Three distinct, undeveloped beaches and a dormant volcano crater form this scenic southern region of Maui.

Makena Beach State Park is a wilderness area with three beaches that are excellent for bodyboarding: Makena Beach, Puʻu Olai Beach and Naupaka Beach. Each has its own personality and attracts different types of visitors. Presiding over all three beaches is the volcanic Pu’u Ola’i (Earthquake Hill). This is a dormant cinder cone which stands 360 feet (110 meters) high.

Makena Beach, more often called “Big Beach,” is one of Maui’s largest beaches and has a steep foreshore. It is about 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) long. Its name means “abundance” and it’s true that its waters have plenty of marine life to see when snorkeling. Lifeguards are usually present. The kiawe trees offer pleasant shady spots while you enjoy the views of the Molokini atoll, a partially submerged volcanic crater that you can tour by boat.

Stroll north and climb over the lava rocks to reach Puʻu Olai Beach, nicknamed “Little Beach” because it is just 660 feet (200 meters) long. This cove is famous for being a nudist beach. As this is one of the few beaches in Hawaii that permits naked sunbathing, it can get crowded. This is especially so on Sunday afternoons, when traditional Hawaiian drumming goes on from mid-afternoon until sunset.

Naupaka Beach, also known as One’uli, is a black-sand beach formed by ground lava. It’s located on the Wailea side of the volcanic cone. Naupaka is less suitable for sunbathing or walking, but snorkeling and scuba diving conditions are excellent due to the nice coral reef nearby. Be careful to avoid the hard, sharp lava which starts abruptly at the water’s edge.

From Naupaka Beach, follow a trail that leads to the top of the Pu'u Ola'i cone. It’s best to attempt this quite strenuous hike in the cooler part of the day and remember to take plenty of water. From the top, you can enjoy views of the stunning Makena coastline.

Makena Beach State Park is south of Wailea. The car park is open during daylight hours, and admission is free. Watch out for the shore break, as the waves can be powerful.

Plan a trip to see Makena State Park Beach

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Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows

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￥684,415

per person

Dec 26 - Jan 2

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to Kahului (OGG)

16.8/10 Exceptional! (1,548 reviews)

The desk clerk was rude when we asked for late check out

Reviewed on Nov 25, 2025

Ho‘olei Villas at Grand Wailea

Wailea

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￥2,669,272

per person

Dec 26 - Jan 2

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to Kahului (OGG)

19.2/10 Exceptional! (44 reviews)

We stayed in Villa 99-5. . To sum it up quickly, the price to experience was in our opinion way too high. Also as a member an elite member, I did not get the discounts on the Cabana rentals and beach chair. The restaurant staff and food was very good. For the price we believe that there should be more comps than provided. Also on checking out the elevator was not working to allow the upstairs to bring their luggage down conveniently. The other complaint which was an ongoing complaint was the TVs not that you need to watch him when you're on such a beautiful island but if kids were staying they would need some entertainment at the evening I would believe. Again the cost to the experience was too expensive. For what you got. I would look at other opportunities or options for lodging where there was more bang for the buck.

Reviewed on Oct 22, 2025

The Whaler Resort Kaanapali Beach

￥789,398

per person

Dec 26 - Jan 2

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to Kahului (OGG)

19.2/10 Exceptional! (292 reviews)

Extremely clean with a fantastic location!

Reviewed on Nov 25, 2025

Browse tours and tickets to explore Makena State Park Beach

Tours & day trips

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Waterfall & Rainforest Hiking Adventure

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Wildlife & nature

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Snorkeling Cruise to Molokini Crater & Turtle Town

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Classes & workshops

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Goat Yoga with Miniature Goats In Maui

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Private Snorkel with Beach Set-Up

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Te Au Moana Luau at the Wailea Beach Marriott Resort

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Popular places to visit

Makena State Park Beach which includes a sandy beach

Big Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Big Beach during your trip to Kihei? Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the beautiful sunsets in this romantic area.

Makena State Park

During your trip to Kihei, enjoy the surf and sand at Makena State Park along with the snorkeling. Discover the beautiful sunsets and seafood restaurants in this romantic area.

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4.5/5(14 reviews)

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Little Beach during your travels in Kihei? Wander the seaside or discover the beautiful sunsets in this relaxing area.

This beach is known as Secret Beach, but it isn't much of a secret. However, it's a beautiful spot tucked away behind a small opening in a rock wall and totally worth seeking out. A lot of couples choose to get married here at sunset, hence its other nickname of Wedding Beach.

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Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Secret Cove Beach during your trip to Kihei? Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches, or seek out the snorkeling spots.

Oneuli Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Oneuli Beach during your trip to Kihei? Amble around this romantic area's beautiful beaches, or seek out the snorkeling spots.