "There were stop points on the trail. I like seeing other people stop and take photos there too," said Ordonia.
"It's an easy hike compared to other hikes I've been to," said JC Santiago, a sophomore from the Philippines majoring in psychology. According to Santiago, the paved road made the hike easy. "The only challenge for me was the road being a bit steep," he said, and there were not enough parking spaces because of the amount of people visiting the place.
Kirara Suzuki, a senior from Japan majoring in hospitality and tourism management, said the most challenging part of the hike was choosing to do it early in the morning around 5 a.m. or 6 a.m. to catch the sunrise. "I had a difficult time seeing my way because of how dark it was when we went," she added. Suzuki said the view of the sun rising was still worth it despite the hike's difficulty without light.
Tips for Hiking
Wear sunscreen and a hat. The trail is exposed without shade.
- Bring plenty of drinking water as people start on the trail.
- Comfortable shoes are a must! The trail can be steep.
- Carry a rain poncho. Be prepared for sudden changes in the weather.
- Remember to be respectful of the land. Leave plants, rocks, and wildlife untouched.
- Stay on the trail. Do not take new paths.