As close as we could get, but still so worth it.
1 / 10

Ninini Point Lighthouse Lihue Hawaii

4.4
·449 reviews·Lihue, United States

Historic lighthouse on Kauai offering stunning coastal views and unique aerial perspectives near Lihue Airport.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Optimal for photography

CrowdLow
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As close as we could get, but still so worth it.

Ninini Point Lighthouse Lihue Hawaii

Best Time

Daytime

Optimal for photography

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic lighthouse on Kauai offering stunning coastal views and unique aerial perspectives near Lihue Airport.

4.4
(449 reviews)

"Breathtaking views and a unique spot to watch planes land against the ocean backdrop."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Navigate the Dirt Road

A short, rocky dirt road leads to the lighthouse. Consider walking if you have a low-clearance vehicle.

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Ideal for capturing stunning coastal landscapes and aircraft.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.4 · 449 reviews

Type

Tourist Attraction

👶 Good for kids

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ninini Point Lighthouse

Ninini Point Lighthouse

Adjacent to Lihue Airport

An 86-foot tall, historic lighthouse offering stunning coastal views and a unique perspective of aircraft arrivals.

Coastal Vistas

Coastal Vistas

Cliffside overlooking the ocean

Breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and coastline, perfect for photography and soaking in the natural beauty.

Aircraft Spotting

Aircraft Spotting

Near Lihue Airport runway

Enjoy the unique spectacle of planes landing and taking off against a backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing Ninini Point Lighthouse

Reaching Ninini Point Lighthouse involves navigating through the Marriott property and a short, rocky dirt road. While the lighthouse itself isn't open to the public, the scenic drive and coastal views are worth the effort for photographers and nature lovers.

Best Use of Your Visit

Ninini Point Lighthouse is ideal for photography and enjoying coastal vistas, especially with views of planes landing at Lihue Airport. It's a quieter spot, perfect for those seeking a less crowded experience away from main tourist hubs.

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Optimal for photography
Crowd
Low
When
Early Morning
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Visiting O’ahu and want an easy hike? Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail is paved, only about 2 miles round trip, and has stunning panoramic ocean views—plus, during winter, you might even spot whales! 🐳 • • • #oahu #oahuhawaii #hawaii #honolulu #hawaiivacation #makapuulighthouse #travel #whalewatching #Hiking #fyp #CapCut
@adventuring.allie
30.5K likes • 295.3K views

🚗 Navigate the Dirt Road

A short, rocky dirt road leads to the lighthouse. Consider walking if you have a low-clearance vehicle. Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Ideal for capturing stunning coastal landscapes and aircraft. InstagramReddit

Have you ever heard of Makauwahi Cave Reserve? 📌 Save this video for your trip to Kauai! This is a must-do for all ages, and the best part? It’s free! 🙌
 🌊 Start at Shipwreck Beach – Relax, swim, or explore the cliffs nearby. It’s the perfect way to kick off your day! 🥾 Hike the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail – an easy, scenic walk with ocean views. 🌴 Discover Makauwahi Cave Reserve – Open daily from 1...
@travelwith.kri
18.5K likes • 285.4K views
Travelling has its perks of snagging some banger photos every now and then. #travel #swapic #hawaii #lighthouse #plane
mikeylamb46
42 likes • 0 views

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Walking the path offers beautiful views and a chance to spot local birds. Instagram

📍 Follow the Signs

Navigate through the Marriott property using signs for the lighthouse. Reddit

Ninini Point Lighthouse on Kauai and a watercolor painting of it by @the_world_is_in_color 😍 #nininipointlighthouse #lighthouse #kauai #watercolor #watercolorpainting
savvy_savy
32 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Navigate the Dirt Road

A short, rocky dirt road leads to the lighthouse. Consider walking if you have a low-clearance vehicle. Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Ideal for capturing stunning coastal landscapes and aircraft. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Walking the path offers beautiful views and a chance to spot local birds. Instagram

📍 Follow the Signs

Navigate through the Marriott property using signs for the lighthouse. Reddit

🚫 Not Open to Public

The lighthouse structure itself is not accessible for tours. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(449 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate Ninini Point Lighthouse for its stunning coastal views and unique perspective of planes landing at Lihue Airport. While the lighthouse itself is not accessible, the scenic drive and photo opportunities make it a worthwhile stop for many. Some find the access road a bit challenging, and note the lack of public entry into the lighthouse structure.

