Makapu'u tide pools

Makapu'u tide pools are natural water basins that form within black lava rock along the southeastern coast of Oahu. These shallow depressions fill with seawater at high tide and sit exposed on the rough, uneven lava formations when the water recedes.

Hawaiian communities relied on this coastal area for centuries, developing fishing techniques and marine harvesting practices that sustained their populations. The site has remained rooted in local history as a place of practical and cultural importance.

This coastal area has served Hawaiian communities for generations through traditional fishing and gathering practices that shaped their connection to the ocean. Today, visitors walk these shores and witness the enduring relationship between the land and sea that remains central to local life.

Check tide charts before your visit to find the best time when water levels are low and pools are fully exposed and accessible. The rocky terrain is uneven and slippery, so wear good shoes and move carefully to stay safe on the lava surfaces.

The pools trap sea urchins, crabs, and small fish in protected rocky depressions during low tide, creating miniature ocean ecosystems. These isolated ponds offer a rare glimpse into the hidden lives of marine creatures that normally dwell in deeper waters offshore.

Location: Hawaii

GPS coordinates: 21.30405,-157.64909

Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:03