Ka‘ena Point Natural Area Reserve, a remote and scenic protected area harboring some of the last vestiges of coastal sand dune habitat on the island, and home to native plants and seabirds. I remember hiking out here as a high school student and now many years later I'm glad this area is still around and basically untouched for all to still enjoy. Ka'ena Point is the Western most spot on the island of O'ahu and there are 2 routes to get here. From this spot you are able to see the Wai'anae side and the Mokule'ia side of the Waiʻanae range which separates Central Oʻahu from the Leeward Coast and is the oldest part of Oʻahu at roughly four million years old.
This area is popular amongst locals and tourist alike. Many people like to hike in while enjoying the views, fish the waters, collect shells, bird watch, enjoy the monk seals that like to sunbathe on the beaches and much more. Whales frequent this shoreline during the winter months.
Route info from DLNR website:
There are two routes to Kaʻena Point. From the Wai‘anae side, take the trailhead at the end of the paved road in the Keawaula Section of Ka‘ena Point State Park and follow the dirt roadway for 2.5 miles to Ka‘ena Point Natural Area Reserve. This route follows the shoreline on your left (southwest), characterized by boulder beaches and occasional tidepools, while cliffs rise above you on your right (northeast). Midway along the trail are a pair of small blowholes. In places the old road has eroded completely.
From the Mokule‘ia side, park at the end of the paved road and follow the dirt roadway for 2.5 miles. The trail traverses a broad, relatively flat coastal plain marked by a raised limestone reef and sand dunes. Upon reaching the Natural Area Reserve, please take care to avoid damaging native flora and watch for nesting seabirds, some of whom make burrow nests. A navigational light is visible at the point. Stay on established paths. No dogs or other animals are allowed in the Park and in the Reserve. To return, retrace your path.
To log this cache you need to perform the following tasks:
- Post a current picture with your log at this spot with either yourself or a personal item in the frame
- Count the number of ladder rungs right above you and send that answer to me within 24 hours (Do not attempt to climb the metal structure)
Additional Information:
- NO ANIMALS ALLOWED IN THE PARK OR KA‘ENA POINT NATURAL AREA RESERVE EXCEPT SERVICE ANIMALS
- Stay on the trail
- Stay away from wave-exposed coast
- Pack out at least what you pack in
- Drones are not permitted
- No open fires
- Bring and drink plenty of water (no potable water anywhere onsite)
Virtual Rewards 4.0 - 2024-2025
This Virtual Cache is part of a limited release of Virtuals created between January 17, 2024 and January 17, 2025. Only 4,000 cache owners were given the opportunity to hide a Virtual Cache. Learn more about Virtual Rewards 4.0 on the Geocaching Blog.