Makalawena Beach
Makalawena Beach is one of the most beautiful and remote white-sand beaches on the Big Island's Kona Coast. Accessible by a 20-minute hike or rugged 4WD trail, this peaceful beach features salt-and-pepper sand, turquoise waters, sand dunes, and secluded coves. It's ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and beachcombing during calm conditions, and is home to Opae'ula Pond, an important bird sanctuary for native Hawaiian waterbirds.
Makalawena Beach, Big Island
The Kona Coast has its share of "secret" beaches – little strips of paradise hidden by larger, better-known spots. Makalawena Beach is one such place, accessible by a 20-minute hike on a rough lava trail (or with a 4-wheel drive vehicle that can handle the bumps in the road). But anyone who has been here will agree that it is certainly worth the challenge.
Makalawena's salt-and-pepper beach is a mix of white coral chunks and black lava, strewn with larger lava rocks that create an unusual, dramatic landscape. The beach is also unique in that some of the most extensive sand dunes in the Kona district are located here. The area immediately offshore is the best for swimming because the ocean bottom is the less rocky here than in the other coves and inlets of this beach. Make sure to check the water conditions before getting in, as the surf tends to be rough at times.
The Makalawena shore is lined by palm trees, and the beach has several coves and inlets, which are backed by a long, curving sand beach. Inland of the beach is the 12-acre (48,562 sq. m) Opae'ula Pond, which is one of the Big Island's most important shoreline bird sanctuaries. The pond is home to many opae'ula, or red shrimp, which are a delicacy for the birds. Some of the birds who can be seen here include the endangered Hawaiian stilt (a'eo), ducks, black-crowned night herons, coots, doves, sparrows, wandering tattlers and cardinals.
Key Features of Makalawena Beach
- Secluded paradise: Remote beach accessible only via a hike or 4WD trail, keeping crowds to a minimum.
- Unique shoreline: A mix of white coral sand and black lava rock, with palm-fringed coves and extensive sand dunes.
- Excellent water activities: Swimming, snorkeling, and diving are popular in the large inlet with sandy ocean bottom.
- Historic and ecological site: Home to Opae'ula Pond, a protected habitat for endangered native Hawaiian birds.
- Ancient history: Site of a former Hawaiian fishing village, destroyed by the 1946 tsunami.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Makalawena Beach located?
Makalawena Beach is on the Big Island's Kona Coast, just north of Kona Airport, off Highway 19 near Mile Marker 88.
How do I access Makalawena Beach?
You can hike 15–20 minutes from Mahai'ula Beach or take a very bumpy 4WD road if your vehicle is capable.
Is it safe to swim at Makalawena?
Yes, especially in the largest inlet where the ocean bottom is sandy. Avoid swimming during high surf or rough ocean conditions.
What is Opae'ula Pond?
It's a 12-acre inland pond near Makalawena Beach, serving as a bird sanctuary for endangered species like the Hawaiian stilt and coot.
Is Makalawena Beach worth the hike?
Yes. The beach is uncrowded, pristine, and visually stunning, making it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers.