Makalawena Beach, the Big Island's best hidden beach

If you’re searching for one of the most beautiful hidden beaches on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi, look no further than Mahai'ula and Makalawena Beach. This beach is home to soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, black lava fields, and a peaceful atmosphere you won’t find at the more crowded beaches in Kona or resort areas. Makalawena isn’t the kind of place you stumble upon. It takes a little effort to reach and that journey is exactly what keeps it so special. If you’re looking for an adventure for your trip to the Big Island, here is everything you need to know about planning a visit to Makalawena Beach. 

Mahai'ula White Sand Beach before the hike to Makalawena Beach

Where Is Makalawena Beach?

Makalawena Beach sits on the Kona side of the Big Island, nestled within the Kekaha Kai State Park. It’s located between Mahai‘ula Beach to the south and Kua Bay to the north. Chances are you missed this hidden gem if you’ve driven to the many popular resorts north of the airport. 

Malakawena Beach Cove and the pathway through the Lava Rock fields from Mauai'ula Beach

How to Get to Makalawena Beach

Reaching Makalawena takes effort but that is part of the adventure. Here are the two main ways to get there:

Hike from Mahai‘ula Beach (Most Popular & Scenic)

This is the route most travelers take because it’s manageable for all fitness levels and offers incredible coastal views. 

1. Drive to Mahai‘ula BeachTurn off Highway 19 toward Mahai‘ula. The road is rough (lava rock bumps), but most rental cars can handle it if you go slow.

2. Park near Mahai‘ula BeachThere is a dirt parking lot near the beach entrance.

3. Start the trail to MakalawenaWalk north along the shoreline trail. You’ll pass through lava fields, sandy stretches, and a few shaded palm areas.

4. Hike length: About 20–30 minutes depending on your pace.The trail is mostly flat, but the lava rock can be uneven so you will want to wear good shoes.

5. Arrive at Makalawena’s first coveAs you come over the rise, the turquoise water and bright white sand appear like a postcard. Keep walking a bit to reach the wider southern beach section.

   
   

The 4x4 Access Road 

Some visitors access Makalawena from the north using an unmaintained 4x4 road off Highway 19 near Kua Bay. There are lots of sharpa lava rock and uneven terrain so you need to be careful when coming here with a rental as most rental companies prohibit driving on this road. A 10 minute stressful drive will take you to the parking lot right at the beach. Hike through the lava field to find even more amazing and secluded beaches along the coast. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

What Makalawena Beach Is Really Like

Makalawena isn’t just another Big Island beach. It’s a wild, untouched paradise that feels almost like your own private island. 

The Beach is quiet, calm, and remote. No commercial development, no vendors, no crowds. It’s one of the few beaches where you may only see a handful of other travelers, especially on weekday mornings.

The sand is actually powdery, soft, and brilliant white and some of the softest on the island. The Big Island isn’t like Maui or O’ahu so this white sand beach stands out compared to the many black sand or lava rock beaches on the island. 

The Ocean water is crystal-clear turquoise water with gentle waves. Great for swimming or snorkelling. Keep a lookout for Hawaiian green seat turtles or tropical fish. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Best Places to Take Photos at Makalawena Beach

Makalawena is a photographer’s dream. Between the black lava rock, the turquoise blue, and the perfect lined palm tree cluster, there are so many places to capture that perfect shot. 

Be sure to find the hidden Tide Pool surrounded by Lava Rock. You will need to hike about 15 minutes through the lava field and then along the white sand beach to find the tide pool. Keep a lookout for the lone palm trees in the lava rock to help guide you to the location. 

The iconic cluster of palm trees that stand on the white sand beach next to the large field of black lava rock at Mahai'ula Beach on the Big Island of Hawaii

Final Tips for Visiting Makalawena Beach

• Bring snacks, water, and sun protection. Remember there are no facilities so be sure to pack everything in and clean up on your way out

• Wear closed-toe shoes for the hike

• Go early in the morning for best colors and cooler temps. The lava rock attracts a lot of heat during the midday sun. 

• Respect wildlife and protected areas

Overall impression of Makalawena Beach

Reaching Makalawena Beach feels like an adventure in itself, but the reward is extraordinary. This beach is home to  empty stretches of white sand, water so clear it looks unreal, and landscapes that look like they belong on a movie set.

If you’re exploring the Big Island and want a beach that feels exclusive, peaceful, and breathtakingly beautiful, Makalawena is the one.

Be sure to check out my complete Big Island Hawaii Travel Guide for more must see locations to visit when planning your trip.