May 26, 2024
A sunrise hike to Lanikai Pillbox sounded like a good idea, but even on vacation (especially a short one) and even with the promise of a gorgeous sunrise, getting out of bed at 4:00 am was a big ask... so I didn't.
Instead, we woke up at a reasonable time and drove to Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trailhead. The paved TH and shoulder to the parking lot were already full when we arrived at 7am, but with our good timing someone was just pulling out of their parking spot. Lucky us!
This in and out hike is along a well-maintained wide paved path. It's very popular and kid/dog-friendly. Probably one of the more easier hikes on the island, but with big rewards at the end.
Along the way there are several dedicated viewpoints. You'll also find a quick side trail to see the old oil/storage shack. At the top there are ramps that lead you to several viewpoints.
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| View of the paved trail and ramp |
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| Makapu'u Point Lighthouse |
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| Lighthouse from main viewpoint. Can't actually go down there. |
If you hang a left before the viewpoint ramp the paved trail will lead you to dirt trail up the hill to several pillboxes with more amazing and just as windy views.
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| Dirt trail |
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| What am I doing? Probably air-drying. |
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| Starfish "cactus" (foreground), Andy (background) |
