Mahai'ula Beach

Mahai'ula Beach, Big Island

Mahai'ula Beach is part of the Kekaha Kai State Park on the Big Island's west coast. It is located about 2 miles (3.2 km) north of the Kona airport and is accessible via a rugged dirt road. This white-sand beach is backed by trees, which reach down almost to the water's edge, so there are some shady spots. The swimming conditions are usually good when the ocean is calm. From the beach, a coastal lava trail leads north to neighboring Makalawena Beach, about a 15 to 20-minute walk.

Key Features of Mahai'ula Beach

• Part of Kekaha Kai State Park: Located within a protected coastal area that also includes Makalawena and Kua Bay.
• Secluded white-sand beach: A quiet, less crowded alternative to other west coast beaches, ideal for relaxing.
• Good swimming conditions: The waters are usually calm, especially in summer, making it suitable for swimming.
• Shady beach spots: Trees near the shore provide natural shade for picnics and lounging.
• Access via rugged dirt road: Reachable by a 1.5-mile drive over unpaved terrain; 4WD recommended, but not required.

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Reviews and Comments:   To say the road is rugged is a disservice. We made it but at a snails pace. The bathrooms were clean but OMG the smell was scary. Like, by pass vomit and go strait to unconciousness!! There is shade and sandy beach with a lagoon look! The water is beautiful but murky and not good for snorkeling. There were volunteers that shooed us out of the water as a local monk seal was hanging out and for our safety they had us wait til she moved to the other end of the beach. Very uncrowded we brought our own food and chairs. Flat trail to the beach easy walk. Still worth the adventure getting there. Ossiander, Wed Jun 25, 2025

Location: Off of Ka'ahumanu Highway (Route 19), HI 96740

Directions: From Kailua-Kona, take Highway 19 north. Between mile markers 91 and 90, make a left turn onto the rugged dirt road. Follow it for 1.5 miles (2.4 km) to the beach. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended, but most regular cars can usually handle it as well. The parking area is at an unpaved lot a short walk (5 minutes) from the beach. Note: There is a gate, which is open daily from 9 am to 7 pm, but is closed on Wednesdays.

• Restrooms
• No lifeguards

• Swimming