Looking for a hidden paradise away from the crowds? Look no further than Makalawena Beach on the Big Island of Hawaii. With pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Makalawena is the perfect spot for a day of sun, sand, and relaxation. In this blog post, we’ll give you the inside scoop on what makes Makalawena so special and how to make the most of your visit.
Makalawena Beach Quick Information
Planning a trip to Makalawena Beach? Here are the activities and amenities available:
- hiking (about a 1-mile hike from a nearby parking lot to get to the beach)
- snorkeling
- swimming
- wildlife viewing (native Hawaiian birds)
Introduction to Makalawena Beach
Makalawena Beach is a hidden gem located on the North Kona side of the Big Island, and it’s arguably one of the most stunning beaches on the island. This remote beach may require a bit of a hike to access, but the effort is well worth it. The salt-and-pepper beach is a mix of white coral chunks and black lava, and it is strewn with larger lava rocks that create an unusual, dramatic landscape. As part of the Kekaha Kai State Park, Makalawena Beach is the middle beach of three beaches, and it offers an authentic coastal experience that is sure to be unforgettable.
Accessibility of Makalawena Beach
While Makalawena Beach is not the most easily accessible beach on the Big Island, it is worth the effort to get there. Visitors have two options to get to this remote and pristine beach. The easiest way would be to drive to Kehaka Kai Beach and walk north to reach Makalawena Beach. The other option is to hike the beautiful long trail through the lava fields that leads to the beach. From the Mahai’ula Beach parking lot, it’s about a 1-mile hike that may take up to 30 minutes, depending on your walking pace. Despite the extra effort required to access Makalawena Beach, visitors will find that it’s a hidden gem and an absolute delight to explore.
Swimming and Snorkeling at Makalawena Beach
One of the main reasons visitors love Makalawena Beach is its swimming and snorkeling opportunities. When the waters are calm, the swimming is fantastic, and the clear waters teem with colorful fish and coral reefs, making it an excellent place for snorkeling. The multiple lava rock outcroppings along the beach offer snorkelers a chance to get up close and personal with the marine life. However, it’s important to note that Kona snorkeling would be dangerous here due to the rough ocean conditions, so caution is advised. All in all, whether you’re an avid snorkeler or simply enjoy a refreshing dip in the ocean, Makalawena Beach is a true paradise.
The Makalawena Beach Hiking Trail
The Makalawena Beach Hiking Trail is one of the main attractions of Kekaha Kai State Park. Starting from the north end of Mahai’ula Beach, the well-defined trail takes hikers on a journey through a lava field and sand dunes that offer breathtaking views of the ocean. Although the hike is considered easy, visitors should come prepared for a hike over the rugged terrain. The 20-minute walk across the lava flows is worth the effort to reach this stunning white sand beach. The hike is an authentic coastal experience, away from the crowds, that allows visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of Hawaii.
Beauty of Makalawena Beach
Makalawena Beach is undeniably one of the most scenic and beautiful beaches on the Big Island. Its pristine white sand and crystal clear waters are a sight to behold. Visitors to the beach can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the warm Pacific waters, soaking up the sun on the sandy shores, and taking in the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The beach is secluded and peaceful, allowing for an authentic coastal experience that is hard to come by in more heavily trafficked areas. Despite the effort required to reach Makalawena Beach, visitors will find that the stunning beauty of the beach makes it well worth the hike.
Makalawena Beach as a Part of Kekaha Kai State Park
Makalawena Beach is an integral part of the Kekaha Kai State Park, located on the Big Island of Hawaii. This state park is known for its undeveloped and spacious beaches, with Makalawena Beach being one of the most pristine and secluded. The park also includes two other beaches, Mahai’ula and Manini’owali (or Kua Bay). Visitors can access Makalawena Beach by hiking a rugged lava trail from Mahai’ula Beach or by parking at the designated lot north of Kua Bay. With its gorgeous white sand and clear blue waters, Makalawena Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Hawaii’s coastline.
Naturally Pretty Makalawena Beach
Naturally Pretty Makalawena Beach is a true gem on the Kohala coast of the Big Island. Its remote location and difficulty of access make it less crowded, but those who make the effort to visit are rewarded with stunning views of crystal clear water and white sand. The beach is home to numerous tropical fishes and corals, making it a prime spot for swimming and snorkeling, especially when waters are calm. Visitors can also enjoy a beautiful hike through lava fields to reach the beach, adding to the authentic coastal experience. Makalawena Beach is a must-visit for anyone seeking a naturally beautiful and secluded beach on the Big Island.
The Effort of Hiking to Makalawena Beach
While it might require a bit of effort to reach Makalawena Beach, avid hikers and beach lovers all agree that it’s well worth the effort. The hike starts at Mahaiula Beach and takes you through black lava fields, giving you a unique and authentic coastal experience. The walk takes about 20-30 minutes, and then you’ll need to hike almost a half-mile north to access Makalawena Beach. While it may not be the most accessible beach in Hawaii, the fact that it’s less frequently visited makes it even more special. The effort of hiking to Makalawena Beach is just a small sacrifice for the reward of pristine white sand, crystal clear water, and the feeling that you’ve discovered something truly special.
Authentic Coastal Experience at Makalawena Beach
Makalawena Beach offers an authentic coastal experience that is hard to come by in Hawaii. With its pristine white sand and crystal clear waters, visitors can bask in the natural beauty of the area. The rugged lava rock outcroppings provide a stunning contrast to the turquoise ocean, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming. The hike to the beach is about a mile and keeps the crowds away, providing a serene and tranquil environment. The effort is definitely worth it as Makalawena Beach is a postcard-worthy destination that gives visitors a glimpse into the real beauty of Hawaii’s coastline.
Conclusion: Makalawena Beach, One of the Best on the Big Island
In conclusion, Makalawena Beach is truly one of the best beaches on the Big Island. Its stunning white sand, crystal clear waters, and abundance of marine life make it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. While there is a bit of effort required to reach it, the hike is more than worth it for the authentic coastal experience that awaits visitors. Plus, with amenities like picnic tables and BBQs available in the parking area, Makalawena Beach is perfect for a day out with friends and family. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Makalawena Beach is definitely worth a visit.
Big Island Blog 