30 FAQs Makena Beach Maui: To-Do and Travel Guide

(Last Updated On: August 19, 2023)

Nestled within the cradle of Hawaii’s sun-soaked shores, Makena Beach emerges as a resplendent gem in Maui’s tapestry. Makena beach Maui travel beach, a harmonious interplay of towering cliffs and the shimmering Cerulean sea take its place as an emblem of Maui’s coastal allure, a cherished hallmark that captivates all who venture here.

Amid the serene expanse of Makena Beach State Park, a realm of enchantment unfurls, inviting curious wanderers to discover its treasures – from immaculate sands to the vigilant slumber of a dormant volcanic sentinel, and a plethora of family-centric activities that beckon like whispers from the sea breeze.

The Panorama of Makena State Park

Within the embrace of Wailea’s southern haven lies the sprawling canvas of Makena State Park, sprawling across a verdant tapestry spanning 500 acres. Here, a harmonious duo of beaches and the tranquil stature of the 6-foot-tall Puu Olai volcano cinder cone cast their spell.

Makena, an enclave of ethereal beauty, graces the southern stage, weaving its borders between the expansive tapestry of Makena Beach and the echoes of the Golf Resort, once known as the Maui Prince Hotel. Framed by the embrace of La Perouse Bay, the portrait of Makena Beach Maui unfolds in breathtaking grandeur.

The Marine Envoys: Turtles of Makena Beach

Among the cavalcade of marvels that call Makena home, the graceful envoys of the sea – the turtles – beckon for admiration. In the heart of Pualai Park, a dormant volcanic cinder cone soars to a zenith of 360 feet. These steadfast guardians of ocean depths command a silent audience, embodying the eternal harmony of nature.

Makena’s Geographical Dance

To embark upon this adventure, chart your course to Makena Road, where coordinates of 20°37’52” N 156°26’46” W guide the way to this sanctuary’s embrace. Within the cradle of Makena, nestled south of the ‘Ahihi Kina Natural Area Reserve, lies this oasis. Yet, be forewarned – Makena Beach’s moods may occasionally shift like capricious tempests, reminding us of the fragile balance within this dynamic haven.

The Prelude of Makena Beach

Amid the symphony of Maui’s coastal opus, Makena Beach ascends as a prelude, crafting verses of dramatic beauty and serene tranquility. As Maui’s most extensive swath of untamed shore, the canvas unfurls for roughly 2/3 miles, a canvas adorned with the purity of white sands. A sanctuary of solace and the grace of nature, it extends its

embrace to all who seek its solace. Anchored by two ebony lava formations, Makena resonates with the protective cloak of trade winds, affording panoramic vistas of Molokini and the Kaholaway Islands.

A Duet of Beaches: Makena’s Dual Narrative

Within the tapestry of Makena’s domain, a duet unfolds – two distinct beaches, each painting a portrait of its own. First, Big Beach graces the southern tableau, poised near Makena Beach and Golf Resort.

This stretch of solitude stands as a refuge amid the bustling realms of Kaanapali and Lahaina. In contrast, Little Beach, an intimate alcove, cradles a sheltered cove, its guardian a sentinel without a lifeguard. While state park mandates may frown upon nudity, history’s whispers linger, resonating like the soft echoes of waves against the shore, a testament to an era when freedom danced unabashedly amidst the lens of cameras that chronicle contemporary norms.

A Whisper of Intimacy: Little Beach’s Refrain

Within the symphonic embrace of Makena’s shores, the quiet, resonant note of Little Beach emerges, an intimate cove cloaked in exquisite beauty. Nestled to the north of the grandeur of Big Beach, a steep lava outcropping demarcates its intimate realm.

A mere five-minute sojourn on foot leads to the unveiling of Little Beach’s secrets. Here, the rhythmic beat of drums reverberates, and a fire takes on a life of its own, casting an ethereal glow that embraces the realm on languid Sunday afternoons and velvety evenings.

A Vast Expanse of Luminescent Splendor

Stretching across 165 acres within Makena’s southern embrace, the Makena State Park unveils its vibrant tapestry. This sanctuary, ensconced south of Wailea on the embrace of Maui Island, reveals its distinctive charms through the presence of three distinct beaches and the silent repose of a dormant cinder cone – a sentinel from the annals of time.

The Makena State Park isn’t merely a favored haunt for visitors; it’s a multi-faceted tapestry that draws those who yearn to immerse themselves in the island’s warm embrace. For enthusiasts of snorkeling, the allure of Makena Beach Maui snorkeling reverberates like an alluring siren’s song.

