Makalawena Beach
A remote, pristine white-sand beach on the Big Island, accessible by hike or 4WD, offering lava pools and potential monk seal sightings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Makalawena Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remote, pristine white-sand beach on the Big Island, accessible by hike or 4WD, offering lava pools and potential monk seal sightings.
"This beach is a beautiful hidden gem that definitely takes a lot of work to get to, but still worth it!"
🚗 4WD Recommended
A Jeep or truck makes the drive much easier, but a hike is always an option!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The hike is exposed and can be hot. Stay hydrated!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine White Sands
Main beach area
Miles of untouched white sand meet crystal-clear turquoise waters. A true tropical escape.
Natural Lava Pools
Northern end of the beach
Discover tranquil lava pools perfect for a refreshing dip after your hike.
Hawaiian Monk Seals
Along the shoreline
Keep an eye out for these rare and majestic creatures basking on the sand.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Trek to Paradise
Best Time for Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4WD Recommended
A Jeep or truck makes the drive much easier, but a hike is always an option!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The hike is exposed and can be hot. Stay hydrated! 
🥾 Sturdy Footwear
Lava rock trails are uneven. Leave the flip-flops at home for the hike.
☀️ No Shade
Pack sunscreen and a hat; there's very little natural shade on the trail or beach.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4WD Recommended
A Jeep or truck makes the drive much easier, but a hike is always an option!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The hike is exposed and can be hot. Stay hydrated!
🥾 Sturdy Footwear
Lava rock trails are uneven. Leave the flip-flops at home for the hike.
☀️ No Shade
Pack sunscreen and a hat; there's very little natural shade on the trail or beach.
🦭 Respect Wildlife
Observe monk seals from a distance and never feed them.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Makalawena Beach is a stunning, remote paradise that rewards visitors with pristine white sands and clear waters. While the journey involves a challenging hike or a rough 4WD road, the breathtaking scenery and potential for wildlife sightings like monk seals make it an unforgettable experience. It's a true hidden gem for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
"this beach is a beautiful hidden gem that definitely takes a lot of work to get to. it was empty on a Saturday afternoon, save for a few other folks spread out across the long strip of sand. the beach was clean, no debris from any trees or ocean wash up, and the sand was pristine and a gorgeous white sand.
however, getting there is definitely a trek. we didn’t have a 4x4 or even an SUV with enough clearance, so we walked down the unpaved, lava hardened road. that walk took about 25-30 minutes and then we turned off that road to take another rocky path that was another 25-30 minutes. still worth it!! and definitely rewarding seeing the beach come over the horizon."
Rachael Batchelor
"A must-visit spot — it feels like a little adventure!
First you drive down an unpaved road that feels like something out of the Rocky Mountains. Then you park and hike across the lava rock trail, which is an experience in itself. Finally, you reach the beach — and it’s so worth it.
The views are absolutely gorgeous, the beach is stunning, and the whole journey makes it feel extra special. Definitely a place you won’t forget."
Yuri Varzari
"This beach is beautiful, and I personally love it and its accessibility to snorkeling compared to Black Sand Beach. The waves are also more relaxed and there is a bay as well. Plenty of sand to sunbathe on too.
The one thing about this beach is I highly HIGHLY recommend a JEEP or truck to get through to the beach. It is rocky! We rented an AWD SUV and then tried to get through the rocky drive to the beach and had to turn around (I didn’t want to damage the rental). We went back and rented a Jeep and it made it much more fun and doable! I would definitely rent a JEEP on big island 🤙🏼"
Delaney Granko
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Makalawena Beach is accessed via Kekaha Kai State Park. You can either drive down a rough, unpaved road (4WD highly recommended, especially for SUVs and trucks) or park at the main lot and hike approximately 1.5 miles each way across lava rock and sand. +1
While not strictly mandatory, a 4WD vehicle with good clearance is highly recommended to navigate the unpaved road to get closer to the beach. Many visitors opt to hike if they don't have suitable transportation.
The hike from the parking area to Makalawena Beach typically takes about 25-30 minutes one way, covering roughly 1.5 miles. Some reviews mention up to 45-50 minutes depending on the exact route and pace. +1
Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are best for the uneven lava rock trails. While some have managed in flip-flops, it's not ideal. Bring a hat and sunscreen as there is no shade.
