Mākena State Park — Attraction in Maui

Makena Beach State Park, also known as Big Beach, is one of Maui's most spectacular and unspoiled beaches. Stretching nearly 2/3 of a mile long and 100 feet wide, it offers plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the stunning scenery without feeling crowded. The golden-white sand, framed by dramatic lava rock outcroppings, provides a picturesque backdrop against the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean.

One of the highlights of Makena Beach is its natural beauty and the lack of commercial development, giving it a more rustic and untouched feel. The views from the Pu’u Ola’i cinder cone are particularly breathtaking, offering a panoramic look at the surrounding coastline and ocean​​​​.

While the beach is perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the scenic views, the strong currents and large waves can make swimming challenging and potentially dangerous. It's important to heed the lifeguards' warnings and be cautious if you decide to venture into the water. For those interested in more extreme water activities, the beach is a popular spot for boogieboarding and bodysurfing due to its powerful waves​​​​.

For a quieter experience, you can take a short hike over the lava rocks to Little Beach, a smaller and more secluded spot known for its "clothing-optional" policy. The lack of amenities like restrooms and showers is worth noting, so come prepared if you plan to spend a significant amount of time here​​​​.

Despite the $10 parking fee and $5 per person entry fee for non-residents, Makena Beach State Park remains a must-visit destination for its natural charm and expansive, pristine shoreline. Whether you're there to relax, explore, or watch the expert surfers tackle the waves, Makena Beach offers a quintessential Maui beach...

BIG BEACH: The sand is soft and white, with lots of square footage so it never feels crowded. The waves are generally big which is great for body/boogie boarding but not for anything else. If you haven't gotten slammed by a wave here, you've never experienced Big Beach lol! It's fun to watch the bodyboarders do tricks and catch waves. There are lifeguards on duty now, thankfully. Shade on the sand is non-existent though there are a few tables under the thorny kiawe trees but it's a bit far from the water.

LITTLE BEACH: This is more than just a clothing optional beach. It's also home to a growing number of bongo drummers, dancers, and their audience, especially on Sundays when it can get very crowded come the afternoon. Sunset brings cheers and applause. It's very secluded due to difficult access. It's a short, steep hike up a rocky gravel trail with a gorgeous view of Big Beach at the top. The white sand beach is well protected from winds due to the volcanic cone it abuts to. The water is super clear, the sea floor has soft sand and clear of loose rocks. The view is killer! Kahoolawe, Molokini, and Lanai are in plain view. There are 2 reefs on both ends of the beach but snorkeling is not recommended. Waves are normally medium sized but can get pretty big and choppy depending on conditions. It's good for swimming and great for body/boogie boarding. There are no lifeguards here.

TIP: The only restrooms are the port-a-potties near the parking lot and there are no showers.

OVERALL: Great for boogie/bodyboarding and...

This is a beautiful beach. The waves are not to be messed with if you are not a pro. Listen to the warnings and don't attempt to body board if it's your first time. Many have broke their necks and backs just from getting crushed by a wave they didn't see coming. When the wave comes at you, try and swim under and towards it, don't just duck down you could get caught up and hurt. It has port a pottys, and food trucks in the first entrance parking lot. There are no showers or restrooms so come prepared. The waves are too strong to fish here, and you'll probably see some turtles like we did. The sand is soft and the water on most days is very clear and bright blue. During the summer the sun sets to the far right. Charge your cell phones and cameras and stay after 630 for some great photos! Pack some jugs of water to rinse off at your car. Bring snacks, water, sandals, and maybe an umbrella. Remember to use the natural sunscreens that won't kill the coral reef. Lil beach is on the other side of the hill, and is a short walk from big beach. Big beach is great for couples, or a family. It has big waves and has such a beautiful view. No buildings in site! (Lil beach is all nude and mostly the much older adults, with smaller waves) You'll have fun at big beach. Just be safe and pay attention to the waves, and the lifeguards. Sit back, relax...