Maluaka Beach
Maluaka Beach is a golden-sand beach on Maui's south shore, fronting the Makena Golf & Beach Club. Known for calm waters, scenic views, and frequent sea turtle sightings, it's one of the best swimming and snorkeling beaches in the Makena area. Backed by dunes and kiawe trees, the beach offers shady picnic spots, restrooms, showers, and sunset vistas. With its offshore reef and gentle entry, Maluaka is ideal for families, snorkelers, and visitors looking for a peaceful beach experience away from crowds.
Maluaka Beach, Maui
Maluaka Beach (view panorama) × is located right in front of the Makena Golf & Beach Club (formerly the Maui Prince Hotel) on the island's south shore. It is a pretty golden-sand beach that offers some of the best swimming conditions in Makena Bay.
The nearshore ocean bottom is sandy and slopes gently to the deeper and rockier offshore waters. There are some submerged boulders in the shorebreak at both ends of the beach, so be cautious when swimming in this area. When the surf is up, these boulders aren't always visible.
Kiawe trees and sand dunes make up the baskshore. Because of these sand dunes, the beach is sometimes called Pu'u One, which means “sand hills.” There's a small landscaped park at the north end of the beach, which provides public access to the shoreline.
Maluaka Beach has a nice grassy area, picnic tables, restrooms and showers. There's also a concession stand near the beach that is operated by the resort, where you can get drinks or rent beach equipment.
Key Features of Maluaka Beach
- Calm and clear waters: Great for swimming, snorkeling, and bodyboarding when surf is low.
- Sea turtle sightings: Frequently seen in the shallows near the reef.
- Golden sand and scenic views: Beautiful beach with vistas of Molokini Crater, Kahoolawe, and Red Hill.
- Sunset destination: Unobstructed views of the sun setting over the ocean (view panorama) × .
- Beach park amenities: Picnic tables, grassy area, restrooms, showers, and shade from kiawe trees.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see turtles at Maluaka Beach?
Yes, Maluaka is one of the top spots in South Maui for spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles near the reef.
Is Maluaka Beach good for swimming?
Yes, the gently sloping sandy ocean floor and calm conditions make it ideal for swimming and bodyboarding.
How do I access the beach?
There are two public parking lots: one near Keawala'i Congregational Church at the north end and one past the Makena Beach & Golf Resort to the south.
Is it a good beach for sunset photos?
Absolutely. Maluaka offers panoramic sunset views with silhouettes of Molokini, Kahoolawe, and Red Hill.
Are there facilities at Maluaka Beach?
Yes, the beach has restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and a shaded grassy area. No lifeguards are present.