1977 Map of Kaena

About this map

Kaena Point marks the westernmost tip of Oahu in this late-1970s orthophotograph, where the land meets the massive expanse of the Pacific Ocean. This specialized aerial survey provides a photographic record of the coast and interior ridges, revealing the sharp geographical transition from the coastal plains at Mokuleia to the steep, erosion-carved walls of Makua Valley. The imagery captures the distinct land use patterns of the era, from the established airfield and agricultural plots along the northern shore to the undeveloped coastal stretch near Ohiki-Lolo. Unlike traditional topographic maps, this orthophoto uses rectified imagery taken in 1977 to document the exact vegetation, road paths, and shoreline conditions of the North Shore before later development and conservation efforts altered the landscape.