Freedom’s Tapestry: Little Beach’s Enigma

In this realm of artistic expression, the sands stretch a mere 660 feet, a compact expanse coveted during peak hours. Yet, Little Beach stands as one of the rare enclaves within Hawaii’s expanse where the local authorities turn a blind eye to sunbathers’ au naturel inclinations.

In an age where cameras capture every moment, this realm stands witness to the waning of such carefree practices. Nonetheless, the echoes of bygone days linger, an homage to an era when freedom and self-expression cast their spell upon this alcove. (Note: The echoes of Red Sand Beach linger near another alcove). For those drawn by proximity, the allure of nearby Makena Beach Maui hotels awaits, ready to embrace weary travelers.

A Poetic Saga of Big Beach

Step into the poetic narrative of Big Beach, where sprawling sands and the rhythmic cadence of waves interweave in an epic tale. This stretch of shoreline, known by the evocative monikers of “Onaloa Beach” and the encompassing “Makena Beach,” beckons with open arms to both seasoned travelers and local denizens. Expansive in its reach, stretching across 1.5 miles, with a generous width of 100 feet, it cradles sunseekers and the exuberant dance of bodyboarders.

Nature’s tender touch finds resonance in the protective aegis of the “Makena Cloud,” shielding the coast from prevailing winds, a gentle guardian enhancing the serenity of sandy repose. This sentinel of Makena Beach Maui surf report invites those who seek to decode the intricate messages inscribed upon the waves.

A Sonata in Onyx: The Monochrome Haven

Venture northward, into the embrace of Wanawali Beach or Noopaka Beach Park, and the melody transforms into a sonata of onyx hues. A black sand beach, nestled closest to Makena’s sanctuary, unfolds as an onyx jewel nestled within nature’s very necklace. Before embarking on this journey, acquaint yourself with Makena beach conditions, for its allure reveals itself in myriad guises.

What Is Maui’s Most Beautiful Beach?

Hamoa Beach.
Kapalua Bay.
Palauea White Rock.
Honolua Bay.
Wai’anapanapa State Park.
Baldwin Beach Park.
Ka’anapali Beach.

Try to know more about what to do at Makena Beach.

Makena Beach Maui weather

The allure of Makena Beach Maui weather is an enchanting siren’s call, inviting wanderers to embrace the canvas of nature’s moods. As the sun-kissed shores beckon, it is prudent to immerse oneself in the whispers of Makena Beach Maui weather before setting forth on this poetic adventure.

Is Makena Beach The Same As Big Beach?

Among the myriad facets that compose the mosaic of Maui’s charm, one distinct piece of the puzzle is Makena Beach and its moniker as “Big Beach.” In the heart of South Maui, a paradise unfolds under the guise of Oneloa, also known as Makena Beach or the illustrious Big Beach.

This expansive stretch of shoreline, a canvas painted in the pristine hues of white sands, stretches for nearly two miles in length and extends a generous breadth of 100 yards. This captivating expanse draws travelers from every corner of the globe, their footsteps tracing a journey woven between the fringes of serenity and the dance of the waves. Amidst the allure of Makena Beach’s poetic narrative, some of Maui Hawaii’s finest gems await those with an intrepid spirit.

Makena Beach Resort: What Happened?

As one journey through the tapestry of Maui’s marvels, the story of the Makena Beach Resort emerges as a chapter of intrigue. Spanning 1,800 acres of magnificence, this haven once bore the name of the Maui Prince Hotel, a testament to the splendor that embraced the realm.

Yet, as the tides of time flowed, changes cascaded, and the 310-room sanctuary of the Makena Beach & Golf Resort embarked on its journey to closure on the first of July. A mosaic of transformation and renewal whispered its secrets, culminating in a chapter where a new edifice rose only to be dismantled in 2018, leaving behind echoes of an untold tale.

Is Makena Beach referred to as “Big Beach”?

Within the tapestry of Makena’s offerings, the conundrum emerges – is Makena Beach synonymous with the moniker “Big Beach”? Amidst the wealth of destinations across the United States adorned with the gift of shorelines, the city’s thoroughfares bear the names of Big Beach and Little Beach.

The former, nestled south of Wailea in proximity to the Makena Beach and Golf Resort, unveils a tranquil haven as an alternative to the bustling stretches of Kaanapali and Lahaina. In this symphony of identity, Big Beach stands as an embodiment of the serene rhythm of nature’s heartbeats.

What’s the Deal With Makena Beach Being Closed?

