Makaiwa Bay

Big Island Beach Guide

Makaiwa Bay

Makaiwa Bay is a Mauna Lani resort-area beach on the Big Island with white sand, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, showers, lifeguard coverage and public parking access.

Mauna Lani Resort Beach
Mauna Lani Resort Beach

Makaiwa Bay, Big Island

Makaiwa Bay is a beautiful sandy cove located south of the Mauna Lani Resort and Mauna Lani Terrace condos. The swimming and snorkeling conditions are good when the ocean is calm. You'll be able to see quite a few fish in the nearshore waters. The beach is surrounded by luxury accommodations.

If you're not staying in the area, there is a public parking lot, but it's about a 10 to 15 minute walk on a paved path through a lava field and along the Mauna Lani fishponds (Kalahuipua'a) to get to the beach. It is a scenic trail. First you'll walk through an interesting lava landscape and then right along the ancient fishpond and along the shoreline, where you'll also see a fishtrap.

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Location, Parking and Directions

Makaiwa Bay is located south of Pauoa Road in Puako, HI 96743, within the Mauna Lani resort area on the Big Island's Kohala Coast. Between mile markers 73 and 74 on Highway 19, turn onto Mauna Lani Drive. At the roundabout, take the second road on the right, then turn left on Pauoa Road. The public parking lot is on the right. From there, follow the paved path about 10 to 15 minutes through lava scenery and past the fishponds to the beach. Do not leave valuables in your car.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Makaiwa Bay located?

Makaiwa Bay is located south of Pauoa Road in Puako, within the Mauna Lani resort area on the Big Island's Kohala Coast.

Is Makaiwa Bay good for swimming?

Yes. The source page lists swimming, and conditions can be good when the ocean is calm.

Can you snorkel at Makaiwa Bay?

Yes. Snorkeling is one of the listed activities, and the source notes that fish can be seen in the nearshore water when conditions are calm.

How far is the public parking from Makaiwa Bay?

The source page says the public parking lot is about a 10 to 15 minute walk from the beach along a paved path.

What facilities are available at Makaiwa Bay?

Facilities include showers, lifeguard coverage and parking about a 10 to 15 minute walk from the beach.