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Makalawena Beach: Hawaii's Secluded White-Sand Paradise on the Kona Coast

Makalawena Beach: Hawaii s Secluded White-Sand Paradise on the Kona Coast

Seeking a nearly deserted, postcard-perfect beach with soft white sand cradling brilliant blue-green waters? Makalawena Beach—affectionately called 'Maks'—delivers. This string of idyllic coves on Hawaii's Kona Coast handles crowds effortlessly, offering a true sense of paradise. The northern cove features sandier, calmer waters, while the southern one is an unofficial (and illegal) nude sunbathing spot. Swimming is exceptional, though watch for rough surf and submerged rocks. Bodyboarding and snorkeling provide additional thrills.

Honor the aloha spirit: pack out all trash and respect others' privacy. For locals, it's a cherished unofficial spot for camping and fishing, and rising visitor numbers spark local concerns. Always keep sea turtles at a safe distance—it's illegal to approach within 20 feet on land or 50 yards in the water.

Reaching Makalawena demands effort. From Hwy 19 between mile markers 90 and 91, take the Kekaha Kai (Kona Coast) State Park access road (4WD recommended, though many locals manage in standard cars). Less than 1.5 miles in, at the junction before Mahaiʻula Beach parking, turn right. Park on the shoulder near the cables blocking the service road, then hike north 30 minutes across lava flows and sand dunes—follow the service road or a rougher footpath over crunchy ʻaʻa lava.


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