Attractions and Places To See around Makena - Top 18

Makena boasts stunning natural beauty. Don't miss the dramatic landscapes of Makena State Park, which includes Lava Fields at King's Trailhead, a rugged area of lava rocks and sand. You can also explore Puʻu Olai, a 360-foot dormant volcanic cinder cone offering panoramic coastal views.

For expansive white sands perfect for sunbathing and swimming, visit Big Beach (Oneloa or Makena Beach) within Makena State Park. Keawakapu Beach is another serene option with soft sand and clear waters, often less crowded. Charley Young Beach also offers a beautiful stretch of sand with opportunities for snorkeling.

Absolutely! Little Beach (Puʻu Ōlaʻi Beach) is known for its vibrant coral reefs, making it ideal for snorkeling. Makena Landing Park is famous for "Turtle Town," where you can observe Hawaiian green sea turtles in their natural habitat. Oneʻuli Beach also offers snorkeling when the water is calm.

Explore the ancient Hoapili Trail (King's Highway), an ancient footpath constructed from lava rock. Puʻu Olai holds cultural importance as a site for traditional Hawaiian rituals. The Palauea Cultural Preserve protects archaeological features believed to be remnants of an ancient fishing village, offering a glimpse into Hawaiian heritage.

Yes, several beaches are great for families. Keawakapu Beach and Charley Young Beach are both noted as family-friendly. Charley Young Beach even has a grassy area for picnics and beach volleyball. The calm waters in certain areas are also suitable for paddleboarding and kayaking, which can be fun for older children.

You can hike the trails around Puʻu Olai for impressive panoramic views. The Hoapili Trail offers a rugged hiking experience through ancient lava fields. For a more leisurely stroll with scenic ocean views, try the Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk, which is also wheelchair accessible. You can find more hiking options on the Hiking around Makena guide.

Makena Cove, also known as Secret Beach or Paako Cove, is a picturesque hidden gem with golden sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic lava rock formations, popular for photography and quiet relaxation. Poʻolenalena Beach is another serene, hidden gem nestled between Big Beach and Keawakapu.

Yes, during the winter months, typically from November to March, Makena's waters offer excellent opportunities for spotting humpback whales. Many boat tours operate in the area, and you might even spot them from the shore at beaches like Keawakapu Beach.

The Hanamanioa Lighthouse is a historic man-made monument that guided ships and marks the end of the Hoapili Trail, offering natural overlooks of the sea. Puʻu Olai also provides stunning panoramic coastal views from its summit.

MAKANA Market + Cafe is a convenient stop for breakfast pastries, coffee, açai bowls, and island souvenirs, perfect for grabbing provisions for a beach picnic.

Beyond hiking, Makena offers fantastic opportunities for road cycling. You can explore routes like the 'Charley Young Beach – Kamaole III Beach loop' or the 'Wailea Beach – Mākena State Park loop'. For more options, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Makena guide. Running is also popular, with trails like the 'Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk Trail run' available; find more on the Running Trails around Makena guide.

Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse natural beauty, from the rugged coastline and volcanic formations to the pristine beaches. The opportunity to engage with Hawaii's rich history through ancient trails and cultural sites, as well as the abundant marine life, especially the Hawaiian green sea turtles, are also highly valued experiences.