Things To Do
in Makaha
Makaha is a small town located on the west coast of the Hawaiian island of Oahu. It is known for its stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and great surfing opportunities. The community in Makaha is close-knit and welcoming, with a strong sense of local pride and culture.
Visitors to Makaha can enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and hiking in the beautiful natural surroundings.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing session at Makaha Beach, where the morning waves are gentle and the sun is just rising. Enjoy a swim or simply sunbathe on the warm sand.
For lunch, visit a nearby local eatery to taste some authentic Hawaiian poke. Spend your afternoon snorkeling in the vibrant waters, exploring the underwater life.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the shoreline to experience the breathtaking sunset views. Enjoy a beachfront dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Get your adrenaline pumping by taking a surfing lesson at Makaha Beach, known for its great waves. Even beginners can enjoy catching their first wave with the help of instructors.
After your surfing session, grab a hearty lunch at a beachside café. Spend the afternoon trying stand-up paddleboarding along the calm coast.
As the day wraps up, relax at a nearby beach bar, enjoying tropical drinks and live music. Don't miss the vibrant Hawaiian sunset as the day comes to a close.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and stunning natural scenery
- Great for water sports like surfing and snorkeling
- Less crowded compared to other tourist destinations in Hawaii
- A strong sense of community and local culture
- Mild climate year-round
- Limited access to some amenities and services
- Higher cost of living compared to the mainland US
- Potential for natural disasters like hurricanes or flooding
- Public transportation options may be limited
- Remote location may lead to isolation from other areas
Best Activities in Makaha
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience some of the best waves in Hawaii at Makaha Beach, known for its consistent surf, especially during the winter months. Suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Explore the underwater world at Makaha Caverns, where you can see colorful marine life and beautiful coral reefs. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
Take a hike through the scenic Makaha Valley. Enjoy lush landscapes, stunning vistas, and possibly spot some local wildlife along the trails.
Enjoy stand-up paddleboarding in the calm waters of Makaha. Rentals are available, and it’s a great way to explore the coastline while getting a workout.
Join a fishing charter in Makaha for a day on the water. Catch a variety of fish including mahi-mahi and tuna while enjoying the beautiful ocean scenery.
Play a game of beach volleyball on the sands of Makaha Beach. There are often nets set up for public use, making it a fun way to engage with locals and visitors alike.
Tours
Uncover the best of Makaha with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Makaha
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its stunning sunset views and clear waters, Makaha Beach is perfect for beach photography and capturing the beauty of the ocean.
With its lush green valleys and towering mountains, this location offers picturesque panoramic views ideal for landscape photography.
A less crowded spot with beautiful scenery, Makua Beach is great for capturing dramatic beach landscapes and wildlife, especially during whale season.
The westernmost point of Oahu provides stunning cliffside views of the Pacific Ocean and is perfect for sunset photography.
Famous for its surf culture, this beach offers vibrant action shots of surfers catching waves along with gorgeous ocean backdrops.
Hiking this trail rewards you with breathtaking views of the coastline and the chance to capture unique perspectives of the landscape.
The lighthouse area provides a perfect foreground for ocean views, ideal for capturing stunning sunrises and seascapes.
Food in Makaha
Makaha Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple of Hawaiian cuisine, poke consists of cubed, raw fish marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings. It's typically served as an appetizer or snack and can be found at local markets and eateries like Tamura's Fine Wine & Liquors.
Must-Try!
Kalua pig is a traditional Hawaiian dish made by slow-cooking a whole pig in an underground imu oven. The result is tender, smoky, and flavorful meat that is often served at luaus and local plate lunch spots such as Tita's Grill & Catering.
A beloved Hawaiian dessert, haupia is a coconut milk-based pudding with a smooth, custard-like texture. It's a delightful sweet treat commonly available at bakeries and food trucks across Makaha.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Makaha better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in nearby Waianae town, this vibrant market offers fresh produce, local snacks, and a variety of ready-to-eat foods, including flavorful shaved ice and mouthwatering malasadas.
During the mango season, keep an eye out for roadside stalls and farmers' markets offering an assortment of mango-based goodies, from tangy chutneys to refreshing mango smoothies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Embrace the 'Aloha Spirit', which emphasizes kindness, respect, and hospitality. Use the word 'Aloha' not just as a greeting, but as a way of life to show appreciation and goodwill towards others.
