Welcome to McGregor Point and Lighthouse in Wailuku, Hawaii. This site, with its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, is not just a visual treat for visitors but also a place steeped in maritime history. Established in 1906, the first light at McGregor Point was a simple lens lantern mounted on a thirty-two-foot mast. The need for such a beacon arose from the active Koolau trade, which was critical for the delivery of supplies between windward landings on the island.
The lighthouse we see today was built in 1915, replacing the original mast with a twenty-foot concrete pyramidal tower. Its construction was part of a broader effort to ensure safer navigation for sea vessels around the Hawaiian Islands. The tower’s green flashing light, standing seventy-two feet above sea level, continues to serve as a crucial navigational aid in the area.
McGregor Point is named after Captain Daniel McGregor, a notable figure in Hawaiian maritime history. One stormy night, while navigating the rough seas, Captain McGregor discovered this point and the adjacent cove. His accidental discovery provided a safer anchorage than Maalaea Bay and became a significant location for maritime activities. This point remains a testament to his contributions to the safety and efficiency of the island’s shipping routes.
Today, while the lighthouse itself is closed to visitors, the surrounding grounds offer an excellent spot for whale watching during the migration season and for capturing stunning photographs of the sunset. Visitors often appreciate the solitude and the panoramic views, making it a peaceful retreat away from the more crowded tourist spots on the island.
Although considered a minor lighthouse, McGregor Point and Lighthouse hold a significant place in the local history, representing the era of sea trade that was vital to the development and sustenance of the Hawaiian Islands. The stories of the past continue to resonate through the whispers of the ocean breeze that caresses this historic site.