Within the realm of the United States’ cherished havens, Maui unfurls as a canvas bedecked with beaches that invite travelers on a timeless odyssey. In recent times, the narrative of Makena Beach took an unexpected twist as its gates closed, a tale etched with the echoes of responsibility.

The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, in response to the fanning flames of irresponsible and unlawful activities contributing to the spread of the Coronavirus, marked the closure of Pu’u Ola’i Beach, a poetic realm known colloquially as Little Beach. This diminutive fragment within Makena State Park embarked on a hiatus, a reminder of the delicate balance between recreation and safeguarding shared spaces.

Is Makena Beach a Good Snorkeling Spot?

Amidst the whispers of the sea, a gem known as Makena Landing emerges on Maui’s southern coast, an aquatic sanctuary that beckons enthusiasts of snorkeling. With its gentle waves and the caress of coral sand that carpets the ocean floor, this expanse offers a gateway to the enchanting realm beneath the waves. Here, the beauty of marine life unfolds like a symphony of colors and movements, an invitation to embrace the aquatic wonders that grace this poetic alcove.

Makena Beach Maui map

Before visiting you should have an idea of the Makena Beach Maui map. Here we have added a Makena Beach Maui map for your convenience.

What Are the Best Snorkeling Spots in Maui?

Molokini Crater.
La Perouse.
Honolua Bay.
Black Rock.
Coral Gardens.
Ahihi Bay.
“Turtle Town”
Kapalua & Napili Bays.

Things To Do In Makena, HI

While the dining and shopping options may be limited within Makena’s embrace, the allure of this locale remains undeniable, especially if your intention is to indulge in abundant beach time or orchestrate a wedding celebration within the romantic backdrop of a beachside estate.

The Former Jewel: Makena Beach & Golf Resort

Previously hailed as the pinnacle of lodging in Makena, the Makena Beach & Golf Resort now resides in the annals of history, a chapter closed but not forgotten. In its absence, alternate options invite exploration, beckoning you to consider the embrace of nearby Wailea or Kihei as your retreat of choice.

Big Beach: Nature’s Majestic Canvas

In the tapestry of Maui’s coastal wonders, Big Beach emerges as a gem that shimmers with allure. Garnering acclaim as one of the island’s top-rated beaches, it carries its reputation with grace. As the name suggests, it unfurls as the grandest expanse in the vicinity, boasting dimensions of 100 yards in width and stretching for approximately 2/3 of a mile. The water that kisses its shores is a vibrant tableau of blue brilliance, while the sand, a cascade of golden-white, extends an invitation for barefoot reverie. Amongst this symphony of beauty, shade becomes an embrace beneath the canopy of nearby kiawe trees, their presence offering both comfort and caution, for their thorns await the unwary.

Portals to Paradise: Entrances and Facilities

A trinity of entrances await at Big Beach, each unfolding its own tale of exploration. The first, crowned as the most popular, stands closest to the adjoining realm of Little Beach, creating a harmonic duality. The second and third, hidden in their quieter corners, offer a more serene passage. Amidst this theater of nature, facilities like porta-potties and picnic areas are bestowed for the convenience of visitors, enhancing their sojourn amidst the coastal serenity.

An Ocean Symphony: Views, Caution, and Wonder

With views that caress the soul and imprint upon memory, Big Beach offers a sight to behold. The panorama encompasses the majestic forms of Molokini Crater and Kaho’olawe, two landmarks that stand as sentinels amidst the expanse of the ocean’s embrace. However, amidst this allure, the waters unleash their own power, and the shore break dances with danger.

A haven for skimboarders and the curious, it is a realm that demands respect, especially for those who venture forth without experience in the embrace of large waves and tumultuous shore break. Yet, in the winter months, this realm transforms into a sanctuary for witnessing the graceful ballet of whales, an enchanting spectacle that beckons to the heart.

Little Beach: A Realm of Intimacy and Expression

Adjacent to the grandeur of Big Beach, Little Beach emerges as a realm of intimacy and expression. Known as the unofficial yet official nude beach of south Maui, it casts aside societal norms to embrace the purity of nature. Beyond its provocative reputation, Little Beach unfurls with the same breathtaking sunsets that adorn its counterpart, and its waves create a cradle for both surfers and swimmers.

To tread upon its sands, one must traverse the rocky embrace of Pu’u Ola’i, a passage that unveils vistas and a realm of experience that transcends the ordinary. On Sundays, this intimate enclave swells with a vibrant crowd, ignited by the allure of sunset beach parties that have resonated through decades. Amidst the revelry, fire dancers cast their enchanting spell, drum circles echo with rhythm, and people-watching becomes an art in itself.

