Overview
Mākena, also known as Big Beach, is a stunning three-mile stretch of golden sand located in South Maui. This beach is famous for its dramatic cliffs, excellent surf, and tide pools filled with marine life.
Mākena Beach is one of the most popular and scenic beaches in Maui, known for its natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities.
Location
Address
Wailea-Makena, Maui, Hawaii
Neighborhood: South Maui
Coordinates
20.703300, -156.426900
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-June, September-October
Best Time of Day
Mid-morning
calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
warm and sunny
- • whale watching
- • tide pools
summer
hot and sunny
- • calm waters
- • tide pools
autumn
mild and sunny
- • sunset views
- • tide pools
winter
mild and rainy
- • whale watching
- • tide pools
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Bring sunscreen
- Check tide schedules
- Be aware of strong currents
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low
- • strong currents
- • sharp rocks
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, swimwear, comfortable beach attire, flip-flops or water shoes, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not required
- • local tour operators
- • N/A
- • N/A
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Maui Beaches
Size: 30 MB
Features: Map, Tide Schedules, Weather Updates
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Nearby cafes
Charging Stations: N/A
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Maui International Airport
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 10 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Beautiful natural scenery
Historical Significance: Ancient Hawaiian fishing grounds
Insider Tips
- Best tide pools at low tide
- Great sunset views from the cliffs
Local Recommendations
- • Try local shave ice
- • Ask for guide Mark
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main Beach
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide angle shots
Result: Stunning beach views
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Wailea Beach
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Beach
Makena State Park
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Park
Reviews
Based on 1,200 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit at low tide"
- "Bring plenty of water"
- "Great for snorkeling"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (10)
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Maui Surf Instruction 101 at Kalama Beach in Kihei
4-Hour Makena Whale Watch Tour
Waterfall Hike and Kayak Snorkel & Paddle from Makena
Small-Group Luxury Tour: Road to Hana and Ka'eleku Cavern Day Trip
South Maui Discover Scuba Dive
Paddle, Snorkel and Learn to Surf: All in a Day on Maui
Quick Info
Available Tours
15
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,200
Adult Entry
Free