Pohakumauliuli Beach

Pohakumauliuli Beach

Pohakumauliuli Beach, also known as Make Horse Beach, features two secluded white-sand coves and scenic tide pools on Molokai's west shore. While visually stunning and ideal for sunbathing or photography, swimming is not recommended due to strong currents and rocky hazards. Access is via a short shoreline walk from Kepuhi Beach, passing remnants of a former golf course. The beach is backed by the Pohaku Mauliuli cinder cone, adding geological interest but requiring caution near its base due to occasional rockfalls.

Pohakumauliuli Beach, Molokai

Located on Molokai's west shore, Pohakumauliuli Beach (view panorama) × features two white-sand beach coves and a few large tide pools. The remote coves are good spots for sunbathing, but the swimming conditions are poor due to strong currents. Also, there are some large boulders right at the water's edge which can pose a hazard during times of high surf.

The nearby hill is a large cinder cone called Pohaku Mauliuli, which means “black rock” in the Hawaiian language. The cinder rock is quite loose in some parts and occasionally falls off into the sand below. The base of the hill is therefore not a good spot for walking or sunbathing and should be avoided.

Pohakumauliuli Beach is also known as Make Horse Beach. In the past, when there was a ranch on Molokai's west shore, an old horse fell off the cliff here and died on the beach. In the Hawaiian language, "make" means dead.

To get to Pohakumauliuli Beach, walk north along the shoreline from neighboring Kepuhi Beach. A waterfront golf course used to be located here and the golf cart trail is still visible. After a 5-10 minute walk you'll reach the first cove. The two coves are separated by a boulder hill.


Key Features of Pohakumauliuli Beach

  • Two secluded white-sand coves: Peaceful, uncrowded spots ideal for sunbathing or relaxing away from crowds.
  • Tide pools and scenic views: Explore tide pools and enjoy sweeping views toward 'Ilio Point and Oahu.
  • Historic and cultural name: Also known as Make Horse Beach, named after a past ranching incident.
  • Access via shoreline trail: Reachable by walking from Kepuhi Beach; no direct road access or signage.
  • Backed by a cinder cone: Pohaku Mauliuli adds dramatic landscape interest but should be approached cautiously.


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Reviews and Comments:
 
Thank you for these wonderful pictures! I remember this beach even though I never knew its name. We stayed near there in September 2009 and liked to go there to sunbathe and watch the sunset. There is some hiking involved though, especially if you want to go to the second, more isolated beach. You have to walk over some rocks because there is no other trail between the two beach coves.
Nick, Aug 28, 2012

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Why is it called Make Horse Beach?

The beach earned the nickname "Make Horse" after a horse fell from a nearby cliff and died on the sand. "Make" means "dead" in Hawaiian.

🚫 Is it safe to swim at Pohakumauliuli Beach?

No. Strong alongshore currents, sudden depth changes, and boulders at the shoreline make swimming hazardous here.

🗺️ How do I get to Pohakumauliuli Beach?

The beach is only accessible by walking north along the shoreline from Kepuhi Beach. The trail follows an old golf cart path.

📸 What makes this beach unique?

The secluded coves, tide pools, volcanic backdrop, and views toward other islands create a dramatic and tranquil setting ideal for photos.

🏞️ Are there any facilities at this beach?

No. Pohakumauliuli Beach is undeveloped and has no restrooms, lifeguards, or parking. Bring supplies and take trash with you.