Ahihi-Kinau Natural Reserve Area: A Marine Haven

Journey just south of Makena, and the realms of Ahihi-Kinau Natural Reserve Area unfold before you, a marine haven that cradles the beauty of the underwater realm. A sanctuary for snorkelers, it unveils a tapestry of life beneath the waves, when access is granted to the public. The area’s history is etched with closures, often due to issues like littering that mar the pristine beauty. As you venture within, remember that fishing is a forbidden dance, and the delicate coral formations that grace the waterscape demand reverence, their fragility underscoring the need to swim with care.

Kayak, SUP, & Outrigger Canoeing Tours

Be part of an exploration that dances upon the waves, a journey guided by the currents of adventure. Whether through a private kayak tour, a stand-up paddleboarding lesson, or an outrigger canoe tour, the waters of Makena beckon. Departing from Makena Landing and Po’olenalena Beach, you’ll be swept into a world that unveils the hidden gems of south Maui’s coastline. As the horizon stretches before you, the realm of Turtle Town emerges, a haven that beckons the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles to grace your presence. Amidst this aquatic ballet, endemic tropical fish paint the waters with their vibrant hues, and your private tour guide becomes the conduit of knowledge, offering insights into Hawaiian history and culture.

A Makena’s Melody: An Ode to Exploration

Makena, a realm that has captured our hearts, beckons with its symphony of allure. Amidst the embrace of its serene landscapes, both above and below the water, a realm of beauty and adventure emerges. As the sun casts its golden hues upon the sands, and the waves compose their eternal song, Makena offers its secrets to those willing to explore.

What Is Maui’s Best Snorkeling Beach?

Explore places to visit on Hawaii’s big island. Some of the Best Snorkeling Spots in Maui, as well as a Beach Guide. We have many best places to see on the big island of Hawaii.

Maui Snorkel Rentals.
Slaughterhouse – Mokuleia Bay.
DT Fleming Beach.
Kapalua Bay.
Napili Bay.
Kahekili – Airport Beach.
Kaanapali Beach – Black Rock.
Canoe Beach – Hanakao’o.

Wailea Is Known For What?

Within the vibrant tapestry of Wailea, a realm of exclusivity and refined indulgence extends its allure to those who seek the embrace of opulence. A symphony of experiences awaits, as guests are drawn into the bosom of top-tier fashion boutiques, where the very fabric of style is woven. Amidst this symphony of luxury, the culinary landscape blooms with the promise of delights, and the most esteemed restaurants beckon connoisseurs of flavor.

What is the significance of Makena Beach?

A procession of high-profile events graces the pages of Wailea’s calendar, a yearlong celebration that adds layers of glamour to this exquisite realm. The illustrious Maui Film Festival casts its glow, illuminating the landscape with the brilliance of cinematic artistry. Every February, Whale Week takes center stage, a harmonious ode to the majestic creatures that grace the surrounding waters.

In this enchanting tapestry of experiences, a fleeting yet exquisite moment emerges as Hawaii’s regional cuisine takes the spotlight, bridging the gap between culture and the pleasures of the palate. Against the backdrop of the intimate little beach and the sprawling grand big beach, this symphony of indulgence unfolds.

Is Makena Beach a safe place to visit?

In the symphony of Maui’s coastal melody, Makena Beach stands as a resplendent note, a gem of significance that glitters in Maui’s coastal crown. With a gracious posture upon the twin cradles of volcanic outcroppings, it emerges as a sanctuary that offers respite from the determined dance of trade winds. Within this tranquil haven, sweeping panoramas of Molokini and Kahoolawe unveil themselves, a testament to the artistry of nature.

Renowned as a sanctuary for surf enthusiasts, the undulating expanse of Makena Beach and the commanding presence of its shore breaks extend an invitation to lovers of bodyboarding, skimboarding, and the exhilarating art of bodysurfing. As the sun sets on the sprawling landscapes of the big island of Hawaii, Makena Beach remains a testament to the grandeur of nature’s canvas.

Navigating Safety: Makena Beach’s Allure and Cautions

Makena stands as a beacon for surf enthusiasts, drawing them like moths to the flame of its waves. Revered among locals as a famed ‘breakneck beach,’ it extends its embrace with an allure that is both lovely and enticing. But do not be deceived by its charm, for as your footsteps approach, your shoes may experience an unexpected spill, a reminder of the allure’s capricious nature.

Is Makena Beach Maui like Big Beach?