It's generally not advised to take standard rental cars, even AWD SUVs, on the unpaved road to Makalawena Beach due to the rocky terrain. Renting a Jeep or truck is a safer bet if you plan to drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Makalawena Beach is located within Kekaha Kai State Park, which typically has no entrance fee for day use. Parking is also generally free.
Kekaha Kai State Park is usually open from sunrise to sunset. It's best to check the official Hawaii State Parks website for the most current hours before your visit.
No, advance booking is not required for Makalawena Beach as it's a natural beach within a state park. Access is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Facilities are very limited. Kekaha Kai State Park has restrooms and showers near the main parking areas, but there are no facilities directly at Makalawena Beach itself.
Makalawena is considered a hidden gem and is less crowded than more accessible beaches, especially on weekdays. Weekends and holidays can see more visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour just before sunset offers breathtaking light and colors, making it ideal for photography. Early mornings are also beautiful with softer light and fewer people.
You can capture stunning landscapes of the white sand, turquoise water, lava rock formations, and potentially wildlife like Hawaiian monk seals. The lava pools also make for unique shots.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Hawaii State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the latest regulations for Kekaha Kai State Park before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography, like spotting monk seals from a distance.
For professional photoshoots, it's advisable to check with Hawaii State Parks for any permit requirements, especially if you plan to bring extensive equipment.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy swimming, sunbathing on the pristine white sand, exploring the lava pools, and looking for Hawaiian monk seals. Body surfing can be good when waves are present.
Snorkeling is generally not the main draw at Makalawena Beach. The water can be clearer with fewer waves, but it's not as renowned for snorkeling as some other Big Island spots.
Waves can vary. When present, they can be good for body surfing. However, the beach also has calmer areas and lava pools for more relaxed water activities.
Yes, swimming is possible, especially in the calmer areas or lava pools. Be aware of ocean conditions, as waves can sometimes be strong.
The most notable wildlife are the endangered Hawaiian monk seals, which are often seen resting on the beach. You might also see various seabirds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The natural lava pools provide a safer, calmer swimming option for kids away from ocean waves. Spotting Hawaiian monk seals can be a thrilling educational experience for children, but emphasize the importance of observing from a distance. If you have a 4WD vehicle, driving closer can significantly reduce the hiking effort.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
Since there are no facilities or vendors on-site, packing all your own food and drinks is necessary, which also helps save money. The 'adventure' of getting there is part of the experience, so you're getting a lot of value for zero entry fee.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Watching the sunset together from this remote cove is often cited as a highlight, creating unforgettable memories. The tranquility and stunning scenery make it an ideal spot for couples seeking a peaceful and picturesque experience away from the crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey: Hike vs. 4WD
If you have access to a 4WD vehicle, you can drive further down a rough, unpaved road that gets you much closer to the beach. However, this road is challenging and requires a vehicle with good clearance and robust tires. Even with a 4WD, caution is advised. The decision between hiking and driving often depends on your comfort level with off-road conditions and your desire for a more strenuous or more direct approach to paradise.
Regardless of your chosen method, the effort is consistently described as 'worth it' by visitors. The reward is a secluded beach experience that feels like a true discovery, far from the usual tourist crowds.
Wildlife Encounters: Monk Seals
+1Visitors are advised to keep at least 50 feet away from monk seals and never attempt to feed or touch them. Observing them from afar allows them to rest and conserve energy, which is vital for their survival. Many reviewers highlight seeing monk seals as a highlight of their trip, adding an extra layer of wonder to the already stunning beach.
Remember to bring binoculars if you want a closer look without disturbing the seals. The presence of these rare creatures underscores the importance of preserving Makalawena's remote and natural state.
Beach Features: Sand, Pools, and Waves
Adding to its unique charm are the natural lava pools found at the northern end of the beach. These pools offer a more sheltered and tranquil swimming experience, perfect for those who prefer calmer waters or want a break from the ocean waves. They are also fascinating geological features to explore.
While the beach can be calm, it's also known to have waves that can be suitable for body surfing when conditions are right. However, it's not typically considered a prime spot for casual floating or extensive snorkeling compared to other locations. Visitors should always be aware of ocean conditions before entering the water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit