Makapu'u Point is the easternmost tip of Oahu, where the island's green sea cliffs drop sharply into the Pacific. The beach below is one of the island's best bodysurfing spots — short, powerful shorebreak waves that draw experienced swimmers year-round. The currents are strong and there are no lifeguards at all hours, so it's not a beginner's spot.
Above the beach, the Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail is a paved 1.2-kilometre walk up the headland that rewards you with sweeping views of the Windward Coast, the offshore islets of Manana and Kaohikaipu, and — between November and April — migrating humpback whales. It's an easy walk and one of the best free viewpoints on the island.
The Sea Life Park aquarium is just around the corner if you're travelling with children.