As the sun kisses the shores of Maui, it reveals a tapestry woven with some of the United States’ most captivating beaches. Within this mosaic of coastal allure, the spotlight falls on the Makena Beach State Park, a realm known colloquially as Big Beach. This realm of paradise, a realm sculpted with meticulous care, unfurls as a diptych of treasures known as Big Beach and Little Beach.

Nestled south of Wailea and the Makena Beach and Golf Resort, Big Beach emerges as a secluded haven, offering an intimate retreat from the bustling embrace of Kanapali and Lahaina’s renowned beaches. Amidst these juxtapositions of serenity and vitality, Makena’s beaches stand as a testament to the symphony of nature’s ever-changing moods.

In which city is Makna Beach?

Within the enchanting realm of the United States cherished havens, Maui unfolds as a paradise woven with beaches that beckon travelers to traverse the sands of time. South Maui becomes the stage for the crescendo of this tale, as minutes from Welia and Kihei, the embrace of Big Beach Makena unfolds. A testament to the island’s coastal splendor, this expanse emerges as the quintessential embodiment of Maui’s allure.

When is Makena Beach closed?

Amid the tapestry of the United States coastal treasures, Maui stands as a beacon of invitation for those who seek the embrace of sandy shores. The hours of operation for Makena Beach, an emblematic haven within the enclave of Makena State Park, unfurl from 8 am to 4 pm each day. This revelation is a snapshot of the dynamic nature of Big Beach and Little Beach, two facets of Maui’s coastal poetry.

Makena Beach’s Exquisite Panorama: Nature’s Masterpiece

With cliffs that stretch into the heavens and waters that shimmer in shades of bright blue and green, Makena Beach emerges as a mesmerizing canvas within Maui’s coastal tapestry. The golden sands span approximately 1.5 miles in length, flanked by the dramatic landscapes of the surrounding cliffs. As visitors tread its expanse, an invitation for immersion in the bright blue/green waters beckons. Whether it’s a serene swim, an intimate session of snorkeling, or a simple picnic in the shade, the allure of Makena Beach is an experience etched into memory.

Experiencing Makena Beach’s Wonders

Within the symphony of Maui’s coastal opus, Makena Beach stands as a verse of magnificence. South of Wailea, an expanse known as Big Beach offers a sanctuary for those who seek solace amidst the embrace of the waves. This expanse, framed between black lava outcroppings, whispers a promise of protection from trade winds while revealing enchanting views of Molokini and Kahoolawe.

With an illustrious reputation for its commanding shore breaks and its risky embrace, Makena Beach becomes a canvas for skimboarding, bodyboarding, and body surfing. Amidst this embrace, the vigilant presence of lifeguards assures harmony of safety.

Practicalities and Provisions

Amid the enticing embrace of Makena Beach, practicalities weave their thread. While showers may be absent, the presence of Port-a-Potties offers a semblance of convenience. As visitors traverse the realm, they will discover the presence of nearby picnic tables, a haven for a respite amid the sun-kissed sands. In this orchestration of care, a synergy of practical provisions converges to enhance the visitor experience.

Makena Beach Maui parking

For those who seek to tread the sands of Makena Beach, a fee of $5 opens the gateway to this realm of coastal enchantment. However, in the spirit of exploration, it is worth noting that many nearby beaches extend a welcome without the confines of cost.

As the maze of Maui unfurls, an aquatic treasure known as Makena Landing beckons enthusiasts of snorkeling. The journey unfolds with a 2.6-kilometer journey along Makena Aluni, guided by the tapestry of the landscape. A right turn onto Makena Rd. paves the way to a destination that resonates with aquatic allure. Here, the realms beneath the waves extend an invitation to explore the finest snorkeling in Maui Hawaii.

Takeaway for your trip to Makhana Beach, Hawaii

As the sun paints its strokes upon the grand canvas of Hawaii’s big island, an abundance of astounding places beckon to the wandering heart. Amidst the allure, a whisper of caution arises. As the sands of Big Beach meet the embrace of land, thorns await those who tread the realm barefoot. A symphony of adventure unfolds, calling upon explorers to nurture the harmony between nature and their footsteps. Amidst this exploration, the sea asserts its power, a reminder to embrace its beauty while respecting its strength.

Across a segment of the beach, clouds often dance in transient formations, weaving an ethereal tapestry against the backdrop of the sky. With a patience that mirrors the ebb and flow of nature, visitors bear witness to this poetic dance, a reminder of the impermanence that shapes the realm. Amidst this symphony of fleeting beauty, the essence of Hawaii’s big island continues to paint its story, a tale of clouds and echoes that enrich the journey of exploration.