Makapu'u Two Ways: Tide Pools and Puka

This week I explored the East side of O'ahu.  Tuesday, three of us hiked the infamous Makapu'u Puka and Wednesday, two of us hiked Makapu'u Tide Pools---both hikes were firsts for me.  The Makapu'u area of O'ahu in September is hot---the grass is brown, the breeze is almost non-existent, and the ocean and glorious Ka Iwi Coastline are the main scenic attractions.  I have hiked the Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail numerous times (if you can even consider a paved trail wide enough for a truck to drive a hike).  I have also hiked to the Pillboxes/Bunkers at Makapu'u.  I have hiked down to Alan Davis Beach and Pele's Chair.  I felt like I had pretty well explored this little area of O'ahu.  Then all at once this week, I hiked to two new places also in the Makapu'u peninsula.

Today I was invited to join my friend Mary on a hiking/swimming adventure---of course I said YES! We dropped the kiddos at school, hopped in the car and headed East.  We parked along the side of the road between the Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail lot and the Makapu'u Lookout lot as the Lighthouse Trail lot was closed for re-paving.  This only added an additional five minutes to our walk down to the Ka Iwi Shoreline where we walked along jagged rocks, dodged waves, and battled the sun in search of our tide pool adventure.  We picked the perfect day and time to hit this coast which I'm sure can be quite dangerous if a rogue wave or huge swell comes in.  We caught glimpses of crabs, fish, and untouched coastline that the average tourist probably doesn't get to experience.

Each section of coastline was unique and picture worthy.  This trail, that isn't a trail, weaved in and out and brought us to several rock formations until we finally hit a tide pool that seemed worthy of taking a dip in.  We felt luxurious, spoiled, and immensely happy to take a cool refreshing dip halfway through our hike.

I've never experienced anything like the seclusion and relaxation of the private pools at the base of Makapu'u.  I didn't want to leave, but knew we couldn't hide here forever.  We dried off, breathed in the last of the gorgeous sights and immediately stumbled upon a hidden cave.  The day just kept getting better.  The cave, or bird haven, provided a spectacular view of the raging waters below and a reprieve from the morning sun.

A little further down the rocky coast, we came to the typical tide pool hangout and the junction where we would climb up to head back to the car.  It was at the final leg of the journey that we heard deep rumblings and were greeted with yet another of natures surprises, a blowhole.  Every couple of minutes the ocean and rocks unleashed a thunder of sound and spray that we got to witness as the grand finale to a morning well spent.

Makapu'u Tide Pools did not disappoint.  And neither did the previous days hike up to what is known as Makapu'u Puka.  Puka is a 'hole' so Makapu'u Puka is a giant natural hole in the rock (on the side of a tall mountain) that can be seen from the highway below and is a restricted hike across the street from the non-restricted Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail.  If you are looking for added adventure, the Puka trail is for you.

Within the first five to ten minutes along this trail you are welcomed with views of Eastside beaches, the backside of the Makapu'u Lighthouse, the Pacific Ocean, Rabbit Island, and Sea Life Park.  The Puka Trail is a nonstop uphill hike on an exposed ridge.  It is hot.  The sun is beating down on you.  You will drink your weight in water.  Or want to.  Your legs will want to stop.  Your breath will be heavy.  But you'll keep going to reach that Puka!

Along the majority of the trail you will be ankle to knee deep in sharp thorns, sharp grass, and dusty rocks and gravel.  Keep going.  You will see the backside of Koko Crater.  You will think you are almost to the Puka.  You are not.  Climb. Climb. Climb some more.  And then you will come to a point on the trail where you can see the Puka in the distance and this will be your motivation to keep going.

Makapu'u Puka was no Tide Pool adventure, but it was an adventure in bonding with the ladies that went with me, another test of my endurance, more cardio, and excitement over not getting caught hiking in a restricted area.

Makapu'u has so much to offer.  There is something here for all types of adventurers.  Whether you love a challenging hiking trail, a relaxing dip in a spa like atmosphere, a stroll to a Lighthouse, or a Pillbox exploration---you can find it all at Makapu'u!  I heart Makapu'u.