Baby Makapu'u Beach

If you're looking for things to do with kids, I would recommend Baby Makapu'u Beach.  We spent a morning there last week and plan to go back soon!  

First off, it's a beautiful spot!  The contrast of the black rocks and the white sand, the blue ocean and Manana Island/Rabbit Island offshore, the sunlight sparkling on the water - you know you're in Hawaii!

Several of the tidepools have sandy bottoms, making them perfect kiddie pools.  The rocks are great for exploring (but watch out for the slippery ones) and my kids had fun finding crabs and other small creatures.  There were quite a few little fish and some of them nibbled our toes when we sat really still in one of the pools.  My son thought that was neat!

Although this was my first visit, it was obvious this is a popular place for families with children.  If you want to miss out on the crowds go early or head there later in the day when others have headed home for lunch and/or naptime.

Do it yourself on Oahu

Location:  Off of Kalanianaole Hwy. (Hwy 72) across from Sea Life Park

Directions:  

• If you are coming from Honolulu/Waikiki drive through Hawaii Kai, past Hanauma Bay, Makapu'u Lighthouse and Makapu'u Beach Park.  You'll see the entrance to Sea Life Park on your left.  Continue until you see the exit to Sea Life Park.  The entrance to this beach is almost directly across from the exit to Sea Life Park.  Turn to the right (toward the ocean) and then when you have the choice to go right or left, turn left to get to the part of the beach pictured and described here.

• If you are coming from the windward side drive through Waimanalo, pass the entrance to Bellows Beach Park, pass the U.H. research pier on your left and look for the exit to Sea Life Park on your right.  The entrance to this beach is almost directly across from the exit to Sea Life Park.  Turn left here and then when you have the choice to go right or left, turn left to get to the part of the beach pictured and described here.

Parking:  There is a parking area here.  As always, do not leave valuables in your car.

Facilities:  There are no restrooms or showers at this part of the beach.  However, where the road splits if you turn to the right there is a restroom in that part of the parking area.

Other:  I've heard this is a great place to take kids tide pooling at low tide.  Wear water/reef shoes to protect your feet and be careful not to step on marine life.