Makaiwa Bay

Makaiwa Bay is a small Mauna Lani beach cove with calm-water days, reef scenery, a sandy shoreline and a walk past lava and fishponds.

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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. Scuba diving can also be possible here when conditions are calm; see Big Island scuba diving options for guided trips elsewhere on the island.

Key Features

Small Mauna Lani beach cove on the Kohala Coast
Public shoreline parking is near Pauoa Road, followed by a walk to the bay
The path to the beach passes lava scenery and historic fishponds
Calm mornings often bring gentler water near the sandy shoreline
Reef and rocky edges sit close to the swimming area
Resort beach club services may be reserved for guests
The bay feels more sheltered than many open Kohala Coast shorelines
Warm pavement and lava rock make sandals or shoes helpful for the walk
Visibility can change with wind, swell and nearshore water movement
Makaiwa Bay blends resort shoreline, fishpond history and quiet cove scenery

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do non-resort guests reach Makaiwa Bay?

Non-resort guests usually park in the public shoreline parking area near Pauoa Road and walk the coastal path toward the beach.

How long is the walk to Makaiwa Bay?

The walk is often around 10 to 15 minutes, depending on pace, heat and how long visitors pause near the fishponds along the way.

What should visitors know about the Mauna Lani Beach Club area?

The bay fronts a resort beach club setting, so some chairs, services and parking areas may be reserved for resort guests.

Why are the fishponds near Makaiwa Bay important?

The Kalahuipuaa fishponds are part of the historic Mauna Lani coastal landscape and show how Hawaiian aquaculture shaped this shoreline.

When does Makaiwa Bay feel most comfortable?

Calm mornings often bring gentler wind and easier water conditions, while afternoon wind can make the bay feel less settled.