Mānana

Island Oceanic islet off Oahu, seabird nesting sanctuary

Off Oʻahu, Rabbit Island (Mānana) serves as a seabird sanctuary with steep volcanic slopes; best seen from Makapuʻu Lookout or boat, not landed upon.

Mānana, commonly called Rabbit Island, is a small volcanic islet off the windward coast of Oʻahu near Makapuʻu Point and is known as a seabird sanctuary. The islet is protected and public landings are prohibited to safeguard nesting birds.

From the shore and viewpoints such as the Makapuʻu Lookout visitors can view the island, observe seabirds and photograph the tuff cone rising from the ocean. Boat- and land-based wildlife viewing are the usual ways to experience the feature.

Mānana is a volcanic tuff cone formed by past eruptions and has been used as a wildlife sanctuary. Its protected status limits direct visitor access to reduce disturbance to nesting seabirds.

The islet lies off the eastern (windward) coast of Oʻahu near Makapuʻu and is visible from the state roadside lookout and nearby beaches on the windward side of the island.

Access restriction: Designated a protected seabird sanctuary and closed to public landings; best views come from the Makapuʻu Lookout and nearby beaches on Oʻahu's windward coast.

How to Get to Mānana #

Best viewed from Makapuʻu Point Lookout on Oʻahu’s southeastern shore. Drive east from Honolulu on Kalanianaʻole Highway (HI‑72) to the Makapuʻu access road and the parking area; the lookout is a short walk from the lot. Do not attempt to land on the island - it is protected and closed to visitors.

Tips for Visiting Mānana #

Do not attempt to land - Mānana (Rabbit Island) is a protected seabird sanctuary and landing is illegal.
Best views are from the Makapuʻu Point Lookout on Oʻahu's eastern tip; arrive for sunrise to see the island silhouette with noreaster light.
Bring binoculars for seabird and monk seal sightings from the shore.