"This was a great off the beaten path spot that had some fantastic views. In addition it was directly in the flight path of landing planes which the kids enjoyed watching land. The road there is a bit rough at the end but was worth it."

Joe Kurtz

"This is another lighthouse on the island, located right behind the airport. Access requires driving through the publicly accessible Marriott property (a large complex with vacation rentals and a golf course). Follow the signs for the lighthouse. Once you reach the end of the Marriott property, adjacent to the airport, be prepared for a 5-10 minute drive on a dirt road that loops around the property and airport to reach the lighthouse parking area. From there, it's a walk to the lighthouse itself (walking the entire way is also an option but will take longer). Unfortunately, the lighthouse is not open to the public. Despite this, the cliffside location still offers views of planes landing and a nice vista of the bay."

Shahbaz Salehi

"We could go into the lighthouse, but it was a beautiful setting. The wind was blowing pretty hard and you could taste the sea salt when the waves crash against the rocks. The Bay right next to it is inspiring."

John Hodson

What People Like

Breathtaking coastal views
Aircraft landing views
Great photo opportunities

What People Dislike

Lighthouse not open
Rocky access road

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access Ninini Point Lighthouse by driving through the Marriott property near Lihue Airport. Follow signs for the lighthouse, which will lead you onto a dirt road. Reddit Some visitors recommend walking the final stretch due to the rocky terrain. Reddit

The road leading to Ninini Point Lighthouse is a dirt road with rocks, especially after the Marriott property. Reddit It's advisable to drive slowly or consider walking the last half-mile. Reddit

While possible, it's recommended to be cautious on the dirt road. Some visitors suggest walking to avoid potential damage to rental cars. Reddit

Yes, Ninini Point Lighthouse is located right behind Lihue Airport, offering views of planes landing. TikTokReddit

The most common approach is via the Marriott property, followed by a dirt road. Some visitors have found it a bit confusing to find, so pay attention to signage. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to visit Ninini Point Lighthouse. Access is generally free, though it involves driving through private property. Reddit

Unfortunately, the Ninini Point Lighthouse structure itself is not open to the public for tours or entry. Reddit

Since the lighthouse is not open for tours, there are no specific operating hours. Visitors can access the grounds during daylight hours. Reddit

There is no entrance fee to visit the grounds of Ninini Point Lighthouse. The main cost is associated with your transportation to the location. Reddit

No, the lighthouse is not open for public access inside. Visitors can admire it from the exterior. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Views

The lighthouse itself, the dramatic cliffside coastline, and the planes landing at Lihue Airport provide excellent photo opportunities. InstagramReddit The surrounding natural beauty offers a mesmerizing background. Reddit

Expect breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and coastline. Reddit You'll also get a unique perspective of aircraft approaching the nearby airport. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned for sunsets, the coastal location and open views suggest it could be a beautiful spot for sunset photography. Reddit

The entire cliffside area offers great viewpoints. The path leading to the lighthouse provides continuous scenic vistas of the sea. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Nature & Wildlife

Visitors have noted seeing various birds around the lighthouse area. Instagram The coastal environment may also offer opportunities to spot marine life, though this is not frequently mentioned.

While there isn't a dedicated hiking trail system directly at the lighthouse, the walk from the parking area and the surrounding terrain offer opportunities for exploration. Reddit

Yes, some visitors have specifically mentioned finding and checking off birds in the area, suggesting it's a good spot for birdwatching. Instagram

The landscape features dramatic cliff sides overlooking the ocean, with coastal vegetation. It's a rugged and picturesque setting. Reddit

While whale watching is popular on other parts of Oahu and Kauai during winter months,TikTok there's no specific mention of whale sightings from Ninini Point Lighthouse in the provided information.

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Ninini Point Lighthouse Lihue Hawaii (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide