The Makawehi Lithified Cliffs are extraordinary limestone sea cliffs located near Shipwreck Beach in South Kauai, Hawaii. Created from sand dunes that have been weathered by wind and surf over thousand of years, the resulting caverns and rock formations lend an interesting character to the landscape. The rock formations display a variety of colors and textures, from jagged to smooth, solid to pockmarked with holes.
According to biologists, the area used to be submerged in water which explains why there are numerous fossilized remains of fish and other marine organisms on the rocks and sand. Visitors are requested to keep their hands off the fossils and refrain from taking them as souvenirs so that others may get to see them as well.
Today, the site is a popular hiking destination and an excellent side tour to nearby Shipwreck Beach. Apart from the sea cliffs, the surrounding coastal vistas are breathtaking. Sunsets are also exceptional here.
The hike to Makawehi Lithified Cliffs is an easy one. However, be careful when trekking on the limestone rocks as some of them can be very sharp.
To get to Makawehi Lithified Cliffs, take Highway 50 east from Hanapepe. Turn right on Highway 520 toward Po'ipu. At the end of 520, turn right on Koloa Road and then left on Po'ipu Road. Park in the lot near the Hyatt Hotel and take the trail between this hotel and the Po'ipu Bay Resort golf course. The cliffs are also accessible from the eastern end of Shipwreck Beach.
