Makai Research Pier — Local services in Hawaii

We were tootling around the east side of the rock and decided to stop here to take some pics.

The pier is home to Makai Ocean Engineering. Portions of the pier are open to the public at certain times for fishing, but loitering near the buildings is prohibited.

THE BEACH: I thought I was back in French Polynesia for a while, with the clear turquoise and blue water, and gorgeous backdrop of small islands and the blue Pacific. The water is usually calm and is great for kayaking and what not. The reefs start close to shore which makes for good for snorkeling. The small beach has soft, white sand though there are no shady areas except for under the pier, and the whole thing is peppered with lava rocks.

FACILITIES: Nothing.

PARKING: The small dirt lot fronting the pier is your only option, and there is no space along the highway.

OVERALL: Calms waters, picturesque, not...

We chose this spot for my daughter's birthday because she had asked to go fishing. As long as the gate is open the pier is open to the public for fishing. There are signs of the off limit areas so as long as you abide by it then all is well. Don't expect to catch a 20 pounder here though. The beach next to the pier is really nice. Little tide pools to swim in and search for little ocean creatures. Lots of photo shoots going on under the pier. It is a pretty popular spot...

Another great place to visit for fishing and snorkeling but limited parking. I see a lot of people taking pictures under the bridge. The wind damage has not been fixed as of yet therefore it is still closed to the public as of...