The Hawaiian Islands are home to 750 miles of stunning coastline — putting the island state behind Alaska, Florida, and California when it comes to coastline length. From the black sand beaches on the Big Island and Maui’s magnificent red sand beaches to pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters on Oahu and Kauai, Hawaii is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the country, and this massive, undeveloped stretch of sand is one of our favorites.
Nestled on the southwestern coast of Maui within Makena State Park is one of the largest, undeveloped beaches on the island. This is Makena Beach, and it is an absolute dream.
Falco Ermert/Flickr
Nestled between two black lava outcroppings, Makena offers protection from the trade winds, and is easily one of the most well-known beaches on the island.
Intiaz Rahim/Flickr
Measuring in at 165 acres, Makena State Park is actually home to two beaches separated by a 360-foot tall cinder cone known as Pu’u Olai.
Peyri Herrera/Flickr
South of Pu’u Olai is Big Beach, a magnificent stretch of sand that measures in at two-thirds of a mile long and 100 feet wide. Big Beach is one of the longest beaches on the island, and, due to its sheer length, hardly ever feels crowded.
David Brooks/Flickr
Little Beach, on the other hand, is often packed in comparison. Nestled on the northern side of Pu’u Olai, this beach measures in at a mere 660 feet. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in ethereal beauty. We should warn you, however, that though it is technically illegal, Little Beach is the most famous nude beach on Maui.
Intiaz Rahim/Flickr
Also known as “breakneck beach,” the shorebreak at Makena can be quite dangerous — especially if you aren’t used to swimming at Hawaii beaches. If you’re an experienced bodyboarder, however, Makena is pure paradise. Even if the waves are too massive to swim, Makena is worth a visit alone based on sightseeing standards.
Joe Parks/Flickr
With sparkling blue waters and fine, white sand, Makena Beach is one of those dreamy postcard-worthy destinations many people only dream of visiting.
David Brooks/Flickr
And if Makena’s natural beauty isn’t quite doing it for you, you will also find outstanding views of the neighboring islands of Kaho’olawe and Molokini from shore.
Francois/Flickr
Oh, and did we mention that the sunsets seen from Makena Beach are truly second-to-none? You’ll regret not sticking around as the sun slips into the horizon.
Mike/Flickr
With ample parking, lifeguards on duty, plenty of picnic tables, and food trucks nearby, Makena Beach absolutely deserves a spot on your Hawaii beach bucket list if you haven’t visited yet.
supercake/Flickr
Makena Beach State Park is located at 6600 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753. Have you visited Makena Beach yet? If so, would you agree that it’s one of your favorite Hawaii beaches? What other beaches would you recommend? Perhaps one of these 22 epic stretches of sand?
Falco Ermert/Flickr
Intiaz Rahim/Flickr
Peyri Herrera/Flickr
David Brooks/Flickr
Joe Parks/Flickr
Francois/Flickr
Mike/Flickr
supercake/Flickr
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