Makahuena Point
Dramatic sea cliffs and abundant wildlife await at Makahuena Point, a stunning natural wonder on Kauai's south shore.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light & fewer crowds
Makahuena Point
Best Time
Magical light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic sea cliffs and abundant wildlife await at Makahuena Point, a stunning natural wonder on Kauai's south shore.
"Magical morning! Look how cool this thing's gonna swim right through there. We meet him out on this entrance. "
🌅 Arrive for Sunrise
Catch the most stunning views and spot turtles before the crowds arrive. Truly magical!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The Mahaulepu Heritage Trail is rugged. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunrise Spectacle
Witness the sky ablaze with color as the sun rises over the Pacific. A truly breathtaking start to your day.
Sea Turtle Sightings
Keep an eye out for Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the rocks or swimming in the clear waters below.
Mahaulepu Heritage Trail
Hike this scenic coastal trail for dramatic ocean vistas and a glimpse into Kauai's natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Early Bird
Footwear for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Arrive for Sunrise
Catch the most stunning views and spot turtles before the crowds arrive. Truly magical!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The Mahaulepu Heritage Trail is rugged. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
🐢 Turtle Spotting
Look for sea turtles on the rocks or in the water, especially in the early morning.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. Arrive early or be prepared to walk a bit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Arrive for Sunrise
Catch the most stunning views and spot turtles before the crowds arrive. Truly magical!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The Mahaulepu Heritage Trail is rugged. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
🐢 Turtle Spotting
Look for sea turtles on the rocks or in the water, especially in the early morning.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. Arrive early or be prepared to walk a bit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking sunrise views and the magical opportunity to spot sea turtles at Makahuena Point. The rugged beauty of the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail is also a major draw for hikers and nature lovers. Some find parking challenging during peak hours, and swimming is not advised directly at the point.
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Makahuena Point is located on the southeastern tip of Kauai, near Poipu. You can drive to the Makauwahi Cave Reserve parking lot and then walk to the point. Some visitors also access it via the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail, which starts at Shipwreck Beach.
Yes, there is a parking lot near the Makauwahi Cave Reserve. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during popular times. Arriving early is recommended.
Public transportation options on Kauai are limited. It's generally recommended to have a rental car to easily access Makahuena Point and other attractions on the island.
The main viewpoint at Makahuena Point is relatively accessible. However, exploring the surrounding trails like the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail requires sturdy footwear and can be uneven.
Many visitors suggest visiting for sunrise for the best light and fewer crowds. It's also a great spot for whale watching during the winter months.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Makahuena Point is a natural landmark and does not require an entrance fee. Access to the point and the surrounding trails is free.
Makahuena Point is accessible at all hours as it is an outdoor natural area. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility. Sunrise and sunset offer particularly beautiful views.
While there aren't official guided tours specifically for Makahuena Point, many local tour operators offer excursions that include this area as part of a broader Kauai exploration, such as coastal hikes or scenic drives.
The Makauwahi Cave Reserve, located near Makahuena Point, is free to visit. It's a significant archaeological and paleontological site.
Swimming directly at Makahuena Point is generally not recommended due to strong currents and rocky shorelines. However, nearby Shipwreck Beach offers swimming opportunities.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise offers incredible soft light and vibrant colors, making it ideal for photography. The golden hour before sunset also provides beautiful lighting for capturing the dramatic coastal scenery.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean views and coastal landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting and photographing wildlife like sea turtles or distant whales.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current FAA and local park rules before flying a drone in this area to ensure compliance.
The rugged coastline, the dramatic sea cliffs, and the ocean vistas are prime photography subjects. Keep an eye out for sea turtles near the shore for unique wildlife shots.
Yes, you can photograph sea turtles from a respectful distance. It's important not to disturb them or get too close, as they are protected.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail
Many travelers recommend wearing sturdy hiking shoes as the trail can be uneven and rocky in places. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as there is limited shade. The trail provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Kauai's natural beauty and experience its wilder side. It's a perfect complement to the views from Makahuena Point itself.
What to Expect on the Trail
* Scenery: Dramatic ocean vistas, sea cliffs, and coastal erosion features.
* Wildlife: Potential sightings of sea turtles, monk seals, and various seabirds.
* Terrain: Mostly well-maintained dirt path with some rocky sections.
* Duration: Can be hiked in sections or as a longer trek, depending on your preference.
Wildlife Encounters at Makahuena Point
Beyond turtles, the waters around Makahuena Point can also be a good spot for whale watching during the winter months (December to May). Humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters to breed and calve. While you might not see them breaching directly from the point, you might spot their spouts or fins in the distance. Keep binoculars handy for a better view.
* Best time for turtles: Early morning.
* Best time for whales: Winter months (December-May).
* Important: Always observe wildlife from a safe and respectful distance.
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