Maluaka Beach

Maluaka Beach is a South Maui beach in Makena, known for soft sand, calm-morning snorkeling, turtle sightings, kayak tours, showers and no lifeguards.

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Maluaka Beach, Maui

Maluaka Beach is located in Makena, right in front of the Makena Golf & Beach Club (formerly the Maui Prince Hotel) on Maui's south shore. It is a golden-sand beach with good swimming conditions when the ocean is calm.

The nearshore ocean bottom is sandy and slopes gently to the deeper and rockier offshore waters. There are some submerged boulders in the shorebreak at both ends of the beach, so be cautious when swimming in this area. When the surf is up, these boulders aren't always visible. Snorkeling can be good when the water is calm and clear, and bodyboarding may be possible when conditions allow.

Kiawe trees and sand dunes make up the backshore. Because of these sand dunes, the beach is sometimes called Pu'u One, which means "sand hills." There's a small landscaped park at the north end of the beach, which provides public access to the shoreline.

Maluaka Beach has a grassy area, picnic tables, restrooms and showers. There's also a concession stand near the beach operated by the resort, where visitors can get drinks or rent beach equipment.

Key Features

South Maui beach in Makena with a long sandy shoreline
Often associated with the Turtle Town reef area
South end is the common calm-condition snorkeling area
Hawaiian green sea turtles are often seen nearby
Kayak tours and snorkel trips may launch from the area
No lifeguards are stationed at Maluaka Beach
Restrooms and showers are available near beach access areas
Mornings are usually better before trade winds pick up
Close to Makena Landing Beach Park and Big Beach
Maluaka Beach is known for soft sand, calm-morning snorkeling, turtle sightings, kayak tours and relaxed South Maui beach time

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Maluaka Beach connected with Turtle Town?

The reefs off this part of Makena are often associated with Turtle Town because Hawaiian green sea turtles are commonly seen feeding or resting in the area.

Which end of Maluaka is better for snorkeling?

The south end is the area many snorkelers head toward because reef and lava-rock edges sit closer to shore there when the ocean is calm.

How does Maluaka compare with Makena Landing?

Maluaka has a longer sandy beach for swimming and relaxing, while Makena Landing has more of a launch-and-entry feel for kayaks, scuba divers and snorkel trips.

Why do mornings work better at Maluaka?

South Maui mornings are often calmer before trade winds build. Earlier visits usually bring clearer water and an easier beach setup.

What should visitors know about turtles here?

Turtles may be seen in the water or resting near the shoreline. Keep plenty of distance, never block their path and avoid chasing them for photos.