Makalawena Beach

Makalawena Beach

White Sand and Lava rock!

Makalawena Beach offers a genuine encounter with Hawaii's coastal environment. Numerous people visit to soak up the sun, seek adventure, or relax. True to the nature of rewarding experiences, a bit of effort is required to appreciate the beauty of Makalawena Beach truly.

Overview of Makalawena Beach

Makalawena Beach, often overlooked among Hawaii's myriad of stunning beaches, lies on the North Kona coast of the Big Island. It's a hidden treasure that deserves a spot on your travel list. With its breathtaking landscape of palm trees along the shore and dramatic black lava rocks emerging from the sea, it offers a tranquil escape from the more crowded beaches on the Big Island. Makalawena is the ideal retreat for those wishing to bask in the sun in a serene setting. The beach boasts pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. It is home to a vibrant array of tropical fish and coral, making it a paradise for swimmers, divers, snorkelers, paddleboarders, and kayakers alike.

Accessing the beach can be a bit of an adventure. Visitors need to park at Kekaha Kai State Park and embark on a three-quarters-of-a-mile hike through lava fields, which takes about 20 minutes. The path involves navigating over lava rocks and compacted sand. While the trek may require effort, it is manageable with careful pacing and adequate hydration. Upon completing the hike, you're rewarded with a secluded beach, where pure white sand meets clear turquoise waters, offering a secluded slice of paradise.

The Three Great Beaches of Kekaha Kai State Park

As a highlight of Kekaha Kai State Park, it's worth exploring how Makalawena Beach fits into the broader context of the park. Kekaha Kai State Park is home to several key features, including:

• Three stunning beaches: Makalawena Beach, Mahaiula Beach, and Maniniowali Beach.
• A picturesque hiking path that is part of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail.
• A cinder cone teems with birds and provides rich bird habitats.
• Numerous sites of ancient Hawaiian settlements.

The park is traversed by the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, which stretches for 175 miles and includes a trail running through the state park to the coastal trail at Kua Bay. This places Makalawena Beach in a prime spot for exploring the natural and cultural richness of the park. Before planning your visit, consider reviewing the Kekaha Kai-Kona Coast State Park Map for a better understanding of accessing this beautiful location.

Directions to Makalawena Beach

To get to Makalawena Beach, begin at the northernmost point of Mahaiula Beach in Kekaha Kai and look for a rocky trail near a group of palm trees. From there, expect a twenty-minute hike across lava fields to arrive at the beach.

Amenities at Makalawena Beach

Makalawena Beach, with its secluded charm, lacks amenities such as lifeguards, facilities, or trash collection services. Visitors are advised to carry in all necessary items for their beach day. The beach management encourages everyone to leave no trace behind, ensuring that all belongings and waste are removed to preserve the beach's natural beauty.

Essential Tips for a Great Visit at Makalawena Beach

When planning a visit to Makalawena Beach, keep the following tips in mind:

• The beach offers little to no natural shade, so it's wise to pack an umbrella, a hat, or a beach tent for protection from the sun.
• The path through the lava fields to the beach is rocky and may be slippery. Consider wearing water shoes or sturdy sandals for safer exploration.
• The ocean here can present solid currents and waves. Exercise caution while swimming; remember, the beach does not have lifeguard services.