A Secret Hike in Waianae Overlooking Makaha Beach Park

Pu'u Kea'au is one of Oahu's "secret" hikes. It's not listed on Alltrails and there's not even an actual trail. It's a scramble with a degree of danger. You have to push your way through thorny keawe forest, wade through tall grass without clear vision of where you're stepping, navigate loose small boulders, and climb over large rocks. What you get is an aerial view of Makaha Beach, the iconic big wave west side surf spot. The surf scene attracts weekend tourists, adrenaline seekers, party goers, photographers, movie producers, and celebrities, but hardly anyone ventures to the peak above. Once on top, the ridge continues towards the back of the valley if you want to extend your hike, but the perch above the beach is a perfect place to sit and watch the surf. It's tempting to stay for sunset but you don't want to be climbing down in the dark. Wait to celebrate until you're safely back at the beach rinsing off in the ocean.  🤙🏽🌊
Make sure to check out the instagram post so you can see the view of the surf from above. Click here for that