Big Beach (Makena Beach)

Big Beach, also known as Makena Beach, is a wide south Maui beach in Makena State Park with golden sand, lifeguards, powerful shorebreak and open coastal views.

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Big Beach, Maui

As its name implies, Big Beach, located on Maui's south shore, has plenty of sand for everyone. At almost two-thirds of a mile (1 km) long and over 100 feet (30 m) wide, it is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Its official name is Oneloa Beach (or Makena Beach), but the name Big Beach describes this beach better.

Big Beach has plenty for a beach day: powdery soft sand, picnic tables, portable toilets, paved parking and wide views of the turquoise ocean. However, when the surf is up (as is often the case in the spring and summer months and during southerly Kona storms), there is a powerful shorebreak and strong undertow at Big Beach. This is when it is best to stay out of the water.

The waves break really close to shore, and people have suffered serious injuries here in the past, including dislocated joints and broken backs and necks. It is not a recommended beach for children or inexperienced swimmers.

Just to the north of Big Beach lies a smaller beach, known as Little Beach, accessible via a short hike. Here you can try out nude sunbathing and swimming because it is one of the few beaches on Maui where some people go nude (even though public nudity is not allowed by law anywhere in Hawaii). Both Big Beach and Little Beach are part of Makena State Park.

The prominent hill on the north end of Big Beach is called Pu'u Ola'i, also known as Red Hill or Earthquake Hill. It is a volcanic cinder cone rising 360 feet (110 m). When conditions allow, experienced ocean users may also come here for bodyboarding or surfing.

Key Features

Large south Maui beach inside Makena State Park with a wide golden-sand shoreline
Also known as Makena Beach, with multiple entry areas often called Big Beach I and Big Beach II
Lifeguards are on duty, but the beach is known for powerful shorebreak close to shore
Swimming and bodyboarding depend on daily conditions, so check with lifeguards before entering
Little Beach is reached from the north end by a short path over the lava-rock point
Parking areas are available, but spaces can fill up on weekends, holidays and busy beach days
Shade is limited on the sand, so bring water, sun protection and anything needed for the visit
Open coastal views make the beach popular for walks, photos and late-afternoon light
Strong waves can arrive even when the beach looks calm from a distance
Located south of Wailea near the road toward Ahihi-Kinau and La Perouse Bay

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Big Beach also known as Makena Beach?

Big Beach is the common nickname for the large sandy beach in Makena State Park. Makena Beach is the broader official name many maps and signs use for this south Maui beach area.

Is Big Beach good for swimming?

Swimming depends on the day. The beach is famous for powerful shorebreak that can hit hard close to shore, so ask lifeguards before entering and avoid the water when waves look steep or forceful.

How is Big Beach different from Little Beach?

Big Beach is the wide main beach with lifeguards, parking areas and a long sandy shoreline. Little Beach is smaller and reached by a short path over the lava-rock point at the north end of Big Beach.

Why is Big Beach known for shorebreak?

The beach has a steep sandy entry where waves can break with sudden force close to shore. That makes the water exciting to watch but risky for swimmers and bodyboarders who are not ready for the power.

Is Big Beach good at sunset?

Yes. The open south Maui coast can bring warm late-afternoon light across the sand and water. The beach is wide, so it is also a pleasant place for an evening walk when conditions are calm.