Mau'umae Beach

Mau'umae Beach is a quiet South Kohala white-sand beach with tree shade, calm-water days and limited gated entry near Mauna Kea Resort.

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Mau'umae Beach, Big Island

Located in the Big Island's South Kohala district (northwestern shore), Mau'umae Beach is tucked away behind shady trees and features protected waters. It is less popular than the neighboring beaches Mauna Kea Beach and Spencer Beach Park. The swimming conditions are good when the ocean is calm. Due to its seclusion, the beach is sometimes frequented by nudists who like to sunbathe in a smaller separate cove on the right (north) end of the beach.

Key Features

Quiet white-sand beach near the Mauna Kea Resort shoreline
Limited gated entry helps keep the beach quieter than larger resort beaches nearby
A coastal trail from Spencer Beach Park gives visitors another way to reach the shoreline
Tree shade lines parts of the back beach area
No restrooms, showers or food services are available at Mau'umae
Calm days can bring gentler water close to shore
Rocks sit near the sides of the bay and can affect ocean entry
The walk from Spencer Beach Park has sun and wind exposure
Earlier arrival helps with limited pass availability at the resort gate
Mau'umae has a tucked-away South Kohala feel compared with busier nearby beaches

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Mau'umae Beach passes limited?

The resort gate controls a small public shoreline parking area, so only a limited number of beach passes are available at one time.

Can visitors reach Mau'umae Beach without a resort pass?

Yes. Visitors can walk south from Spencer Beach Park along the coastal trail, but the route takes more time and has sun exposure.

How much shade is there at Mau'umae Beach?

Tree shade lines parts of the back of the beach, but visitors should still bring sunscreen, water and a hat for the open shoreline and walk in.

What should visitors bring to Mau'umae Beach?

Visitors should bring drinking water, sunscreen, snacks, towels and shoes or sandals for the walk, since there are no beach services at Mau'umae.

When does Mau'umae Beach feel quietest?

The beach often feels quieter earlier in the day and on weekdays, before the limited pass spaces fill and afternoon wind picks up along the coast.