Show respect for the natural environment, which is deeply valued in Hawaiian culture. Avoid littering, follow local guidelines when visiting beaches and natural areas, and be mindful of the cultural significance of certain sites.
Be aware of traditional Hawaiian greetings, such as 'hugs' or 'cheek-to-cheek' greetings, as they reflect the culture's emphasis on community and togetherness. Always wait for the other person to initiate physical contact.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Makaha with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Makaha
Ensure a smooth experience
In Makaha, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is generally expected in the service industry, particularly in restaurants, bars, and for services like haircuts and taxi rides. The typical tip amount ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service received. Some establishments will add a gratuity to the bill for larger parties.
Payment methods in Makaha typically include cash, credit cards, and mobile payment options. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and cash is still a common method for smaller transactions. Tourists are usually encouraged to carry some cash, as smaller vendors or local markets may not accept cards. Additionally, some places may have contactless payment options available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Makaha.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter in Makaha, which runs from December to February, is generally mild with temperatures ranging from 64°F to 81°F. This season brings larger surf waves, making it a popular time for experienced surfers. Visitors can expect vibrant sunsets and occasional rain, but there are plenty of sunny days to enjoy.
Spring, from March to May, features warm weather with temperatures between 65°F to 83°F. The surf begins to calm down, making it a great time for snorkeling and swimming. It's also a less crowded season, offering a more relaxed experience and the chance to see blooming flowers and lush landscapes.
Summer, lasting from June to August, is the peak tourist season in Makaha, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 88°F. Expect sunny and dry weather, perfect for beach activities and exploring the outdoors. However, it can be crowded, so early bookings for accommodations and activities are recommended.
Fall, from September to November, experiences a return to milder temperatures of 67°F to 84°F. This season sees fewer tourists and lower prices, making it a wonderful time for visitors seeking solitude. The ocean begins to swell again, offering good surf conditions for intermediates and experienced surfers.
Makaha at Night
Hiking in Makaha
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail that takes you through the lush Makaha Valley, offering beautiful views and the opportunity to see local wildlife.
This trail leads hikers to stunning vistas of the Makua coastline and surrounding mountains, with challenging terrain and a rewarding experience.
A coastal hike leading to the westernmost point of Oahu, featuring panoramic ocean views, sea cliffs, and opportunities to observe native wildlife.
A beautiful trail along the Waianae Coast that offers views of the Pacific Ocean, ideal for both hiking and photography.
Not too far from Makaha, this loop offers lush greenery and views of the surrounding valleys and the H3 freeway, with a well-maintained path.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Makaha through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Makaha by plane.
The main airport serving Honolulu and the surrounding Hawaiian islands.
The second largest airport in Hawaii, located on the island of Maui.
The primary airport serving the island of Kauai.
An airport located on the Big Island of Hawaii, serving the eastern part of the island.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant demographic group in Makaha, largely consisting of Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islander communities.
This group includes local residents as well as individuals who have settled in the area, contributing to the diverse community.
A smaller yet notable demographic, the Hispanic or Latino community adds to the cultural diversity of the region.
Includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds, contributing to the multicultural environment in Makaha.
A minority demographic group in Makaha, contributing to the overall ethnic diversity.
The Soul of Makaha
Discover the essence of Makaha through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Makaha is renowned for its beautiful beaches and strong waves, making it a prime location for surfing enthusiasts.
With clear waters and abundant marine life, snorkeling is a popular activity in the waters around Makaha.
Kayaking is a popular way to explore the coastline and nearby areas, enjoyed by both locals and visitors.
Many beachgoers engage in volleyball games on Makaha's sandy shores, making it a favorite pastime.
Fishing in the ocean or off the shores is popular among residents and visitors, taking advantage of the rich marine resources.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Makaha.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Hawaiian cuisine heavily features meat and fish, many restaurants in Makaha offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as taro-based dishes, fresh fruit plates, and plant-based poke bowls.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy gluten-free menu items at several eateries, including grilled fish, tropical salads, and poi, a gluten-free Hawaiian staple made from taro.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Makaha with these cultural adventures.
