Ka'ena Point

The westernmost point on the island of Oahu, Ka'ena Point is far removed from the towering hotels of Waikiki. Lacking any form of modern development, the area is a state park without any paved roads, facilities, or amenities. Heading west from Haleiwa Town the highway literally ends at a gate with a rough dirt road and parking lot. A rocky shoreline makes the area great for tide pooling during the day, but be sure to exercise extreme caution when going in the water. Strong winds and currents make the water hazardous for even advanced swimmers, and there are NO LIFEGUARDS for miles.

History

The western part of Oahu is the oldest land on the island. Ancient Hawaiian folklore believes that there is an entrance to the next world for lost souls. Warrior spirits called Nightmarchers are said to frequent the area. Mysterious lights which look like torches are said to be seen "walking" along the mountain where it's too steep for a path. Sometimes, according to legend, you can hear the chanting and the drums of the warrior spirits as they march to past battle sites, or other sacred places. While some may say it's just a "legend," it is very important to respect the aspects of other cultures and they should be respected from afar.

• Location: The westernmost point on Oahu, the area is most easily accessed traveling west from Haleiwa Town.
• Amenities: There are NO AMENITIES in this area, if you visit be sure to plan accordingly.
• Insider Tip: Spend the day visiting North Shore Beaches, have dinner in Haleiwa town, and do some stargazing past Dillingham Field. But be sure to bring snacks, a blanket, and a flashlight!
• Fun Fact: Ka'ena Point has the best stargazing on the whole island. There is a full view of the Milky Way on a clear night.
• What To Expect: Little development, a lack of amenities, tide pools, small coves, big rocks, easy hiking, and an excellent view of the night sky.
• Pop Culture: Legendary big-wave surfer Greg Noll is said to have captured the biggest wave to date in a photo off Ka'ena Point from "The Swell of the Century" in 1969.