Mākena State Park is home to Oneloa Beach, locally known as “Big Beach”—a stunning 3,300-foot stretch of golden sand that’s consistently ranked among Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches. Located on Maui’s southwestern coast, this undeveloped paradise offers powerful waves, spectacular sunsets, and relatively uncrowded shores compared to Maui’s resort beaches.
Adjacent to Big Beach lies “Little Beach” (Puu Olai), a clothing-optional beach tucked behind a lava rock hill. The park also protects the Puu Olai cinder cone, which offers hiking opportunities with panoramic ocean views.
Park Overview
| Mākena State Park Overview | |
|---|---|
| Location | South Maui, past Wailea |
| Beach Length | 3,300 feet (Big Beach) |
| Sand Type | Fine golden sand |
| Entry Fee | Free (parking fee applies) |
| Parking | $10 (Hawaii residents $5) |
| Facilities | Restrooms, outdoor showers, no lifeguards |
| Camping | Not permitted |
Things to Do
Big Beach (Oneloa)
- Bodyboarding/Bodysurfing – Powerful shorebreak creates excellent waves
- Sunbathing – Wide, beautiful golden sand beach
- Sunset Viewing – World-class sunsets over Molokini and Kahoolawe
- Photography – Dramatic landscapes with Puu Olai cinder cone
Puu Olai Hike
A short but steep trail leads up the 360-foot cinder cone for panoramic views of both beaches and the West Maui Mountains.
Safety Information
| ⚠️ Ocean Safety | |
|---|---|
| Shore Break | Powerful waves break directly on shore—serious injury risk |
| Lifeguards | None—swim at your own risk |
| Best For | Experienced ocean swimmers only; wade carefully |
| Sun Protection | Limited shade—bring umbrella and reef-safe sunscreen |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Big Beach safe for swimming?
Big Beach has powerful shorebreak that can cause serious injuries. It’s best for experienced ocean swimmers and bodyboarders who understand wave dynamics. There are no lifeguards, so swim with caution and never turn your back to the waves.
Is there an entrance fee for Mākena State Park?
There’s no entrance fee to access the beach, but parking costs $10 for non-residents ($5 for Hawaii residents). There are three designated parking areas along Mākena Alanui Road.
What is Little Beach?
Little Beach is a smaller, clothing-optional beach just north of Big Beach, accessed by climbing over a lava rock outcropping. It’s known for its Sunday sunset drum circles (though gatherings have faced restrictions). Nude sunbathing is technically illegal in Hawaii but is tolerated at this beach.
Experience Maui’s Most Beautiful Beach
Golden sand, turquoise water, and spectacular sunsets await
Explore More Hawaii State Parks
Mākena State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Hawaii. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Hawaii guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Mākena SP — features “Big Beach” (Oneloa) — one of the largest undeveloped white sand beaches in Hawaii. The beach’s sand, reef, and volcanic cone backdrop support green sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals, and humpback whales (winter). Little Beach (behind the cinder cone) is famous for sunset drum circles.
Nearby Attractions
Wailea — 3 miles north. La Perouse Bay — 3 miles south — the last lava flow on Maui (1790). Molokini Crater — visible offshore.
More parks nearby: Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area is a short drive away, while Halekiʻi-Pihana Heiau State Monument lies within about an hour’s drive.
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Hawaii state parks online at camping.ehawaii.gov.
Park Location
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