Makua Beach

Makua Beach is a remote leeward Oahu beach backed by mountains, known for undeveloped scenery, powerful surf and Kaena Point access.

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Makua Beach, Oahu

Makua Beach is one of the most secluded beaches on Oahu. This undeveloped white-sand beach is backed by the Waianae Mountain Range and Makua Valley, which gives the beach its name.

Most Oahu visitors never get to see this beach. No tour buses come here, and many people who drive to the remote leeward coast stop at Makaha Beach, a popular big-wave surfing beach in the winter months. After the small town of Makaha, development soon thins out and the road narrows.

From November to April, this side of the island can have excellent surf for expert surfers. Unlike many Oahu beaches, Makua Beach is not protected by an offshore reef, so waves can get very high and currents can be strong on rough days. The ocean bottom drops off quickly here, so swimmers should stay close to shore and enter only when conditions are calm. Fishing and bodyboarding are popular on calmer days. There are no lifeguards or facilities here.

Makua Beach is one of the last beaches before the road ends. The last one is Yokohama Bay. Both beaches are near Ka'ena Point State Park. If you are up for a hike, a trail leads to the northwestern tip of the island. Ka'ena Point is known in Hawaiian tradition as a leina a ka uhane, or a jumping-off place for departing souls, and the area is sacred to Native Hawaiians. No paved road leads all the way to the point, so hiking is the only way to reach it.

Key Features

Remote leeward beach: Quiet shoreline near the end of Oahu's west side road
Mountain backdrop: Backed by the Waianae Mountains and Makua Valley
Undeveloped setting: No restrooms, showers, concessions or lifeguards
Quick drop-off: Ocean bottom drops off close to shore
Powerful surf: Winter waves and currents can be dangerous
Ka'ena Point access: Near the remote trail area toward Oahu's western tip

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Makua Beach located?

Makua Beach is located along Farrington Highway on Oahu's remote leeward coast, northwest of Makaha and near the Kaena Point side of the island.

Is Makua Beach good for swimming?

Swimming is condition-dependent. The beach has no lifeguards, no protective reef, a quick drop-off and strong currents on rough days, so swimmers should stay close to shore in calm conditions only.

Are there facilities at Makua Beach?

No. Makua Beach has no restrooms, showers, lifeguards or concessions. Bring water, sun protection, food and all supplies needed for a remote beach visit.

What is Makua Beach best for?

Makua Beach is best for remote scenery, mountain views, fishing, sunsets, quiet beach time and expert surfing when conditions are suitable.

What is near Makua Beach?

Nearby places include Makaha Beach Park, Yokohama Bay and Kaena Point State Park at the remote western end of Oahu.